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Rai M, Ingle AP, Törős G, Prokisch J. Assessing the efficacy of carbon nanodots derived from curcumin on infectious diseases. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2024. [PMID: 39317385 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2024.2409401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 09/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The threat of new, emerging, and multidrug-resistant microbes is increasing which has created the necessity for new antimicrobials. In this regard, nanotechnology can be an alternative for the treatment of infectious microbes. Curcumin has been used since ancient times as antimicrobials; however, it has limitations due to its less aqueous solubility, bioavailability, and biocompatibility. This problem can be solved by curcumin-derived carbon nanodots which are emerging antimicrobials of <10 nm size, water-soluble, biocompatible, less toxic, and fluorescent. AREA COVERED The review discusses the application of curcumin-derived carbon nanodots against various pathogenic microbes including bacteria and dreaded viruses like SARS-CoV-2. In addition, the role of curcumin carbon nanodots in biolabelling of pathogenic microbes, mechanism of action, bioimaging, and therapy has been critically examined. EXPERT OPINION Carbon nanodots play an important role in combating pathogenic microbes by early diagnosis, bioimaging, nanocarrier for antimicrobial drugs, and therapy of infectious diseases. Curcumin carbon nanodots have already demonstrated their benefits of being water soluble, bioavailable, and biocompatible. However, more thorough research is needed to understand the efficacy and safety of curcumin carbon nanodots. In the future, curcumin-derived carbon nanodots can be used as alternative antimicrobial agents to fight microbial infections including multidrug-resistant microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahendra Rai
- Department of Biotechnology, Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University, Amravati, Maharashtra, India
- Institute of Animal Science, Biotechnology and Nature Conservation, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences and Environmental Management, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Avinash P Ingle
- Biotechnology Centre, Department of Agricultural Botany, Dr. PDKV, Akola, Maharashtra, India
| | - Gréta Törős
- Institute of Animal Science, Biotechnology and Nature Conservation, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences and Environmental Management, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Animal Husbandry, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - József Prokisch
- Institute of Animal Science, Biotechnology and Nature Conservation, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences and Environmental Management, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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Zhu G, Fu M, Zhang Y, Lu L. A ubiquitin-mediated post-translational degradation of Cyp51A contributes to a novel azole resistance mode in Aspergillus fumigatus. Microbiol Res 2024; 289:127891. [PMID: 39244806 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
The airborne fungus Aspergillus fumigatus is a major pathogen that poses a serious health threat to humans by causing aspergillosis. Azole antifungals inhibit sterol 14-demethylase (encoded by cyp51A), an enzyme crucial for fungal cell survival. However, the most common mechanism of azole resistance in A. fumigatus is associated with the mutations in cyp51A and tandem repeats in its promoter, leading to reduced drug-enzyme interaction and overexpression of cyp51A. It remains unknown whether post-translational modifications of Cyp51A contribute to azole resistance. In this study, we report that the Cyp51A expression is highly induced upon exposure to itraconazole, while its ubiquitination level is significantly reduced by itraconazole. Loss of the ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme Ubc7 confers resistance to multiple azole antifungals but hinders hyphal growth, conidiation, and virulence. Western blot and immunoprecipitation assays show that deletion of ubc7 reduces Cyp51A degradation by impairing its ubiquitination, thereby leading to drug resistance. Most importantly, the overexpression of ubc7 in common environmental and clinical azole-resistant cyp51A isolates partially restores azole sensitivity. Our findings demonstrate a non-cyp51A mutation-based resistance mechanism and uncover a novel role of post-translational modification in contributing to azole resistance in A. fumigatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoxing Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pathogens and Ecosystems, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mengjuan Fu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pathogens and Ecosystems, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanwei Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pathogens and Ecosystems, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Ling Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pathogens and Ecosystems, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China.
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Hassan A, Zaib S, Anjum T. Evaluation of antifungal potentials of Albizia kalkora extract as a natural fungicide: In vitro and computational studies. Bioorg Chem 2024; 150:107561. [PMID: 38936050 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
The antifungal bioactivity potential of the organic extract of silk tree (Albizia kalkora) was investigated in the current study. The crude extracts of A. kalkora and methanol, n-hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate fractions were prepared. The antifungal activity of obtained fractions of A. kalkora was studied at different concentrations ranging from 0.39-50 µg/mL. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was taken as a toxicity control, whereas thiophanate methyl (TM) as a positive control. All the fractions significantly reduced the FOL growth (methanolic: 9.49-94.93 %, n-hexane: 11.12-100 %, chloroform: 20.96-91.41 %, and ethyl acetate: 18.75-96.70 %). The n-hexane fraction showed 6.25 µg/mL MIC as compared to TM with 64 µg/mL MIC. The non-polar (n-hexane) fraction showed maximum antifungal bioactivity against FOL in comparison with chloroform, methanol, and ethyl acetate fractions. GC/MS analysis exhibited that the n-hexane fraction contained hexadecanoic acid, 9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, methyl stearate, and [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-6-carboxylic acid. The results of in vitro antifungal inhibition were further reinforced by molecular docking analysis. Five virulence proteins of FOL i.e., pH-responsive PacC transcription factor (PACC), MeaB, TOR; target of rapamycin (FMK1), Signal transducing MAP kinase kinase (STE-STE7), and High Osmolarity Glycerol 1(HOG1) were docked with identified phytocompounds in the n-hexane fraction by GC/MS analysis. MEAB showed maximum binding affinities with zinnimide (-12.03 kcal/mol), HOG1 and FMK1with α-Tocospiro-B (-11.51 kcal/mol) and (-10.55 kcal/mol) respectively, STE-STE7 with docosanoic acid (-11.31 kcal/mol), and PACC with heptadecanoic acid (-9.88 kcal/mol) respectively with strong hydrophobic or hydrophilic interactions with active pocket residues. In conclusion, the n-hexane fraction of the A. kalkora can be used to manage FOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Hassan
- Department of Basic and Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
| | - Sumera Zaib
- Department of Basic and Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan.
| | - Tehmina Anjum
- Department of Plant Pathology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
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Yan ZZ, Hu HW, Xiong C, Peleg AY, Chen QL, Sáez-Sandino T, Maestre F, Delgado-Baquerizo M, Singh BK. Environmental microbiome, human fungal pathogens, and antimicrobial resistance. Trends Microbiol 2024:S0966-842X(24)00215-4. [PMID: 39304419 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2024.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Traditionally, antifungal resistance (AFR) has received much less attention compared with bacterial resistance to antibiotics. However, global changes, pandemics, and emerging new fungal infections have highlighted global health consequences of AFR. The recent report of the World Health Organisation (WHO) has identified fungal priority pathogens, and recognised AFR among the greatest global health threats. This is particularly important given the significant increase in fungal infections linked to climate change and pandemics. Environmental factors play critical roles in AFR and fungal infections, as many clinically relevant fungal pathogens and AFR originate from the environment (mainly soil). In addition, the environment serves as a potential rich source for the discovery of new antifungal agents, including mycoviruses and bacterial probiotics, which hold promise for effective therapies. In this article, we summarise the environmental pathways of AFR development and spread among high priority fungal pathogens, and propose potential mechanisms of AFR development and spread. We identify a research priority list to address key knowledge gaps in our understanding of environmental AFR. Further, we propose an integrated roadmap for predictive risk management of AFR that is critical for effective surveillance and forecasting of public health outcomes under current and future climatic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Zhen Yan
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Hang-Wei Hu
- School of Agriculture, Food, and Ecosystem Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chao Xiong
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Anton Y Peleg
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Centre to Impact Antimicrobial Resistance, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Qing-Lin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Science, Xiamen, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tadeo Sáez-Sandino
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Fernando Maestre
- Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Manuel Delgado-Baquerizo
- Laboratorio de Biodiversidad y Funcionamiento Ecosistémico, Instituto de Recursos Naturales y Agrobiología de Sevilla (IRNAS), CSIC, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Brajesh K Singh
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia.
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Kumar P, Parveen, Khatoon S, Kumar M, Raj N, Harsha, Solanki R, Manzoor N, Kapur MK. In vitro antifungal activity analysis of Streptomyces sp. strain 196 against Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus. Int Microbiol 2024:10.1007/s10123-024-00562-2. [PMID: 39068607 DOI: 10.1007/s10123-024-00562-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Numerous bioactive compounds have been reported to be produced by the members of the genus Streptomyces. During our previous studies, Streptomyces sp. strain 196 was tested for its antimicrobial activity, and bioactive compounds produced by this strain were characterized LC-MS and 1H NMR. To examine the antifungal potential of strain 196 is the goal of the current investigation. Present investigation is focused on exploring antifungal activity of extract of strain 196 (196EA) on membrane disruption potential against two fungi Candida albicans ATCC 90028 and Aspergillus flavus ITCC 5599. Results revealed that the MIC value is higher for A. flavus than for C. albicans which is 450 µg/mL and 250 µg/mL, respectively. Disc diffusion and spot assay also correspond to the values of the MIC for their respective pathogen. In growth curve analysis, lag and log phase are significantly affected by the extract of strain 196. The effects of extract from strain 196 on plasma membrane disruption of Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus were analyzed in terms of ergosterol quantification assay, cellular leakage, proton efflux measurement (PM-ATPase), plasma membrane integrity assay (PI), and DNA damage assay (DAPI). Results shown that the extract of strain 196 has the potential to inhibit the cell membrane of the both pathogenic fungi which was further confirmed with the help of scanning electron microscopic (SEM) studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prateek Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, Prayagraj, 211 002, India
| | - Parveen
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Shabana Khatoon
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Munendra Kumar
- Department of Zoology, Rajiv Gandhi University, Doimukh, 791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India
| | - Nafis Raj
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Harsha
- Microbial Technology Lab, Acharya Narendra Dev College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, 110 019, India
| | - Renu Solanki
- Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, 110 078, India
| | - Nikhat Manzoor
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India.
| | - Monisha Khanna Kapur
- Microbial Technology Lab, Acharya Narendra Dev College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, 110 019, India.
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Nascimento ALF, de Medeiros AGJ, Neves ACO, de Macedo ABN, Rossato L, Assis Santos D, dos Santos ALS, Lima KMG, Bastos RW. Near-infrared spectroscopy and multivariate analysis as effective, fast, and cost-effective methods to discriminate Candida auris from Candida haemulonii. Front Chem 2024; 12:1412288. [PMID: 39050373 PMCID: PMC11266292 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1412288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida auris and Candida haemulonii are two emerging opportunistic pathogens that have caused an increase in clinical cases in the recent years worldwide. The differentiation of some Candida species is highly laborious, difficult, costly, and time-consuming depending on the similarity between the species. Thus, this study aimed to develop a new, faster, and less expensive methodology for differentiating between C. auris and C. haemulonii based on near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and multivariate analysis. C. auris CBS10913 and C. haemulonii CH02 were separated in 15 plates per species, and three isolated colonies of each plate were selected for Fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) analysis, totaling 90 spectra. Subsequently, principal component analysis (PCA) and variable selection algorithms, including the successive projections algorithm (SPA) and genetic algorithm (GA) coupled with linear discriminant analysis (LDA), were employed to discern distinctive patterns among the samples. The use of PCA, SPA, and GA algorithms associated with LDA achieved 100% sensitivity and specificity for the discriminations. The SPA-LDA and GA-LDA algorithms were essential in selecting the variables (infrared wavelengths) of most importance for the models, which could be attributed to binding of cell wall structures such as polysaccharides, peptides, proteins, or molecules resulting from yeasts' metabolism. These results show the high potential of combined FT-NIR and multivariate analysis techniques for the classification of Candida-like fungi, which can contribute to faster and more effective diagnosis and treatment of patients affected by these microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayrton L. F. Nascimento
- Laboratório de Química Biológica e Quimiometria, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Anthony G. J. de Medeiros
- Laboratório de Uso Comum, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Ana C. O. Neves
- Laboratório de Química Biológica e Quimiometria, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Ana B. N. de Macedo
- Laboratório de Uso Comum, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Luana Rossato
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados, Dourados, Brazil
| | - Daniel Assis Santos
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Human Pathogenic Fungi, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - André L. S. dos Santos
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro-RJ, Brazil
| | - Kássio M. G. Lima
- Laboratório de Química Biológica e Quimiometria, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Rafael W. Bastos
- Laboratório de Uso Comum, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Human Pathogenic Fungi, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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Resende LM, de Oliveira Mello É, Zeraik AE, Oliveira APBF, Souza TAM, Taveira GB, Moreira FF, Seabra SH, Ferreira AT, Perales J, de Oliveira Carvalho A, Rodrigues R, Gomes VM. Defensin-like peptides from Capsicum chinense induce increased ROS, loss of mitochondrial functionality, and reduced growth of the fungus Colletotrichum scovillei. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:3567-3577. [PMID: 38459870 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
In the present study, we identified and characterized two defensin-like peptides in an antifungal fraction obtained from Capsicum chinense pepper fruits and inhibited the growth of Colletotrichum scovillei, which causes anthracnose. AMPs were extracted from the pericarp of C. chinense peppers and subjected to ion exchange, molecular exclusion, and reversed-phase in a high-performance liquid chromatography system. We investigated the endogenous increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), the loss of mitochondrial functioning, and the ultrastructure of hyphae. The peptides obtained from the G3 fraction through molecular exclusion chromatography were subsequently fractionated using reverse-phase chromatography, resulting in the isolation of fractions F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5. The F1-Fraction suppressed C. scovillei growth by 90, 70.4, and 44% at 100, 50, and 25 μg mL-1, respectively. At 24 h, the IC50 and minimum inhibitory concentration were 21.5 μg mL-1 and 200 μg mL-1, respectively. We found an increase in ROS, which may have resulted in an oxidative burst, loss of mitochondrial functioning, and cytoplasm retraction, as well as an increase in autophagic vacuoles. MS/MS analysis of the F1-Fraction indicated the presence of two defensin-like proteins, and we were able to identify the expression of three defensin sequences in our C. chinense fruit extract. The F1-Fraction was also found to inhibit the activity of insect α-amylases. In summary, the F1-Fraction of C. chinense exhibits antifungal activity against a major pepper pathogen that causes anthracnose. These defensin-like compounds are promising prospects for further research into antifungal and insecticide biotechnology applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Maximano Resende
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
| | - Érica de Oliveira Mello
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
| | - Ana Eliza Zeraik
- Laboratório de Química e Função de Proteinas e Peptídeos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
| | - Arielle Pinheiro Bessiati Fava Oliveira
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
| | - Thaynã Amanda Melo Souza
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Bonan Taveira
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
| | - Felipe Figueiroa Moreira
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Henrique Seabra
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
| | | | - Jonas Perales
- Laboratório de Toxinologia, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - André de Oliveira Carvalho
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
| | - Rosana Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Melhoramento Genético Vegetal, Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Agropecuárias, Universidade Estadual Do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
| | - Valdirene Moreira Gomes
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil
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Góralska K, Szybka M, Karuga FF, Pastuszak-Lewandoska D, Brzeziańska-Lasota E. Acquired resistance or tolerance? - in search of mechanisms underlying changes in the resistance profile of Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis as a result of exposure to methotrexate. J Mycol Med 2024; 34:101476. [PMID: 38507825 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2024.101476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of fungal strains showing acquired resistance and multidrug resistance is an increasing therapeutic problem, especially in patients with a severely weakened immune system and undergoing chemotherapy. What is also extremely disturbing is the similarity of the resistance mechanisms of fungal cells and other eukaryotic cells, including human cells, which may contribute to the development of cross-resistance in fungi in response to substances used in e.g. anticancer treatment. An example of such a drug is methotrexate, which is pumped out of eukaryotic cells by ABC transmembrane transporters - in fungi, used to remove azoles from fungal cells. For this reason, the aim of the study was to analyze the expression levels of genes: ERG11, MDR1 and CDR1, potentially responsible for the occurrence of cross-resistance in Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis as a result of fungal exposure to methotrexate (MTX). In vitro exposure of C. albicans and C. parapsilosis strains to methotrexate showed a high increase in resistance to fluconazole and a partial increase in resistance to voriconazole. Analysis of the expression of resistance genes showed varied responses of the tested strains depending on the species. In the case of C. albicans, an increase in the expression of the MDR1 gene was observed, and a decrease in ERG11 and CDR1. However, for C. parapsilosis there was an increase in the expression of the CDR1 gene and a decrease in ERG11 and MDR1. We noted the relationship between the level of resistance to voriconazole and the level of ERG11 gene expression in C. albicans. This indicates that this type of relationship is different for each species. Our research confirms that the mechanisms by which fungi acquire resistance and develop cross-resistance are highly complex and most likely involve several pathways simultaneously. The emergence of multidrug resistance may be related to the possibility of developing tolerance to antimycotics by fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Góralska
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Chair of Biology and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lodz. Żeligowskiego Street 7/9 90-752 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Małgorzata Szybka
- Department of Microbiology and Medical Laboratory Immunology, Chair of Biology and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lodz. Pomorska Street 251 (Building C5) 92-213 Lodz, Poland
| | - Filip Franciszek Karuga
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Chair of Biology and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lodz. Żeligowskiego Street 7/9 90-752 Lodz, Poland; Department of Sleep Medicine and Metabolic Disorders, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland
| | - Dorota Pastuszak-Lewandoska
- Department of Microbiology and Medical Laboratory Immunology, Chair of Biology and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lodz. Pomorska Street 251 (Building C5) 92-213 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewa Brzeziańska-Lasota
- Department of Biomedicine and Genetics, Chair of Biology and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lodz. Mazowiecka Street 5 (Building A6) 92-215 Lodz, Poland
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9
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Yiallouris A, Pana ZD, Marangos G, Tzyrka I, Karanasios S, Georgiou I, Kontopyrgia K, Triantafyllou E, Seidel D, Cornely OA, Johnson EO, Panagiotou S, Filippou C. Fungal diversity in the soil Mycobiome: Implications for ONE health. One Health 2024; 18:100720. [PMID: 38699438 PMCID: PMC11064618 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100720] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Today, over 300 million individuals worldwide are afflicted by severe fungal infections, many of whom will perish. Fungi, as a result of their plastic genomes have the ability to adapt to new environments and extreme conditions as a consequence of globalization, including urbanization, agricultural intensification, and, notably, climate change. Soils and the impact of these anthropogenic environmental factors can be the source of pathogenic and non-pathogenic fungi and subsequent fungal threats to public health. This underscores the growing understanding that not only is fungal diversity in the soil mycobiome a critical component of a functioning ecosystem, but also that soil microbial communities can significantly contribute to plant, animal, and human health, as underscored by the One Health concept. Collectively, this stresses the importance of investigating the soil microbiome in order to gain a deeper understanding of soil fungal ecology and its interplay with the rhizosphere microbiome, which carries significant implications for human health, animal health and environmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Yiallouris
- School of Medicine, European University, Cyprus
- Medical innovation center (MEDIC), School of Medicine, European University, Cyprus
| | - Zoi D. Pana
- School of Medicine, European University, Cyprus
- Medical innovation center (MEDIC), School of Medicine, European University, Cyprus
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Danila Seidel
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Oliver A. Cornely
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Elizabeth O. Johnson
- School of Medicine, European University, Cyprus
- Medical innovation center (MEDIC), School of Medicine, European University, Cyprus
| | - Stavros Panagiotou
- School of Medicine, European University, Cyprus
- Division of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester
| | - Charalampos Filippou
- School of Medicine, European University, Cyprus
- Medical innovation center (MEDIC), School of Medicine, European University, Cyprus
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10
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Thambugala KM, Daranagama DA, Tennakoon DS, Jayatunga DPW, Hongsanan S, Xie N. Humans vs. Fungi: An Overview of Fungal Pathogens against Humans. Pathogens 2024; 13:426. [PMID: 38787278 PMCID: PMC11124197 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13050426] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Human fungal diseases are infections caused by any fungus that invades human tissues, causing superficial, subcutaneous, or systemic diseases. Fungal infections that enter various human tissues and organs pose a significant threat to millions of individuals with weakened immune systems globally. Over recent decades, the reported cases of invasive fungal infections have increased substantially and research progress in this field has also been rapidly boosted. This review provides a comprehensive list of human fungal pathogens extracted from over 850 recent case reports, and a summary of the relevant disease conditions and their origins. Details of 281 human fungal pathogens belonging to 12 classes and 104 genera in the divisions ascomycota, basidiomycota, entomophthoromycota, and mucoromycota are listed. Among these, Aspergillus stands out as the genus with the greatest potential of infecting humans, comprising 16 species known to infect humans. Additionally, three other genera, Curvularia, Exophiala, and Trichophyton, are recognized as significant genera, each comprising 10 or more known human pathogenic species. A phylogenetic analysis based on partial sequences of the 28S nrRNA gene (LSU) of human fungal pathogens was performed to show their phylogenetic relationships and clarify their taxonomies. In addition, this review summarizes the recent advancements in fungal disease diagnosis and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasun M. Thambugala
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Unit, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Gangodawila, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka; (K.M.T.); (D.P.W.J.)
- Center for Biotechnology, Department of Zoology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka
- Center for Plant Materials and Herbal Products Research, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Dinushani A. Daranagama
- Department of Plant and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya 11300, Sri Lanka;
| | - Danushka S. Tennakoon
- Bioengineering and Technological Research Centre for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China;
| | - Dona Pamoda W. Jayatunga
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Unit, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Gangodawila, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka; (K.M.T.); (D.P.W.J.)
- Center for Biotechnology, Department of Zoology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka
- Center for Plant Materials and Herbal Products Research, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Sinang Hongsanan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Microbial Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Ning Xie
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Microbial Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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11
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Hartuis S, Ourliac-Garnier I, Robert E, Albassier M, Duchesne L, Beaufils C, Kuhn J, Le Pape P, Morio F. Precise genome editing underlines the distinct contributions of mutations in ERG11, ERG3, MRR1, and TAC1 genes to antifungal resistance in Candida parapsilosis. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024:e0002224. [PMID: 38624217 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00022-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida parapsilosis has recently emerged as a major threat due to the worldwide emergence of fluconazole-resistant strains causing clonal outbreaks in hospitals and poses a therapeutic challenge due to the limited antifungal armamentarium. Here, we used precise genome editing using CRISPR-Cas9 to gain further insights into the contribution of mutations in ERG11, ERG3, MRR1, and TAC1 genes and the influence of allelic dosage to antifungal resistance in C. parapsilosis. Seven of the most common amino acid substitutions previously reported in fluconazole-resistant clinical isolates (including Y132F in ERG11) were engineered in two fluconazole-susceptible C. parapsilosis lineages (ATCC 22019 and STZ5). Each mutant was then challenged in vitro against a large array of antifungals, with a focus on azoles. Any possible change in virulence was also assessed in a Galleria mellonella model. We successfully generated a total of 19 different mutants, using CRISPR-Cas9. Except for R398I (ERG11), all remaining amino acid substitutions conferred reduced susceptibility to fluconazole. However, the impact on fluconazole in vitro susceptibility varied greatly according to the engineered mutation, the stronger impact being noted for G583R acting as a gain-of-function mutation in MRR1. Cross-resistance with newer azoles, non-medical azoles, but also non-azole antifungals such as flucytosine, was occasionally noted. Posaconazole and isavuconazole remained the most active in vitro. Except for G583R, no fitness cost was associated with the acquisition of fluconazole resistance. We highlight the distinct contributions of amino acid substitutions in ERG11, ERG3, MRR1, and TAC1 genes to antifungal resistance in C. parapsilosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Hartuis
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l'Immunité, Nantes, France
| | | | - Estelle Robert
- Nantes Université, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l'Immunité, Nantes, France
| | - Marjorie Albassier
- Nantes Université, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l'Immunité, Nantes, France
| | - Léa Duchesne
- Department Public Health, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Clara Beaufils
- Nantes Université, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l'Immunité, Nantes, France
| | - Joséphine Kuhn
- Nantes Université, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l'Immunité, Nantes, France
| | - Patrice Le Pape
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l'Immunité, Nantes, France
| | - Florent Morio
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l'Immunité, Nantes, France
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12
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Di Maio A, Olleik H, Courvoisier-Dezord E, Guillier S, Neulat-Ripoll F, Haudecoeur R, Bolla JM, Casanova M, Cavalier JF, Canaan S, Pique V, Charmasson Y, Baydoun E, Hijazi A, Perrier J, Maresca M, Robin M. Design and Synthesis of Novel Amino and Acetamidoaurones with Antimicrobial Activities. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:300. [PMID: 38666976 PMCID: PMC11047580 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13040300] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of new and effective antimicrobial compounds is urgent due to the emergence of resistant bacteria. Natural plant flavonoids are known to be effective molecules, but their activity and selectivity have to be increased. Based on previous aurone potency, we designed new aurone derivatives bearing acetamido and amino groups at the position 5 of the A ring and managing various monosubstitutions at the B ring. A series of 31 new aurone derivatives were first evaluated for their antimicrobial activity with five derivatives being the most active (compounds 10, 12, 15, 16, and 20). The evaluation of their cytotoxicity on human cells and of their therapeutic index (TI) showed that compounds 10 and 20 had the highest TI. Finally, screening against a large panel of pathogens confirmed that compounds 10 and 20 possess large spectrum antimicrobial activity, including on bioweapon BSL3 strains, with MIC values as low as 0.78 µM. These results demonstrate that 5-acetamidoaurones are far more active and safer compared with 5-aminoaurones, and that benzyloxy and isopropyl substitutions at the B ring are the most promising strategy in the exploration of new antimicrobial aurones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attilio Di Maio
- Aix Marseille University, University Avignon, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, 13013 Marseille, France; (A.D.M.); (V.P.)
| | - Hamza Olleik
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, iSm2, 13013 Marseille, France (E.C.-D.); (Y.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Elise Courvoisier-Dezord
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, iSm2, 13013 Marseille, France (E.C.-D.); (Y.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Sophie Guillier
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, SSA, MCT, 13385 Marseille, France; (S.G.); (F.N.-R.); (J.-M.B.)
| | - Fabienne Neulat-Ripoll
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, SSA, MCT, 13385 Marseille, France; (S.G.); (F.N.-R.); (J.-M.B.)
| | | | - Jean-Michel Bolla
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, SSA, MCT, 13385 Marseille, France; (S.G.); (F.N.-R.); (J.-M.B.)
| | - Magali Casanova
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, LISM UMR7255, IMM FR3479, 13009 Marseille, France; (M.C.); (J.-F.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Jean-François Cavalier
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, LISM UMR7255, IMM FR3479, 13009 Marseille, France; (M.C.); (J.-F.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Stéphane Canaan
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, LISM UMR7255, IMM FR3479, 13009 Marseille, France; (M.C.); (J.-F.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Valérie Pique
- Aix Marseille University, University Avignon, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, 13013 Marseille, France; (A.D.M.); (V.P.)
| | - Yolande Charmasson
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, iSm2, 13013 Marseille, France (E.C.-D.); (Y.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Elias Baydoun
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon;
| | - Akram Hijazi
- Plateforme de Recherche et D’analyse en Sciences de L’environnement (EDST-PRASE), Beirut 1107, Lebanon;
| | - Josette Perrier
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, iSm2, 13013 Marseille, France (E.C.-D.); (Y.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Marc Maresca
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, iSm2, 13013 Marseille, France (E.C.-D.); (Y.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Maxime Robin
- Aix Marseille University, University Avignon, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, 13013 Marseille, France; (A.D.M.); (V.P.)
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13
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Gutierrez-Gongora D, Woods M, Prosser RS, Geddes-McAlister J. Natural compounds from freshwater mussels disrupt fungal virulence determinants and influence fluconazole susceptibility in the presence of macrophages in Cryptococcus neoformans. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0284123. [PMID: 38329361 PMCID: PMC10913472 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02841-23] [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: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a human fungal pathogen responsible for fatal infections, especially in patients with a depressed immune system. Overexposure to antifungal drugs due to prolonged treatment regimens and structure-similar applications in agriculture have weakened the efficacy of current antifungals in the clinic. The rapid evolution of antifungal resistance urges the discovery of new compounds that inhibit fungal virulence determinants, rather than directly killing the pathogen, as alternative strategies to overcome disease and reduce selective pressure toward resistance. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of freshwater mussel extracts (crude and clarified) against the production of well-defined virulence determinants (i.e., thermotolerance, melanin, capsule, and biofilm) and fluconazole resistance in C. neoformans. We demonstrated the extracts' influence on fungal thermotolerance, capsule production, and biofilm formation, as well as susceptibility to fluconazole in the presence of macrophages. Additionally, we measured the inhibitory activity of extracts against commercial peptidases (family representatives of cryptococcal orthologs) related to fungal virulence determinants and fluconazole resistance, and integrated these phenotypic findings with quantitative proteomics profiling. Our approach defined distinct signatures of each treatment and validated a new mechanism of anti-virulence action toward the polysaccharide capsule from a selected extract following fractionation. By understanding the mechanisms driving the antifungal activity of mussels, we may develop innovative treatment options to overcome fungal infections and promote susceptibility to fluconazole in resistant strains. IMPORTANCE As the prevalence and severity of global fungal infections rise, along with an increasing incidence of antifungal resistance, new strategies to combat fungal pathogens and overcome resistance are urgently needed. Critically, our current methods to overcome fungal infections are limited and drive the evolution of resistance forward; however, an anti-virulence approach to disarm virulence factors of the pathogen and promote host cell clearance is promising. Here, we explore the efficacy of natural compounds derived from freshwater mussels against classical fungal virulence determinants, including thermotolerance, capsule production, stress response, and biofilm formation. We integrate our phenotypic discoveries with state-of-the-art mass spectrometry-based proteomics to identify mechanistic drivers of these antifungal properties and propose innovative avenues to reduce infection and support the treatment of resistant strains.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Woods
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ryan S. Prosser
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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14
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Chastain DB, White BP, Tu PJ, Chan S, Jackson BT, Kubbs KA, Bandali A, McDougal S, Henao-Martínez AF, Cluck DB. Candidemia in Adult Patients in the ICU: A Reappraisal of Susceptibility Testing and Antifungal Therapy. Ann Pharmacother 2024; 58:305-321. [PMID: 37272474 DOI: 10.1177/10600280231175201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide updates on the epidemiology and recommendations for management of candidemia in patients with critical illness. DATA SOURCES A literature search using the PubMed database (inception to March 2023) was conducted using the search terms "invasive candidiasis," "candidemia," "critically ill," "azoles," "echinocandin," "antifungal agents," "rapid diagnostics," "antifungal susceptibility testing," "therapeutic drug monitoring," "antifungal dosing," "persistent candidemia," and "Candida biofilm." STUDY SELECTION/DATA EXTRACTION Clinical data were limited to those published in the English language. Ongoing trials were identified through ClinicalTrials.gov. DATA SYNTHESIS A total of 109 articles were reviewed including 25 pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies and 30 studies including patient data, 13 of which were randomized controlled clinical trials. The remaining 54 articles included fungal surveillance data, in vitro studies, review articles, and survey data. The current 2016 Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Candidiasis provides recommendations for selecting empiric and definitive antifungal therapies for candidemia, but data are limited regarding optimized dosing strategies in critically ill patients with dynamic pharmacokinetic changes or persistent candidemia complicated. RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE Outcomes due to candidemia remain poor despite improved diagnostic platforms, antifungal susceptibility testing, and antifungal therapy selection for candidemia in critically ill patients. Earlier detection and identification of the species causing candidemia combined with recognition of patient-specific factors leading to dosing discrepancies are crucial to improving outcomes in critically ill patients with candidemia. CONCLUSIONS Treatment of candidemia in critically ill patients must account for the incidence of non-albicans Candida species and trends in antifungal resistance as well as overcome the complex pathophysiologic changes to avoid suboptimal antifungal exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Chastain
- Department of Clinical & Administrative Pharmacy, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Albany, GA, USA
| | - Bryan P White
- University of Oklahoma Health Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Patrick J Tu
- Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Sophea Chan
- Department of Clinical & Administrative Pharmacy, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Albany, GA, USA
- Department of Pharmacy, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Albany, GA, USA
| | | | - Kara A Kubbs
- University of Oklahoma Health Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Aiman Bandali
- Overlook Medical Center, Atlantic Health System, Summit, NJ, USA
| | | | - Andrés F Henao-Martínez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - David B Cluck
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
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15
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Pintye A, Bacsó R, Kovács GM. Trans-kingdom fungal pathogens infecting both plants and humans, and the problem of azole fungicide resistance. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1354757. [PMID: 38410389 PMCID: PMC10896089 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1354757] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Azole antifungals are abundantly used in the environment and play an important role in managing fungal diseases in clinics. Due to the widespread use, azole resistance is an emerging global problem for all applications in several fungal species, including trans-kingdom pathogens, capable of infecting plants and humans. Azoles used in agriculture and clinics share the mode of action and facilitating cross-resistance development. The extensive use of azoles in the environment, e.g., for plant protection and wood preservation, contributes to the spread of resistant populations and challenges using these antifungals in medical treatments. The target of azoles is the cytochrome p450 lanosterol 14-α demethylase encoded by the CYP51 (called also as ERG11 in the case of yeasts) gene. Resistance mechanisms involve mainly the mutations in the coding region in the CYP51 gene, resulting in the inadequate binding of azoles to the encoded Cyp51 protein, or mutations in the promoter region causing overexpression of the protein. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued the first fungal priority pathogens list (FPPL) to raise awareness of the risk of fungal infections and the increasingly rapid spread of antifungal resistance. Here, we review the main issues about the azole antifungal resistance of trans-kingdom pathogenic fungi with the ability to cause serious human infections and included in the WHO FPPL. Methods for the identification of these species and detection of resistance are summarized, highlighting the importance of these issues to apply the proper treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Pintye
- Centre for Agricultural Research, Plant Protection Institute, HUN-REN, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Plant Anatomy, Institute of Biology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Renáta Bacsó
- Centre for Agricultural Research, Plant Protection Institute, HUN-REN, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor M. Kovács
- Centre for Agricultural Research, Plant Protection Institute, HUN-REN, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Plant Anatomy, Institute of Biology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
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16
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Melhem MSC, Leite Júnior DP, Takahashi JPF, Macioni MB, Oliveira LD, de Araújo LS, Fava WS, Bonfietti LX, Paniago AMM, Venturini J, Espinel-Ingroff A. Antifungal Resistance in Cryptococcal Infections. Pathogens 2024; 13:128. [PMID: 38392866 PMCID: PMC10891860 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020128] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Antifungal therapy, especially with the azoles, could promote the incidence of less susceptible isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans and C. gattii species complexes (SC), mostly in developing countries. Given that these species affect mostly the immunocompromised host, the infections are severe and difficult to treat. This review encompasses the following topics: 1. infecting species and their virulence, 2. treatment, 3. antifungal susceptibility methods and available categorical endpoints, 4. genetic mechanisms of resistance, 5. clinical resistance, 6. fluconazole minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs), clinical outcome, 7. environmental influences, and 8. the relevance of host factors, including pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) parameters, in predicting the clinical outcome to therapy. As of now, epidemiologic cutoff endpoints (ECVs/ECOFFs) are the most reliable antifungal resistance detectors for these species, as only one clinical breakpoint (amphotericin B and C. neoformans VNI) is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia S C Melhem
- Graduate Program in Sciences, Secretary of Health, São Paulo 01246-002, SP, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, MS, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, State University of São Paulo, Botucatu 18618-687, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Juliana P F Takahashi
- Graduate Program in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, MS, Brazil
- Pathology Division, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo 01246-002, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Lisandra Siufi de Araújo
- Graduate Program in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, MS, Brazil
- Central Public Health Laboratory-LACEN, Mycology Unit, Adolfo Lutz Institut, São Paulo 01246-002, SP, Brazil
| | - Wellington S Fava
- Graduate Program in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Lucas X Bonfietti
- Central Public Health Laboratory-LACEN, Mycology Unit, Adolfo Lutz Institut, São Paulo 01246-002, SP, Brazil
| | - Anamaria M M Paniago
- Graduate Program in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, MS, Brazil
| | - James Venturini
- Graduate Program in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Ana Espinel-Ingroff
- Central Public Health Laboratory-LACEN, Campo Grande 79074-460, MS, Brazil
- VCU Medical Center, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
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17
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Jenks JD, Prattes J, Wurster S, Sprute R, Seidel D, Oliverio M, Egger M, Del Rio C, Sati H, Cornely OA, Thompson GR, Kontoyiannis DP, Hoenigl M. Social determinants of health as drivers of fungal disease. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 66:102325. [PMID: 38053535 PMCID: PMC10694587 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Disparities in social determinants of health (SDOH) play a significant role in causing health inequities globally. The physical environment, including housing and workplace environment, can increase the prevalence and spread of fungal infections. A number of professions are associated with increased fungal infection risk and are associated with low pay, which may be linked to crowded and sub-optimal living conditions, exposure to fungal organisms, lack of access to quality health care, and risk for fungal infection. Those involved and displaced from areas of armed conflict have an increased risk of invasive fungal infections. Lastly, a number of fungal plant pathogens already threaten food security, which will become more problematic with global climate change. Taken together, disparities in SDOH are associated with increased risk for contracting fungal infections. More emphasis needs to be placed on systematic approaches to better understand the impact and reducing the health inequities associated with these disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D. Jenks
- Durham County Department of Public Health, Durham, NC, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Juergen Prattes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Sebastian Wurster
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Rosanne Sprute
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Institute of Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging – Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, University of Cologne, Center of Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center of Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Danila Seidel
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Institute of Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging – Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, University of Cologne, Center of Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center of Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, Germany
| | - Matteo Oliverio
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Institute of Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging – Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
- Department I of Internal Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Matthias Egger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Carlos Del Rio
- Emory Center for AIDS Research, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Hatim Sati
- Department of Global Coordination and Partnership on Antimicrobial Resistance, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Oliver A. Cornely
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Institute of Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging – Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, University of Cologne, Center of Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center of Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (ZKS Koln), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - George R. Thompson
- University of California Davis Center for Valley Fever, Sacramento, CA, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, United States of America
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, United States of America
| | - Dimitrios P. Kontoyiannis
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
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18
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Xia M, Song X, Lu Z, Wang Y, Zhou Q, Geng P, Wang S, Zhou Y, Wu Q, Han A. Evaluation of the inhibitory effect of azoles on pharmacokinetics of lenvatinib in rats both in vivo and in vitro by UPLC-MS/MS. Thorac Cancer 2023; 14:3331-3341. [PMID: 37771131 PMCID: PMC10665782 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.15125] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lenvatinib is a multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor used in the treatment of a variety of solid tumors. This study aims to investigate the potential pharmacokinetic interactions between lenvatinib and various azoles (ketoconazole, voriconazole, isavuconazole and posaconazole) when orally administered to rats. METHODS A total of 30 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated into five groups and administered 20 mg/kg of ketoconazole, voriconazole, isavuconazole and 30 mg/kg of posaconazole and 0.5% CMC-Na, through gavage for a duration of 7 days prior to the commencement of the experiment. On the final day, the rats were given 10 mg/kg of lenvatinib. The blood concentration of lenvatinib was determined using UPLC-MS-MS. In vitro lenvatinib were incubated with azoles and rat liver microsomes (RLMs) or human liver microsomes (HLMs). Molecular docking was lastly used to examine the binding strength of the enzymes and ligands with Autodock Vina. RESULTS AUC and Cmax of lenvatinib significantly increased with each of the azoles (p < 0.05), whereas CLz/F decreased 0.83-flod, 0.41-fold (p < 0.05) and 0.72-fold (p < 0.01) in voriconazole, isavuconazole and ketoconazole in rats. The IC50 of lenvatinib with the azoles were 0.237, 1.300, 0.355 and 2.403 μM in RLMs and 0.160, 1.933, 3.622 and 1.831 μM in HLMs. Molecular docking analysis suggested that azoles exhibited a strong binding ability towards the target enzymes. CONCLUSION It is imperative to acknowledge the potential drug-drug interactions mediated by CYP3A4 between azoles and lenvatinib, as these interactions hold significant implications for their clinical utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengming Xia
- Department of PharmacyNingbo Medical Center Lihuili HospitalNingboChina
| | - Xueyi Song
- Key Laboratory of Joint Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Disease and Liver Cancer of LishuiThe Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's HospitalZhejiangChina
| | - Zebei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Joint Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Disease and Liver Cancer of LishuiThe Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's HospitalZhejiangChina
| | - Yu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Joint Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Disease and Liver Cancer of LishuiThe Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's HospitalZhejiangChina
| | - Quan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Joint Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Disease and Liver Cancer of LishuiThe Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's HospitalZhejiangChina
| | - Peiwu Geng
- Key Laboratory of Joint Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Disease and Liver Cancer of LishuiThe Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's HospitalZhejiangChina
| | - Shuanghu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Joint Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Disease and Liver Cancer of LishuiThe Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's HospitalZhejiangChina
| | - Yunfang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Joint Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Disease and Liver Cancer of LishuiThe Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's HospitalZhejiangChina
| | - Qingjun Wu
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryBeijing Hospital, National Center of GerontologyBeijingChina
| | - Aixia Han
- Key Laboratory of Joint Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Disease and Liver Cancer of LishuiThe Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's HospitalZhejiangChina
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19
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Del Olmo V, Mixão V, Fotedar R, Saus E, Al Malki A, Księżopolska E, Nunez-Rodriguez JC, Boekhout T, Gabaldón T. Origin of fungal hybrids with pathogenic potential from warm seawater environments. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6919. [PMID: 37903766 PMCID: PMC10616089 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42679-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hybridisation is a common event in yeasts often leading to genomic variability and adaptation. The yeast Candida orthopsilosis is a human-associated opportunistic pathogen belonging to the Candida parapsilosis species complex. Most C. orthopsilosis clinical isolates are hybrids resulting from at least four independent crosses between two parental lineages, of which only one has been identified. The rare presence or total absence of parentals amongst clinical isolates is hypothesised to be a consequence of a reduced pathogenicity with respect to their hybrids. Here, we sequence and analyse the genomes of environmental C. orthopsilosis strains isolated from warm marine ecosystems. We find that a majority of environmental isolates are hybrids, phylogenetically closely related to hybrid clinical isolates. Furthermore, we identify the missing parental lineage, thus providing a more complete overview of the genomic evolution of this species. Additionally, we discover phenotypic differences between the two parental lineages, as well as between parents and hybrids, under conditions relevant for pathogenesis. Our results suggest a marine origin of C. orthopsilosis hybrids, with intrinsic pathogenic potential, and pave the way to identify pre-existing environmental adaptations that rendered hybrids more prone than parental lineages to colonise and infect the mammalian host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Del Olmo
- Life Sciences Department. Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Jordi Girona, 29, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
- Mechanisms of Disease Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Verónica Mixão
- Life Sciences Department. Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Jordi Girona, 29, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
- Mechanisms of Disease Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Bioinformatics Unit, Infectious Diseases Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Av. Padre Cruz, 1649-016, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rashmi Fotedar
- Department of Genetic Engineering, Biotechnology Centre, Ministry of Municipality and Environment, P.O Box 20022, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ester Saus
- Life Sciences Department. Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Jordi Girona, 29, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
- Mechanisms of Disease Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amina Al Malki
- Department of Genetic Engineering, Biotechnology Centre, Ministry of Municipality and Environment, P.O Box 20022, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ewa Księżopolska
- Life Sciences Department. Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Jordi Girona, 29, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
- Mechanisms of Disease Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Nunez-Rodriguez
- Life Sciences Department. Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Jordi Girona, 29, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
- Mechanisms of Disease Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Teun Boekhout
- College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Toni Gabaldón
- Life Sciences Department. Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Jordi Girona, 29, 08034, Barcelona, Spain.
- Mechanisms of Disease Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.
- ICREA, Pg. Lluis Companys 23, Barcelona, 08010, Spain.
- , Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Barcelona, Spain.
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20
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Ashizawa N, Takazono T, Ito Y, Nakada N, Hirayama T, Takeda K, Ide S, Iwanaga N, Tashiro M, Hosogaya N, Yanagihara K, Mukae H, Izumikawa K. Antifungal susceptibility profiles of Cryptococcus neoformans strains clinically isolated from non-HIV-infected patients in Nagasaki, Japan. Med Mycol 2023; 61:myad100. [PMID: 37740432 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Data on antifungal susceptibility of Cryptococcus neoformans are limited in Japan. A total of 89 C. neoformans strains isolated from 83 non-human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients with cryptococcosis between 1997 and 2021 in Nagasaki, Japan, were investigated. Using the reference method M27-Ed4 by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, the minimum inhibitory concentration for 90% of isolates of fluconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, amphotericin B, and flucytosine were 4, 0.125, 0.06, 0.5, and 4 µg/ml, respectively, which were below the reported epidemiological cutoff values, without any detectable non-wild-type strains. Our findings imply no increasing trend of antifungal-resistant C. neoformans in Nagasaki, Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuyuki Ashizawa
- Infection Control and Education Center, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852- 8501, Japan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Takahiro Takazono
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Yuya Ito
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Nana Nakada
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
- Health Center, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Tatsuro Hirayama
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Takeda
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Shotaro Ide
- Infectious Diseases Experts Training Center, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Naoki Iwanaga
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Masato Tashiro
- Infection Control and Education Center, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852- 8501, Japan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Naoki Hosogaya
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
- Clinical Research Center, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Katsunori Yanagihara
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Mukae
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Koichi Izumikawa
- Infection Control and Education Center, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852- 8501, Japan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
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21
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Paul S, Stamnes MA, Moye-Rowley WS. Interactions between the transcription factors FfmA and AtrR are required to properly regulate gene expression in the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2023; 13:jkad173. [PMID: 37523774 PMCID: PMC10542180 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkad173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Transcriptional regulation of azole resistance in the filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus is a key step in development of this problematic clinical phenotype. We and others have previously described a C2H2-containing transcription factor called FfmA that is required for normal levels of voriconazole susceptibility. Null alleles of ffmA exhibit a strongly compromised growth rate even in the absence of any external stress. Here, we employ an acutely repressible doxycycline-off form of ffmA to rapidly deplete FfmA protein from the cell. Using this approach, we carried out RNA-seq analyses to probe the transcriptome cells acutely deprived of FfmA. A total of 2,000 genes were differentially expressed upon acute depletion of FfmA, illustrating the broad transcriptomic effect of this factor. Interestingly, the transcriptome changes observed upon this acute depletion of FfmA expression only shared limited overlap with those found in an ffmAΔ null strain analyzed by others. Chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with high throughput DNA sequencing analysis (ChIP-seq) identified 530 genes that were bound by FfmA. More than 300 of these genes were also bound by AtrR, a transcription factor important in azole drug resistance, demonstrating striking regulatory overlap with FfmA. However, while AtrR is an upstream activation protein with known specificity, our data suggest that FfmA is a chromatin-associated factor that binds DNA in a manner dependent on other factors. We provide evidence that AtrR and FfmA interact in the cell and show reciprocal expression modulation. Interaction of AtrR and FfmA is required for normal gene expression in A. fumigatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjoy Paul
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Mark A Stamnes
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - W Scott Moye-Rowley
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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22
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Lee Y, Park SJ, Kim K, Kim TO, Lee SE. Antifungal and Antiaflatoxigenic Activities of Massoia Essential Oil and C10 Massoia Lactone against Aflatoxin-Producing Aspergillus flavus. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:571. [PMID: 37755997 PMCID: PMC10537029 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15090571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infection and mycotoxin contamination are major hazards to the safe storage and distribution of foods and feeds consumed by humans and livestock. This study investigated the antifungal and antiaflatoxigenic activities of massoia essential oil (MEO) and its major constituent, C10 massoia lactone (C10), against aflatoxin B (AFB)-producing Aspergillus flavus ATCC 22546. Their antifungal activities were evaluated using a disc diffusion assay, agar dilution method, and a mycelial growth inhibition assay with the AFB analysis using liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. MEO and C10 exhibited similar antifungal and antiaflatoxigenic activities against A. flavus. C10 was a primary constituent in MEO and represented up to 45.1% of total peak areas analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, indicating that C10 is a major compound contributing to the antifungal and antiaflatoxigenic activities of MEO. Interestingly, these two materials increased AFB production in A. flavus by upregulating the expression of most genes related to AFB biosynthesis by 3- to 60-fold. Overall, MEO and C10 could be suitable candidates as natural preservatives to control fungal infection and mycotoxin contamination in foods and feeds as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) in the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association of the United States (FEMA), and MEO is a more suitable substance than C10 because of its wider range of uses and higher allowed concentration than C10.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubin Lee
- Department of Integrative Biology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea;
| | - Soo Jean Park
- Applied BioSciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109, Australia;
| | - Kyeongnam Kim
- Institute of Quality and Safety Evaluation of Agricultural Products, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea;
| | - Tae-Oh Kim
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kumoh National Institute of Technology, Gumi 39177, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Eun Lee
- Department of Integrative Biology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea;
- Institute of Quality and Safety Evaluation of Agricultural Products, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Applied Biosciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
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23
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Hassoun N, Kassem II, Hamze M, El Tom J, Papon N, Osman M. Antifungal Use and Resistance in a Lower-Middle-Income Country: The Case of Lebanon. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1413. [PMID: 37760710 PMCID: PMC10525119 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12091413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a serious threat, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Antifungal resistance is often underestimated in both healthcare and non-clinical settings. In LMICs, it is believed that the inappropriate use of antifungals, limited surveillance systems, and low diagnostic capacities are significant drivers of resistance. Like other LMICs, Lebanon lacks antifungal use and resistance surveillance programs, and the impact of antifungal resistance in the country remains unclear, especially during the unfolding economic crisis that has severely affected medical care and access to safe food and water. Interestingly, the widespread use of antifungals in medicine and agriculture has raised concerns about the development of antifungal resistance in Lebanon. In this light, we aimed to survey available antifungal drugs in the country and evaluate susceptibility patterns of prevalent fungal species to guide empiric treatments and develop antifungal stewardship programs in Lebanon. We noted that the economic crisis resulted in significant increases in antifungal drug prices. Additionally, a comprehensive literature search across PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases identified 15 studies on fungal infections and antifungal resistance conducted from 1998 to 2023 in Lebanon. While data on antifungal resistance are limited, 87% of available studies in Lebanon focused on candidiasis, while the remaining 13% were on aspergillosis. Overall, we observed a marked antimicrobial resistance among Candida and Aspergillus species. Additionally, incidences of Candida auris infections have increased in Lebanese hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a uniform resistance to fluconazole and amphotericin-B. Taken together, a One Health approach, reliable diagnostics, and prudent antifungal use are required to control the spread of resistant fungal pathogens in healthcare and agricultural settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesrine Hassoun
- Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
| | - Issmat I. Kassem
- Center for Food Safety, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Georgia, 1109 Experiment Street, Griffin, GA 30223, USA;
| | - Monzer Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
| | - Jad El Tom
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Byblos 1401, Lebanon;
| | - Nicolas Papon
- University of Angers, University of Brest, IRF, SFR ICAT, F-49000 Angers, France;
| | - Marwan Osman
- Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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24
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Wang R, Huang N, Ji J, Chen C. An integrated approach for evaluating the interactive effects between azoxystrobin and ochratoxin A: Pathway-based in vivo analyses. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 195:105556. [PMID: 37666592 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Azoxystrobin (AZO) is a broad-spectrum strobilurin fungicide widely used in agriculture. However, its use increases the possibility of co-occurrence with mycotoxins such as ochratoxin A (OTA), which poses a significant risk to human health. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize the evaluation of the combined toxicity of these two compounds. To assess the combined effects of AZO and OTA, the response genes and phenotypes for AZO or OTA exposure were obtained by utilizing Comparative Toxicogenomics Database, and Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery was used for GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. In addition, we provided in-vivo evidence that AZO and OTA, in isolation and combination, could disrupt a variety of biological processes, such as oxidative stress, inflammatory response, apoptosis and thyroid hormone regulation under environmentally relevant concentrations. Notably, our findings suggest that the combined exposure group exhibited greater toxicity, as evidenced by the expression of various markers associated with the aforementioned biological processes, compared to the individual exposure group, which presents potential targets for the underlying mechanisms of induced toxicity. This study provides a novel methodological approach for exploring the mechanism of combined toxicity of a fungicide and a mycotoxin, which can shed light for conducting risk assessment of foodborne toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruike Wang
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Nan Huang
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Ji
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Chen Chen
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China.
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25
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McRae AG, Taneja J, Yee K, Shi X, Haridas S, LaButti K, Singan V, Grigoriev IV, Wildermuth MC. Spray-induced gene silencing to identify powdery mildew gene targets and processes for powdery mildew control. MOLECULAR PLANT PATHOLOGY 2023; 24:1168-1183. [PMID: 37340595 PMCID: PMC10423327 DOI: 10.1111/mpp.13361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) is an emerging tool for crop pest protection. It utilizes exogenously applied double-stranded RNA to specifically reduce pest target gene expression using endogenous RNA interference machinery. In this study, SIGS methods were developed and optimized for powdery mildew fungi, which are widespread obligate biotrophic fungi that infect agricultural crops, using the known azole-fungicide target cytochrome P450 51 (CYP51) in the Golovinomyces orontii-Arabidopsis thaliana pathosystem. Additional screening resulted in the identification of conserved gene targets and processes important to powdery mildew proliferation: apoptosis-antagonizing transcription factor in essential cellular metabolism and stress response; lipid catabolism genes lipase a, lipase 1, and acetyl-CoA oxidase in energy production; and genes involved in manipulation of the plant host via abscisic acid metabolism (9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase, xanthoxin dehydrogenase, and a putative abscisic acid G-protein coupled receptor) and secretion of the effector protein, effector candidate 2. Powdery mildew is the dominant disease impacting grapes and extensive powdery mildew resistance to applied fungicides has been reported. We therefore developed SIGS for the Erysiphe necator-Vitis vinifera system and tested six successful targets identified using the G. orontii-A. thaliana system. For all targets tested, a similar reduction in powdery mildew disease was observed between systems. This indicates screening of broadly conserved targets in the G. orontii-A. thaliana pathosystem identifies targets and processes for the successful control of other powdery mildew fungi. The efficacy of SIGS on powdery mildew fungi makes SIGS an exciting prospect for commercial powdery mildew control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda G. McRae
- Department of Plant and Microbial BiologyUniversity of CaliforniaBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jyoti Taneja
- Department of Plant and Microbial BiologyUniversity of CaliforniaBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Kathleen Yee
- Department of Plant and Microbial BiologyUniversity of CaliforniaBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Xinyi Shi
- Department of Plant and Microbial BiologyUniversity of CaliforniaBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sajeet Haridas
- US Department of Energy Joint Genome InstituteLawrence Berkeley National LaboratoryBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Kurt LaButti
- US Department of Energy Joint Genome InstituteLawrence Berkeley National LaboratoryBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Vasanth Singan
- US Department of Energy Joint Genome InstituteLawrence Berkeley National LaboratoryBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Igor V. Grigoriev
- Department of Plant and Microbial BiologyUniversity of CaliforniaBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
- US Department of Energy Joint Genome InstituteLawrence Berkeley National LaboratoryBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Mary C. Wildermuth
- Department of Plant and Microbial BiologyUniversity of CaliforniaBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
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26
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Khan HA, Mukhtar M, Bhatti MF. Mycovirus-induced hypovirulence in notorious fungi Sclerotinia: a comprehensive review. Braz J Microbiol 2023; 54:1459-1478. [PMID: 37523037 PMCID: PMC10485235 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-023-01073-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Members of the genus Sclerotinia are notorious plant pathogens with a diverse host range that includes many important crops. A huge number of mycoviruses have been identified in this genus; some of these viruses are reported to have a hypovirulent effect on the fitness of their fungal hosts. These mycoviruses are important to researchers from a biocontrol perspective which was first implemented against fungal diseases in 1990. In this review, we have presented the data of all hypovirulent mycoviruses infecting Sclerotinia sclerotiorum isolates. The data of hypovirulent mycoviruses ranges from 1992 to 2023. Currently, mycoviruses belonging to 17 different families, including (+) ssRNA, (-ssRNA), dsRNA, and ssDNA viruses, have been reported from this genus. Advances in studies had shown a changed expression of certain host genes (responsible for cell cycle regulation, DNA replication, repair pathways, ubiquitin proteolysis, gene silencing, methylation, pathogenesis-related, sclerotial development, carbohydrate metabolism, and oxalic acid biosynthesis) during the course of mycoviral infection, which were termed differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Together, research on fungal viruses and hypovirulence in Sclerotinia species can deepen our understanding of the cellular processes that affect how virulence manifests in these phytopathogenic fungi and increase the potential of mycoviruses as a distinct mode of biological control. Furthermore, the gathered data can also be used for in-silico analysis, which includes finding the signature sites [e.g., hypovirus papain-like protease (HPP) domain, "CCHH" motif, specific stem-loop structures, p29 motif as in CHV1, A-rich sequence, CA-rich sequences as in MoV1, GCU motif as in RnMBV1, Core motifs in hypovirus-associated RNA elements (HAREs) as in CHV1] that are possibly responsible for hypovirulence in mycoviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haris Ahmed Khan
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Mianwali, Mianwali, Punjab, 42200, Pakistan.
| | - Mamuna Mukhtar
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Faraz Bhatti
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
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Martins C, Piontkivska D, Mil-Homens D, Guedes P, Jorge JMP, Brinco J, Bárria C, Santos ACF, Barras R, Arraiano C, Fialho A, Goldman GH, Silva Pereira C. Increased Production of Pathogenic, Airborne Fungal Spores upon Exposure of a Soil Mycobiota to Chlorinated Aromatic Hydrocarbon Pollutants. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0066723. [PMID: 37284774 PMCID: PMC10434042 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00667-23] [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: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Organic pollutants are omnipresent and can penetrate all environmental niches. We evaluated the hypothesis that short-term (acute) exposure to aromatic hydrocarbon pollutants could increase the potential for fungal virulence. Specifically, we analyzed whether pentachlorophenol and triclosan pollution results in the production of airborne fungal spores with greater virulence than those derived from an unpolluted (Control) condition. Each pollutant altered the composition of the community of airborne spores compared to the control, favoring an increase in strains with in vivo infection capacity (the wax moth Galleria mellonella was used as an infection model). Fungi subsisting inside larvae at 72 h postinjection with airborne spore inocula collected in polluted and unpolluted conditions exhibited comparable diversity (mainly within Aspergillus fumigatus). Several virulent Aspergillus strains were isolated from larvae infected with the airborne spores produced in a polluted environment. Meanwhile, strains isolated from larvae injected with spores from the control, including one A. fumigatus strain, showed no virulence. Potential pathogenicity increased when two Aspergillus virulent strains were assembled, suggesting the existence of synergisms that impact pathogenicity. None of the observed taxonomic or functional traits could separate the virulent from the avirulent strains. Our study emphasizes pollution stress as a possible driver of phenotypic adaptations that increase Aspergillus pathogenicity, as well as the need to better understand the interplay between pollution and fungal virulence. IMPORTANCE Fungi colonizing soil and organic pollutants often meet. The consequences of this encounter constitute an outstanding question. We scrutinized the potential for virulence of airborne fungal spores produced under unpolluted and polluted scenarios. The airborne spores showed increased diversity of strains with higher infection capacity in Galleria mellonella whenever pollution is present. Inside the larvae injected with either airborne spore community, the surviving fungi demonstrated a similar diversity, mainly within Aspergillus fumigatus. However, the isolated Aspergillus strains greatly differ since virulence was only observed for those associated with a polluted environment. The interplay between pollution and fungal virulence still hides many unresolved questions, but the encounter is costly: pollution stress promotes phenotypic adaptations that may increase Aspergillus pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celso Martins
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Daryna Piontkivska
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Dalila Mil-Homens
- Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences and Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paula Guedes
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
- CENSE (Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research)/CHANGE (Global Change and Sustainability Institute), NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - João M. P. Jorge
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - João Brinco
- CENSE (Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research)/CHANGE (Global Change and Sustainability Institute), NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Cátia Bárria
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ariana C. F. Santos
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Barras
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Cecília Arraiano
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Arsénio Fialho
- Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences and Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gustavo H. Goldman
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Cristina Silva Pereira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
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Mariri NG, Dikhoba PM, Mongalo NI, Makhafola TJ. GC-ToF-MS Profiling and In Vitro Inhibitory Effects of Selected South African Plants against Important Mycotoxigenic Phytopathogens. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1660. [PMID: 37629517 PMCID: PMC10455341 DOI: 10.3390/life13081660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The harmful effects following the ingestion of mycotoxin-contaminated food include the induction of cancers, mutagenicity, immune suppression, and toxicities that target organs of the digestive, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems. Synthetic fungicides are generally associated with a high toxic residue in food and the development of excessive fungal resistance. This study aimed to determine the antifungal activities against mycotoxigenic fungi of selected South African plant leaves and potentially develop plant-derived bio-fungicides, and, furthermore, to explore the in vitro antioxidant activity and the phytochemical spectra of the compounds of the selected medicinal plant extracts. The extracts were tested for antifungal activity against phytopathogenic strains using a microdilution broth assay. Bauhinia galpinii extracts exhibited the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against C. cladospoides and P. haloterans at 24 h incubation periods. C. caffrum had good antioxidant activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) with 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 0.013 mg/mL while B. galpini had IC50 values of 0.053 against free radicals of 2,2'-azinobis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-suphonic acid (ABTS). The antimycotoxigenic and antioxidant activity exerted by both B. galpinii and C. caffrum may well be attributed to high TPC. In the GC-ToF-MS analysis, all the selected medicinal plants exhibited the presence of Hexadecanoic acid at varying % areas, while both B. galpinii and C. caffum exhibited the presence of lupeol at % area 2.99 and 3.96, respectively. The compounds identified, particularly the ones with higher % area, may well explain the biological activity observed. Although the selected medicinal plants exhibited a notable biological activity, there is a need to explore the safety profiles of these plants, both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ntagi Gerald Mariri
- Center for Quality of Health and Living, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Central University of Technology, Private Bag X20539, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa; (N.G.M.); (P.M.D.)
| | - Preachers Madimetja Dikhoba
- Center for Quality of Health and Living, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Central University of Technology, Private Bag X20539, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa; (N.G.M.); (P.M.D.)
| | - Nkoana Ishmael Mongalo
- College of Agriculture and Environmental Science (CAES), Laboratories, University of South Africa, Private BagX06, Florida 0710, South Africa
| | - Tshepiso Jan Makhafola
- Center for Quality of Health and Living, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Central University of Technology, Private Bag X20539, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa; (N.G.M.); (P.M.D.)
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Paul S, Stamnes MA, Moye-Rowley WS. Transcription factor FfmA interacts both physically and genetically with AtrR to properly regulate gene expression in the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.06.543935. [PMID: 37333080 PMCID: PMC10274792 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.06.543935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Transcriptional regulation of azole resistance in the filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus is a key step in development of this problematic clinical phenotype. We and others have previously described a C2H2-containing transcription factor called FfmA that is required for normal levels of voriconazole susceptibility and expression of an ATP-binding cassette transporter gene called abcG1 . Null alleles of ffmA exhibit a strongly compromised growth rate even in the absence of any external stress. Here we employ an acutely repressible doxycycline-off form of ffmA to rapidly deplete FfmA protein from the cell. Using this approach, we carried out RNA-seq analyses to probe the transcriptome of A. fumigatus cells that have been deprived of normal FfmA levels. We found that 2000 genes were differentially expressed upon depletion of FfmA, consistent with the wide-ranging effect of this factor on gene regulation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with high throughput DNA sequencing analysis (ChIP-seq) identified 530 genes that were bound by FfmA using two different antibodies for immunoprecipitation. More than 300 of these genes were also bound by AtrR demonstrating the striking regulatory overlap with FfmA. However, while AtrR is clearly an upstream activation protein with clear sequence specificity, our data suggest that FfmA is a chromatin-associated factor that may bind to DNA in a manner dependent on other factors. We provide evidence that AtrR and FfmA interact in the cell and can influence one another's expression. This interaction of AtrR and FfmA is required for normal azole resistance in A. fumigatus .
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjoy Paul
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA. 52242 USA
| | - Mark A. Stamnes
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA. 52242 USA
| | - W. Scott Moye-Rowley
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA. 52242 USA
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Wang R, Liu N, Huang N, Shu F, Lou Y, Zhang S, Zhu H, Chen C. Combined toxicity assessment of a naturally occurring toxin and a triazole fungicide on different biological processes through toxicogenomic data mining with mixtures. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 193:105440. [PMID: 37248011 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Fungicides are widely used to prevent fungal growth and reduce mycotoxin contamination in food, which provides the opportunity for the co-occurrence of mycotoxins and fungicide residues in food and poses a greater risk to human health. To assess the combined effects of a naturally occurring mycotoxin, citrinin (CIT), and a widely used triazole fungicide, triadimefon (TAD) on different biological processes, the comparative toxicogenomics database was used to obtain phenotypes and response genes for CIT or TAD exposure. Then individual and combined exposure models were developed with zebrafish embryos, and the interaction between CIT and TAD was analyzed using the 2 × 2 factorial design approach to observe the toxic effects. Through data mining analysis, our results showed that CIT or TAD exposure is related to different biological phenotypes, such as cell death, regulation of antioxidant systems, and thyroid hormone metabolism. Our results also showed that CIT (4-day LC50 value of 12.7 mg/L) exposure possessed higher toxicity to zebrafish embryos compared with TAD (4-day LC50 value of 29.6 mg/L). Meanwhile, individual exposure to CIT and TAD altered the expression levels of biomarkers related to oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. Notably, combined exposure to CIT and TAD induced changes in the mentioned biological processes and had an interactive effect on the expression of multiple biomarkers. In conclusion, we evaluated the toxic effects of CIT and TAD in isolation and combination by in-vivo experiments, which provide a new methodological basis and reference for future risk assessment and setting of safety limits for foodborne toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruike Wang
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Na Liu
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Nan Huang
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Fang Shu
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yancen Lou
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hongmei Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chen Chen
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China.
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Tetz V, Kardava K, Krasnov K, Vecherkovskaya M, Tetz G. Antifungal activity of a novel synthetic polymer M451 against phytopathogens. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1176428. [PMID: 37275130 PMCID: PMC10235499 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1176428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Phytopathogenic fungi are the predominant causal agents of plant diseases. Available fungicides have substantial disadvantages, such as being insufficiently effective owing to intrinsic tolerance and the spread of antifungal resistance accumulating in plant tissues, posing a global threat to public health. Therefore, finding a new broad-spectrum fungicide is a challenge to protect plants. We studied the potency of a novel antimicrobial agent, M451, a 1,6-diaminohexane derivative, against different phytopathogenic fungi of the Ascomycota, Oomycota, and Basidiomycota phyla. M451 exhibited significant antifungal activity with EC50 values from 34-145 μg/mL. The minimal fungicidal concentration against Fusarium oxysporum ranged from 4 to 512 μg/mL depending on the exposure times of 5 min to 24 h. M451 has the highest activity and significantly lower exposure times compared to different polyene, azole, and phenylpyrrole antifungals. The conidial germination assay revealed that M451 induced 99 and 97.8% inhibition against F. oxysporum within 5 min of exposure to 5,000 and 500 μg/mL, respectively. Germ tube elongation, spore production, and spore germination were also significantly inhibited by M451 at concentrations of ≥50 μg/mL. Based on the broad spectrum of antifungal effects across different plant pathogens, M451 could be a new chemical fungicide for plant disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - George Tetz
- Human Microbiology Institute, New York, NY, United States
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Kardava K, Tetz V, Vecherkovskaya M, Tetz G. Seed dressing with M451 promotes seedling growth in wheat and reduces root phytopathogenic fungi without affecting endophytes. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1176553. [PMID: 37265634 PMCID: PMC10229829 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1176553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Fungal plant infections result in substantial losses to the agricultural sector. A range of fungicide seed dressings are available to control seed-borne fungal diseases; however, they lack sufficient efficacy because of intrinsic tolerance and acquired resistance. Moreover, many fungicide seed dressings can also penetrate plants, negatively affecting plant growth owing to their toxic effects on endophytes, as well as contributing to the spread of antibiotic resistance. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of M451, a member of a new class of antimicrobial agents that are not relevant to human healthcare. As a seed dressing for wheat seeds, M451 exhibited significant antifungal activity against one of the most devastating plant fungal pathogens, Fusarium spp. Furthermore, M451 was more active than the commercially used fungicide Maxim XL against both seed-borne and soil-borne F. oxysporum infection. Importantly, and unlike other antifungals, M451 seed dressing did not inhibit any of the major characteristics of wheat grains and seedlings, such as germination percentage, germination time, grain vigor, shoot- and root weight and length, but rather improved some of these parameters. The results also demonstrated that M451 had no negative impacts on endophytes and did not accumulate in grains. Thus, M451 may have potential applications as an antifungal agent in wheat cultivation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - G. Tetz
- Department of Systems Biology, Human Microbiology Institute, New York, NY, United States
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González-Domínguez E, Caffi T, Rossi V, Salotti I, Fedele G. Plant Disease Models and Forecasting: Changes in Principles and Applications Over the Last 50 Years. PHYTOPATHOLOGY 2023; 113:678-693. [PMID: 36624723 DOI: 10.1094/phyto-10-22-0362-kd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
This review gives a perspective of selected advances made since the middle of the 20th century in plant disease modeling, and the associated increase in the number of models published during that time frame. This progress can be mainly attributed to advances in (i) sensors and automatic environmental data collection technology, (ii) instrumentation and methods for studying botanical epidemiology, and (iii) data analytics and computer science. We review the evolution of techniques for developing data-based (empirical) models and process-based (mechanistic) models using the wheat rusts as a case study. We also describe the increased importance of knowledge about biological processes for plant disease modeling by using apple scab as a second case study. For both wheat rusts and apple scab, we describe how the models have evolved over the last 50 years by considering certain milestones that have been achieved in disease modeling. Finally, we describe how plant disease models are used as part of a multi-modeling approach to develop decision-making tools in the application of integrated pest management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tito Caffi
- DiProVeS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Piacenza, via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Vittorio Rossi
- DiProVeS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Piacenza, via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Irene Salotti
- DiProVeS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Piacenza, via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Giorgia Fedele
- DiProVeS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Piacenza, via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy
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Dos Reis TF, de Castro PA, Bastos RW, Pinzan CF, Souza PFN, Ackloo S, Hossain MA, Drewry DH, Alkhazraji S, Ibrahim AS, Jo H, Lightfoot JD, Adams EM, Fuller KK, deGrado WF, Goldman GH. A host defense peptide mimetic, brilacidin, potentiates caspofungin antifungal activity against human pathogenic fungi. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2052. [PMID: 37045836 PMCID: PMC10090755 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37573-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections cause more than 1.5 million deaths a year. Due to emerging antifungal drug resistance, novel strategies are urgently needed to combat life-threatening fungal diseases. Here, we identify the host defense peptide mimetic, brilacidin (BRI) as a synergizer with caspofungin (CAS) against CAS-sensitive and CAS-resistant isolates of Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, C. auris, and CAS-intrinsically resistant Cryptococcus neoformans. BRI also potentiates azoles against A. fumigatus and several Mucorales fungi. BRI acts in A. fumigatus by affecting cell wall integrity pathway and cell membrane potential. BRI combined with CAS significantly clears A. fumigatus lung infection in an immunosuppressed murine model of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. BRI alone also decreases A. fumigatus fungal burden and ablates disease development in a murine model of fungal keratitis. Our results indicate that combinations of BRI and antifungal drugs in clinical use are likely to improve the treatment outcome of aspergillosis and other fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaila Fernanda Dos Reis
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Alves de Castro
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Rafael Wesley Bastos
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Camila Figueiredo Pinzan
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Pedro F N Souza
- Visiting professor at Drug Research and Development Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, 60451, Brazil
| | - Suzanne Ackloo
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, 101 College Street, MaRS South Tower, Suite 700, Toronto, ON, M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Mohammad Anwar Hossain
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - David Harold Drewry
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Sondus Alkhazraji
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Ashraf S Ibrahim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Hyunil Jo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Jorge D Lightfoot
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Emily M Adams
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Kevin K Fuller
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - William F deGrado
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Gustavo H Goldman
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
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Nourrisson C, Moniot M, Lavergne RA, Robert E, Bonnin V, Hagen F, Grenouillet F, Cafarchia C, Butler G, Cassaing S, Sabou M, Le Pape P, Poirier P, Morio F. Acquired fluconazole resistance and genetic clustering in Diutina (Candida) catenulata from clinical samples. Clin Microbiol Infect 2023; 29:257.e7-257.e11. [PMID: 36209989 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2022.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Diutina (Candida) catenulata is an ascomycetous yeast isolated from environmental sources and animals, occasionally infecting humans. The aim of this study is to shed light on the in vitro antifungal susceptibility and genetic diversity of this opportunistic yeast. METHODS Forty-five D. catenulata strains isolated from various sources (including human and environmental sources) and originating from nine countries were included. Species identification was performed using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and confirmed via internal transcribed spacer ribosomal DNA barcoding. In vitro antifungal susceptibility was determined for seven systemic antifungals via the gradient strip method after 48 hours of incubation at 35°C using Etest® (Biomérieux) or Liofilchem® strips. Isolates exhibiting fluconazole minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of ≥8 μg/mL were investigated for mutations in the ERG11 gene. A novel microsatellite genotyping scheme consisting of four markers was developed to assess genetic diversity. RESULTS MIC ranges for amphotericin B, caspofungin, micafungin, isavuconazole, and posaconazole were 0.19-1 μg/mL, 0.094-0.5 μg/mL, 0.012-0.064 μg/mL, 0.003-0.047 μg/mL, and 0.006-0.032 μg/mL, respectively. By comparison, a broad range of MICs was noted for fluconazole (0.75 to >256 μg/mL) and voriconazole (0.012-0.38 mg/L), the higher values being observed among clinical strains. The Y132F amino acid substitution, associated with azole resistance in various Candida species (C. albicans, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, and C. orthopsilosis), was the main substitution identified. Although microsatellite typing showed extensive genetic diversity, most strains with high fluconazole MICs clustered together, suggesting human-to-human transmission or a common source of contamination. DISCUSSION The high rate of acquired fluconazole resistance among clinical isolates of D. catenulata is of concern. In this study, we highlight a link between the genetic diversity of D. catenulata and its antifungal resistance patterns, suggesting possible clonal transmission of resistant isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Nourrisson
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Inserm, 3IHP, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Clermont-Ferrand, Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Clermont-Ferrand, France; Université Clermont Auvergne/Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe 2018, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Maxime Moniot
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Inserm, 3IHP, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Clermont-Ferrand, Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Rose-Anne Lavergne
- Nantes Université, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Nantes, Cibles et médicaments des infections et du cancer, IICiMed, UR 1155, Nantes, France
| | - Estelle Robert
- Nantes Université, Cibles et médicaments des infections et du cancer, IICiMed, UR 1155, Nantes, France
| | - Virginie Bonnin
- Université Clermont Auvergne/Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe 2018, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Ferry Hagen
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Frédéric Grenouillet
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Besançon, Besançon, France
| | - Claudia Cafarchia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - Geraldine Butler
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sophie Cassaing
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Marcela Sabou
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et de Mycologie Médicale, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; Institut de Parasitologie et de Pathologie Tropicale, UR7292 Dynamique des interactions hôte pathogène, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Patrice Le Pape
- Nantes Université, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Nantes, Cibles et médicaments des infections et du cancer, IICiMed, UR 1155, Nantes, France
| | - Philippe Poirier
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Inserm, 3IHP, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Clermont-Ferrand, Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Clermont-Ferrand, France; Université Clermont Auvergne/Inserm U1071, USC-INRAe 2018, Microbes, Intestin, Inflammation et Susceptibilité de l'Hôte, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Florent Morio
- Nantes Université, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Nantes, Cibles et médicaments des infections et du cancer, IICiMed, UR 1155, Nantes, France.
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Rodriguez Coy L, Plummer KM, Khalifa ME, MacDiarmid RM. Mycovirus-encoded suppressors of RNA silencing: Possible allies or enemies in the use of RNAi to control fungal disease in crops. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2022; 3:965781. [PMID: 37746227 PMCID: PMC10512228 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2022.965781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Plants, fungi, and many other eukaryotes have evolved an RNA interference (RNAi) mechanism that is key for regulating gene expression and the control of pathogens. RNAi inhibits gene expression, in a sequence-specific manner, by recognizing and deploying cognate double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) either from endogenous sources (e.g. pre-micro RNAs) or exogenous origin (e.g. viruses, dsRNA, or small interfering RNAs, siRNAs). Recent studies have demonstrated that fungal pathogens can transfer siRNAs into plant cells to suppress host immunity and aid infection, in a mechanism termed cross-kingdom RNAi. New technologies, based on RNAi are being developed for crop protection against insect pests, viruses, and more recently against fungal pathogens. One example, is host-induced gene silencing (HIGS), which is a mechanism whereby transgenic plants are modified to produce siRNAs or dsRNAs targeting key transcripts of plants, or their pathogens or pests. An alternative gene regulation strategy that also co-opts the silencing machinery is spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS), in which dsRNAs or single-stranded RNAs (ssRNAs) are applied to target genes within a pathogen or pest. Fungi also use their RNA silencing machinery against mycoviruses (fungal viruses) and mycoviruses can deploy virus-encoded suppressors of RNAi (myco-VSRs) as a counter-defence. We propose that myco-VSRs may impact new dsRNA-based management methods, resulting in unintended outcomes, including suppression of management by HIGS or SIGS. Despite a large diversity of mycoviruses being discovered using high throughput sequencing, their biology is poorly understood. In particular, the prevalence of mycoviruses and the cellular effect of their encoded VSRs are under-appreciated when considering the deployment of HIGS and SIGS strategies. This review focuses on mycoviruses, their VSR activities in fungi, and the implications for control of pathogenic fungi using RNAi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Rodriguez Coy
- Australian Research Council Research Hub for Sustainable Crop Protection, Department of Animal, Plant and Soil Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Kim M. Plummer
- Australian Research Council Research Hub for Sustainable Crop Protection, Department of Animal, Plant and Soil Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Mahmoud E. Khalifa
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, Damietta, Egypt
| | - Robin M. MacDiarmid
- BioProtection, The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Auckland, New Zealand
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Dopierała K, Syguda A, Wojcieszak M, Materna K. Effect of 1-alkyl-1-methylpiperidinium bromides on lipids of fungal plasma membrane and lung surfactant. Chem Phys Lipids 2022; 248:105240. [PMID: 36174723 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2022.105240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the potential of 1-alkyl-1-methylpiperidinium bromides as fungicides and evaluate their impact on the human respiratory system when spread in the atmosphere. We investigated the behavior of membrane lipids and model membranes in the presence of a series of amphiphilic 1-alkyl-1-methylpiperidinium bromides ([MePipCn][Br]), differing in the alkyl chain length (n = 4 - 18). The experiments were performed with the Langmuir monolayer technique using 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) and ergosterol (ERG)-the main components of lung surfactant and fungal plasma membrane, respectively and their mixtures with phospholipids and sterols. The mixtures were chosen as the representatives of target and non-target organisms. The surface pressure-area isotherms were obtained by compressing monolayers in the presence of [MePipCn][Br] in the subphase. The results were analyzed in terms of area expansion/contraction and compressibility. The surface activity of the studied organic salts was also studied. In addition, the monolayers were deposited on a solid surface and their topography was investigated using atomic force microscopy. This research implies that the studied compounds may destabilize efficiently the fungal plasma membrane. At the same time we demonstrated the significant impact of 1-alkyl-1-methylpiperidinium bromides on the lung surfactant layer. The interaction between [MePipCn][Br] and model membranes depends on the concentration and alkyl chain length of organic salt. The key role of contact time has been also revealed. The results may be helpful in the reasonable development of new agrochemical products aiming at the treatment of fungal infections in plants. In addition, our study indicates the significance of proper safety management while spreading the fungicides in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Dopierała
- Institute of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, 60-965 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Anna Syguda
- Institute of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, 60-965 Poznań, Poland
| | - Marta Wojcieszak
- Institute of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, 60-965 Poznań, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Materna
- Institute of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, 60-965 Poznań, Poland
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Aguiar TKB, Neto NAS, Freitas CDT, Silva AFB, Bezerra LP, Malveira EA, Branco LAC, Mesquita FP, Goldman GH, Alencar LMR, Oliveira JTA, Santos-Oliveira R, Souza PFN. Antifungal Potential of Synthetic Peptides against Cryptococcus neoformans: Mechanism of Action Studies Reveal Synthetic Peptides Induce Membrane-Pore Formation, DNA Degradation, and Apoptosis. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14081678. [PMID: 36015304 PMCID: PMC9416200 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14081678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a human-pathogenic yeast responsible for pneumonia and meningitis, mainly in patients immunocompromised. Infections caused by C. neoformans are a global health concern. Synthetic antimicrobial peptides (SAMPs) have emerged as alternative molecules to cope with fungal infections, including C. neoformans. Here, eight SAMPs were tested regarding their antifungal potential against C. neoformans and had their mechanisms of action elucidated by fluorescence and scanning electron microscopies. Five SAMPs showed an inhibitory effect (MIC50) on C. neoformans growth at low concentrations. Fluorescence microscope (FM) revealed that SAMPs induced 6-kDa pores in the C. neoformans membrane. Inhibitory assays in the presence of ergosterol revealed that some peptides lost their activity, suggesting interaction with it. Furthermore, FM analysis revealed that SAMPs induced caspase 3/7-mediated apoptosis and DNA degradation in C. neoformans cells. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that peptides induced many morphological alterations such as cell membrane, wall damage, and loss of internal content on C. neoformans cells. Our results strongly suggest synthetic peptides are potential alternative molecules to control C. neoformans growth and treat the cryptococcal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tawanny K. B. Aguiar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Nilton A. S. Neto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Cleverson D. T. Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Ayrles F. B. Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Leandro P. Bezerra
- Department of Fisheries Engineering, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60455-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Ellen A. Malveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Levi A. C. Branco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Felipe P. Mesquita
- Drug Research and Development Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | - Gustavo H. Goldman
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciana M. R. Alencar
- Department of Physics, Laboratory of Biophysics and Nanosystems, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís 65080-805, MA, Brazil
| | - Jose T. A. Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Ralph Santos-Oliveira
- Laboratory of Nanoradiopharmaceuticals and Radiopharmacy, Zona Oeste State University, Rio de Janeiro 23070-200, RJ, Brazil
- Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission, Nuclear Engineering Institute, Rio de Janeiro 21941-906, RJ, Brazil
| | - Pedro F. N. Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
- Correspondence:
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James JE, Santhanam J, Zakaria L, Mamat Rusli N, Abu Bakar M, Suetrong S, Sakayaroj J, Abdul Razak MF, Lamping E, Cannon RD. Morphology, Phenotype, and Molecular Identification of Clinical and Environmental Fusarium solani Species Complex Isolates from Malaysia. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080845. [PMID: 36012833 PMCID: PMC9409803 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fusarium infections in humans (fusariosis) and in economically important plants involve species of several Fusarium species complexes. Species of the Fusarium solani species complex (FSSC) are the most frequent cause of human fusariosis. The FSSC comprises more than 60 closely related species that can be separated into three major clades by multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) using translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1-α) and RNA polymerase II (RPB2) DNA sequences. The MLST nomenclature for clade 3 of the FSSC assigns numbers to species types (e.g., FSSC 2) and lowercase letters to identify unique haplotypes. The aim of this study was to analyse the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of 15 environmental and 15 clinical FSSC isolates from Malaysia. MLST was used for the genotypic characterisation of FSSC isolates from various locations within Malaysia, which was complemented by their morphological characterisation on potato dextrose and carnation leaf agar. MLST identified eight different FSSC species: thirteen Fusarium keratoplasticum (i.e., FSSC 2), six Fusarium suttonianum (FSSC 20), five Fusarium falciforme (FSSC 3+4), two Fusarium cyanescens (FSSC 27), and one each of Fusarium petroliphilum (FSSC 1), Fusarium waltergamsii (FSSC 7), Fusarium sp. (FSSC 12), and Fusarium striatum (FSSC 21). Consistent with previous reports from Malaysia, most (11 of 15) clinical FSSC isolates were F. keratoplasticum and the majority (9 of 15) of environmental isolates were F. suttonianum (5) or F. falciforme (4) strains. The taxonomic relationships of the isolates were resolved phylogenetically. The eight Fusarium species also showed distinct morphological characteristics, but these were less clearly defined and reached across species boundaries. Although TEF1-α and RPB2 sequences were sufficient for the species identification of most FSSC isolates, a more precise MLST scheme needs to be established to reliably assign individual isolates of the species-rich FSSC to their geographically-, epidemiologically-, and host-associated sub-lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasper E. James
- Biomedical Science Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Jacinta Santhanam
- Biomedical Science Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +603-9289-7039
| | - Latiffah Zakaria
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor 11800, Malaysia
| | - Nuraini Mamat Rusli
- Biomedical Science Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Mariahyati Abu Bakar
- Biomedical Science Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Satinee Suetrong
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), Thailand Science Park, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Jariya Sakayaroj
- School of Science, Wailalak University, Nakhonsithammarat 80161, Thailand
| | - Mohd Fuat Abdul Razak
- Bacteriology Unit, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Health, Shah Alam 40170, Malaysia
| | - Erwin Lamping
- Sir John Walsh Research Institute, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Richard D. Cannon
- Sir John Walsh Research Institute, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
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Oiki S, Nasuno R, Urayama SI, Takagi H, Hagiwara D. Intracellular production of reactive oxygen species and a DAF-FM-related compound in Aspergillus fumigatus in response to antifungal agent exposure. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13516. [PMID: 35933435 PMCID: PMC9357077 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17462-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungi are ubiquitously present in our living environment and are responsible for crop and infectious diseases. Developing new antifungal agents is constantly needed for their effective control. Here, we investigated fungal cellular responses to an array of antifungal compounds, including plant- and bacteria-derived antifungal compounds. The pathogenic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus generated reactive oxygen species in its hyphae after exposure to the antifungal compounds thymol, farnesol, citral, nerol, salicylic acid, phenazine-1-carbonic acid, and pyocyanin, as well as under oxidative and high-temperature stress conditions. The production of nitric oxide (NO) was determined using diaminofluorescein-FM diacetate (DAF-FM DA) and occurred in response to antifungal compounds and stress conditions. The application of reactive oxygen species or NO scavengers partly suppressed the inhibitory effects of farnesol on germination. However, NO production was not detected in the hyphae using the Greiss method. An LC/MS analysis also failed to detect DAF-FM-T, a theoretical product derived from DAF-FM DA and NO, in the hyphae after antifungal treatments. Thus, the cellular state after exposure to antifungal agents may be more complex than previously believed, and the role of NO in fungal cells needs to be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayoko Oiki
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan.,Laboratory of Basic and Applied Molecular Biotechnology, Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Gokasho, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
| | - Ryo Nasuno
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama, Ikoma, Nara, 630-0192, Japan
| | - Syun-Ichi Urayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan.,Microbiology Research Center for Sustainability, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Takagi
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama, Ikoma, Nara, 630-0192, Japan
| | - Daisuke Hagiwara
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan. .,Microbiology Research Center for Sustainability, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan.
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Secondary Metabolites Produced during Aspergillus fumigatus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm Formation. mBio 2022; 13:e0185022. [PMID: 35856657 PMCID: PMC9426470 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01850-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In cystic fibrosis (CF), mucus plaques are formed in the patient's lungs, creating a hypoxic condition and a propitious environment for colonization and persistence of many microorganisms. There is clinical evidence showing that Aspergillus fumigatus can cocolonize CF patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which has been associated with lung function decline. P. aeruginosa produces several compounds with inhibitory and antibiofilm effects against A. fumigatus in vitro; however, little is known about the fungal compounds produced in counterattack. Here, we annotated fungal and bacterial secondary metabolites (SM) produced in mixed biofilms under normoxia and hypoxia conditions. We detected nine SM produced by P. aeruginosa. Phenazines and different analogs of pyoverdin were the main compounds produced by P. aeruginosa, and their secretion levels were increased by the fungal presence. The roles of the two operons responsible for phenazine production (phzA1 and phzA2) were also investigated, and mutants lacking one of those operons were able to produce partial sets of phenazines. We detected a total of 20 SM secreted by A. fumigatus either in monoculture or in coculture with P. aeruginosa. All these compounds were secreted during biofilm formation in either normoxia or hypoxia. However, only eight compounds (demethoxyfumitremorgin C, fumitremorgin, ferrichrome, ferricrocin, triacetylfusigen, gliotoxin, gliotoxin E, and pyripyropene A) were detected during biofilm formation by the coculture of A. fumigatus and P. aeruginosa under normoxia and hypoxia conditions. Overall, we showed how diverse SM secretion is during A. fumigatus and P. aeruginosa mixed culture and how this can affect biofilm formation in normoxia and hypoxia. IMPORTANCE The interaction between Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Aspergillus fumigatus has been well characterized in vitro. In this scenario, the bacterium exerts a strong inhibitory effect against the fungus. However, little is known about the metabolites produced by the fungus to counterattack the bacteria. Our work aimed to annotate secondary metabolites (SM) secreted during coculture between P. aeruginosa and A. fumigatus during biofilm formation in both normoxia and hypoxia. The bacterium produces several different types of phenazines and pyoverdins in response to presence of the fungus. In contrast, we were able to annotate 29 metabolites produced during A. fumigatus biofilm formation, but only 8 compounds were detected during biofilm formation by the coculture of A. fumigatus and P. aeruginosa upon either normoxia or hypoxia. In conclusion, we detected many SM secreted during A. fumigatus and P. aeruginosa biofilm formation. This analysis provides several opportunities to understand the interactions between these two species.
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On Fruits and Fungi: A Risk of Antifungal Usage in Food Storage and Distribution in Driving Drug Resistance in Candida auris. mBio 2022; 13:e0073922. [PMID: 35575501 PMCID: PMC9239177 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00739-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The continuous emergence of antifungal drug resistance is a mounting concern for the treatment of fungal infections worldwide. While many pathogenic fungi exhibit some level of antifungal drug resistance, the identification of Candida auris has brought this phenomenon to the fore in recent years. C. auris exhibits resistance to all antifungal drugs used for treatment, and it does so at a very high rate, with more than 90% of isolates being resistant to at least one drug and roughly 4% being panresistant. However, the environmental factors driving this exceptionally high antifungal drug resistance remain unidentified. The presence of C. auris on stored apples that are treated with antifungals during storage suggests a possible route to selection of drug-resistant C. auris isolates that may have contributed to the evolution of this deadly pathogen. This study further suggests that the adage “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” may need to be revisited in light of the discovery of C. auris on the surface of apples.
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Draskau MK, Svingen T. Azole Fungicides and Their Endocrine Disrupting Properties: Perspectives on Sex Hormone-Dependent Reproductive Development. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 4:883254. [PMID: 35573275 PMCID: PMC9097791 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2022.883254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Azoles are antifungal agents used in both agriculture and medicine. They typically target the CYP51 enzyme in fungi and, by so doing, disrupt cell membrane integrity. However, azoles can also target various CYP enzymes in mammals, including humans, which can disrupt hormone synthesis and signaling. For instance, several azoles can inhibit enzymes of the steroidogenic pathway and disrupt steroid hormone biosynthesis. This is of particular concern during pregnancy, since sex hormones are integral to reproductive development. In other words, exposure to azole fungicides during fetal life can potentially lead to reproductive disease in the offspring. In addition, some azoles can act as androgen receptor antagonists, which can further add to the disrupting potential following exposure. When used as pharmaceuticals, systemic concentrations of the azole compounds can become significant as combatting fungal infections can be very challenging and require prolonged exposure to high doses. Although most medicinal azoles are tightly regulated and used as prescription drugs after consultations with medical professionals, some are sold as over-the-counter drugs. In this review, we discuss various azole fungicides known to disrupt steroid sex hormone biosynthesis or action with a focus on what potential consequences exposure during pregnancy can have on the life-long reproductive health of the offspring.
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Abstract
Candida auris is a multidrug-resistant nosocomial fungal pathogen. While the marine environment was recently identified as a natural niche for C. auris, the environment(s) that might have contributed to the development and spread of antifungal resistance in C. auris remains a mystery. Because stored fruits are often treated with fungicides to prevent postharvest spoilage, we hypothesized that stored fruits could serve as a possible selective force for and a transmission reservoir of antifungal-resistant isolates of pathogenic yeasts, including C. auris. To test this hypothesis, we screened fruits to study the diversity of pathogenic yeasts and their antifungal susceptibility profiles. Among the 62 screened apples, the surfaces of 8 were positive for C. auris, and all were stored apples. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) showed that C. auris strains from apples were genetically diverse and exhibited broad phylogenetic distribution among the subclades within clade I. Interestingly, strains from apples had closely related strains from other sources in India, including from patients, hospitals, and marine environments, and from clinical strains from other parts of the world. A broad range of fungicides, including dimethyl inhibitors (DMIs), were detected in stored apples, and all C. auris isolates exhibited reduced sensitivity to DMIs. Interestingly, C. auris was not isolated from freshly picked apples. Together, the results suggest a potentially complex ecology for C. auris with agriculture fungicide application on stored fruits as a significant selective force for drug resistance in clinics.
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Guirao-Abad JP, Weichert M, Askew DS. Cell death induction in Aspergillus fumigatus: accentuating drug toxicity through inhibition of the unfolded protein response (UPR). CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2022; 3:100119. [PMID: 35909601 PMCID: PMC9325865 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2022.100119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The UPR is an adaptive stress response network that is tightly linked to the ability of Aspergillus fumigatus, and other pathogenic fungi, to sustain viability in the presence of adverse environmental conditions, including the stress of infection. In this review, we summarize the evidence that supports the concept of targeting the A. fumigatus UPR as a strategy to reduce the ability of the fungus to withstand stress.
One of the most potent opportunistic fungal pathogens of humans is Aspergillus fumigatus, an environmental mold that causes a life-threatening pneumonia with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Despite advances in therapy, issues of drug toxicity and antifungal resistance remain an obstacle to effective therapy. This underscores the need for more information on fungal pathways that could be pharmacologically manipulated to either reduce the viability of the fungus during infection, or to unleash the fungicidal potential of current antifungal drugs. In this review, we summarize the emerging evidence that the ability of A. fumigatus to sustain viability during stress relies heavily on an adaptive signaling pathway known as the unfolded protein response (UPR), thereby exposing a vulnerability in this fungus that has strong potential for future therapeutic intervention.
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Preservation of Mimosa tenuiflora Antiaflatoxigenic Activity Using Microencapsulation by Spray-Drying. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27020496. [PMID: 35056811 PMCID: PMC8779151 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27020496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Mimosa tenuiflora aqueous extract (MAE) is rich in phenolic compounds. Among them, condensed tannins have been demonstrated to exhibit a strong antioxidant and antiaflatoxin B1 activities in Aspergillus flavus. Since antioxidant capacity can change with time due to environmental interactions, this study aimed to evaluate the ability of encapsulation by spray-drying of Mimosa tenuiflora aqueous extract to preserve their biological activities through storage. A dry formulation may also facilitate transportation and uses. For that, three different wall materials were used and compared for their efficiency. Total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, antifungal and antiaflatoxin activities were measured after the production of the microparticles and after one year of storage at room temperature. These results confirmed that encapsulation by spray-drying using polysaccharide wall materials is able to preserve antiaflatoxin activity of Mimosa tenuiflora extract better than freezing.
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