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Butassi E, Blanc AR, Svetaz LA. Phytolacca tetramera berries extracts and its main constituents as potentiators of antifungal drugs against Candida spp. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 130:155569. [PMID: 38795695 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive antifungal drug use has enhanced fungal resistance, resulting in persistent mycoses. Combining antifungal plant extracts/compounds with these drugs offers good alternatives to increase the activity of both partners, minimize side effects, and overcome drug resistance. In our previous study, Phytolacca tetramera berries extracts demonstrated activity against Candida spp., correlating with the amount of the main constituent phytolaccoside B and its genin, phytolaccagenin. The extracts and phytolaccagenin altered the fungal plasma membrane by binding to ergosterol, whereas phytolaccoside B increased chitin synthase activity. However, the presence of triterpenoid saponins in Phytolacca spp. has been linked to acute toxicity in humans. PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate combinations of P. tetramera berries extracts, phytolaccoside B and phytolaccagenin, together with commercial antifungals [amphotericin B, fluconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, and caspofungin] against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata, to find synergistic effects with multi-target actions, in which the doses of both partners are reduced, and therefore their toxicity. Additionally, we intended to explore their anti-virulence capacity, thereby hindering the development of drug-resistant strains. METHODS The effects of these combinations were evaluated using both the checkerboard and isobologram methods. Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index and Dose Reduction Index were calculated to interpret the combination results. To confirm the multi-target effect, studies on mechanisms of action of synergistic mixtures were performed using ergosterol-binding and quantification assays. The ability to inhibit Candida virulence factors, including biofilm formation and eradication from inert surfaces, was also evaluated. Quantification of active markers was performed using a validated UHPLC-ESI-MS method. RESULTS Eight synergistic combinations of P. tetramera extracts or phytolaccagenin (but not phytolaccoside B) with itraconazole or posaconazole were obtained against C. albicans, including a resistant strain. These mixtures acted by binding to ergosterol, decreasing its whole content, and inhibiting Candida biofilm formation in 96-well microplates and feeding tubes in vitro, but were unable to eradicate preformed biofilms. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the synergistic and anti-virulence effects of P. tetramera berries extracts and phytolaccagenin with antifungal drugs against Candida spp., providing novel treatment avenues for fungal infections with reduced doses of both natural products and commercial antifungals, thereby mitigating potential human toxicity concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Butassi
- Área Farmacognosia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario 2000, Argentina
| | - Alan Roy Blanc
- Área Farmacognosia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario 2000, Argentina
| | - Laura Andrea Svetaz
- Área Farmacognosia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario 2000, Argentina.
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Mohamed EA, El-Zahed MM. Anticandidal applications of selenium nanoparticles biosynthesized with Limosilactobacillus fermentum (OR553490). DISCOVER NANO 2024; 19:115. [PMID: 38980559 PMCID: PMC11233486 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-024-04055-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans is one of the most dangerous pathogenic fungi in the world, according to the classification of the World Health Organization, due to the continued development of its resistance to currently available anticandidal agents. To overcome this problem, the current work provided a simple, one-step, cost-effective, and safe technique for the biosynthesis of new functionalized anticandidal selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) against C. albicans ATCC10231 using the cell-free supernatant of Limosilactobacillus fermentum (OR553490) strain. The bacterial strain was isolated from yogurt samples available in supermarkets, in Damietta, Egypt. The mixing ratio of 1:9 v/v% between cell-free bacterial metabolites and sodium selenite (5 mM) for 72 h at 37 °C were the optimum conditions for Se NPs biosynthesis. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Zeta analyses, and elemental analysis system (EDS) were used to evaluate the optimized Se NPs. The Se NPs absorption peak appeared at 254 nm. Physicochemical analysis of Se NPs revealed the crystalline-shaped and well-dispersed formation of NPs with an average particle size of 17-30 nm. Se NPs have - 11.8 mV, as seen by the zeta potential graph. FT-IR spectrum displayed bands of symmetric and asymmetric amines at 3279.36 cm-1 and 2928.38 cm-1, aromatic and aliphatic (C-N) at 1393.32 cm-1 and 1237.11.37 cm-1 confirming the presence of proteins as stabilizing and capping agents. Se NPs acted as a superior inhibitor of C. albicans with an inhibition zone of 26 ± 0.03 mm and MIC value of 15 µg/mL compared to one of the traditional anticandidal agent, miconazole, which revealed 18 ± 0.14 mm and 75 µg/mL. The cytotoxicity test shows that Se NPs have a low toxic effect on the normal keratinocyte (IC50 ≈ 41.5 μg/mL). The results indicate that this green synthesis of Se NPs may have a promising potential to provide a new strategy for drug therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esraa Ali Mohamed
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, New Damietta, 34517, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Marzouk El-Zahed
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, New Damietta, 34517, Egypt.
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Bhumitrakul J, Lam-Ubol A, Matangkasombut O. Oral Candida in post-radiotherapy patients with xerostomia/hyposalivation: A narrative review. Oral Dis 2024. [PMID: 38946209 DOI: 10.1111/odi.15060] [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: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) patients receiving radiotherapy (RT) often suffer from xerostomia and/or hyposalivation. As saliva plays an important antimicrobial and cleansing roles, these patients are at higher risks of opportunistic infections. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of current evidence on oral Candida colonisation and infection in these patients. METHODS A literature review of clinical studies on oral Candida colonisation and candidiasis in HNC patients receiving radiotherapy/chemoradiotherapy was conducted. RESULTS Many clinical studies found high levels of Candida colonisation and a substantial proportion of post-RT HNC patients suffering from oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC). Importantly, oral Candida could be a reservoir for life-threatening systemic infection in immunocompromised patients. The rising prevalence of non-albicans Candida species and drug-resistant infections has made identification of Candida species and antifungal susceptibility more important. Recent advances in oral microbiome and its interactions with Candida are discussed. This review also offers perspectives on limitations of current evidence and suggestions for future research. CONCLUSION Further research to better understand Candida carriage, microbiome, OPC, and xerostomia/hyposalivation post-RT would aid in devising a more comprehensive long-term management plan and novel therapeutic approaches for HNC patients to achieve the full benefits of RT while minimising side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jom Bhumitrakul
- King's College London GKT School of Medical Education, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Aroonwan Lam-Ubol
- Department of Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Oranart Matangkasombut
- Department of Microbiology and Center of Excellence on Oral Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Research Laboratory of Biotechnology, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok, Thailand
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Katsipoulaki M, Stappers MHT, Malavia-Jones D, Brunke S, Hube B, Gow NAR. Candida albicans and Candida glabrata: global priority pathogens. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0002123. [PMID: 38832801 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00021-23] [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] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYA significant increase in the incidence of Candida-mediated infections has been observed in the last decade, mainly due to rising numbers of susceptible individuals. Recently, the World Health Organization published its first fungal pathogen priority list, with Candida species listed in medium, high, and critical priority categories. This review is a synthesis of information and recent advances in our understanding of two of these species-Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. Of these, C. albicans is the most common cause of candidemia around the world and is categorized as a critical priority pathogen. C. glabrata is considered a high-priority pathogen and has become an increasingly important cause of candidemia in recent years. It is now the second most common causative agent of candidemia in many geographical regions. Despite their differences and phylogenetic divergence, they are successful as pathogens and commensals of humans. Both species can cause a broad variety of infections, ranging from superficial to potentially lethal systemic infections. While they share similarities in certain infection strategies, including tissue adhesion and invasion, they differ significantly in key aspects of their biology, interaction with immune cells, host damage strategies, and metabolic adaptations. Here we provide insights on key aspects of their biology, epidemiology, commensal and pathogenic lifestyles, interactions with the immune system, and antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrto Katsipoulaki
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Mark H T Stappers
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Dhara Malavia-Jones
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Neil A R Gow
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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Saha D, Gregor JB, Hoda S, Eastman KE, Navarrete M, Wisecaver JH, Briggs SD. Candida glabrata maintains two Hap1 homologs, Zcf27 and Zcf4, for distinct roles in ergosterol gene regulation to mediate sterol homeostasis under azole and hypoxic conditions. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.20.599910. [PMID: 38979343 PMCID: PMC11230168 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.20.599910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Candida glabrata exhibits innate resistance to azole antifungal drugs but also has the propensity to rapidly develop clinical drug resistance. Azole drugs, which target Erg11, is one of the three major classes of antifungals used to treat Candida infections. Despite their widespread use, the mechanism controlling azole-induced ERG gene expression and drug resistance in C. glabrata has primarily revolved around Upc2 and/or Pdr1. In this study, we determined the function of two zinc cluster transcription factors, Zcf27 and Zcf4, as direct but distinct regulators of ERG genes. Our phylogenetic analysis revealed C. glabrata Zcf27 and Zcf4 as the closest homologs to Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hap1. Hap1 is a known zinc cluster transcription factor in S. cerevisiae in controlling ERG gene expression under aerobic and hypoxic conditions. Interestingly, when we deleted HAP1 or ZCF27 in either S. cerevisiae or C. glabrata, respectively, both deletion strains showed altered susceptibility to azole drugs, whereas the strain deleted for ZCF4 did not exhibit azole susceptibility. We also determined that the increased azole susceptibility in a zcf27Δ strain is attributed to decreased azole-induced expression of ERG genes, resulting in decreased levels of total ergosterol. Surprisingly, Zcf4 protein expression is barely detected under aerobic conditions but is specifically induced under hypoxic conditions. However, under hypoxic conditions, Zcf4 but not Zcf27 was directly required for the repression of ERG genes. This study provides the first demonstration that Zcf27 and Zcf4 have evolved to serve distinct roles allowing C. glabrata to adapt to specific host and environmental conditions. IMPORTANCE Invasive and drug-resistant fungal infections pose a significant public health concern. Candida glabrata , a human fungal pathogen, is often difficult to treat due to its intrinsic resistance to azole antifungal drugs and its capacity to develop clinical drug resistance. Therefore, understanding the pathways that facilitate fungal growth and environmental adaptation may lead to novel drug targets and/or more efficacious antifungal therapies. While the mechanisms of azole resistance in Candida species have been extensively studied, the roles of zinc cluster transcription factors, such as Zcf27 and Zcf4, in C. glabrata have remained largely unexplored until now. Our research shows that these factors play distinct yet crucial roles in regulating ergosterol homeostasis under azole drug treatment and oxygen-limiting growth conditions. These findings offer new insights into how this pathogen adapts to different environmental conditions and enhances our understanding of factors that alter drug susceptibility and/or resistance.
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Li S, Liu J, Zhang T, Lu J, Li M, Zhang M, Chen H. Chemical modification, structure elucidation and antifungal mechanism studies of a peptide extracted from garlic (Allium sativum L.). JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE 2024. [PMID: 38855916 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.13633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Garlic is a promising source of antimicrobial peptide separation, and chemical modification is an effective method for activity improvement. The present study aimed to improve the antifungal activity of a peptide extracted from garlic. Chemical modifications were conducted, and the structure-activity relationship and antifungal mechanism were investigated. RESULTS The results indicated that the cationic charge induced by Lys residue at the N-terminal was important for the antimicrobial activity, and the modified sequence exhibited significant antifungal activity with low mammalian toxicity and a low tendency of drug resistance (p < 0.05). The structure-activity relationship analysis revealed that the modified active peptide had a predominant α-helical structure and an inner cyclic correlation. Transcriptomic analysis showed that peptide KMLKKLFR (Lys-Met-Leu-Lys-Lyse-Leu-Phe-Arg) affected the rRNA processing and carbon metabolism process of Candida albicans. In addition, the membrane potential study indicated a non-membrane destruction mechanism, and molecular docking analysis and a DNA interaction assay suggested promising inner targets. CONCLUSION The results of the present study indicate that chemical modification by amino acid substitution was effective for antimicrobial activity improvement. The present study would benefit future antimicrobial peptide development and suggests that garlic is a great source of antibacterial peptides and peptide template separations for coping with antibiotic resistance. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqin Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Junyu Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingyang Lu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Mingyue Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Min Zhang
- College of Food Science and Bioengineering, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Nutrition and Safety, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Haixia Chen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
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Ganeshkumar A, Muthuselvam M, de Lima PMN, Rajaram R, Junqueira JC. Current Perspectives of Antifungal Therapy: A Special Focus on Candida auris. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:408. [PMID: 38921394 PMCID: PMC11205254 DOI: 10.3390/jof10060408] [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: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is an emerging Candida sp. that has rapidly spread all over the world. The evidence regarding its origin and emerging resistance is still unclear. The severe infection caused by this species results in significant mortality and morbidity among the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. The development of drug resistance is the major factor associated with the therapeutic failure of existing antifungal agents. Previous studies have addressed the antifungal resistance profile and drug discovery for C. auris. However, complete coverage of this information in a single investigation is not yet available. In this review, we have mainly focused on recent developments in therapeutic strategies against C. auris. Based on the available information, several different approaches were discussed, including existing antifungal drugs, chemical compounds, essential oils, natural products, antifungal peptides, immunotherapy, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy, drug repurposing, and drug delivery systems. Among them, synthetic chemicals, natural products, and antifungal peptides are the prime contributors. However, a limited number of resources are available to prove the efficiency of these potential therapies in clinical usage. Therefore, we anticipate that the findings gathered in this review will encourage further in vivo studies and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arumugam Ganeshkumar
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos 12245-000, SP, Brazil;
- Department of Materials Physics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMTS), Chennai 602105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Manickam Muthuselvam
- Department of Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India;
| | - Patricia Michelle Nagai de Lima
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos 12245-000, SP, Brazil;
| | - Rajendren Rajaram
- Department of Marine Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India;
| | - Juliana Campos Junqueira
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos 12245-000, SP, Brazil;
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Kane A, Dinh H, Campbell L, Cain AK, Hibbs D, Carter D. Spectrum of activity and mechanisms of azole-bisphosphonate synergy in pathogenic Candida. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0012124. [PMID: 38695556 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00121-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Candidiasis places a significant burden on human health and can range from common superficial vulvovaginal and oral infections to invasive diseases with high mortality. The most common Candida species implicated in human disease is Candida albicans, but other species like Candida glabrata are emerging. The use of azole antifungals for treatment is limited by increasing rates of resistance. This study explores repositioning bisphosphonates, which are traditionally used for osteoporosis, as antifungal synergists that can improve and revitalize the use of azoles. Risedronate, alendronate, and zoledronate (ZOL) were tested against isolates from six different species of Candida, and ZOL produced moderate antifungal activity and strong synergy with azoles like fluconazole (FLC), particularly in C. glabrata. FLC:ZOL combinations had increased fungicidal and antibiofilm activity compared to either drug alone, and the combination prevented the development of antifungal resistance. Mechanistic investigations demonstrated that the synergy was mediated by the depletion of squalene, resulting in the inhibition of ergosterol biosynthesis and a compromised membrane structure. In C. glabrata, synergy compromised the function of membrane-bound multidrug transporters and caused an accumulation of reactive oxygen species, which may account for its acute sensitivity to FLC:ZOL. The efficacy of FLC:ZOL in vivo was confirmed in a Galleria mellonella infection model, where combinations improved the survival of larvae infected with C. albicans and C. glabrata to a greater extent than monotherapy with FLC or ZOL, and at reduced dosages. These findings demonstrate that bisphosphonates and azoles are a promising new combination therapy for the treatment of topical candidiasis. IMPORTANCE Candida is a common and often very serious opportunistic fungal pathogen. Invasive candidiasis is a prevalent cause of nosocomial infections with a high mortality rate, and mucocutaneous infections significantly impact the quality of life of millions of patients a year. These infections pose substantial clinical challenges, particularly as the currently available antifungal treatment options are limited in efficacy and often toxic. Azoles are a mainstay of antifungal therapy and work by targeting the biosynthesis of ergosterol. However, there are rising rates of acquired azole resistance in various Candida species, and some species are considered intrinsically resistant to most azoles. Our research demonstrates the promising therapeutic potential of synergistically enhancing azoles with non-toxic, FDA-approved bisphosphonates. Repurposing bisphosphonates as antifungal synergists can bypass much of the drug development pipeline and accelerate the translation of azole-bisphosphonate combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan Kane
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences and the Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hue Dinh
- School of Natural Sciences, ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Leona Campbell
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences and the Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Amy K Cain
- School of Natural Sciences, ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Hibbs
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dee Carter
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences and the Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Singha J, Saikia JP. Optimisation of garlic mustard oil macerate with respect to its antifungal activity against Candida albicans MTCC 183 and in-silico molecular docking of the volatile compounds with N-myristoyltransferase. Nat Prod Res 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38829315 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2024.2360689] [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: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans infections are widespread in people and cause cutaneous and systemic infections. Optimisation of garlic mustard oil macerate (GMM) based on antifungal activity against C. albicans was done using agar diffusion method. Upon vapour diffusion assay, the volatile organic compounds of both GMM and MO were found to eradicate C. albicans. During agar diffusion, MO did not inhibit fungal growth, while undiluted GMM oil demonstrated a 26.33 ± 0.33 mm zone of inhibition. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration against C. albicans were 12.5%, v/v of GMM oil and 25%, v/v of GMM oil, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed cell membrane disintegration of fungal cells by 50%, v/v of GMM oil, and MO caused no cell wall damage. In-silico analysis revealed strong binding affinity of sinigrin, ajoene, dithiin with N-myristoyltransferase. In conclusion, the optimised GMM preparation can be a potential antifungal agent against tropical C. albicans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joydeep Singha
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur, India
| | - Jyoti Prasad Saikia
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur, India
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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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Fattouh N, Khalaf RA, Husni R. Candida glabrata hospital isolate from Lebanon reveals micafungin resistance associated with increased chitin and resistance to a cell-surface-disrupting agent. J Glob Antimicrob Resist 2024; 37:62-68. [PMID: 38408565 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgar.2024.02.012] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to identify the resistance mechanisms to micafungin and fluconazole in a clinical isolate of Candida glabrata. METHODS The isolate was whole-genome sequenced to identify amino acid changes in key proteins involved in antifungal resistance, and the isolate was further characterised by pathogenicity-related phenotypic assays that supported the sequencing results. RESULTS Amino acid substitutions were detected in 8 of 17 protein candidates. Many of these substitutions were novel, including in CHS3, CHS3B, and KRE5, which are involved in the development of micafungin resistance. Regarding fluconazole resistance, overexpression of efflux pumps was observed. Our isolate did not exhibit an increased virulence potential compared with the control strain; however, a significant increase in chitin content and potential to resist the cell surface disruptant sodium dodecyl sulphate was observed. CONCLUSIONS This clinical Candida glabrata isolate experienced a change in cell wall architecture, which correlates with the development of micafungin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour Fattouh
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon; Department of Biology, Saint George University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Roy A Khalaf
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon.
| | - Rola Husni
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon; Lebanese American University Medical Center, Rizk Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
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12
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Nguyen BV, Nguyen HH, Vo TH, Le MT, Tran-Nguyen VK, Vu TT, Nguyen PV. Prevalence and drug susceptibility of clinical Candida species in nasopharyngeal cancer patients in Vietnam. One Health 2024; 18:100659. [PMID: 38179314 PMCID: PMC10761778 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100659] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In the nature, Candida species are normal inhabitants and can be observed in a wide variety of vertebrates. In humans, especially for cancer patients who fall prey to opportunistic pathogens, this group of susceptible multi-drug resistant and biofilm-forming yeasts, are among the commonest ones. In this study, Candida species in 76 oral lesion samples from Vietnamese nasopharyngeal-cancer patients were isolated, morphologically identified using CHROMagar™, germ tube formation, and chlamydospore formation tests, and molecularly confirmed by PCR-RFLP. The drug susceptibility of these isolates was then tested, and the gene ERG11 was DNA sequenced to investigate the mechanism of resistance. The results showed that Candida albicans remained the most prevalent species (63.16% of the cases), followed by Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, and Candida krusei. The rates of resistance of non-albicans Candida for tested drugs were 85.71%, 53.57%, and 57.14% to fluconazole, clotrimazole, and miconazole, respectively. Although the drug-resistance rate of Candida albicans was lower than that of non-albicans Candida, it was higher than expected, suggesting an emerging drug-resistance phenomenon. Furthermore, ERG11 DNA sequencing revealed different mutations (especially K128T), implying the presence of multiple resistance mechanisms. Altogether, the results indicate an alarming drug-resistance situation in Candida species in Vietnamese cancer patients and emphasize the importance of species identification and their drug susceptibility prior to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bac V.G. Nguyen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Hau H.N. Nguyen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Thanh-Hoa Vo
- School of Medicine, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Minh-Tri Le
- School of Medicine, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Viet-Khoa Tran-Nguyen
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille (CRCM), Inserm, U1068, Marseille, France
| | - Thao Thanh Vu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Phuoc-Vinh Nguyen
- School of Medicine, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
- Research Center for Infectious Diseases, International University, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
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13
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Keighley C, Gall M, Halliday CL, Chaw K, Newton P, Sintchenko V, Chen SCA. Breakthrough Candida albicans bloodstream infection associated with in vivo development of pan-azole resistance related to ERG3 gene deletion. Pathology 2024; 56:578-579. [PMID: 38065820 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2023.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Keighley
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia; Sydney ID, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Medical School, The University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia; Southern IML Pathology, Sonic Healthcare, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| | - Mailie Gall
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia; Sydney ID, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Catriona L Halliday
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia; Sydney ID, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Khin Chaw
- Medical School, The University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia; Microbiology, NSW Health Pathology, Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, NSW, Australia; Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Peter Newton
- Medical School, The University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia; Microbiology, NSW Health Pathology, Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Vitali Sintchenko
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia; Sydney ID, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sharon C-A Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia; Sydney ID, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Chen T, Gao C. Innate immune signal transduction pathways to fungal infection: Components and regulation. CELL INSIGHT 2024; 3:100154. [PMID: 38464417 PMCID: PMC10924179 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2024.100154] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Candida species are significant causes of mucosal and systemic infections in immune compromised populations, including HIV-infected individuals and cancer patients. Drug resistance and toxicity have limited the use of anti-fungal drugs. A good comprehension of the nature of the immune responses to the pathogenic fungi will aid in the developing of new approaches to the treatment of fungal diseases. In recent years, extensive research has been done to understand the host defending systems to fungal infections. In this review, we described how pattern recognition receptors senses the cognate fungal ligands and the cellular and molecular mechanisms of anti-fungal innate immune responses. Furthermore, particular focus is placed on how anti-fungal signal transduction cascades are being activated for host defense and being modulated to better treat the infections in terms of immunotherapy. Understanding the role that these pathways have in mediating host anti-fungal immunity will be crucial for future therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Chen
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province & Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Chengjiang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province & Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Immunology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
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15
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Zhou Y, Phelps GA, Mangrum MM, McLeish J, Phillips EK, Lou J, Ancajas CF, Rybak JM, Oelkers PM, Lee RE, Best MD, Reynolds TB. The small molecule CBR-5884 inhibits the Candida albicans phosphatidylserine synthase. mBio 2024; 15:e0063324. [PMID: 38587428 PMCID: PMC11077991 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00633-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic infections by Candida spp. are associated with high mortality rates, partly due to limitations in current antifungals, highlighting the need for novel drugs and drug targets. The fungal phosphatidylserine synthase, Cho1, from Candida albicans is a logical antifungal drug target due to its importance in virulence, absence in the host, and conservation among fungal pathogens. Inhibitors of Cho1 could serve as lead compounds for drug development, so we developed a target-based screen for inhibitors of purified Cho1. This enzyme condenses serine and cytidyldiphosphate-diacylglycerol (CDP-DAG) into phosphatidylserine (PS) and releases cytidylmonophosphate (CMP). Accordingly, we developed an in vitro nucleotidase-coupled malachite-green-based high throughput assay for purified C. albicans Cho1 that monitors CMP production as a proxy for PS synthesis. Over 7,300 molecules curated from repurposing chemical libraries were interrogated in primary and dose-responsivity assays using this platform. The screen had a promising average Z' score of ~0.8, and seven compounds were identified that inhibit Cho1. Three of these, ebselen, LOC14, and CBR-5884, exhibited antifungal effects against C. albicans cells, with fungicidal inhibition by ebselen and fungistatic inhibition by LOC14 and CBR-5884. Only CBR-5884 showed evidence of disrupting in vivo Cho1 function by inducing phenotypes consistent with the cho1∆∆ mutant, including a reduction of cellular PS levels. Kinetics curves and computational docking indicate that CBR-5884 competes with serine for binding to Cho1 with a Ki of 1,550 ± 245.6 nM. Thus, this compound has the potential for development into an antifungal compound. IMPORTANCE Fungal phosphatidylserine synthase (Cho1) is a logical antifungal target due to its crucial role in the virulence and viability of various fungal pathogens, and since it is absent in humans, drugs targeted at Cho1 are less likely to cause toxicity in patients. Using fungal Cho1 as a model, there have been two unsuccessful attempts to discover inhibitors for Cho1 homologs in whole-cell screens prior to this study. The compounds identified in these attempts do not act directly on the protein, resulting in the absence of known Cho1 inhibitors. The significance of our research is that we developed a high-throughput target-based assay and identified the first Cho1 inhibitor, CBR-5884, which acts both on the purified protein and its function in the cell. This molecule acts as a competitive inhibitor with a Ki value of 1,550 ± 245.6 nM and, thus, has the potential for development into a new class of antifungals targeting PS synthase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Gregory A. Phelps
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Mikayla M. Mangrum
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jemma McLeish
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Elise K. Phillips
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jinchao Lou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey M. Rybak
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Peter M. Oelkers
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, Michigan, USA
| | - Richard E. Lee
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Michael D. Best
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Todd B. Reynolds
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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16
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Sobel JD. Treatment of vaginitis caused by non-albicans Candida species. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2024; 22:289-296. [PMID: 38720183 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2024.2347953] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the face of increased frequency of non-albicans Candida vulvovaginitis (VVC) reported worldwide, there is a paucity of effective oral and topical antifungal drugs available. Drug selection is further handicapped by an absence of data of clinical efficacy of available antifungal drugs for these infections. AREAS COVERED In this review, attention is directed at the cause of drug shortage as well as increased frequency of non-albicans Candida (NAC) vulvovaginitis. There is widespread recognition of reduced in vitro azole drug susceptibility in NAC species. Moreover, antifungal susceptibility tests have not been standardized or validated for NAC isolates, hence clinicians rely on an element of empiricism especially given the absence of randomized controlled comparative studies targeting NAC species. Clinical spectrum of NAC species isolates is highly variable with ongoing difficulty in determining a causal role in symptomatic patients. EXPERT OPINION We have entered the era of demand for Candida species-specific therapy and although consensus treatment guidelines are emerging, new antifungal agents that target these multiple-azole resistant or relatively resistant vaginal NAC species are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack D Sobel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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17
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Akinosoglou K, Rigopoulos EA, Papageorgiou D, Schinas G, Polyzou E, Dimopoulou E, Gogos C, Dimopoulos G. Amphotericin B in the Era of New Antifungals: Where Will It Stand? J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:278. [PMID: 38667949 PMCID: PMC11051097 DOI: 10.3390/jof10040278] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amphotericin B (AmB) has long stood as a cornerstone in the treatment of invasive fungal infections (IFIs), especially among immunocompromised patients. However, the landscape of antifungal therapy is evolving. New antifungal agents, boasting novel mechanisms of action and better safety profiles, are entering the scene, presenting alternatives to AmB's traditional dominance. This shift, prompted by an increase in the incidence of IFIs, the growing demographic of immunocompromised individuals, and changing patterns of fungal resistance, underscores the continuous need for effective treatments. Despite these challenges, AmB's broad efficacy and low resistance rates maintain its essential status in antifungal therapy. Innovations in AmB formulations, such as lipid complexes and liposomal delivery systems, have significantly mitigated its notorious nephrotoxicity and infusion-related reactions, thereby enhancing its clinical utility. Moreover, AmB's efficacy in treating severe and rare fungal infections and its pivotal role as prophylaxis in high-risk settings highlight its value and ongoing relevance. This review examines AmB's standing amidst the ever-changing antifungal landscape, focusing on its enduring significance in current clinical practice and exploring its potential future therapeutic adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Akinosoglou
- School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece; (E.A.R.); (D.P.); (G.S.); (E.P.); (C.G.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University General Hospital of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
| | | | - Despoina Papageorgiou
- School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece; (E.A.R.); (D.P.); (G.S.); (E.P.); (C.G.)
| | - Georgios Schinas
- School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece; (E.A.R.); (D.P.); (G.S.); (E.P.); (C.G.)
| | - Eleni Polyzou
- School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece; (E.A.R.); (D.P.); (G.S.); (E.P.); (C.G.)
| | | | - Charalambos Gogos
- School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece; (E.A.R.); (D.P.); (G.S.); (E.P.); (C.G.)
| | - George Dimopoulos
- 3rd Department of Critical Care, Evgenidio Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
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18
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Jørgensen MR. Pathophysiological microenvironments in oral candidiasis. APMIS 2024. [PMID: 38571459 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13412] [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: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Oral candidiasis (OC), a prevalent opportunistic infection of the oral mucosa, presents a considerable health challenge, particularly in individuals with compromised immune responses, advanced age, and local predisposing conditions. A considerable part of the population carries Candida in the oral cavity, but only few develop OC. Therefore, the pathogenesis of OC may depend on factors other than the attributes of the fungus, such as host factors and other predisposing factors. Mucosal trauma and inflammation compromise epithelial integrity, fostering a conducive environment for fungal invasion. Molecular insights into the immunocompromised state reveal dysregulation in innate and adaptive immunity, creating a permissive environment for Candida proliferation. Detailed examination of Candida species (spp.) and their virulence factors uncovers a nuanced understanding beyond traditional C. albicans focus, which embrace diverse Candida spp. and their strategies, influencing adhesion, invasion, immune evasion, and biofilm formation. Understanding the pathophysiological microenvironments in OC is crucial for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. This review aims to unravel the diverse pathophysiological microenvironments influencing OC development focusing on microbial, host, and predisposing factors, and considers Candida resistance to antifungal therapy. The comprehensive approach offers a refined perspective on OC, seeking briefly to identify potential therapeutic targets for future effective management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Rose Jørgensen
- Section of Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine, Department of Odontology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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19
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Edrich ESM, Duvenage L, Gourlay CW. Alternative Oxidase - Aid or obstacle to combat the rise of fungal pathogens? BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOENERGETICS 2024; 1865:149031. [PMID: 38195037 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2024.149031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Fungal pathogens present a growing threat to both humans and global health security alike. Increasing evidence of antifungal resistance in fungal populations that infect both humans and plant species has increased reliance on combination therapies and shown the need for new antifungal therapeutic targets to be investigated. Here, we review the roles of mitochondria and fungal respiration in pathogenesis and discuss the role of the Alternative Oxidase enzyme (Aox) in both human fungal pathogens and phytopathogens. Increasing evidence exists for Aox within mechanisms that underpin fungal virulence. Aox also plays important roles in adaptability that may prove useful within dual targeted fungal-specific therapeutic approaches. As improved fungal specific mitochondrial and Aox inhibitors are under development we may see this as an emerging target for future approaches to tackling the growing challenge of fungal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucian Duvenage
- CMM AFRICA Medical Mycology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Campbell W Gourlay
- Kent Fungal Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Kent CT2 9HY, UK.
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20
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Moglad E, Elekhnawy E, Negm WA, Mokhtar FA, Binsuwaidan R, Attallah NGM, Ahmed E, Magdeldin S, Al-Fakhrany OM. Evaluation of Tamarix nilotica Fractions in Combating Candida albicans Infections. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2024; 22:241-251. [PMID: 37387417 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2023.2232112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Evaluation of the antifungal properties of Tamarix nilotica fractions against Candida albicans clinical isolates. METHODS The in vitro antifungal potential was evaluated by agar well diffusion and broth microdilution methods. The antibiofilm potential was assessed by crystal violet, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and qRT-PCR. The in vivo antifungal activity was evaluated by determining the burden in the lung tissues of infected mice, histopathological, immunohistochemical studies, and ELISA. RESULTS Both the dichloromethane (DCM) and ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fractions had minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 64-256 and 128-1024 μg/mL, respectively. SEM examination showed that the DCM fraction decreased the biofilm formation capacity of the treated isolates. A significant decline in biofilm gene expression was observed in 33.33% of the DCM-treated isolates. A considerable decline in the CFU/g lung count in infected mice was observed, and histopathological examinations revealed that the DCM fraction maintained the lung tissue architecture. Immunohistochemical investigations indicated that the DCM fraction significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, NF-kB, COX-2, IL-6, and IL-1β) in the immunostained lung sections. The phytochemical profiling of DCM and EtOAc fractions was performed using Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS). CONCLUSION T. nilotica DCM fraction could be a significant source of natural products with antifungal activity against C. albicans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehssan Moglad
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Engy Elekhnawy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Walaa A Negm
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Fatma A Mokhtar
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, El Saleheya El Gadida University, El Saleheya El Gadida, Egypt
| | - Reem Binsuwaidan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Eman Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Research Program, Department of Basic Research, Children's Cancer Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sameh Magdeldin
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Research Program, Department of Basic Research, Children's Cancer Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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21
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Lass-Flörl C, Kanj SS, Govender NP, Thompson GR, Ostrosky-Zeichner L, Govrins MA. Invasive candidiasis. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2024; 10:20. [PMID: 38514673 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-024-00503-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Invasive candidiasis is an important fungal disease caused by Candida albicans and, increasingly, non-albicans Candida pathogens. Invasive Candida infections originate most frequently from endogenous human reservoirs and are triggered by impaired host defences. Signs and symptoms of invasive candidiasis are non-specific; candidaemia is the most diagnosed manifestation, with disseminated candidiasis affecting single or multiple organs. Diagnosis poses many challenges, and conventional culture techniques are frequently supplemented by non-culture-based assays. The attributable mortality from candidaemia and disseminated infections is ~30%. Fluconazole resistance is a concern for Nakaseomyces glabratus, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida auris and less so in Candida tropicalis infection; acquired echinocandin resistance remains uncommon. The epidemiology of invasive candidiasis varies in different geographical areas and within various patient populations. Risk factors include intensive care unit stay, central venous catheter use, broad-spectrum antibiotics use, abdominal surgery and immune suppression. Early antifungal treatment and central venous catheter removal form the cornerstones to decrease mortality. The landscape of novel therapeutics is growing; however, the application of new drugs requires careful selection of eligible patients as the spectrum of activity is limited to a few fungal species. Unanswered questions and knowledge gaps define future research priorities and a personalized approach to diagnosis and treatment of invasive candidiasis is of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Lass-Flörl
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, ECMM Excellence Centres of Medical Mycology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Souha S Kanj
- Infectious Diseases Division, and Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nelesh P Govender
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand and National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - George R Thompson
- UC Davis Health Medical Center, Division of Infectious Diseases, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | | | - Miriam Alisa Govrins
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, ECMM Excellence Centres of Medical Mycology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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22
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Amin Zadeh H, Zomorodkia AA, Hadi S, Mohammad Zadeh I, Sabetghadam SAA, Hadi V. Synthesis and evaluation of the antifungal activity of 5-hydroxy-3-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-1-carbothioamide for use in the oral environment. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res 2024; 14:211-215. [PMID: 38445048 PMCID: PMC10912861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2024.01.008] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis, can cause superficial infections of the oral mucosa as well as disseminated bloodstream and deep-tissue infections. The most frequently employed class of antifungals used for Candida infection treatment are the azole antifungals. Their low price, low toxic qualities, and availability for oral use make fluconazole and similar azole antifungals the preferred treatment for various infections caused by Candida. Nevertheless, developed and intrinsic resistance to antifungals of the azole family has been widely documented in association with various species of Candida. Candida infection management requires synthesizing new compounds to improve azole class antifungals, as Candida isolates resistant to azole are increasingly encountered in the clinical setting. This study aimed to synthesize a new azole compound and investigate its antifungal activity. Methods In this experimental study, 5-hydroxy-3-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-1-carbothioamide was synthesized by the reaction between thiosemecarbazide and ethylbezoylacetate. The structure of the synthesized compound was characterized by different techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra and its antifungal activity against Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis was investigated by the Spread Plat method to determine its minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Results and discussion The Spread Plat test demonstrated that with the increase in 5-hydroxy-3-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-1-carbothioamide concentration, colonies of fungi were increasingly eliminated at a significant level(p < 0.001). At a concentration of 1000 ppm, all Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis colonies were destroyed. Conclusions The results indicate that the synthesized compound showed a promising antifungal effect. On the other hand, it had a suitable spectrum of effect, because it showed antifungal effects on both Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Amin Zadeh
- Department of Chemistry, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, 76169, Iran
| | - Ali Asghar Zomorodkia
- Department of Chemical Engineering, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Hadi
- Department of Health and Nutriotion, Faculty of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iman Mohammad Zadeh
- Oral and Dental Disease Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Vahid Hadi
- Department of Health and Nutriotion, Faculty of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
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Pérez-Vielma NM, Gómez-López M, Martínez-Godínez MDLÁ, Luna-Torres AL, Domínguez López A, Miliar-García Á. Candida Variety in the Oral Cavity of Mexican Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and TLR2 Gene Expression. Clin Pract 2024; 14:417-425. [PMID: 38525710 PMCID: PMC10961687 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract14020031] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim was to diagnose Candida in the oral cavity of subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using a genotyping technique and compare the results with those from conventional diagnosis by Papanicolaou (Pap) staining. METHODS Palatal mucosa smears were performed on 18 dental care patients diagnosed with T2DM and grade I, II, and III prosthetic stomatitis who met the inclusion criteria; 18 healthy control subjects were also included in the study. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels were determined from total blood. Using exfoliative cytology, the Pap staining technique was used to diagnose candidiasis. Exfoliative cytology was also used for molecular diagnosis; DNA was obtained for Candida genotyping, and RNA was used for gene expression studies. RESULTS Clinical patterns indicated that all subjects were positive for Candida; however, Pap analysis revealed only three positive subjects, whereas end-point polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis revealed 15 subjects with some type of Candida. The most common Candida species found were Candida guilliermondii (38.8%), Candida krusei (33.3%), Candida tropicalis, and Candida lusitaniae (22.2%). Interestingly, the coexpression of different species of Candida was found in various patients. In all patients, HbA1c levels were increased. Gene expression analysis showed a significant decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in TLR2 expression in positive subjects, whereas TLR4 expression did not differ significantly among patients. CONCLUSIONS The end-point PCR technique showed better sensitivity for the diagnosis of Candida when compared with the diagnosis by Pap staining. T2DM subjects showed an increased presence of C. guilliermondii that was correlated with decreased TLR2 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Mabel Pérez-Vielma
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias de la Salud Unidad Santo Tomás, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico; (N.M.P.-V.); (A.L.L.-T.)
| | - Modesto Gómez-López
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico; (M.G.-L.); (M.d.l.Á.M.-G.); (A.D.L.)
| | - María de los Ángeles Martínez-Godínez
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico; (M.G.-L.); (M.d.l.Á.M.-G.); (A.D.L.)
| | - Ana Laura Luna-Torres
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias de la Salud Unidad Santo Tomás, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico; (N.M.P.-V.); (A.L.L.-T.)
| | - Aarón Domínguez López
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico; (M.G.-L.); (M.d.l.Á.M.-G.); (A.D.L.)
| | - Ángel Miliar-García
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico; (M.G.-L.); (M.d.l.Á.M.-G.); (A.D.L.)
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Hansanant N, Cao K, Tenorio A, Joseph T, Ju M, McNally N, Kummari E, Williams M, Cothrell A, Buhrow AR, Shin R, Orugunty R, Smith L. Previously Uncharacterized Variants, OCF-E-OCF-J, of the Antifungal Occidiofungin Produced by Burkholderia contaminans MS14. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2024; 87:186-194. [PMID: 38277493 PMCID: PMC10897925 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c00777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
The rise of multidrug resistant fungal infections highlights the need to identify and develop novel antifungal agents. Occidiofungin is a nonribosomally synthesized glycolipopeptide that has a unique mechanism of action, disrupting actin-mediated functions and inducing cellular apoptosis. Antifungal activity has been observed in vitro against various fungal species, including multidrug resistant Candida auris, and in vivo efficacy has been demonstrated in a murine vulvovaginal candidiasis model. Occidiofungin, a cyclic glycolipopeptide, is composed of eight amino acids and in previous studies, an asparagine residue was assigned at position 7 (ASN7). In this study, new structural variants of occidiofungin have been characterized which have aspartic acid (ASP7), glutamine (GLN7), or glutamic acid (GLU7) at position 7. The side chain of the ASP7 variant contains the only terminal carboxylic acid in the peptide and provides a useful site for selective chemical modifications. Analogues were synthesized at the ASP7 position and tested for antifungal activity. These analogues were shown to be more active as compared to the ASP7 variant against a panel of Candida species. The naturally occurring variants of occidiofungin with a side chain containing a carboxylic acid at the seventh amino acid position can be used to develop semisynthetic analogues with enhanced therapeutic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nopakorn Hansanant
- Department
of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Kevin Cao
- Sano
Chemicals Incorporated, Bryan, Texas 77803, United States
| | - Abraham Tenorio
- Sano
Chemicals Incorporated, Bryan, Texas 77803, United States
| | - Thushinari Joseph
- Department
of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Min Ju
- Department
of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Noah McNally
- Department
of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Evangel Kummari
- Department
of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - McKinley Williams
- Department
of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Andrew Cothrell
- Department
of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Andrew R. Buhrow
- Department
of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Ronald Shin
- Central
Alabama High-Field NMR Facility, Structural Biology Shared Facility,
Cancer Center, University of Alabama at
Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-1240, United States
| | - Ravi Orugunty
- Sano
Chemicals Incorporated, Bryan, Texas 77803, United States
| | - Leif Smith
- Department
of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
- Sano
Chemicals Incorporated, Bryan, Texas 77803, United States
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25
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Dominguez JAJ, Luque-Vilca OM, Mallma NES, FLores DDC, Zea CYH, Huayhua LLA, Lizárraga-Gamarra FB, Cáceres CGM, Yauricasa-Tornero SV, Paricanaza-Ticona DC, Cajavilca HLV. Antifungal chemicals promising function in disease prevention, method of action and mechanism. BRAZ J BIOL 2024; 83:e275055. [PMID: 38422253 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.275055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The increasing use of antimicrobial drugs has been linked to the rise of drug-resistant fungus in recent years. Antimicrobial resistance is being studied from a variety of perspectives due to the important clinical implication of resistance. The processes underlying this resistance, enhanced methods for identifying resistance when it emerges, alternate treatment options for infections caused by resistant organisms, and so on are reviewed, along with strategies to prevent and regulate the formation and spread of resistance. This overview will focus on the action mechanism of antifungals and the resistance mechanisms against them. The link between antibacterial and antifungal resistance is also briefly discussed. Based on their mechanism action, antifungals are divided into three distinct categories: azoles, which target the ergosterol synthesis; 5-fluorocytosine, which targets macromolecular synthesis and polyenes, which interact physiochemically with fungal membrane sterols. Antifungal resistance can arise through a wide variety of ways. Overexpression of the target of the antifungal drug, changes to the drug target, changes to sterol biosynthesis, decreased intercellular concentration of the target enzyme, and other processes. A correlation exists between the mechanisms of resistance to antibacterial and antifungals, despite the fact that the comparison between the two is inevitably constrained by various parameters mentioned in the review. Drug extrusion via membrane pumps has been thoroughly documented in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and development of new antifungal compounds and strategies has also been well characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - N E S Mallma
- Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú, Huancayo, Perú
| | - D D C FLores
- Universidad Nacional de Huancavelica, Huancavelica, Perú
| | - C Y H Zea
- Universidad Nacional de Juliaca, Juliaca, Perú
| | - L L A Huayhua
- Universidad Nacional de Huancavelica, Huancavelica, Perú
| | | | - C G M Cáceres
- Universidad Nacional de Huancavelica, Huancavelica, Perú
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26
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Shah K, Deshpande M, Shah P. Healthcare-associated fungal infections and emerging pathogens during the COVID-19 pandemic. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2024; 5:1339911. [PMID: 38465254 PMCID: PMC10920311 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2024.1339911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Historically, fungi were mainly identified as plant and insect pathogens since they grow at 28°C. At the same time, bacteria are known to be the most common human pathogens as they are compatible with the host body temperature of 37°C. Because of immunocompromised hosts, cancer therapy, and malnutrition, fungi are rapidly gaining attention as human pathogens. Over 150 million people have severe fungal infections, which lead to approximately more than one million deaths per year. Moreover, diseases like cancer involving long-term therapy and prophylactic use of antifungal drugs in high-risk patients have increased the emergence of drug-resistant fungi, including highly virulent strains such as Candida auris. This clinical spectrum of fungal diseases ranges from superficial mucocutaneous lesions to more severe and life-threatening infections. This review article summarizes the effect of hospital environments, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, on fungal infections and emerging pathogens. The review also provides insights into the various antifungal drugs and their existing challenges, thereby driving the need to search for novel antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krish Shah
- Biological Sciences Bellarmine College Preparatory, San Jose, CA, United States
| | | | - P. Shah
- Science Ambassador/Bio-Rad Laboratories, Hercules, CA, United States
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27
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Kumar SAS, Krishnan D, Jothipandiyan S, Durai R, Hari BNV, Nithyanand P. Cell-free supernatants of probiotic consortia impede hyphal formation and disperse biofilms of vulvovaginal candidiasis causing Candida in an ex-vivo model. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 2024; 117:37. [PMID: 38367023 DOI: 10.1007/s10482-024-01929-1] [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: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is the second most common vaginal infection caused by drug-resistant Candida species that affects about 70-75% of reproductive age group women across the globe. As current-day antifungal drugs are ineffective against the biofilms formed by the drug-resistant Candida strains, several natural compounds and antagonistic microbes are being explored as alternative antifungal agents. In the present study, we investigated the anti-biofilm activity of Cell-Free Supernatant (CFS) extracted from the commercially available probiotics VSL-3 against the biofilms of Candida species and also evaluated their efficacy in curbing the yeast-to-hyphal transition. Various methodologies like crystal violet staining and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the effect of CFS against the biofilms formed by the species. The ability of CFS to interfere with yeast to hyphal transition in Candida was studied by colony morphology assay and visually confirmed with phase contrast microscopy. The potential of the CFS of the probiotics was also evaluated using goat buccal tissue, a novel ex-vivo model that mimics the vaginal environment. Moreover, the supernatant extracted from VSL-3 had the ability to down-regulate the expression of virulence genes of Candida from the biofilm formed over the ex-vivo model. These results emphasize the anti-fungal and anti-infective properties of the CFS of VSL-3 against drug-resistant Candida strains causing vulvovaginal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudaarsan Aruna Senthil Kumar
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Dhesiga Krishnan
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Sowndarya Jothipandiyan
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Ramyadevi Durai
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - B Narayanan Vedha Hari
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Paramasivam Nithyanand
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India.
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28
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Gomaa SE, Abbas HA, Mohamed FA, Ali MAM, Ibrahim TM, Abdel Halim AS, Alghamdi MA, Mansour B, Chaudhary AA, Elkelish A, Boufahja F, Hegazy WAH, Yehia FAZA. The anti-staphylococcal fusidic acid as an efflux pump inhibitor combined with fluconazole against vaginal candidiasis in mouse model. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:54. [PMID: 38341568 PMCID: PMC10858509 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03181-z] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida albicans is the most common fungus that causes vaginal candidiasis in immunocompetent women and catastrophic infections in immunocompromised patients. The treatment of such infections is hindered due to the increasing emergence of resistance to azoles in C. albicans. New treatment approaches are needed to combat candidiasis especially in the dwindled supply of new effective and safe antifungals. The resistance to azoles is mainly attributed to export of azoles outside the cells by means of the efflux pump that confers cross resistance to all azoles including fluconazole (FLC). OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the possible efflux pump inhibiting activity of fusidic acid (FA) in C. albicans resistant isolates and the potential use of Fusidic acid in combination with fluconazole to potentiate the antifungal activity of fluconazole to restore its activity in the resistant C. albicans isolates. METHODS The resistance of C. albicans isolates was assessed by determination of minimum inhibitory concentration. The effect of Fusidic acid at sub-inhibitory concentration on efflux activity was assayed by rhodamine 6G efflux assay and intracellular accumulation. Mice model studies were conducted to evaluate the anti-efflux activity of Fusidic acid and its synergistic effects in combination with fluconazole. Impact of Fusidic acid on ergosterol biosynthesis was quantified. The synergy of fluconazole when combined with Fusidic acid was investigated by determination of minimum inhibitory concentration. The cytotoxicity of Fusidic acid was tested against erythrocytes. The effect of Fusidic acid on efflux pumps was tested at the molecular level by real-time PCR and in silico study. In vivo vulvovaginitis mice model was used to confirm the activity of the combination in treating vulvovaginal candidiasis. RESULTS Fusidic acid showed efflux inhibiting activity as it increased the accumulation of rhodamine 6G, a substrate for ABC-efflux transporter, and decreased its efflux in C. albicans cells. The antifungal activity of fluconazole was synergized when combined with Fusidic acid. Fusidic acid exerted only minimal cytotoxicity on human erythrocytes indicating its safety. The FA efflux inhibitory activity could be owed to its ability to interfere with efflux protein transporters as revealed by docking studies and downregulation of the efflux-encoding genes of both ABC transporters and MFS superfamily. Moreover, in vivo mice model showed that using fluconazole-fusidic acid combination by vaginal route enhanced fluconazole antifungal activity as shown by lowered fungal burden and a negligible histopathological change in vaginal tissue. CONCLUSION The current findings highlight FA's potential as a potential adjuvant to FLC in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salwa E Gomaa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Hisham A Abbas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Fatma A Mohamed
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology-Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti Út 12, Pécs, H-7624, Hungary
| | - Mohamed A M Ali
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Tarek M Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Alyaa S Abdel Halim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Mashael A Alghamdi
- Department of Chemistry, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basem Mansour
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa, Belqas, 11152, Egypt
| | - Anis Ahmad Chaudhary
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amr Elkelish
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Fehmi Boufahja
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wael A H Hegazy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
- Pharmacy Program, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Oman College of Health Sciences, Muscat, 113, Oman.
| | - Fatma Al-Zahraa A Yehia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
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Thombre D, Shelar A, Nakhale S, Khairnar B, Karale N, Sangshetti J, Nile SH, Patil R. Green synthesis of biogenic selenium nanoparticles functionalized with ginger dietary extract targeting virulence factor and biofilm formation in Candida albicans. Microb Pathog 2024; 186:106462. [PMID: 38030019 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106462] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
To treat the systemic infections caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans), various drugs have been used, however, infections still persisted due to virulence factors and increasing antifungal resistance. As a solution to this problem, we synthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) by using Bacillus cereus bacteria. This is the first study to report a higher (70 %) reduction of selenite ions into SeNPs in under 6 h. The as-synthesized, biogenic SeNPs were used to deliver bioactive constituents of aqueous extract of ginger for inhibiting the growth and biofilm (virulence factors) in C. albicans. UV-visible spectroscopy revealed a characteristic absorption at 280 nm, and Raman spectroscopy showed a characteristic peak shift at 253 cm-1 for the biogenic SeNPs. The synthesized SeNPs are spherical with 240-250 nm in size as determined by electron microscopy. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the functionalization of antifungal constituents of ginger over the SeNPs (formation of Ginger@SeNPs nanoconjugates). In contrast to biogenic SeNPs, nanoconjugates were active against C. albicans for inhibiting growth and biofilm formation. In order to reveal antifungal mechanism of nanoconjugates', real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis was performed, according to RT-PCR analysis, the nanoconjugates target virulence genes involved in C. albicans hyphae and biofilm formation. Nanoconjugates inhibited 25 % growth of human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cell line, indicating moderate cytotoxicity of active nanoconjugates in an in-vitro cytotoxicity study. Therefore, biogenic SeNPs conjugated with ginger dietary extract may be a potential antifungal agent and drug carrier for inhibiting C. albicans growth and biofilm formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipalee Thombre
- Department of Biotechnology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, 411007, India
| | - Amruta Shelar
- Department of Technology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, 411007, India
| | - Sweta Nakhale
- PES's Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce Ganeshkhind. Pune, Maharashtra, 411053, India
| | - Bhushan Khairnar
- Interdisciplinary School of Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, 411007, India
| | - Netaji Karale
- Vidya Pratishthan's Arts, Science and Commerce College, Baramati, 413133, Maharashtra, India
| | | | - Shivraj Hariram Nile
- Division of Food and Nutritional Biotechnology, DBT-National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Sector-81, Knowledge City, S.A.S. Nagar, Mohali, 140306, Punjab, India.
| | - Rajendra Patil
- Department of Biotechnology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, 411007, India.
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Yazdanpanah S, Jabrodini A, Motamedi M, Zomorodian K, Kharazi M, Shabanzadeh S, Ghasemi F, Shariat S, Rezaei Arab M. Species distribution and antifungal susceptibility profiles of yeasts isolated from onychomycosis: a cross-sectional study with insights into emerging species. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 2023; 117:6. [PMID: 38153531 DOI: 10.1007/s10482-023-01914-0] [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: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Candida onychomycosis is a common fungal infection affecting the nails, primarily caused by Candida (C.) species. Regarding the increasing trend of Candida onychomycosis and the antifungal resistant phenomenon in recent years, this study aims to evaluate the epidemiological characteristics of Candida onychomycosis, the distribution of emerging species, and the antifungal susceptibility profiles of isolates. Onychomycosis caused by yeast species was confirmed through direct examination and culture of nail scraping among all individuals suspected to have onychomycosis and referred to a medical mycology laboratory between June 2019 and March 2022. Species of yeast isolates were identified using the multiplex PCR and PCR-RFLP methods. The antifungal susceptibility of isolates to common antifungal agents and imidazole drugs was evaluated according to the M-27-A3 CLSI protocol. Among 101 yeast strains isolated from onychomycosis, Candida parapsilosis complex (50.49%) was the most common species, followed by C. albicans (20.79%) and C. tropicalis (10.89%). Rare species of yeasts such as C. guilliermondii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were also identified by molecular methods. Results obtained from antifungal susceptibility testing showed significant differences in MIC values of isoconazole, fenticonazole, and sertaconazole among different species. Overall, a fluconazole-resistant rate of 3% was found among Candida species. Moreover, there was a statistically significant difference in MICs of fenticonazole and clotrimazole between the two most prevalent causative species, C. parapsilosis complex and C. albicans. Correct identification of the causative agents of onychomycosis and performing susceptibility testing could be helpful in choosing the most appropriate antifungal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Yazdanpanah
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ahmad Jabrodini
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Marjan Motamedi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Kamiar Zomorodian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahboobeh Kharazi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shafigheh Shabanzadeh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farnia Ghasemi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sahar Shariat
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Rezaei Arab
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Aonofriesei F. Increased Absorption and Inhibitory Activity against Candida spp. of Imidazole Derivatives in Synergistic Association with a Surface Active Agent. Microorganisms 2023; 12:51. [PMID: 38257878 PMCID: PMC10819671 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12010051] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This paper's purpose was to evaluate the interaction between three imidazole derivatives, (2-methyl-1H-imidazol-1-yl)methanol (SAM3), 1,1'-methanediylbis(1H-benzimidazole (AM5) and (1H-benzo[d]imidazol-1-yl)methanol 1-hydroxymethylbenzimidazole (SAM5) on the one hand, and sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) on the other, as antifungal combinations against Candida spp. Inhibitory activity was assessed using the agar diffusion method and Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and showed moderate inhibitory activity of single imidazole derivatives against Candida spp. The mean value of MIC ranged from 200 µg/mL (SAM3) to 312.5 µg/mL (SAM3), while for SDS the MIC was around 1000 µg/mL. When used in combination with SDS, the imidazole derivatives demonstrated an improvement in their antifungal activity. Their MIC decreased over five times for AM5 and over seven times for SAM3 and SAM5, respectively, and ranged from 26.56 µg/mL (SAM3) to 53.90 µg/mL (AM5). Most combinations displayed an additive effect while a clear synergistic effect was recorded in only a few cases. Thus, the FIC Index (FICI) with values between 0.311 and 0.375 showed a synergistic effect against Candida spp. when SDS was associated with SAM3 (three strains), SAM5 (two strains) and AM5 (one strain). The association of imidazole derivatives with SDS led to the increased release of cellular material as well as the intracellular influx of crystal violet (CV), which indicated an alteration of the membrane permeability of Candida spp. cells. This favored the synergistic effect via increasing the intracellular influx of imidazoles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Aonofriesei
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, "Ovidius" University of Constanța, 1 University Street, 900470 Constanța, Romania
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Khalifa HO, Watanabe A, Kamei K. Antifungal Resistance and Genotyping of Clinical Candida parapsilosis Complex in Japan. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 10:4. [PMID: 38276020 PMCID: PMC10816931 DOI: 10.3390/jof10010004] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-albicans Candida infections have recently gained worldwide attention due to their intrinsic resistance to different antifungal agents and the limited therapeutic options for treating them. Although the Candida parapsilosis complex is reported to be the second or third most prevalent Candida spp., little information is available on the prevalence of antifungal resistance along with genotyping of the C. parapsilosis complex. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of antifungal resistance, the genetic basis of such resistance, and the genotyping of C. parapsilosis complex isolates that were recovered from hospitalized patients in Japan from 2005 to 2019. Our results indicated that, with the exception of one single C. metapsilosis isolate that was dose-dependently susceptible to fluconazole, all other isolates were susceptible or showed wild phenotypes to all tested antifungals, including azoles, echinocandins, amphotericin B, and flucytosine. Molecular analyses for azole and echinocandin resistance via evaluating ERG11 mutation and FKS1 hotspot one (HS1) and hotspot two (HS2) mutations, respectively, confirmed the phenotypic results. Genotyping of our isolates confirmed that they belong to 53 different but closely related genotypes, with a similarity percentage of up to 90%. Our results are of significant concern, since understanding the genetic basis of echinocandin resistance in the C. parapsilosis complex as well their genotyping is essential for directing targeted therapy, identifying probable infection sources, and developing strategies for overcoming epidemic spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazim O. Khalifa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 1555, United Arab Emirates
- Medical Mycology Research Centre, Division of Clinical Research, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8673, Japan; (A.W.); (K.K.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El-Sheikh 33516, Egypt
| | - Akira Watanabe
- Medical Mycology Research Centre, Division of Clinical Research, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8673, Japan; (A.W.); (K.K.)
| | - Katsuhiko Kamei
- Medical Mycology Research Centre, Division of Clinical Research, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8673, Japan; (A.W.); (K.K.)
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Korem M, Taragin A, Dror D, Temper V, Averbuch D. A 14-Year Cohort of Candidemia in the Pediatric Population in a Tertiary Center in Jerusalem: Clinical Characteristics, Antifungal Susceptibility, and Risk Factors for Mortality. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1171. [PMID: 38132772 PMCID: PMC10744903 DOI: 10.3390/jof9121171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida spp. can cause bloodstream infection and is associated with significant mortality. The proportion of fluconazole-resistant Candida non-albicans has increased over the years, and empirical fluconazole maybe inappropriate. In this retrospective study, we analyzed clinical characteristics, antifungal resistance patterns, and mortality in children with candidemia treated at a tertiary medical center in Jerusalem between 2009 and 2022. A total of 122 children developed 127 candidemia episodes with 132 Candida isolates. Half the episodes occurred in immunocompromised children. Septic shock was present in 27 (21.3%). Candida non-albicans was responsible for 71/132 (56.5%) episodes; 16/132 (12.1%) of isolates were fluconazole-resistant. The rate of Candida non-albicans was significantly higher in fluconazole-resistant episodes (90 vs. 50.5%, p = 0.02). Prolonged severe neutropenia and previous fluconazole exposure were more frequent in fluconazole-resistant episodes. Thirty-day mortality was 25 (19.7%). Greater mortality, as shown by multivariate analysis, was associated with candidemia contracted in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), previous use of azoles or carbapenems, and in the presence of shock. In conclusion, mortality rates in our study were higher than those previously reported. In suspected infection associated with factors which we found to increase the probability of mortality-PICU admission, shock, and earlier azole or carbapenems exposure-empirical antifungals should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Korem
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel (D.D.)
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Asher Taragin
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel (D.D.)
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Pediatric Division, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Danna Dror
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel (D.D.)
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Violeta Temper
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel (D.D.)
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Dina Averbuch
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel (D.D.)
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Pediatric Division, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
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El-Kholy MA, Helaly GF, El Ghazzawi EF, El-Sawaf G, Shawky SM. Analysis of CDR1 and MDR1 Gene Expression and ERG11 Substitutions in Clinical Candida tropicalis Isolates from Alexandria, Egypt. Braz J Microbiol 2023; 54:2609-2615. [PMID: 37606863 PMCID: PMC10689625 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-023-01106-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Candida tropicalis is a common non-albicans Candida (NAC) species that causes numerous fungal infections. Increasing antifungal resistance to azoles in NAC is becoming a major health problem worldwide; however, in Egypt, almost no data is available regarding fluconazole resistance mechanisms in C. tropicalis. The current study aims to investigate two possible important molecular mechanisms involved in fluconazole resistance in C. tropicalis isolates. MATERIALS Fifty-four clinical C. tropicalis isolates were included. Identification and antifungal susceptibility profiles of the isolates were carried out using the VITEK 2 compact system. The molecular investigation of fluconazole resistance included the expression of the CDR1 and MDR1 genes by quantitative real-time RT-PCR as well as the sequence analysis of the ERG11 gene. RESULTS Antifungal susceptibility testing identified 30 fluconazole-non-susceptible isolates. Statistically, CDR1 gene expression in fluconazole-non-susceptible isolates was significantly higher than that in fluconazole-susceptible isolates, with MDR1 gene expression levels that were similar in both non-susceptible and susceptible isolates. Sequence analysis of the ERG11 gene of 26 fluconazole-resistant isolates identified two missense mutations: A395T (Y132F) and G1390A (G464S). CONCLUSIONS This study has highlighted the role of overexpression of the CDR1 gene and ERG11 gene mutations in fluconazole non-susceptibility. Further studies in Egypt are required to investigate other possible molecular mechanisms involved in azole resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A El-Kholy
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Division of Clinical and Biological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT), Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Ghada F Helaly
- Department of Microbiology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ebtisam F El Ghazzawi
- Department of Microbiology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Gamal El-Sawaf
- Department of Microbiology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Sherine M Shawky
- Department of Microbiology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Nogueira PL, da Nóbrega Alves D, Queiroga Gomes da Costa PC, Araujo GR, Ferreira AR, Gomes Moura Farias AP, Ferreira de Sousa N, Sobral MV, Pergentino de Sousa D, Scotti MT, Scotti L, Dias de Castro R. Derivative of 7-hydroxycoumarin has antifungal potential against Candida species and low cytotoxicity against human cells: In silico studies and biological evaluation. Fungal Biol 2023; 127:1451-1465. [PMID: 38097319 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2023.10.007] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the antifungal and cytotoxic properties of 7-(pentyloxy)-2H-chromen-2-one. Through molecular docking and dynamics simulations, we explored the compound's interactions with fungal cell protein targets. Notably, it exhibited strong affinities for 1,3β-glucan synthase, squalene epoxidase, δ-14-sterol reductase, 14-α-demethylase, and thymidylate synthase, with binding energies ranging from -100.39 to -73.15 kcal/mol. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed its stable binding at active targets. The MIC and MFC values ranged from 67.16 μM (15.6 μg/mL) to 537.28 μM (125.0 μg/mL). The compound displayed promising antifungal effects, inhibiting fungal growth for at least 24 hours. Fungal plasma membrane function alteration likely contributed to these antifungal mechanisms. Additionally, the combination of the compound with nystatin, fluconazole, and caspofungin showed indifferent effects on antifungal activity. Cytotoxicity assessment in human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) revealed an IC50 of 100 μM, which was approximately 1.5 times higher than the MIC for C. krusei. Thus, the compound exhibited strongly in silico and in vitro antifungal activity with low cytotoxicity in HaCaT cells. These findings support its potential as a candidate for further development as an antifungal compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Lima Nogueira
- Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; BrazilHealth Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Danielle da Nóbrega Alves
- Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; BrazilHealth Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Palloma Christine Queiroga Gomes da Costa
- Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; BrazilHealth Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Gleycyelly Rodrigues Araujo
- Department of Clinical and Social Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Alana Rodrigues Ferreira
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Ana Paula Gomes Moura Farias
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Natália Ferreira de Sousa
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Marianna Vieira Sobral
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Damião Pergentino de Sousa
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Marcus Tullius Scotti
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Luciana Scotti
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo Dias de Castro
- Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; BrazilHealth Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil; Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, 58051-970, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
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Chow EWL, Song Y, Chen J, Xu X, Wang J, Chen K, Gao J, Wang Y. The transcription factor Rpn4 activates its own transcription and induces efflux pump expression to confer fluconazole resistance in Candida auris. mBio 2023; 14:e0268823. [PMID: 38014938 PMCID: PMC10746192 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02688-23] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Candida auris is a recently emerged pathogenic fungus of grave concern globally due to its resistance to conventional antifungals. This study takes a whole-genome approach to explore how C. auris overcomes growth inhibition imposed by the common antifungal drug fluconazole. We focused on gene disruptions caused by a "jumping genetic element" called transposon, leading to fluconazole resistance. We identified mutations in two genes, each encoding a component of the Ubr2/Mub1 ubiquitin-ligase complex, which marks the transcription regulator Rpn4 for degradation. When either protein is absent, stable Rpn4 accumulates in the cell. We found that Rpn4 activates the expression of itself as well as the main drug efflux pump gene CDR1 by binding to a PACE element in the promoter. Furthermore, we identified an amino acid change in Ubr2 in many resistant clinical isolates, contributing to Rpn4 stabilization and increased fluconazole resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve W. L. Chow
- Infectious Diseases Labs, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yabing Song
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jinxin Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoli Xu
- Infectious Diseases Labs, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jianbin Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Kun Chen
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaxin Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Infectious Diseases Labs, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Siswina T, Rustama MM, Sumiarsa D, Apriyanti E, Dohi H, Kurnia D. Antifungal Constituents of Piper crocatum and Their Activities as Ergosterol Biosynthesis Inhibitors Discovered via In Silico Study Using ADMET and Drug-Likeness Analysis. Molecules 2023; 28:7705. [PMID: 38067436 PMCID: PMC10708292 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Along with the increasing resistance of Candida spp. to some antibiotics, it is necessary to find new antifungal drugs, one of which is from the medicinal plant Red Betel (Piper crocatum). The purpose of this research is to isolate antifungal constituents from P. crocatum and evaluate their activities as ergosterol biosynthesis inhibitors via an in silico study of ADMET and drug-likeness analysis. Two new active compounds 1 and 2 and a known compound 3 were isolated, and their structures were determined using spectroscopic methods, while their bioactivities were evaluated via in vitro and in silico studies, respectively. Antifungal compound 3 was the most active compared to 1 and 2 with zone inhibition values of 14.5, 11.9, and 13.0 mm, respectively, at a concentration of 10% w/v, together with MIC/MFC at 0.31/1.2% w/v. Further in silico study demonstrated that compound 3 had a stronger ΔG than the positive control and compounds 1 and 2 with -11.14, -12.78, -12.00, and -6.89 Kcal/mol against ERG1, ERG2, ERG11, and ERG24, respectively, and also that 3 had the best Ki with 6.8 × 10-3, 4 × 10-4, 1.6 × 10-3, and 8.88 μM. On the other hand, an ADMET analysis of 1-3 met five parameters, while 1 had one violation of Ro5. Based on the research data, the promising antifungal constituents of P. crocatum allow P. crocatum to be proposed as a new antifungal candidate to treat and cure infections due to C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Siswina
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang 45363, Indonesia; (T.S.); (D.S.); (E.A.)
- Department of Midwifery, Poltekkes Kemenkes Pontianak, Pontianak 78124, Indonesia
| | - Mia Miranti Rustama
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang 45363, Indonesia;
| | - Dadan Sumiarsa
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang 45363, Indonesia; (T.S.); (D.S.); (E.A.)
| | - Eti Apriyanti
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang 45363, Indonesia; (T.S.); (D.S.); (E.A.)
| | - Hirofumi Dohi
- Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8522, Japan;
| | - Dikdik Kurnia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang 45363, Indonesia; (T.S.); (D.S.); (E.A.)
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Jusuf S, Dong PT. Chromophore-Targeting Precision Antimicrobial Phototherapy. Cells 2023; 12:2664. [PMID: 37998399 PMCID: PMC10670386 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222664] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Phototherapy, encompassing the utilization of both natural and artificial light, has emerged as a dependable and non-invasive strategy for addressing a diverse range of illnesses, diseases, and infections. This therapeutic approach, primarily known for its efficacy in treating skin infections, such as herpes and acne lesions, involves the synergistic use of specific light wavelengths and photosensitizers, like methylene blue. Photodynamic therapy, as it is termed, relies on the generation of antimicrobial reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the interaction between light and externally applied photosensitizers. Recent research, however, has highlighted the intrinsic antimicrobial properties of light itself, marking a paradigm shift in focus from exogenous agents to the inherent photosensitivity of molecules found naturally within pathogens. Chemical analyses have identified specific organic molecular structures and systems, including protoporphyrins and conjugated C=C bonds, as pivotal components in molecular photosensitivity. Given the prevalence of these systems in organic life forms, there is an urgent need to investigate the potential impact of phototherapy on individual molecules expressed within pathogens and discern their contributions to the antimicrobial effects of light. This review delves into the recently unveiled key molecular targets of phototherapy, offering insights into their potential downstream implications and therapeutic applications. By shedding light on these fundamental molecular mechanisms, we aim to advance our understanding of phototherapy's broader therapeutic potential and contribute to the development of innovative treatments for a wide array of microbial infections and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Jusuf
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
| | - Pu-Ting Dong
- Department of Microbiology, The Forsyth Institute, Boston, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Oral Medicine, Infection and Immunity, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Czajka KM, Venkataraman K, Brabant-Kirwan D, Santi SA, Verschoor C, Appanna VD, Singh R, Saunders DP, Tharmalingam S. Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Antifungal Resistance in Pathogenic Candida Species. Cells 2023; 12:2655. [PMID: 37998390 PMCID: PMC10670235 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Candidiasis is a highly pervasive infection posing major health risks, especially for immunocompromised populations. Pathogenic Candida species have evolved intrinsic and acquired resistance to a variety of antifungal medications. The primary goal of this literature review is to summarize the molecular mechanisms associated with antifungal resistance in Candida species. Resistance can be conferred via gain-of-function mutations in target pathway genes or their transcriptional regulators. Therefore, an overview of the known gene mutations is presented for the following antifungals: azoles (fluconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole and itraconazole), echinocandins (caspofungin, anidulafungin and micafungin), polyenes (amphotericin B and nystatin) and 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC). The following mutation hot spots were identified: (1) ergosterol biosynthesis pathway mutations (ERG11 and UPC2), resulting in azole resistance; (2) overexpression of the efflux pumps, promoting azole resistance (transcription factor genes: tac1 and mrr1; transporter genes: CDR1, CDR2, MDR1, PDR16 and SNQ2); (3) cell wall biosynthesis mutations (FKS1, FKS2 and PDR1), conferring resistance to echinocandins; (4) mutations of nucleic acid synthesis/repair genes (FCY1, FCY2 and FUR1), resulting in 5-FC resistance; and (5) biofilm production, promoting general antifungal resistance. This review also provides a summary of standardized inhibitory breakpoints obtained from international guidelines for prominent Candida species. Notably, N. glabrata, P. kudriavzevii and C. auris demonstrate fluconazole resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina M. Czajka
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
| | - Krishnan Venkataraman
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada;
| | | | - Stacey A. Santi
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (D.B.-K.); (S.A.S.)
| | - Chris Verschoor
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada;
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (D.B.-K.); (S.A.S.)
| | - Vasu D. Appanna
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada;
| | - Ravi Singh
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (D.B.-K.); (S.A.S.)
| | - Deborah P. Saunders
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (D.B.-K.); (S.A.S.)
| | - Sujeenthar Tharmalingam
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada;
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (D.B.-K.); (S.A.S.)
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Stella MM, Soetedjo R, Tandarto K, Arieselia Z, Regina R. Bovine Lactoferrin and Current Antifungal Therapy Against Candida Albicans: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Indian J Dermatol 2023; 68:725. [PMID: 38371540 PMCID: PMC10869000 DOI: 10.4103/ijd.ijd_275_22] [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] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is an important causative organism of opportunistic fungal infection, and it is a growing medical concern due to the increasing usage of broad-spectrum antibiotics, immunosuppressant agents, and other immunocompromising conditions. Currently, bLf and antifungal drugs have been known to have synergistic effects, increasing the drug's efficacy. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of the synergistic effect of bLf and antifungal drugs. This review addressed the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. We conducted literature searches to assess the association of lactoferrin and current antifungal therapy against Candida albicans in ProQuest, PubMed, MEDLINE, EBSCOhost, SAGE, JSTOR, GARUDA, and Open Gray with no date restriction (until March 5th, 2021). We used Jeffry's Amazing Statistical Program (JASP) to measure the overall size effect of MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) between studies. A total of 7 studies retained were experimental in vitro studies. Based on the available data, 4 out of 7 studies were included in the quantitative analysis. This systematic review showed that bovine lactoferrin could help inhibit the development of azole-susceptible and azole-resistant C. albicans. Furthermore, there was synergistic activity between lactoferrin and various antifungals. Our meta-analysis showed that lactoferrin could significantly inhibit the C. albicans growth than the control group. Bovine lactoferrin and its peptide derivatives isolated from bovine milk can significantly inhibit the growth of C. albicans, both susceptible to azoles and those with azole resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen M. Stella
- From the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Robby Soetedjo
- From the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Kevin Tandarto
- From the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Zita Arieselia
- From the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Regina Regina
- From the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
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Nikaein D, Shirani D, Sharifzadeh A, Alavi A, Khosravi AR. Antifungal susceptibility profile of yeasts isolated from the oral cavity of cats. Vet Med Sci 2023; 9:2414-2419. [PMID: 37847594 PMCID: PMC10650235 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1280] [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: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microorganisms living in the oral cavity play an important role in health and disease of the host. Cats are susceptible to oral infections, and it is documented that fungi in the oral cavity could impact these infections. Antifungal resistance has been increasing in recent years. OBJECTIVES This study was designed to identify yeast isolates from the oral cavity of healthy cats and to evaluate their antifungal susceptibility pattern. METHODS Oral specimens were collected from 60 cats and cultured at 37°C for 10 days. Yeasts were isolated and identified. Their antifungal susceptibility pattern was determined according to CLSI M44-A. RESULTS Three yeast genera were isolated, including Candida spp (55.5%), Rhodotorula spp (33.3%) and Hanseniaspora spp (11.1%). Antifungal susceptibility profiling showed that, apart from a dose-dependent effect of itraconazole, Hanseniaspora spp was susceptible to all seven drugs studied. The Candida species were susceptible to all drugs except ketoconazole (sensitivity 80%) and caspofungin (sensitivity 40%). In R. glutinis and R. minuta, 100% sensitivity was observed for amphotericin B, posaconazole, ketoconazole and voriconazole. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that, in comparison with humans and other animals, cats have a different oral mycoflora in terms of species, number and diversity. However, these isolates have similar susceptibility patterns to those seen in isolates from other animals and humans. More studies should be done to further characterize the oral mycobiota of cats and its role in oral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donya Nikaein
- Mycology Research Center, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Dariush Shirani
- Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Aghil Sharifzadeh
- Mycology Research Center, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Ava Alavi
- Mycology Research Center, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Ali Reza Khosravi
- Mycology Research Center, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
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Fatima T, Fatima Z, Hameed S. Abrogation of efflux pump activity, biofilm formation, and immune escape by candidacidal geraniol in emerging superbug, Candida auris. Int Microbiol 2023; 26:881-891. [PMID: 36847907 DOI: 10.1007/s10123-023-00343-3] [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: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
During the last decade, Candida auris emerged as a threatening human fungal pathogen that notably caused outbreaks around the globe with high mortality. Considering C. auris species as newly discovered fungi, the evolutionary features remain elusive. The antifungal resistance which is a norm in C. auris underlines the need for innovative therapeutic options. ATP Binding Cassette (ABC) superfamily efflux pumps overexpression and biofilms are known to be major contributors to multidrug resistance (MDR) in C. auris. Therefore, herein, we investigated the antifungal potential of geraniol (Ger) as a promising natural compound in the fight against MDR C. auris. Our experiments proved that Ger was fungicidal in nature and impaired rhodamine 6G (R6G) efflux, confirming the specific effect on ABC transporters. Kinetic studies unravelled the competitive mode of inhibition by Ger for R6G efflux since the apparent Km increased with no change in Vmax value. Mechanistic insights also revealed that Ger depleted ergosterol content in C. auris. Furthermore, Ger led to inhibition in biofilm formation as evident from crystal violet staining, biofilm metabolic and biomass measurements. Additionally, enhanced survival of Caenorhabditis elegans model after C. auris infection demonstrated the in vivo efficacy of Ger. Lastly, the in vivo efficacy was confirmed from a THP-1 cell line model which depicted enhanced macrophage-mediated killing in the presence of Ger. Modulation of C. auris efflux pump activity and biofilm formation by Ger represents a promising approach to combat MDR. Together, this study demonstrated the potential therapeutic insights of Ger as a promising addition to the antifungal armamentarium required to treat emerging and resistant C. auris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tazeen Fatima
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Gurugram (Manesar), - 122413, India
| | - Zeeshan Fatima
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Gurugram (Manesar), - 122413, India.
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha, - 61922, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Saif Hameed
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Gurugram (Manesar), - 122413, India.
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Tsybruk TV, Kaluzhskiy LA, Mezentsev YV, Makarieva TN, Tabakmaher KM, Ivanchina NV, Dmitrenok PS, Baranovsky AV, Gilep AA, Ivanov AS. Molecular Cloning, Heterologous Expression, Purification, and Evaluation of Protein-Ligand Interactions of CYP51 of Candida krusei Azole-Resistant Fungal Strain. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2873. [PMID: 38001874 PMCID: PMC10668980 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the increasing prevalence of fungal diseases caused by fungi of the genus Candida and the development of pathogen resistance to available drugs, the need to find new effective antifungal agents has increased. Azole antifungals, which are inhibitors of sterol-14α-demethylase or CYP51, have been widely used in the treatment of fungal infections over the past two decades. Of special interest is the study of C. krusei CYP51, since this fungus exhibit resistance not only to azoles, but also to other antifungal drugs and there is no available information about the ligand-binding properties of CYP51 of this pathogen. We expressed recombinant C. krusei CYP51 in E. coli cells and obtained a highly purified protein. Application of the method of spectrophotometric titration allowed us to study the interaction of C. krusei CYP51 with various ligands. In the present work, the interaction of C. krusei CYP51 with azole inhibitors, and natural and synthesized steroid derivatives was evaluated. The obtained data indicate that the resistance of C. krusei to azoles is not due to the structural features of CYP51 of this microorganism, but rather to another mechanism. Promising ligands that demonstrated sufficiently strong binding in the micromolar range to C. krusei CYP51 were identified, including compounds 99 (Kd = 1.02 ± 0.14 µM) and Ch-4 (Kd = 6.95 ± 0.80 µM). The revealed structural features of the interaction of ligands with the active site of C. krusei CYP51 can be taken into account in the further development of new selective modulators of the activity of this enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsiana V. Tsybruk
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry NASB, 5 Building 2, V.F. Kuprevich Street, 220084 Minsk, Belarus; (A.V.B.); (A.A.G.)
| | - Leonid A. Kaluzhskiy
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya Str. 10 Building 8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (L.A.K.); (Y.V.M.)
| | - Yuri V. Mezentsev
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya Str. 10 Building 8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (L.A.K.); (Y.V.M.)
| | - Tatyana N. Makarieva
- G.B. Elyakov Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pr. 100-let Vladivostoku 159, 690022 Vladivostok, Russia; (T.N.M.); (K.M.T.); (N.V.I.); (P.S.D.)
| | - Kseniya M. Tabakmaher
- G.B. Elyakov Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pr. 100-let Vladivostoku 159, 690022 Vladivostok, Russia; (T.N.M.); (K.M.T.); (N.V.I.); (P.S.D.)
| | - Natalia V. Ivanchina
- G.B. Elyakov Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pr. 100-let Vladivostoku 159, 690022 Vladivostok, Russia; (T.N.M.); (K.M.T.); (N.V.I.); (P.S.D.)
| | - Pavel S. Dmitrenok
- G.B. Elyakov Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pr. 100-let Vladivostoku 159, 690022 Vladivostok, Russia; (T.N.M.); (K.M.T.); (N.V.I.); (P.S.D.)
| | - Alexander V. Baranovsky
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry NASB, 5 Building 2, V.F. Kuprevich Street, 220084 Minsk, Belarus; (A.V.B.); (A.A.G.)
| | - Andrei A. Gilep
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry NASB, 5 Building 2, V.F. Kuprevich Street, 220084 Minsk, Belarus; (A.V.B.); (A.A.G.)
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya Str. 10 Building 8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (L.A.K.); (Y.V.M.)
| | - Alexis S. Ivanov
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya Str. 10 Building 8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (L.A.K.); (Y.V.M.)
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Aisy DUR, Adawiyah R, Rozaliyani A, Estuningtyas A, Fadilah F. The Antifungal Activities of Syzygium aromaticum and Alpinia purpurata Extracts Against Candida krusei: Bioactivity Tests, Molecular Modeling, and Toxicity Tests. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2023; 24:3403-3409. [PMID: 37898844 PMCID: PMC10770677 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2023.24.10.3403] [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: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida krusei is the cause of the fungal infection candidiasis, which has a high mortality rate. Intrinsic resistance to fluconazole can cause the failure of Krusei candidiasis treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to find alternative drugs to eliminate the fungus. Extracts of Syzygium aromaticum and Alpinia purpurata have been proven to be alternative solutions for treating Candida krusei resistance. OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore the active compounds Syzygium aromaticum and Alpinia purpurata as treatments against Candida krusei through bioactivity tests, molecular modeling, and toxicity tests. METHODS Determination of antifungal activity with the agar well diffusion and microbroth dilution method. Molecular modeling was conducted using the following software: Marvin Sketch, LigandScout 4.4.5, AutoDock ver 4.2.6, PyMOL, LigPlus, MOE ver 2008. RESULT Bioactivity test results of the two natural extracts against C. krusei ATCC 6258, it was found that the S. aromaticum and A. purpurata extracts have MIC50 values of 0.031 μg/mL and 1.435x105 μg/mL. The molecular modeling found that the compounds Benzotriazole, 1-(4-methyl-3-nitrobenzoyl)-, 1,3,4-Eugenol Acetate, Stigmasta-5,22-dien-3-ol, acetate (3 beta)- and Farnesyl acetate from the two natural extracts, interacts with the active site of the enzyme lanosterol-14-α-demethylase with a binding energy of -8.91, -6.04, -13.53, and -7.15 kcal/mol. The oral acute toxicity test of S. aromaticum and A. purpurata extracts proved that the LD50 was >6000 mg/kg BW and >8000 mg/kg BW. The acute dermal toxicity test of the two extracts showed that the LD50 was >6000 mg/kg BW. CONCLUSION S. aromaticum and A. purpurata extracts have been proven to be alternative solutions for treating Candida krusei resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robiatul Adawiyah
- Master Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia.
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia.
- Study Program of Clinical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia.
- Infectious Diseases and Immunology Research Center (IDIRC), Indonesian Medical Education and Research Institute (IMERI), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
| | - Anna Rozaliyani
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia.
| | - Ari Estuningtyas
- Farmacology department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
| | - Fadilah Fadilah
- Master Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia.
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
- Bioinformatics Core Facilities, IMERI, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
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Singh A, Kaur A, Chowdhary A. Fungal pathogens and COVID-19. Curr Opin Microbiol 2023; 75:102365. [PMID: 37625261 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2023.102365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the complications of secondary fungal infections that occurred globally in severe cases of coronavirus disease managed in the intensive care units. Furthermore, varied underlying host factors, such as preexisting immunosuppression, the use of immunomodulatory agents, and invasive procedures predisposing lung tissues to fungal colonization and proliferation, caused increased susceptibility to fungal infections in COVID-19 patient populations. These invasive fungal infections directly impact the overall length of hospitalization and mortality. The most commonly reported fungal infections in patients with COVID-19 include aspergillosis, invasive candidiasis, and mucormycosis. An overall worldwide increase in the prevalence of candidiasis and aspergillosis was observed in COVID-19 patients , whereas outbreaks of mucormycosis were mainly recorded from India. Diagnostic challenges and limited antifungal treatment options make secondary fungal infections among COVID-19 patients more burdensome, which results in improper management and increased mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashutosh Singh
- Medical Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India; National Reference Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance in Fungal Pathogens, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Amtoj Kaur
- Medical Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Anuradha Chowdhary
- Medical Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India; National Reference Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance in Fungal Pathogens, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India.
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Mehta D, Saini V, Bajaj A. Recent developments in membrane targeting antifungal agents to mitigate antifungal resistance. RSC Med Chem 2023; 14:1603-1628. [PMID: 37731690 PMCID: PMC10507810 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00151b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections cause severe and life-threatening complications especially in immunocompromised individuals. Antifungals targeting cellular machinery and cell membranes including azoles are used in clinical practice to manage topical to systemic fungal infections. However, continuous exposure to clinically used antifungal agents in managing the fungal infections results in the development of multi-drug resistance via adapting different kinds of intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms. The unique chemical composition of fungal membranes presents attractive targets for antifungal drug discovery as it is difficult for fungal cells to modify the membrane targets for emergence of drug resistance. Here, we discussed available antifungal drugs with their detailed mechanism of action and described different antifungal resistance mechanisms. We further emphasized structure-activity relationship studies of membrane-targeting antifungal agents, and classified membrane-targeting antifungal agents on the basis of their core scaffold with detailed pharmacological properties. This review aims to pique the interest of potential researchers who could explore this interesting and intricate fungal realm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devashish Mehta
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Chemical Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology Faridabad-121001 Haryana India
| | - Varsha Saini
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Chemical Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology Faridabad-121001 Haryana India
| | - Avinash Bajaj
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Chemical Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology Faridabad-121001 Haryana India
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Yenişehirli G, Alıcı A, Yenişehirli A. Antifungal drug susceptibility profiles and molecular mechanisms of azole resistance in Candida blood stream isolates. Indian J Med Microbiol 2023; 45:100389. [PMID: 37573042 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmmb.2023.100389] [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: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine the activity of fluconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, amphotericin B, micafungin and caspofungin against Candida blood stream isolates and to investigate the molecular mechanisms of azole resistance in fluconazole resistant isolates. METHODS The in vitro susceptibilities of Candida isolates to fluconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, amphotericin B, micafungin and caspofungin were tested by E-test ERG11, CDR1, CDR2 and MDR1 genes expression of fluconazole resistant, fluconazole (S-DD) and fluconazole intermediate resistant isolates were investigated by quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS C. albicans (41%) was the most frequently isolated fungal species from blood stream infections followed by C. parapsilosis (22%). All C. albicans isolates except one and all C. tropicalis isolates were found to be susceptible to fluconazole. Overall, 21% of C. glabrata isolates were resistant to fluconazole. None of the Candida isolates were found to be resistant to caspofungin except 2 C. glabrata isolates. Overexpression of ERG11 and CDR1 genes were detected in all fluconazole S-DD and fluconazole resistant C. glabrata isolates, while CDR2 overexpression was observed in 91% fluconazole S-DD and 67 of % fluconazole resistant C.glabrata isolates. The overexpression of MDR1, ERG11 and CDR1 genes were found 100%, 80% and 80%, respectively, in fluconazole resistant C. parapsilosis isolates. CONCLUSION Most of the Candida isolates were susceptible to posaconazole and caspofungin. Our data also highlighted that overexpression of efflux pump genes major cause of azole resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülgün Yenişehirli
- Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology, 60100, Tokat, Turkey.
| | - Ayşe Alıcı
- Tatvan State Hospital, Medical Microbiology Laboratory, Bitlis, Turkey.
| | - Aydan Yenişehirli
- Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Pharmacology 60100, Tokat, Turkey.
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Kumar D, Kumar A. Cellular Attributes of Candida albicans Biofilm-Associated in Resistance Against Multidrug and Host Immune System. Microb Drug Resist 2023; 29:423-437. [PMID: 37428599 DOI: 10.1089/mdr.2022.0347] [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: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the ubiquitous hospital-acquired infections is associated with Candida albicans fungus. Usually, this commensal fungus causes no harm to its human host, as it lives mutually with mucosal/epithelial tissue surface cells. Nevertheless, due to the activity of various immune weakening factors, this commensal starts reinforcing its virulence attributes with filamentation/hyphal growth and building an absolute microcolony composed of yeast, hyphal, and pseudohyphal cells, which is suspended in an extracellular gel-like polymeric substance (EPS) called biofilms. This polymeric substance is the mixture of the secreted compounds from C. albicans as well as several host cell proteins. Indeed, the presence of these host factors makes their identification and differentiation process difficult by host immune components. The gel-like texture of the EPS makes it sticky, which adsorbs most of the extracolonial compounds traversing through it that aid in penetration hindrance. All these factors further contribute to the multidrug resistance phenotype of C. albicans biofilm that is spotlighted in this article. The mechanisms it employs to escape the host immune system are also addressed effectively. The article focuses on cellular and molecular determinants involved in the resistance of C. albicans biofilm against multidrug and the host immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dushyant Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, India
| | - Awanish Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, India
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Liu H, Dong H, Guo L, Jin Y, Liu L. The Effect of Dihydromyricetin on the Pharmacokinetics of Fluconazole in Sprague-Dawley Rat Plasma, Based on High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:2657-2667. [PMID: 37670905 PMCID: PMC10476617 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s415813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The synergistic effect of dihydromyricetin (DHM) and fluconazole (FLC) can improve the killing effect of FLC-resistant Candida albicans in vitro and in vivo. However, it is not clear whether DHM affects the pharmacokinetic characteristics of FLC. Methods In this study, 12 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into two groups as follows: (1) an FLC group in which rats were administered FLC only (42 mg/kg orally); (2) an FLC with the combined administration of DHM group, in which rats received an equivalent FLC dose immediately following the administration of DHM (100 mg/kg). Blood samples were collected from the ocular choroid vein of rats and converted into plasma. The concentrations of FLC in the rat plasma were then determined by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS), and the related pharmacokinetic parameters were analysed. The initial mobile phase included 0.1% acetonitrile and water with gradient elution. Multiple reaction monitoring modes of m/z 307.2→220.1 for FLC, and m/z 237.1→194.2 for carbamazepine, were utilised to conduct quantitative analysis. Results The calibration curve of FLC in rat plasma demonstrated good linearity in the range of 0.1-30 μg/mL (r > 0.99), and the lower limit of quantification was 0.1 μg/mL. Moreover, the intra- and inter-day precision relative standard deviation of FLC was less than 9.09% and 6.51%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the pharmacokinetic parameters between the two groups. Conclusion The results showed that DHM administration did not significantly alter FLC pharmacokinetics in SD rat plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongchuan Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huaihuai Dong
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liangjun Guo
- Department of Drug and Equipment, The 72st Group Army Hospital of PLA, Huzhou, 313000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongsheng Jin
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lihong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People’s Republic of China
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Board-Davies EL, Rhys-Williams W, Hynes D, Love WG, Williams DW. Antimicrobial effects of XF drugs against Candida albicans and its biofilms. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2023; 4:1225647. [PMID: 37746123 PMCID: PMC10512275 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2023.1225647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Compared with antibiotics for treating bacterial infections, there are a limited number of antifungal agents. This is due to several factors, including the difficulties of identifying suitable antifungals that target the fungal cell without damaging host cells, and the reduced rates of diagnosis of fungal infections compared with those caused by bacteria. The problem of treating fungal infections is exacerbated by an increasing incidence of antifungal resistance among human fungal pathogens. Three XF drugs (XF-73, XF-70, and DPD-207) have previously displayed innate bactericidal effects and a low propensity for microbial resistance, with XF-73 and XF-70 having a second, light-activated mechanism of action [known as photodynamic therapy (PDT)]. In an effort to expand the repertoire of antifungal agents, this research assessed the in vitro activity of XF drugs via both mechanisms of action against six strains of the fungal pathogen Candida albicans in both planktonic and biofilm cultures. In addition, this research examined the effects of XF drug treatment on biofilms of C. albicans in a reconstituted human oral epithelium model. All C. albicans strains tested were susceptible to XF-73 and XF-70, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) between 0.25 µg/mL and 2 µg/mL; DPD-207 was less potent, with MICs between 4 µg/mL and 16 µg/mL, and light activation did not enhance these MICs. Complete biofilm eradication was not reported at the tested XF drug concentrations. However, live and dead staining of C. albicans cells in biofilms after XF drug treatment demonstrated that XF-73 and XF-70 were active against most Candida biofilms tested from 64 µg/mL; again, light activation did not enhance anti-biofilm activity. Candida biofilms were more resistant to DPD-207, with fungicidal effects occurring from 256 µg/mL. XF-73 and XF-70 reduced penetration of C. albicans biofilm into reconstituted human oral epithelium (RHOE) and resulted in less damage (as determined by reduced lactate dehydrogenase release) than untreated biofilms. Overall, the results highlight the potential of XF drugs as new drugs for the management of topical infections caused by C. albicans. Further studies are warranted on the development of XF drugs as antifungals, particularly for XF-73 and XF-70.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - D. Hynes
- Destiny Pharma plc, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - W. G. Love
- Destiny Pharma plc, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - D. W. Williams
- School of Dentistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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