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Farah N, Lim CW, Chin VK, Chong PP, Basir R, Yeo WWY, Tay ST, Choo S, Lee TY. Photoactivated riboflavin inhibits planktonic and biofilm growth of Candida albicans and non-albicans Candida species. Microb Pathog 2024; 191:106665. [PMID: 38685359 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106665] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Fungal infections caused by Candida species pose a serious threat to humankind. Antibiotics abuse and the ability of Candida species to form biofilm have escalated the emergence of drug resistance in clinical settings and hence, rendered it more difficult to treat Candida-related diseases. Lethal effects of Candida infection are often due to inefficacy of antimicrobial treatments and failure of host immune response to clear infections. Previous studies have shown that a combination of riboflavin with UVA (riboflavin/UVA) light demonstrate candidacidal activity albeit its mechanism of actions remain elusive. Thus, this study sought to investigate antifungal and antibiofilm properties by combining riboflavin with UVA against Candida albicans and non-albicans Candida species. The MIC20 for the fluconazole and riboflavin/UVA against the Candida species tested was within the range of 0.125-2 μg/mL while the SMIC50 was 32 μg/mL. Present findings indicate that the inhibitory activities exerted by riboflavin/UVA towards planktonic cells are slightly less effective as compared to controls. However, the efficacy of the combination towards Candida species biofilms showed otherwise. Inhibitory effects exerted by riboflavin/UVA towards most of the tested Candida species biofilms points towards a variation in mode of action that could make it an ideal alternative therapeutic for biofilm-related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuratiqah Farah
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chee Woei Lim
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Voon Kin Chin
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences, SEGi University, Kota Damansara, 47810, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Pei Pei Chong
- School of Biosciences, Taylor's University, No 1, Jalan Taylor's, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rusliza Basir
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wendy Wai Yeng Yeo
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Sun Tee Tay
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
| | - Sulin Choo
- School of Biosciences, Taylor's University, No 1, Jalan Taylor's, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Tze Yan Lee
- Perdana University School of Liberal Arts, Science and Technology (PUScLST), Suite 9.2, 9th Floor, Wisma Chase Perdana, Changkat Semantan, Damansara Heights, 50490, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Picheta N, Piekarz J, Burdan O, Satora M, Tarkowski R, Kułak K. Phytotherapy of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3796. [PMID: 38612606 PMCID: PMC11012191 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073796] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a real gynecological problem among women of reproductive age from 15 to 49. A recent analysis showed that 75% of women will have an occurrence at least once per year, while 5% are observed to have recurrent vaginal mycosis-these patients may become unwell four or more times a year. This pathology is caused in 85-90% of cases by fungi of the Candida albicans species. It represents an intractable medical problem for female patients due to pain and pruritus. Due to the observation of an increasing number of strains resistant to standard preparations and an increase in the recurrence of this pathology when using local or oral preferential therapy, such as fluconazole, an analysis was launched to develop alternative methods of treating VVC using herbs such as dill, turmeric, and berberine. An in-depth analysis of databases that include scientific articles from recent years made it possible to draw satisfactory conclusions supporting the validity of herbal therapy for the pathology in question. Although phytotherapy has not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, it appears to be a promising therapeutic solution for strains that are resistant to existing treatments. There is research currently undergoing aimed at comparing classical pharmacotherapy and herbal therapy in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis for the purpose of increasing medical competence and knowledge for the care of the health and long-term comfort of gynecological patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Picheta
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (N.P.); (J.P.); (O.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Julia Piekarz
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (N.P.); (J.P.); (O.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Oliwia Burdan
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (N.P.); (J.P.); (O.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Małgorzata Satora
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (N.P.); (J.P.); (O.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Rafał Tarkowski
- I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof Kułak
- I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
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Das S, Konwar BK. Inhibiting pathogenicity of vaginal Candida albicans by lactic acid bacteria and MS analysis of their extracellular compounds. APMIS 2024; 132:161-186. [PMID: 38168754 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13365] [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: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Maintaining healthy vaginal microflora post-puberty is critical. In this study we explore the potential of vaginal lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and their extracellular metabolites against the pathogenicity of Candida albicans. The probiotic culture free supernatant (PCFS) from Lactobacillus crispatus, L. gasseri, and L. vaginalis exhibit an inhibitory effect on budding, hyphae, and biofilm formation of C. albicans. LGPCFS manifested the best potential among the LAB PCFS, inhibiting budding for 24 h and restricting hyphae formation post-stimulation. LGPCFS also pre-eminently inhibited biofilm formation. Furthermore, L. gasseri itself grew under RPMI 1640 stimulation suppressing the biofilm formation of C. albicans. The PCFS from the LAB downregulated the hyphal genes of C. albicans, inhibiting the yeast transformation to fungi. Hyphal cell wall proteins HWP1, ALS3, ECE1, and HYR1 and transcription factors BCR1 and CPH1 were downregulated by the metabolites from LAB. Finally, the extracellular metabolome of the LAB was studied by LC-MS/MS analysis. L.gasseri produced the highest antifungal compounds and antibiotics, supporting its best activity against C. albicans. Vaginal LAB and their extracellular metabolites perpetuate C. albicans at an avirulent state. The metabolites produced by these LAB in vitro have been identified, and can be further exploited as a preventive measure against vaginal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreaya Das
- Department of MBBT, Tezpur University, Napaam, Assam, India
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Ton Nu PA, Ngo TMC, Le Chi C, Do TBT, Tran Thi G, Ha TNT, Nguyen PV, Le MT. Three cases of vulvovaginal candidiasis due to Candida nivariensis. Med Mycol Case Rep 2024; 43:100640. [PMID: 38444800 PMCID: PMC10914576 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2024.100640] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida nivariensis is emerging as a highly resistant species of the Candida glabrata complex causing invasive and mucocutaneous infections. In this study, three cases of vulvovaginal candidiasis caused by C. nivariensis are described and identified by Internal Transcribed Spacer 1-2 sequencing. All isolates were susceptible in vitro to anidulafungin, micafungin, caspofungin, 5-flucytosine, posaconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, amphotericin B, and showed dose-dependent susceptibility to fluconazole. In two patients, three doses of oral fluconazole were effective, while one patient developed clinical fluconazole resistance with a new relapse after 6 months. Increasing the weekly dose of fluconazole showed to be effective in this patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuong Anh Ton Nu
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue City, 49000, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Minh Chau Ngo
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue City, 49000, Viet Nam
| | - Cao Le Chi
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue City, 49000, Viet Nam
| | - Thị Bich Thao Do
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue City, 49000, Viet Nam
| | - Giang Tran Thi
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue City, 49000, Viet Nam
| | - Thị Ngoc Thuy Ha
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue City, 49000, Viet Nam
| | - Phuoc Vinh Nguyen
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue City, 49000, Viet Nam
| | - Minh Tam Le
- Hue Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, 41 Nguyen Hue Street, Hue City, 4900, Viet Nam
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Feng X, Zhang H, Hu K, Shi G, Wu D, Shao J, Wang T, Wang C. Longdan Xiegan decoction ameliorates vulvovaginal candidiasis by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome via the Toll-like receptor /MyD88 pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116869. [PMID: 37390876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Longdan Xiegan decoction (LXD) is a standardized herbal prescription originally documented in the "Medical Formula Collection" by the eminent physician Wang Ang during the Qing dynasty. It has been used extensively to treat vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). However, despite its effectiveness, the mechanism of action remains unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY To elucidate the mechanism by which LXD relieves VVC via the Toll-like receptor/MyD88 pathway and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. MATERIALS AND METHODS Female Kunming mice (n = 96) were randomly divided into six groups: control, VVC model, LXD (10/20/40 mL/kg), and positive drug fluconazole. Mice were vaginally administered Candida albicans (C. albicans) solution (20 μL; 1 × 108 colony-forming units/mL), suspended for 5 min, and observed daily for changes in their condition. Continuous dilution was used to determine the number of colony-forming units. Gram, periodic acid-Schiff, Papanicolaou, and hematoxylin and eosin staining were used to determine the extent of infection. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was used to determine the levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. TLR2, TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1 protein expression were determined using western blotting. RESULTS C. albicans infection destroyed the integrity of the vaginal mucosa, increased fungal burden and the influx of neutrophils into the vaginal cavity, and promoted the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. C. albicans stimulated the expression of TLR2, TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1 in vaginal tissue. Fungal burden, hyphal formation, and C. albicans adhesion were reduced in the 20 and 40 mL/kg LXD groups. Hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that inflammation was reduced and the stratum corneum had recovered in the 20 and 40 mL/kg LXD groups. LXD (20 and 40 mL/kg) significantly reduced IL-1β, IL-18 levels and the number of neutrophils in vaginal lavage and decreased TLR2, TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1 expression. CONCLUSIONS This study systematically demonstrated the therapeutic effect of LXD on protein expression and pathological conditions in VVC mice. The results showed that LXD could eliminate the invasion of vaginal hyphae in mice, reduce the recruitment of neutrophils, and reduce the expression of TLR/MyD88 pathway-related proteins and NLRP3 inflammasome. The above results clearly indicate that LXD may profoundly regulate NLRP3 inflammasome through the TLR/MyD88 pathway and play a therapeutic role in VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Feng
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
| | - Kaifan Hu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
| | - Gaoxiang Shi
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
| | - Daqiang Wu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
| | - Jing Shao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
| | - Tianming Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
| | - Changzhong Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China.
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Yavari S, Olaifa K, Shafiee D, Rasuli R, Shafiee M. Molybdenum oxide nanotube caps decorated with ultrafine Ag nanoparticles: Synthesis and antimicrobial activity. Int J Pharm 2023; 647:123528. [PMID: 37863449 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123528] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
In the contemporary era, microorganisms, spanning bacteria and viruses, are increasingly acknowledged as emerging contaminants in the environment, presenting significant risks to public health. Nevertheless, conventional methods for disinfecting these microorganisms are often ineffective. Additionally, they come with disadvantages such as high energy usage, negative environmental consequences, increased expenses, and the generation of harmful byproducts. The development of next-generation antifungal and antibacterial agents is dependent on newly synthesized nanomaterials with inherent antimicrobial behavior. In this study, we report an arc-discharge method to synthesize MoOx nanosheets and microbelts, followed by decorating them with ultrafine Ag nanoparticles (NPs). Scanning and transmission electron microscopies show that Ag NPs formation on the Molybdenum oxide nanostructures rolls them into nanotube caps (NTCs), revealing inner and outer diameters of approximately 19.8 nm and 105.5 nm, respectively. Additionally, the Ag NPs are ultrafine, with sizes in the range of 5-8 nm. Results show that the prepared NTCs exhibit dose-dependent sensitivity to both planktonic and biofilm cells of Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. The anti-biofilm activity in terms of biofilm inhibition ranged from 19.7 to 77.2% and 11.3-82.3%, while removal of more than 70% and 90% of preformed biofilms was achieved for E. coli and C. albicans, respectively, showing good potential for antimicrobial coating. Initial MoOx exhibits positive potential, while Ag-decorated Molybdenum oxide NTCs show dual potential effects (positive for Molybdenum oxide NTCs and negative for Ag NPs. Molybdenum oxide NTCs, with their strong positive potential, efficiently attract microbes due to their negatively charged cell surfaces, facilitating the antimicrobial effect of Ag NPs, leading to cell damage and death. These findings suggest that the synthesized NPs could serve as a suitable coating for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Yavari
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Kayode Olaifa
- Department of Biology, Nazarbayev Intellectual School of Biology and Chemistry, Aktau, Kazakhstan; Biofilm Laboratory, Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Darya Shafiee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Reza Rasuli
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran.
| | - Mehdi Shafiee
- Energetic Cosmos Laboratory, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan.
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da Silva JT, Dantas de Sousa PH, Costa AF, de Menezes LB, Alves SF, Pellegrini F, Amaral AC. Fluconazole and propolis co-encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis in a murine model. Med Mycol 2023; 61:myad113. [PMID: 37947253 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad113] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a fungal infection caused mainly by Candida albicans. The treatment of VVC with azoles has been impaired due to the increased cases of resistance presented by this pathogen. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antifungal activity of mucoadhesive chitosan nanoparticles encapsulating both green propolis and fluconazole for topical use in the treatment of VVC. The nanoparticles were prepared by the ionic gelation method, resulting in a size of 316.5 nm containing 22 mg/kg of green propolis and 2.4 mg/kg of fluconazole. The nanoparticles were non-toxic in vitro using red blood cells or in vivo in a Galleria mellonella toxicity model. The treatment of female BALB/c mice infected by C. albicans ATCC 10231 with topical nanoparticles co-encapsulating fluconazole and green propolis was effective even using a fluconazole amount 20 times lower than the amount of miconazole nitrate 2% cream. Considering that the mucoadhesive property of chitosan, which is known to allow a prolonged retention time of the compounds at the mucous epithelia, the antifungal potential of the phenols and flavonoids present in green propolis may have favored the effectiveness of this treatment. These results indicate that this formulation of topical use for fluconazole associated with green propolis can be used as a promising approach to therapy for the treatment of VVC, thus contributing to reducing the development of resistance to azoles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Teixeira da Silva
- Laboratory of Nano & Biotechnology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Universidade Federal de Goiás, St 235 university sector, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Paulo Henrique Dantas de Sousa
- Laboratory of Nano & Biotechnology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Universidade Federal de Goiás, St 235 university sector, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Adelaide Fernandes Costa
- Laboratory of Nano & Biotechnology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Universidade Federal de Goiás, St 235 university sector, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Liliana Borges de Menezes
- Laboratory of Pathology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, St 235 university sector, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Suzana Ferreira Alves
- Pharmacy Course, School of Medical Sciences, Pharmaceuticals and Biomedical Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Goiás, Av university, 1440, Goiânia, GO, 74175-120, Brazil
| | - Flavio Pellegrini
- Company Citrinitas, St Pedroso Alvarenga, 505, São Paulo, SP, 04531-930, Brazil
| | - Andre Correa Amaral
- Laboratory of Nano & Biotechnology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Universidade Federal de Goiás, St 235 university sector, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
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Ranđelović M, Dimitrijević M, Otašević S, Stanojević L, Išljamović M, Ignjatović A, Arsić-Arsenijević V, Stojanović-Radić Z. Antifungal Activity and Type of Interaction of Melissa officinalis Essential Oil with Antimycotics against Biofilms of Multidrug-Resistant Candida Isolates from Vulvovaginal Mucosa. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1080. [PMID: 37998884 PMCID: PMC10672467 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111080] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Vulvovaginal candidosis (VVC) is a major therapy issue due to its high resistance rate and virulence factors such as the ability to form biofilms. The possibility of combining commonly used antifungals with natural products might greatly improve therapeutic success. (2) Methods: A total of 49 vulvovaginal isolates, causative agents of recurrent VVC, were tested for their susceptibility to fluconazole, nystatin, and Melissa officinalis essential oil (MOEO). This examination included testing the antibiofilm potential of antifungals and MOEO and the determination of their types of interaction with mature biofilms. (3) Results: Antimicrobial testing showed that 94.4% of the Candida albicans isolates and all the Candida krusei isolates were resistant to fluconazole, while all strains showed resistance to nystatin. The same strains were susceptible to MOEO in 0.156-2.5 mg/mL concentrations. Additionally, the results revealed very limited action of fluconazole, while nystatin and MOEO reduced the amount of biofilm formed by as much as 17.7% and 4.6%, respectively. Testing of the combined effect showed strain-specific synergistic action. Furthermore, the lower concentrations exhibited antagonistic effects even in cases where synergism was detected. (4) Conclusions: This study showed that MOEO had a very good antibiofilm effect. However, combining MOEO with antimycotics demonstrated that the type of action depended on the choice of antifungal drugs as well as the applied concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Ranđelović
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia;
- Centre of Microbiology, Public Health Institute Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia
| | - Marina Dimitrijević
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, University of Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia; (M.D.); (Z.S.-R.)
| | - Suzana Otašević
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia;
- Centre of Microbiology, Public Health Institute Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia
| | - Ljiljana Stanojević
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Faculty of Technology, University of Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia;
| | - Milica Išljamović
- Department of Dental Health Care, Health Center Niš, 18000 Nis, Serbia;
| | - Aleksandra Ignjatović
- Department of Medical Statistics and Informatics, Medical Faculty, University of Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia;
| | | | - Zorica Stojanović-Radić
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, University of Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia; (M.D.); (Z.S.-R.)
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Esfahani MB, Khodavandi A, Alizadeh F, Bahador N. Possible Molecular Targeting of Biofilm-Associated Genes by Nano-Ag in Candida albicans. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12010-023-04758-6. [PMID: 37922031 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-023-04758-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of candidiasis infections is hindered by the presence of biofilms. Here, we report the biofilm-associated genes as potential molecular targets by silver nanoparticles (nano-Ag) in Candida albicans. Nano-Ag was biosynthesized using Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus cereus, and Fusarium oxysporum. The physicochemical properties of the microbial-synthesized of nano-Ag are widely characterized by visual observation, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Characterization results revealed the formation of nano-Ag. Antiplanktonic cells and antibiofilm activities of nano-Ag were also demonstrated by minimum inhibition concentrations (MIC), minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC), MFC/MIC ratio, crystal violet staining, 2,3-bis (2-methoxy-4-nitro-5 sulfophenyl)-5-[(phenylamino) carbonyl]-2H-tetrazolium hydroxide (XTT), and microscopic image analysis. We have analyzed the expressions of biofilm-associated genes in C. albicans treated with different concentrations of nano-Ag based on MIC. The expression profile of BCR1, ALS1, ALS3, HWP1, and ECE1 showed downregulated genes involved in these pathways by the treatment with nanoparticles. Negative regulators, TUP1, NRG1, and TOR1, were upregulated by the treatment of nano-Ag. Our study suggests that nano-Ag affects gene expression and may subsequently decrease the pathogenesis of C. albicans by inhibiting biofilm formation. Molecular targeting of biofilm-associated genes involved in biofilm formation by nano-Ag may be an effective treatment strategy for candidiasis infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alireza Khodavandi
- Department of Biology, Gachsaran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Gachsaran, Iran.
| | - Fahimeh Alizadeh
- Department of Biology, Gachsaran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Gachsaran, Iran
| | - Nima Bahador
- Department of Microbiology, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
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10
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Zhang H, Yi X, Chen M, Shi H, Tan L, Lu H, Sun Y, Yang F. Synergistic effect of chlorhexidine and azoles on candida biofilm on titanium surface. J Mycol Med 2023; 33:101417. [PMID: 37619456 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2023.101417] [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: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida infections of orthopedic implants are one of the most detrimental orthopedic implant-related complications with unsuccessful treatment and a poor prognosis. Most orthopedic Candida infections form biofilms and have resistance to the commonly used antifungal agents. This study aimed to develop a novel combination of normally prescribed drugs against Candida biofilm on orthopedic implants. METHODS We cultured 26 clinical isolates of Candida strains to form biofilm without titanium sheets or on titanium sheets, which are the most commonly used materials for permanent or orthopedic implants. The checkerboard method was used to evaluate the synergistic effects of chlorhexidine (CHL) and azoles on these Candida biofilms. For the evaluation of synergistic effects, we constructed the cell viability assay by fluorescence staining and CFU reduction hot map of Candida. RESULTS Twenty-six clinical isolates of Candida strains formed biofilm in 96-well plates without titanium sheets, and we selected 9 of them to form biofilm on titanium sheets in 24-well plates. In Candida biofilm formed in 96-wells, the synergistic rates of CHL with fluconazole, itraconazole, and voriconazole were 61% (16/26), 65% (17/26), and 23% (6/26), respectively. When compared to the blank control group, CHL monotherapy significantly inhibited biofilm formation on titanium sheets (P < 0.05). We demonstrated 100% synergistic rates of the CHL and fluconazole combination against Candida biofilm formation on titanium sheets, and the minimum inhibitory concentration of CHL and FLU decreased four- to eight-fold. CONCLUSIONS We concluded that CHL combined with azoles inhibited the Candida biofilm formation 96-wells or on titanium sheets and has the potential to control the infections of orthopedic implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Xuesong Yi
- Department of Orthopedics, the First People's Hospital of Jingzhou, First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Mei Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Haiyan Shi
- Department of Dermatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Lihua Tan
- Department of Dermatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Hougen Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Dermatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Department of Medical Cell Biology and Genetics, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China.
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11
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Ramage G, Borghi E, Rodrigues CF, Kean R, Williams C, Lopez-Ribot J. Our current clinical understanding of Candida biofilms: where are we two decades on? APMIS 2023; 131:636-653. [PMID: 36932821 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13310] [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: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
Clinically we have been aware of the concept of Candida biofilms for many decades, though perhaps without the formal designation. Just over 20 years ago the subject emerged on the back of progress made from the bacterial biofilms, and academic progress pace has continued to mirror the bacterial biofilm community, albeit at a decreased volume. It is apparent that Candida species have a considerable capacity to colonize surfaces and interfaces and form tenacious biofilm structures, either alone or in mixed species communities. From the oral cavity, to the respiratory and genitourinary tracts, wounds, or in and around a plethora of biomedical devices, the scope of these infections is vast. These are highly tolerant to antifungal therapies that has a measurable impact on clinical management. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overight of our current clinical understanding of where these biofilms cause infections, and we discuss existing and emerging antifungal therapies and strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon Ramage
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Study Group for Biofilms (ESGB), European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Elisa Borghi
- Study Group for Biofilms (ESGB), European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences, San Paolo Medical School, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Célia Fortuna Rodrigues
- Study Group for Biofilms (ESGB), European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Basel, Switzerland
- LEPABE-Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário-CESPU, Gandra, Portugal
- ALiCE-Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário-CESPU, Gandra, Portugal
- TOXRUN-Toxicology Research Unit, Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário-CESPU, Gandra, Portugal
| | - Ryan Kean
- Study Group for Biofilms (ESGB), European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biological Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Craig Williams
- Study Group for Biofilms (ESGB), European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Basel, Switzerland
- Microbiology Department, Morecambe Bay NHS Trust, Lancaster, UK
| | - Jose Lopez-Ribot
- Department of Biology and the South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
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12
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Bonfim AP, Sakita KM, Faria DR, Arita GS, Rodrigues-Vendramini FA, Capoci IR, Braga AG, Mosca VA, Junior AG, Kioshima ÉS, Bonfim-Mendonça PS, Svidzinski TI. Successful treatment of experimental murine vulvovaginal candidiasis with gentian violet. Future Microbiol 2023; 18:1137-1146. [PMID: 37830930 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0021] [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: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: This study evaluated the antifungal efficacy of gentian violet (GV) in an experimental vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) model. Materials & methods: In vitro susceptibility and cytotoxicity assays were performed to validate the antifungal potential and safety of GV. The antifungal efficacy was then evaluated in vivo through comparative analysis of the fungal burden following treatment with GV or nystatin, as well as assessment of the vaginal tissue by histology and electron microscopy. Results: GV demonstrated a safe antifungal profile against C. albicans, with a significant decrease in fungal burden and an improvement in the inflammatory process evaluated histologically. Conclusion: The results of this study motivate further assessment of GV as a promising alternative for VVC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda P Bonfim
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Karina M Sakita
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Daniella R Faria
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Glaucia S Arita
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Franciele Av Rodrigues-Vendramini
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Isis Rg Capoci
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Andressa G Braga
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Valéria Ab Mosca
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Admilton Go Junior
- Electron Microscopy & Microanalysis Laboratory, State University of Londrina, Londrina, PR, 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Érika S Kioshima
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Patrícia S Bonfim-Mendonça
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Terezinha Ie Svidzinski
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
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13
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Montoya C, Kurylec J, Ossa A, Orrego S. Cyclic strain of poly (methyl methacrylate) surfaces triggered the pathogenicity of Candida albicans. Acta Biomater 2023; 170:415-426. [PMID: 37625677 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.08.037] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Candida albicans is an opportunistic yeast and the primary etiological factor in oral candidiasis and denture stomatitis. The pathogenesis of C. albicans could be triggered by several variables, including environmental, nutritional, and biomaterial surface cues. Specifically, biomaterial interactions are driven by different surface properties, including wettability, stiffness, and roughness. Dental biomaterials experience repetitive (cyclic) stresses from chewing and biomechanical movements. Pathogenic biofilms are formed over these biomaterial surfaces under cyclic strain. This study investigated the effect of the cyclic strain (deformation) of biomaterial surfaces on the virulence of Candida albicans. Candida biofilms were grown over Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) surfaces subjected to static (no strain) and cyclic strain with different levels (ε˜x=0.1 and 0.2%). To evaluate the biomaterial-biofilm interactions, the biofilm characteristics, yeast-to-hyphae transition, and the expression of virulent genes were measured. Results showed the biofilm biomass and metabolic activity to be significantly higher when Candida adhered to surfaces subjected to cyclic strain compared to static surfaces. Examination of the yeast-to-hyphae transition showed pseudo-hyphae cells (pathogenic) in cyclically strained biomaterial surfaces, whereas static surfaces showed spherical yeast cells (commensal). RNA sequencing was used to determine and compare the transcriptome profiles of cyclically strained and static surfaces. Genes and transcription factors associated with cell adhesion (CSH1, PGA10, and RBT5), biofilm formation (EFG1), and secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) (CRH1, ADH5, GCA1, and GCA2) were significantly upregulated in the cyclically strained biomaterial surfaces compared to static ones. Genes and transcription factors associated with virulence (UME6 and HGC1) and the secretion of extracellular enzymes (LIP, PLB, and SAP families) were also significantly upregulated in the cyclically strained biomaterial surfaces compared to static. For the first time, this study reveals a biomaterial surface factor triggering the pathogenesis of Candida albicans, which is essential for understanding, controlling, and preventing oral infections. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Fungal infections produced by Candida albicans are a significant contributor to various health conditions. Candida becomes pathogenic when certain environmental conditions change, including temperature, pH, nutrients, and CO2 levels. In addition, surface properties, including wettability, stiffness, and roughness, drive the interactions between Candida and biomaterials. Clinically, Candida adheres to biomaterials that are under repetitive deformation due to body movements. In this work, we revealed that when Candida adhered to biomaterial surfaces subjected to repetitive deformation, the microorganism becomes pathogenic by increasing the formation of biofilms and the expression of virulent factors related to hyphae formation and secretion of enzymes. Findings from this work could aid the development of new strategies for treating fungal infections in medical devices or implanted biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Montoya
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Julia Kurylec
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Alex Ossa
- Production Engineering Department, School of Engineering, Universidad EAFIT, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Santiago Orrego
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Bioengineering Department, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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14
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van Riel SJJM, Lardenoije CMJG, Wassen MMLH, van Kuijk SMJ, Cremers NAJ. Efficacy of a medical grade honey formulation (L-Mesitran) in comparison with fluconazole in the treatment of women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis: protocol for a randomised controlled trial (HONEY STUDY). BMJ Open 2023; 13:e070466. [PMID: 37640455 PMCID: PMC10462966 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) affects up to 9% of women worldwide. This amount is expected to increase due to lifestyle changes, increased fungal resistance and biofilm formation. Treatment options are limited and in 57% of the cases, relapses occur within 12 months after starting fluconazole therapy (golden standard). The pathogenesis of RVVC is multifactorial and includes fungal biology, the vaginal microenvironment and the immune system. Fluconazole is antimicrobial and effective in inducing short-term remission but a long-term cure is hard to achieve. Medical grade honey (MGH) has antimicrobial, protective, antioxidative and immunomodulatory activity and may therefore be a good alternative treatment. This study aims to investigate the clinical cure rate and long-term efficacy of MGH compared with fluconazole in patients with RVVC. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study is a multicentre, randomised controlled trial (Maastricht University Medical Centre+ and Zuyderland Medical Centre). A total of 252 eligible women will be randomly assigned to the fluconazole group (control) or the MGH group (L-Mesitran, treatment). The primary objective is to investigate the mycological cure rate after 1 month assessed through a vaginal culture. Secondary objectives are the clinical cure rate regarding symptoms, the prophylactic activity after 6 months of maintenance therapy and the number of relapses within 12 months. Moreover, information about side effects, discomfort and quality of life will be collected with the use of questionnaires. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval from the Medical Ethics Review Committee of the academic hospital Maastricht/University Maastricht has been obtained (NL 73974.068.21, V.7 on 8 February 2022). Additional approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen (Z2021141 on 4 March 2022). The first patient was randomised on 22 August 2022. Results will be made available to researchers and healthcare professionals via conferences, meetings and peer-reviewed international publications. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05367089.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senna J J M van Riel
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, The Netherlands
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Céline M J G Lardenoije
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Martine M L H Wassen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Sander M J van Kuijk
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Niels A J Cremers
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Research, Triticum Exploitatie BV, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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15
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Andrade ARCD, Rezende MDS, Portela FVM, Pereira LMG, Nascimento da Silva B, Lima-Neto RGD, Rocha MFG, Sidrim JJC, Castelo-Branco DSCM, Cordeiro RDA. β-Estradiol and progesterone enhance biofilm development and persister cell formation in monospecies and microcosms biofilms derived from vulvovaginal candidiasis. BIOFOULING 2023; 39:719-729. [PMID: 37698054 DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2023.2256674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to: (1) evaluate the influence of the steroid hormones (SH) on biofilm development; (2) investigate the formation of persister cells (PC) in biofilms; and (3) investigate the influence of SH on PC formation. Biofilms were derived from vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) samples and evaluated by three models: microcosm biofilms grown in Vaginal Fluid Simulator Medium (MiB-VFSM); monospecies biofilms grown in VFSM (MoB-VFSM) and RPMI media (MoB-RPMI). SH altered cell counting and biomass of biofilms grown in VSFM; MoB-RPMI were negatively affected by SH. SH stimulated the formation of PC in MiB-VFSM but not MoB-VFSM; MoB-RPMI showed a lower number of PC in the presence of SH. The results showed that SH altered the dynamics of biofilm formation and development, depending on the study model. The data suggest the influence of hormones on the physiology of Candida biofilms and reinforce the importance of PC in the pathogenesis of VVC.
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16
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Zhang LM, Yang M, Zhou SW, Zhang H, Feng Y, Shi L, Li DS, Lu QM, Zhang ZH, Zhao M. Blapstin, a Diapause-Specific Peptide-Like Peptide from the Chinese Medicinal Beetle Blaps rhynchopetera, Has Antifungal Function. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0308922. [PMID: 37140456 PMCID: PMC10269622 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03089-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance against bacteria and fungi has become common in recent years, and it is urgent to discover novel antimicrobial peptides to manage this problem. Many antimicrobial peptides from insects have been reported to have antifungal activity and are candidate molecules in the treatment of human diseases. In the present study, we characterized an antifungal peptide named blapstin that was isolated from the Chinese medicinal beetle Blaps rhynchopetera used in folk medicine. The complete coding sequence was cloned from the cDNA library prepared from the midgut of B. rhynchopetera. It is a 41-amino-acid diapause-specific peptide (DSP)-like peptide stabilized by three disulfide bridges and shows antifungal activity against Candida albicans and Trichophyton rubrum with MICs of 7 μM and 5.3 μM, respectively. The C. albicans and T. rubrum treated with blapstin showed irregular and shrunken cell membranes. In addition, blapstin inhibited the activity of C. albicans biofilm and showed little hemolytic or toxic activity on human cells and it is highly expressed in the fat body, followed by the hemolymph, midgut, muscle, and defensive glands. These results indicate that blapstin may help insects fight against fungi and showed a potential application in the development of antifungal reagents. IMPORTANCE Candida albicans is one of the conditional pathogenic fungi causing severe nosocomial infections. Trichophyton rubrum and other skin fungi are the main pathogens of superficial cutaneous fungal diseases, especially in children and the elderly. At present, antibiotics such as amphotericin B, ketoconazole, and fluconazole are the main drugs for the clinical treatment of C. albicans and T. rubrum infections. However, these drugs have certain acute toxicity. Long-term use can increase kidney damage and other side effects. Therefore, obtaining broad-spectrum antifungal drugs with high efficiency and low toxicity for the treatment of C. albicans and T. rubrum infections is a top priority. Blapstin is an antifungal peptide which shows activity against C. albicans and T. rubrum. The discovery of blapstin provides a novel clue for our understanding of the innate immunity of Blaps rhynchopetera and provides a template for designing antifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- La-Mei Zhang
- Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, China
- College of Forestry, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Kunming, China
| | - Min Yang
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Sheng-Wen Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Feng
- Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, China
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Kunming, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, China
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Kunming, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Sino-African Joint Research Center, Chinese Academy of Science, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qiu-Min Lu
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Sino-African Joint Research Center, Chinese Academy of Science, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhong-He Zhang
- Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, China
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Kunming, China
| | - Min Zhao
- Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, China
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Kunming, China
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17
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Gaziano R, Sabbatini S, Monari C. The Interplay between Candida albicans, Vaginal Mucosa, Host Immunity and Resident Microbiota in Health and Disease: An Overview and Future Perspectives. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1211. [PMID: 37317186 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), which is primarily caused by Candida albicans, is an infection that affects up to 75% of all reproductive-age women worldwide. Recurrent VVC (RVVC) is defined as >3 episodes per year and affects nearly 8% of women globally. At mucosal sites of the vagina, a delicate and complex balance exists between Candida spp., host immunity and local microbial communities. In fact, both immune response and microbiota composition play a central role in counteracting overgrowth of the fungus and maintaining homeostasis in the host. If this balance is perturbed, the conditions may favor C. albicans overgrowth and the yeast-to-hyphal transition, predisposing the host to VVC. To date, the factors that affect the equilibrium between Candida spp. and the host and drive the transition from C. albicans commensalism to pathogenicity are not yet fully understood. Understanding the host- and fungus-related factors that drive VVC pathogenesis is of paramount importance for the development of adequate therapeutic interventions to combat this common genital infection. This review focuses on the latest advances in the pathogenic mechanisms implicated in the onset of VVC and also discusses novel potential strategies, with a special focus on the use of probiotics and vaginal microbiota transplantation in the treatment and/or prevention of recurrent VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Gaziano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Samuele Sabbatini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Medical Microbiology Section, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Claudia Monari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Medical Microbiology Section, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
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18
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Aydin M, Ozturk A, Duran T, Ozmen UO, Sumlu E, Ayan EB, Korucu EN. In vitro antifungal and antibiofilm activities of novel sulfonyl hydrazone derivatives against Candida spp. J Mycol Med 2023; 33:101327. [PMID: 36272382 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2022.101327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate the antifungal and antibiofilm activity of the new sulfonyl hydrazones compound derived from sulphonamides. METHODS In this study, new sulfonyl hydrazone series were synthesized via a green chemistry method. The structures of the synthesized compounds were characterized by elemental analyses and spectroscopic methods. The antifungal activities of the Anaf compounds against Candida strains under planktonic conditions were tested. The biofilm-forming ability of Candida strains was determined and the inhibitory effects of Anaf compounds on Candida biofilms compared with fluconazole were measured by MTT assay. Expression analysis of biofilm-related genes was investigated with qRT-PCR. The statistical analysis was performed using a one-way ANOVA test. CANDIDA: strains was determined and the inhibitory effects of Anaf compounds on Candida biofilms compared with fluconazole were measured by MTT assay. Expression analysis of biofilm-related genes was investigated with qRT-PCR. The statistical analysis was performed using a one-way ANOVA test. RESULTS A total of 16 (45.7%) out of 35 Candida isolates were determined as strong biofilm producers in this study. C. albicans was the most biofilm producer, followed by C. krusei and C. lusitaniae. The Anaf compounds had a broad spectrum of activity with MIC values ranging from 4 μg/ml to 64 μg/ml. Our data indicated that the Anaf compound had a significant effect on inhibiting biofilm formation in both fluconazole-susceptible and -resistant strains. The expression levels of hypha-specific genes als3, hwp1, ece1 and sap5 were downregulated by Anaf compounds. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed that the Anaf compounds had antifungal activity and inhibited fungal biofilms, which may be related to the suppression of C. albicans adherence and hyphal formation. These results suggest that Anaf compounds may have therapeutic potential for the treatment and prevention of biofilm-associated Candida infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merve Aydin
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, KTO Karatay University, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Ali Ozturk
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Niğde, Turkey
| | - Tugce Duran
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, KTO Karatay University, Konya, Turkey
| | | | - Esra Sumlu
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, KTO Karatay University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Esra Bilen Ayan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emine Nedime Korucu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkey
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19
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Hassan N, Farooq U, Das AK, Sharma K, Mirza MA, Fatima S, Singh O, Ansari MJ, Ali A, Iqbal Z. In Silico Guided Nanoformulation Strategy for Circumvention of Candida albicans Biofilm for Effective Therapy of Candidal Vulvovaginitis. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:6918-6930. [PMID: 36844532 PMCID: PMC9947946 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c07718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Candidal vulvovaginitis involving multispecies of Candida and epithelium-bound biofilm poses a drug-resistant pharmacotherapeutic challenge. The present study aims for a disease-specific predominant causative organism resolution for the development of a tailored vaginal drug delivery system. The proposed work fabricates a luliconazole-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier-based transvaginal gel for combating Candida albicans biofilm and disease amelioration. The interaction and binding affinity of luliconazole against the proteins of C. albicans and biofilm were assessed using in silico tools. A systematic QbD analysis was followed to prepare the proposed nanogel using a modified melt emulsification-ultrasonication-gelling method. The DoE optimization was logically implemented to ascertain the effect of independent process variables (excipients concentration; sonication time) on dependent formulation responses (particle size; polydispersity index; entrapment efficiency). The optimized formulation was characterized for final product suitability. The surface morphology and dimensions were spherical and ≤300 nm, respectively. The flow behavior of an optimized nanogel (semisolid) was non-Newtonian similar to marketed preparation. The texture pattern of a nanogel was firm, consistent, and cohesive. The release kinetic model followed was Higuchi (nanogel) with a % cumulative drug release of 83.97 ± 0.69% in 48 h. The % cumulative drug permeated across a goat vaginal membrane was found to be 53.148 ± 0.62% in 8 h. The skin-safety profile was examined using a vaginal irritation model (in vivo) and histological assessments. The drug and proposed formulation(s) were checked against the pathogenic strains of C. albicans (vaginal clinical isolates) and in vitro established biofilms. The visualization of biofilms was done under a fluorescence microscope revealing mature, inhibited, and eradicated biofilm structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazia Hassan
- Department
of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education & Research
(SPER), Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Uzma Farooq
- Department
of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education & Research
(SPER), Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Ayan Kumar Das
- Hamdard
Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Kalicharan Sharma
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, DPSRU, New Delhi 110017, India
| | - Mohd. Aamir Mirza
- Department
of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education & Research
(SPER), Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Suhail Fatima
- Department
of Amraz-E-Niswan Wa Qabalat, School of Unani Medical Education &
Research (SUMER), Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Omana Singh
- Department
of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education & Research
(SPER), Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Mohammad Javed Ansari
- Department
of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Prince
Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 16278, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asgar Ali
- Department
of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education & Research
(SPER), Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Zeenat Iqbal
- Department
of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education & Research
(SPER), Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
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20
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Takano T, Kudo H, Eguchi S, Matsumoto A, Oka K, Yamasaki Y, Takahashi M, Koshikawa T, Takemura H, Yamagishi Y, Mikamo H, Kunishima H. Inhibitory effects of vaginal Lactobacilli on C andida albicans growth, hyphal formation, biofilm development, and epithelial cell adhesion. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1113401. [PMID: 37201113 PMCID: PMC10188118 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1113401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Antifungal agents are not always efficient in resolving vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), a common genital infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida spp., including Candida albicans, or in preventing recurrent infections. Although lactobacilli (which are dominant microorganisms constituting healthy human vaginal microbiota) are important barriers against VVC, the Lactobacillus metabolite concentration needed to suppress VVC is unknown. Methods We quantitatively evaluated Lactobacillus metabolite concentrations to determine their effect on Candida spp., including 27 vaginal strains of Lactobacillus crispatus, L. jensenii, L. gasseri, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, and Limosilactobacillus vaginalis, with inhibitory abilities against biofilms of C. albicans clinical isolates. Results Lactobacillus culture supernatants suppressed viable fungi by approximately 24%-92% relative to preformed C. albicans biofilms; however, their suppression differed among strains and not species. A moderate negative correlation was found between Lactobacillus lactate production and biofilm formation, but no correlation was observed between hydrogen peroxide production and biofilm formation. Both lactate and hydrogen peroxide were required to suppress C. albicans planktonic cell growth. Lactobacillus strains that significantly inhibited biofilm formation in culture supernatant also inhibited C. albicans adhesion to epithelial cells in an actual live bacterial adhesion competition test. Discussion Healthy human microflora and their metabolites may play important roles in the development of new antifungal agent against C. albicans-induced VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonori Takano
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hayami Kudo
- Research Department, R&D Division, Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Saitama-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Shuhei Eguchi
- Research Department, R&D Division, Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Saitama-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Asami Matsumoto
- Research Department, R&D Division, Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Saitama-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kentaro Oka
- Research Department, R&D Division, Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Saitama-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yukitaka Yamasaki
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Motomichi Takahashi
- Research Department, R&D Division, Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Saitama-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Takuro Koshikawa
- Department of Microbiology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki-shi, Japan
| | - Hiromu Takemura
- Department of Microbiology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki-shi, Japan
| | - Yuka Yamagishi
- Department of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
- Department of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Kochi Medical School, Nankoku-shi, Kochi, Japan
| | - Hiroshige Mikamo
- Department of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kunishima
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan
- *Correspondence: Hiroyuki Kunishima,
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21
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Zhang M, Li R, Zhou Y, Xie R, Ma J, Liu H, Qin Y, Zhao M, Duan N, Ye P, Wang W, Wang X. The Promotional Effect of GW4869 on C. albicans Invasion and Cellular Damage in a Murine Model of Oral Candidiasis. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11121522. [PMID: 36558856 PMCID: PMC9781529 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11121522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans) is one of the most common fungi in the human body; it is an opportunistic pathogen and can cause candidiasis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from the host cells have a potentially protective effect against pathogens and can be developed as vaccine formulations. GW4869 can inhibit the production and release of EVs. Previous studies have indicated that GW4869 can alter the immune and inflammatory responses of the host. However, the effect of GW4869 on Candida infection and the anti-Candida response of the host has not been investigated. We evaluated the effect of GW4869 on C. albicans invasion, biofilm formation, and cellular damage in a murine model of oral candidiasis. In this study, C. albicans-infected mice were injected with or without GW4869. The results proven by macroscopic, microscopic, and ultramicroscopic methods showed that GW4869 treatment exacerbated the oral candidiasis of mice, promoted C. albicans invasion and biofilm formation, and aggravated oral mucosal inflammation and cellular ultrastructural damage. The results are beneficial in the further exploration of the immune mechanism of C. albicans infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Pei Ye
- Correspondence: (P.Y.); (W.W.); (X.W.)
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22
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Cangui-Panchi SP, Lizbeth Ñacato-Toapanta A, Enríquez-Martínez LJ, Reyes J, Garzon-Chavez D, Machado A. Biofilm-forming microorganisms causing hospital-acquired infections from intravenous catheter: a systematic review. CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2022; 3:100175. [DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2022.100175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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23
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Costa PDS, Prado A, Bagon NP, Negri M, Svidzinski TIE. Mixed Fungal Biofilms: From Mycobiota to Devices, a New Challenge on Clinical Practice. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10091721. [PMID: 36144323 PMCID: PMC9506030 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10091721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Most current protocols for the diagnosis of fungal infections are based on culture-dependent methods that allow the evaluation of fungal morphology and the identification of the etiologic agent of mycosis. Most current protocols for the diagnosis of fungal infections are based on culture-dependent methods that enable the examination of the fungi for further identification of the etiological agent of the mycosis. The isolation of fungi from pure cultures is typically recommended, as when more than one species is identified, the second agent is considered a contaminant. Fungi mostly survive in highly organized communities that provoke changes in phenotypic profile, increase resistance to antifungals and environmental stresses, and facilitate evasion from the immune system. Mixed fungal biofilms (MFB) harbor more than one fungal species, wherein exchange can occur that potentialize the effects of these virulence factors. However, little is known about MFB and their role in infectious processes, particularly in terms of how each species may synergistically contribute to the pathogenesis. Here, we review fungi present in MFB that are commensals of the human body, forming the mycobiota, and how their participation in MFB affects the maintenance of homeostasis. In addition, we discuss how MFB are formed on both biotic and abiotic surfaces, thus being a significant reservoir of microorganisms that have already been associated in infectious processes of high morbidity and mortality.
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24
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Atiencia-Carrera MB, Cabezas-Mera FS, Vizuete K, Debut A, Tejera E, Machado A. Evaluation of the biofilm life cycle between Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:953168. [PMID: 36061861 PMCID: PMC9433541 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.953168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida tropicalis is an emergent pathogen with a high rate of mortality associated with its biofilm formation. Biofilm formation has important repercussions on the public health system. However, little is still known about its biofilm life cycle. The present study analyzed the biofilm life cycle of Candida albicans and C. tropicalis during various timepoints (24, 48, 72, and 96 h) through biomass assays, colony-forming unit (CFU) counting, and epifluorescence and scanning electron microscopies. Our results showed a significant difference between C. albicans and C. tropicalis biofilms in each biomass and viability assay. All-time samples in the biomass and viability assays confirmed statistical differences between the Candida species through pairwise Wilcoxon tests (p < 0.05). C. albicans demonstrated a lower biomass growth but reached nearly the same level of C. tropicalis biomass at 96 h, while the CFU counting assays exhibited a superior number of viable cells within the C. tropicalis biofilm. Statistical differences were also found between C. albicans and C. tropicalis biofilms from 48- and 72-h microscopies, demonstrating C. tropicalis with a higher number of total cells within biofilms and C. albicans cells with a superior cell area and higher matrix production. Therefore, the present study proved the higher biofilm production of C. tropicalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Belén Atiencia-Carrera
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Instituto de Microbiología, Laboratorio de Bacteriología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Fausto Sebastián Cabezas-Mera
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Instituto de Microbiología, Laboratorio de Bacteriología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Karla Vizuete
- Center of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas (ESPE), Sangolquí, Ecuador
| | - Alexis Debut
- Center of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas (ESPE), Sangolquí, Ecuador
| | - Eduardo Tejera
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Agropecuarias Aplicadas, Grupo de Bioquimioinformática, Universidad de Las Américas (UDLA), Quito, Ecuador
- *Correspondence: António Machado, ; Eduardo Tejera,
| | - António Machado
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Instituto de Microbiología, Laboratorio de Bacteriología, Quito, Ecuador
- *Correspondence: António Machado, ; Eduardo Tejera,
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25
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Wang S, Wang P, Liu J, Yang C, Wang Q, Su M, Wei M, Gu L. Antibiofilm Activity of Essential Fatty Acids Against Candida albicans from Vulvovaginal Candidiasis and Bloodstream Infections. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:4181-4193. [PMID: 35946033 PMCID: PMC9357398 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s373991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Methods Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chunxia Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiangyi Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingze Su
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming Wei
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Ming Wei; Li Gu, Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, 8 Gongren Tiyuchang Nanlu, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100020, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-10-85231513, Email ;
| | - Li Gu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Antifungal Activities of Phytochemically Characterized Hydroethanolic Extracts of Sclerocarya birrea Leaves and Stem Bark against Fluconazole-Resistant Candida albicans Strains. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:4261741. [PMID: 35711520 PMCID: PMC9197620 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4261741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The study evaluated the antifungal activities of the 70% ethanol extracts of Sclerocarya birrea leaves (SBL) and stem bark (SBB) against C. albicans strains and fluconazole-resistant isolates, their antifungal effects in combination with conventional antifungals as well as their effects on the biofilms of the C. albicans strains and isolates. UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS analysis was then carried out to investigate the metabolite profile of the extracts and UPLC fingerprints developed for their routine identification as part of quality control measures. The extracts exhibited considerable antifungal activity with MIC ranging from 12.21 to 97.66 μg/mL and MFC from 12.21 to 390.63 μg/mL against the C. albicans strains and isolates. The antifungal activity of the stem bark extract was higher than the leaf extract. SBL and SBB also significantly inhibited biofilm formation (IC50 = 12.49 to 164.42 μg/mL) and the mature biofilms (IC50 = 91.50 to 685.20 μg/mL) of the strains and isolates of the C. albicans and demonstrated potential for their use in combination therapies with currently used antifungals especially the stem bark extract with nystatin. Metabolite profiling identified the presence of polyphenolic compounds in both leaves and stem bark mostly flavonoids, their derivatives, and proanthocyanidins, which contribute in part to the bioactivity of the plant. Whereas flavonoids like quercetin, myricetin, and their derivatives were abundant in the leaves, epicatechin monomers with their condensed tannins, including procyanidin B2 and procyanidin C, were abundant in the stem bark. Fingerprints of SBL and SBB were developed and validated and could be used as qualitative tools to authenticate the plant. The outcomes of the study show the promise of the leaf and stem bark extracts of S. birrea to be studied further and developed as antifungal agents.
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27
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A microplate‐based Response Surface Methodology model for growth optimization and biofilm formation on polystyrene polymeric material in a
Candida albicans
and
Escherichia coli
co‐culture. POLYM ADVAN TECHNOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pat.5753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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28
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Gupta P, Gupta H, Kairamkonda M, Kumar N, Poluri KM. Elucidating the lactic acid tolerance mechanism in vaginal clinical isolates of Candida glabrata. Med Mycol 2022; 60:myac042. [PMID: 35679084 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myac042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Incidence of vulvovaginal candidiasis are strikingly high and treatment options are limited with nearly 50% Candida glabrata cases left untreated or experience treatment failures. The vaginal microenvironment is rich in lactic acid, and the adaptation of C. glabrata to lactic acid (LA) is the main reason for clinical treatment failure. In the present study, C. glabrata and its vaginal clinical isolates were comprehensively investigated for their growth response, metabolic adaptation and altered cellular pathway to LA using different biochemical techniques, metabolic profiling and transcriptional studies. C. glabrata shown considerable variations in its topological and biochemical features without compromising growth in LA media. Chemical profiling data highlighted involvement of cell wall/membrane, ergosterol and oxidative stress related pathways in mediating adaptative response of C. glabrata towards LA. Further, one dimensional proton (1H) NMR spectroscopy based metabolic profiling revealed significant modulation in 19 metabolites of C. glabrata cells upon growth in LA. Interestingly myo-inositol, xylose, putrescine and betaine which are key metabolites for cell growth and viability were found to be differentially expressed by clinical isolates. These observations were supported by the transcriptional expression study of selected genes evidencing cell wall/membrane re-organisation, altered oxidative stress, and reprogramming of carbon metabolic pathways. Collectively, the study advances our understanding on adaptative response of C. glabrata in vaginal microenvironment to lactic acid for survival and virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payal Gupta
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee-247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Hrishikesh Gupta
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee-247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Manikyaprabhu Kairamkonda
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee-247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Navin Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era University, Dehradun-248001, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Krishna Mohan Poluri
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee-247667, Uttarakhand, India
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee-247667, Uttarakhand, India
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29
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Gupta H, Gupta P, Kairamkonda M, Poluri KM. Molecular investigations on Candida glabrata clinical isolates for pharmacological targeting. RSC Adv 2022; 12:17570-17584. [PMID: 35765448 PMCID: PMC9194923 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra02092k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Prevalence of drug resistant C. glabrata strains in hospitalized immune-compromised patients with invasive fungal infections has increased at an unexpected pace. This has greatly pushed researchers in identification of mutations/variations in clinical isolates for better assessment of the prevailing drug resistance trends and also for updating of antifungal therapy regime. In the present investigation, the clinical isolates of C. glabrata were comprehensively characterized at a molecular level using metabolic profiling and transcriptional expression analysis approaches in combination with biochemical, morphological and chemical profiling methods. Biochemically, significant variations in azole susceptibility, surface hydrophobicity, and oxidative stress generation were observed among the isolates as compared to wild-type. The 1H NMR profiling identified 18 differential metabolites in clinical strains compared to wild-type and were classified into five categories, that include: sugars (7), amino acids and their derivatives (7), nitrogen bases (3) and coenzymes (1). Transcriptional analysis of selective metabolic and regulatory enzymes established that the major differences were found in cell membrane stress, carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid biosynthesis, ergosterol pathway and turnover of nitrogen bases. This detailed molecular level/metabolic fingerprint study is a useful approach for differentiating pathogenic/clinical isolates to that of wild-type. This study comprehensively delineated the differential cellular pathways at a molecular level that have been re-wired by the pathogenic clinical isolates for enhanced pathogenicity and virulence traits. The clinical isolates of Candida glabrata were characterized and found to be different in terms of metabolic pathways that could be targeted for drug development.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Hrishikesh Gupta
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT-Roorkee) Roorkee-247667 Uttarakhand India
| | - Payal Gupta
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT-Roorkee) Roorkee-247667 Uttarakhand India
| | - Manikyaprabhu Kairamkonda
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT-Roorkee) Roorkee-247667 Uttarakhand India
| | - Krishna Mohan Poluri
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT-Roorkee) Roorkee-247667 Uttarakhand India .,Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee Roorkee-247667 Uttarakhand India
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30
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Vahedi F, Ghasemi Y, Atapour A, Zomorodian K, Ranjbar M, Monabati A, Nezafat N, Savardashtaki A. B-Cell Epitope Mapping from Eight Antigens of Candida albicans to Design a Novel Diagnostic Kit: An Immunoinformatics Approach. Int J Pept Res Ther 2022; 28:110. [PMID: 35669279 PMCID: PMC9136830 DOI: 10.1007/s10989-022-10413-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Invasive candidiasis is an emerging fungal infection and a leading cause of morbidity in health care facilities. Despite advances in antifungal therapy, increased antifungal drug resistance in Candida albicans has enhanced patient fatality. The most common method for Candida albicans diagnosing is blood culture, which has low sensitivity. Therefore, there is an urgent need to establish a valid diagnostic method. Our study aimed to use the bioinformatics approach to design a diagnostic kit for detecting Candida albicans with high sensitivity and specificity. Eight antigenic proteins of Candida albicans (HYR1, HWP1, ECE1, ALS, EAP1, SAP1, BGL2, and MET6) were selected. Next, a construct containing different immunodominant B-cell epitopes was derived from the antigens and connected using a suitable linker. Different properties of the final construct, such as physicochemical properties, were evaluated. Moreover, the designed construct underwent 3D modeling, reverse translation, and codon optimization. The results confirmed that the designed construct could identify Candida albicans with high sensitivity and specificity in serum samples of patients with invasive candidiasis. However, experimental studies are needed for final confirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Vahedi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Younes Ghasemi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Atapour
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kamiar Zomorodian
- Department of Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicines, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Ranjbar
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ahmad Monabati
- Department of Pathology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Navid Nezafat
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Savardashtaki
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Infertility Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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31
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Souza SO, Raposo BL, Sarmento-Neto JF, Rebouças JS, Macêdo DPC, Figueiredo RCBQ, Santos BS, Freitas AZ, Cabral Filho PE, Ribeiro MS, Fontes A. Photoinactivation of Yeast and Biofilm Communities of Candida albicans Mediated by ZnTnHex-2-PyP4+ Porphyrin. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8060556. [PMID: 35736039 PMCID: PMC9225021 DOI: 10.3390/jof8060556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is the main cause of superficial candidiasis. While the antifungals available are defied by biofilm formation and resistance emergence, antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (aPDI) arises as an alternative antifungal therapy. The tetracationic metalloporphyrin Zn(II) meso-tetrakis(N-n-hexylpyridinium-2-yl)porphyrin (ZnTnHex-2-PyP4+) has high photoefficiency and improved cellular interactions. We investigated the ZnTnHex-2-PyP4+ as a photosensitizer (PS) to photoinactivate yeasts and biofilms of C. albicans strains (ATCC 10231 and ATCC 90028) using a blue light-emitting diode. The photoinactivation of yeasts was evaluated by quantifying the colony forming units. The aPDI of ATCC 90028 biofilms was assessed by the MTT assay, propidium iodide (PI) labeling, and scanning electron microscopy. Mammalian cytotoxicity was investigated in Vero cells using MTT assay. The aPDI (4.3 J/cm2) promoted eradication of yeasts at 0.8 and 1.5 µM of PS for ATCC 10231 and ATCC 90028, respectively. At 0.8 µM and same light dose, aPDI-treated biofilms showed intense PI labeling, about 89% decrease in the cell viability, and structural alterations with reduced hyphae. No considerable toxicity was observed in mammalian cells. Our results introduce the ZnTnHex-2-PyP4+ as a promising PS to photoinactivate both yeasts and biofilms of C. albicans, stimulating studies with other Candida species and resistant isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sueden O. Souza
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, PE, Brazil; (B.L.R.); (P.E.C.F.)
- Correspondence: (S.O.S.); (A.F.)
| | - Bruno L. Raposo
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, PE, Brazil; (B.L.R.); (P.E.C.F.)
| | - José F. Sarmento-Neto
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (J.F.S.-N.); (J.S.R.)
| | - Júlio S. Rebouças
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (J.F.S.-N.); (J.S.R.)
| | - Danielle P. C. Macêdo
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50740-520, PE, Brazil; (D.P.C.M.); (B.S.S.)
| | - Regina C. B. Q. Figueiredo
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães—Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IAM-FIOCRUZ), Recife 50740-465, PE, Brazil;
| | - Beate S. Santos
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50740-520, PE, Brazil; (D.P.C.M.); (B.S.S.)
| | - Anderson Z. Freitas
- Centro de Lasers e Aplicações, Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN), São Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil; (A.Z.F.); (M.S.R.)
| | - Paulo E. Cabral Filho
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, PE, Brazil; (B.L.R.); (P.E.C.F.)
| | - Martha S. Ribeiro
- Centro de Lasers e Aplicações, Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN), São Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil; (A.Z.F.); (M.S.R.)
| | - Adriana Fontes
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, PE, Brazil; (B.L.R.); (P.E.C.F.)
- Correspondence: (S.O.S.); (A.F.)
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Balakrishnan SN, Yamang H, Lorenz MC, Chew SY, Than LTL. Role of Vaginal Mucosa, Host Immunity and Microbiota in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11060618. [PMID: 35745472 PMCID: PMC9230866 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a prevalent gynaecological disease characterised by vaginal wall inflammation that is caused by Candida species. VVC impacts almost three-quarters of all women throughout their reproductive years. As the vaginal mucosa is the first point of contact with microbes, vaginal epithelial cells are the first line of defence against opportunistic Candida infection by providing a physical barrier and mounting immunological responses. The mechanisms of defence against this infection are displayed through the rapid shedding of epithelial cells, the presence of pattern recognition receptors, and the release of inflammatory cytokines. The bacterial microbiota within the mucosal layer presents another form of defence mechanism within the vagina through acidic pH regulation, the release of antifungal peptides and physiological control against dysbiosis. The significant role of the microbiota in maintaining vaginal health promotes its application as one of the potential treatment modalities against VVC with the hope of alleviating the burden of VVC, especially the recurrent disease. This review discusses and summarises current progress in understanding the role of vaginal mucosa and host immunity upon infection, together with the function of vaginal microbiota in VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subatrra Nair Balakrishnan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
| | - Haizat Yamang
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
| | - Michael C. Lorenz
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Shu Yih Chew
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
- Correspondence: (S.Y.C.); (L.T.L.T.)
| | - Leslie Thian Lung Than
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
- Correspondence: (S.Y.C.); (L.T.L.T.)
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Jafarzadeh L, Ranjbar M, Nazari T, Naeimi Eshkaleti M, Aghaei Gharehbolagh S, Sobel JD, Mahmoudi S. Vulvovaginal candidiasis: An overview of mycological, clinical, and immunological aspects. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:1546-1560. [PMID: 35445492 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To provide an overview of clinical, immunological, and mycological aspects of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). METHODS A literature search was conducted to find relevant articles about different aspects of VVC. Related data from retrieved articles were summarized in different headings. RESULTS VVC has a global distribution and Candida albicans is the leading cause of infection except for specific patient groups like postmenopausal, diabetic, or immunocompromised women. VVC has a range of clinical presentations, accordingly, its diagnosis should be based on clinical examination coupled with laboratory investigations. The best therapeutic regimen depends on the patient's conditions and the causative agent. Moreover, factors like drug resistance of the causative agents and different mutations in the immunity-related genes could affect the treatment outcome. CONCLUSION As a globally distributed disease, VVC needs further attention, especially in areas related to the treatment failure and recurrence of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Jafarzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Maryam Ranjbar
- Department of Persian Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Tina Nazari
- Department of Medical Geriatrics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Naeimi Eshkaleti
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sanaz Aghaei Gharehbolagh
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jack D Sobel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Shahram Mahmoudi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Perrine-Walker F. Caspofungin resistance in Candida albicans: genetic factors and synergistic compounds for combination therapies. Braz J Microbiol 2022; 53:1101-1113. [PMID: 35352319 PMCID: PMC9433586 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-022-00739-9] [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: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Caspofungin and other echinocandins have been used for the treatment of human infections by the opportunistic yeast pathogen, Candida albicans. There has been an increase in infections by non-albicans Candida species such as Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, Candida tropicalis, Candida krusei, and Candida auris in clinical or hospital settings. This is problematic to public health due to the increasing prevalence of echinocandin resistant species/strains. This review will present a summary on various studies that investigated the inhibitory action of caspofungin on 1,3-β-D-glucan synthesis, on cell wall structure, and biofilm formation of C. albicans. It will highlight some of the issues linked to caspofungin resistance or reduced caspofungin sensitivity in various Candida species and the potential benefits of antimicrobial peptides and other compounds in synergy with caspofungin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francine Perrine-Walker
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute For Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, 3086, Australia.
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Al-Otibi FO, Alrumaizan GI, Alharbi RI. Evaluation of anticandidal activities and phytochemical examination of extracts prepared from Vitex agnus-castus: a possible alternative in treating candidiasis infections. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:69. [PMID: 35292012 PMCID: PMC8925216 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03552-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candidiasis infection is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Fungicidal resistance of some commercially used fungicides ascended the need for a naturally effective alternative. The current study aimed to evaluate the fungicidal activity of Vitex agnus-castus extracts in vitro against some Candida species. METHODS The bioactive compounds contained in the crude and alcoholic extracts were compared, and the antioxidant activity was tested, as well. The phytochemical analysis was carried out by Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). The scavenger activity of the tested extracts was tested, as well. The anticandidal activity was tested to detect the effect of the tested extracts on the mycelial growth of Candida albicans, Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis, Candia tropicalis, Candida famata, Candida rhodotorula, and Candida dublinesis. The minimum inhibitory concentrations were calculated for all reported activities. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and the Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were used to detect the morphological and ultrastructure response in some selected species. RESULTS FTIR and GC/MS revealed the existence of different bioactive chemical groups such as polyphenols, fatty acids, terpenes, terpenoids, steroids, aldehydes, alcohols, and esters, phytol which is a diterpene. DPPH results confirmed the antioxidant activity of all extracts where the methanolic extract was the strongest scavenging substrate. All extracts showed strong inhibitory effects against different species at a concentration of 200 µg/ml (P < 0.001). SEM and TEM showed morphological and ultrastructure changes in C. famata. CONCLUSION The current study suggested a reliable antifungal activity of different extracts of Vitex agnus-castus against different Candida species and strains. However, further studies are required to confirm the safety of these extracts to be used in medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima O Al-Otibi
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P. O Box 22452, Riyadh, 11495, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ghaida I Alrumaizan
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P. O Box 22452, Riyadh, 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raedah I Alharbi
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P. O Box 22452, Riyadh, 11495, Saudi Arabia
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Hu N, Mo XM, Xu SN, Tang HN, Zhou YH, Li L, Zhou HD. A novel antimicrobial peptide derived from human BPIFA1 protein protects against Candida albicans infection. Innate Immun 2022; 28:67-78. [PMID: 35201913 PMCID: PMC9058375 DOI: 10.1177/17534259221080543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Bactericidal/permeability-increasing fold containing family A, member 1 (BPIFA1) is an innate immunity defense protein. Our previous studies proved its antibacterial and antiviral effects, but its role in fungi remains unknown. The study aimed to identify antifungal peptides (AFP) derived from BPIFA1, and three antimicrobial peptides (AMP1-3) were designed. The antifungal effects were proved by growth inhibition assay. AMP3 activity was confirmed by germ tube growth experiment and XTT assay. Its effects on cell wall and membrane of Candida albicans were assessed by tannic acid and Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining, respectively. Additionally, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used for morphological and ultrastructural observation. The expression of ALS1, EAP1, and SUN41 was tested by qPCR. Ultimately, three AMPs could fight against C. albicans in vitro, and AMP3 was highly effective. It functioned by destroying the integrity of cell wall and normal structure of cell membrane. It also inhibited biofilm formation of C. albicans. In addition, AMP3 down-regulated the expression of ALS1, EAP1, and SUN41, those are known to be involved in virulence of C. albicans. Altogether, the study reported successful development of a novel AFP, which could be used as a new strategy for antifungal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Hu
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Metabolic Bone Diseases, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
- Nan Hu and Xi-Ming Mo contribute equally to the paper
| | - Xi-Ming Mo
- Department of clinical laboratory medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
- Nan Hu and Xi-Ming Mo contribute equally to the paper
| | - Shi-Na Xu
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Metabolic Bone Diseases, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Hao-Neng Tang
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Metabolic Bone Diseases, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
- Department of clinical laboratory medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Ying-Hui Zhou
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Metabolic Bone Diseases, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Long Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Metabolic Bone Diseases, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Hou-De Zhou
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Metabolic Bone Diseases, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
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Current Opinion on the Therapeutic Capacity of Taurine-Containing Halogen Derivatives in Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1370:83-98. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-93337-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Lactobacillus iners Cell-Free Supernatant Enhances Biofilm Formation and Hyphal/Pseudohyphal Growth by Candida albicans Vaginal Isolates. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9122577. [PMID: 34946178 PMCID: PMC8706969 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9122577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal fungus of the vaginal mucosa and the principal etiological agent of vaginal candidiasis. Vaginal dysbiosis has been reported during vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), with a progressive decrease in Lactobacillus crispatus population and an increase in L. iners population. To date, the role of L. iners in VVC pathogenesis remains scarcely explored. Herein we investigated the in vitro effect of L. iners cell-free supernatant (CFS) on the ability of C. albicans to form biofilms. Biomass and metabolic activity were measured by crystal violet and XTT assays. Further, light microscopy was performed to determine the effect of L. iners CFS on biofilm cellular morphology. We found that L. iners CFS induced a significant increase in biofilm formation by C. albicans clinical isolates which were categorized as moderate or weak biofilm producers. This effect was associated with an enhancement of hyphal/pseudohyphal growth, and the expression levels of HWP1 and ECE1, which are typical hyphae-associated genes, were upregulated. Overall, these results suggest that L. iners contributes to the pathogenesis of VVC and highlight the complexity of the interaction between C. albicans and vaginal lactobacilli. Understanding these interactions could prove essential for the development of new strategies for treating VVC.
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Sadanandan B, Vijayalakshmi V, Lokesh KN, Shetty K, Joglekar AP, Ashrit P, Hemanth B. Candida albicans Biofilm Formation and Growth Optimization for Functional Studies Using Response Surface Methodology. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 132:3277-3292. [PMID: 34863013 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM Optimization of Candida growth and biofilm formation is essential for understanding the recalcitrance of this pathogen to advance functional analysis on hospital tools and material surfaces. Optimization and quantification of biofilm have always been a challenge using the conventional One Variable at a Time (OVAT) method. The present study uses Central Composite Design-based Response Surface Methodology for optimization of conditions to induce growth and biofilm formation in Candida albicans on polystyrene microtitre plates. METHODS & RESULTS The variables considered in the design matrix were pH, temperature, incubation period, shaker speed, and inoculum size. A four-pronged quantification approach with XTT assay (cell viability), crystal violet assay (biofilm), calcofluor white assay, and wet/dry weight measurements (cell mass) were used to understand different aspects of biofilm. Heterogeneity in growth conditions for local strains of C. albicans clinical isolates were observed. Cell viability and cell mass were inversely related; however, biofilm was independent of these two factors. The study also highlighted the fact that Foetal Bovine Serum does not significantly contribute to cell adhesion and biofilm formation in vitro. CONCLUSIONS A high throughput optimization of C. albicans growth and biofilm formation on polystyrene microplate has been developed & validated. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY The microtiter plate-based approach can be used for future screening of therapeutics for the control of C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bindu Sadanandan
- Department of Biotechnology, M S Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore-560054, Karnataka, India
| | - V Vijayalakshmi
- Department of Biotechnology, M S Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore-560054, Karnataka, India
| | - K N Lokesh
- Department of Biotechnology, M S Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore-560054, Karnataka, India
| | - Kalidas Shetty
- Department of Plant Science, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND58105, USA
| | - Amruta P Joglekar
- Department of Biotechnology, M S Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore-560054, Karnataka, India
| | - Priya Ashrit
- Department of Biotechnology, M S Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore-560054, Karnataka, India
| | - Beena Hemanth
- Department of Microbiology, M S Ramaiah Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Bangalore-560054, Karnataka, India
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New Applications of Photodynamic Therapy in the Management of Candidiasis. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7121025. [PMID: 34947007 PMCID: PMC8705304 DOI: 10.3390/jof7121025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The most important aetiological agent of opportunistic mycoses worldwide is Candida spp. These yeasts can cause severe infections in the host, which may be fatal. Isolates of Candida albicans occur with greater frequency and variable resistance patterns. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been recognised as an alternative treatment to kill pathogenic microorganisms. PDT utilises a photosensitizer, which is activated at a specific wavelength and oxygen concentration. Their reaction yields reactive oxygen species that kill the infectious microorganism. A systematic review of new applications of PDT in the management of candidiasis was performed. Of the 222 studies selected for in-depth screening, 84 were included in this study. All the studies reported the antifungal effectiveness, toxicity and dosimetry of treatment with antimicrobial PDT (aPDT) with different photosensitizers against Candida spp. The manuscripts that are discussed reveal the breadth of the new applications of aPDT against Candida spp., which are resistant to common antifungals. aPDT has superior performance compared to conventional antifungal therapies. With further studies, aPDT should prove valuable in daily clinical practice.
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van Riel SJJM, Lardenoije CMJG, Oudhuis GJ, Cremers NAJ. Treating (Recurrent) Vulvovaginal Candidiasis with Medical-Grade Honey-Concepts and Practical Considerations. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7080664. [PMID: 34436203 PMCID: PMC8400673 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) is a relapsing vaginal fungal infection caused by Candida species. The prevalence varies among age populations and can be as high as 9%. Treatment options are limited, and in 57% of the cases, relapses occur within six months after fluconazole maintenance therapy, which is the current standard of care. The pathogenesis of RVVC is multifactorial, and recent studies have demonstrated that the vaginal microenvironment and activity of the immune system have a strong influence on the disease. Medical-grade honey (MGH) has protective, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory activity and forms a putative alternative treatment. Clinical trials have demonstrated that honey can benefit the treatment of bacterial and Candida-mediated vaginal infections. We postulate that MGH will actively fight ongoing infections; eradicate biofilms; and modulate the vaginal microenvironment by its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory properties, and subsequently may decrease the number of relapses when compared to fluconazole. The MGH formulation L-Mesitran Soft has stronger antimicrobial activity against various Candida species than its raw honey. In advance of a planned randomized controlled clinical trial, we present the setup of a study comparing L-Mesitran Soft with fluconazole and its practical considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senna J. J. M. van Riel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands; (S.J.J.M.v.R.); (C.M.J.G.L.)
| | - Celine M. J. G. Lardenoije
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands; (S.J.J.M.v.R.); (C.M.J.G.L.)
| | - Guy J. Oudhuis
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Niels A. J. Cremers
- Triticum Exploitatie B.V., Sleperweg 44, 6222 NK Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-43-325-1773
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Di Cosola M, Cazzolla AP, Charitos IA, Ballini A, Inchingolo F, Santacroce L. Candida albicans and Oral Carcinogenesis. A Brief Review. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7060476. [PMID: 34204731 PMCID: PMC8231483 DOI: 10.3390/jof7060476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Current medical knowledge and research on patients’ management are still evolving, and several protocols on minimizing risk of infection by Candida spp. among the population have developed. The aim of this work is to review the epidemiological and biomolecular characteristics and the various histopathological carcinogenesis hypothesis mechanisms that can occur during Candida albicans infections. Current evidence from the literature on the role of C. albicans during potentially malignant oral disorders and oral cancer has been sought. Thus, these biomolecular processes can give or contribute to benign lesions, also in precancerous or cancerous situations. Alongside this, the physiological microorganism oral flora (microbiota) can play a crucial role in maintaining oral health during those infections and therefore avoid carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Di Cosola
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi di Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.D.C.); (A.P.C.)
| | - Angela Pia Cazzolla
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi di Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.D.C.); (A.P.C.)
| | - Ioannis Alexandros Charitos
- Department of Emergency and Urgency, National Poisoning Centre, Riuniti University Hospital of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.A.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Andrea Ballini
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, Campus Universitario Ernesto Quagliariello, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” School of Medicine, 70124 Bari, Italy; (F.I.); (L.S.)
- Correspondence: (I.A.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Francesco Inchingolo
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” School of Medicine, 70124 Bari, Italy; (F.I.); (L.S.)
| | - Luigi Santacroce
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro” School of Medicine, 70124 Bari, Italy; (F.I.); (L.S.)
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Kakar A, Holzknecht J, Dubrac S, Gelmi ML, Romanelli A, Marx F. New Perspectives in the Antimicrobial Activity of the Amphibian Temporin B: Peptide Analogs Are Effective Inhibitors of Candida albicans Growth. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:457. [PMID: 34200504 PMCID: PMC8226839 DOI: 10.3390/jof7060457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Temporin B (TB) is a short, positively charged peptide secreted by the granular glands of the European frog Rana temporaria. While the antibacterial and antiviral efficacy of TB and some of its improved analogs are well documented, nothing is known about their antifungal potency so far. We dedicated this study to characterize the antifungal potential of the TB analog TB_KKG6K and the newly designed D-Lys_TB_KKG6K, the latter having the L-lysines replaced by the chiral counterpart D-lysines to improve its proteolytic stability. Both peptides inhibited the growth of opportunistic human pathogenic yeasts and killed planktonic and sessile cells of the most prevalent human pathogen, Candida albicans. The anti-yeast efficacy of the peptides coincided with the induction of intracellular reactive oxygen species. Their thermal, cation, pH and serum tolerance were similar, while the proteolytic stability of D-Lys_TB_KKG6K was superior to that of its template peptide. Importantly, both peptides lacked hemolytic activity and showed minimal in vitro cytotoxicity in primary human keratinocytes. The tolerance of both peptides in a reconstructed human epidermis model further supports their potential for topical application. Our results open up an exciting field of research for new anti-Candida therapeutic options based on amphibian TB analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anant Kakar
- Biocenter, Institute of Molecular Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (A.K.); (J.H.)
| | - Jeanett Holzknecht
- Biocenter, Institute of Molecular Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (A.K.); (J.H.)
| | - Sandrine Dubrac
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergy, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Maria Luisa Gelmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, I-20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Romanelli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, I-20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Florentine Marx
- Biocenter, Institute of Molecular Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (A.K.); (J.H.)
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Talapko J, Juzbašić M, Matijević T, Pustijanac E, Bekić S, Kotris I, Škrlec I. Candida albicans-The Virulence Factors and Clinical Manifestations of Infection. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:79. [PMID: 33499276 PMCID: PMC7912069 DOI: 10.3390/jof7020079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a common commensal fungus that colonizes the oropharyngeal cavity, gastrointestinal and vaginal tract, and healthy individuals' skin. In 50% of the population, C. albicans is part of the normal flora of the microbiota. The various clinical manifestations of Candida species range from localized, superficial mucocutaneous disorders to invasive diseases that involve multiple organ systems and are life-threatening. From systemic and local to hereditary and environmental, diverse factors lead to disturbances in Candida's normal homeostasis, resulting in a transition from normal flora to pathogenic and opportunistic infections. The transition in the pathophysiology of the onset and progression of infection is also influenced by Candida's virulence traits that lead to the development of candidiasis. Oral candidiasis has a wide range of clinical manifestations, divided into primary and secondary candidiasis. The main supply of C. albicans in the body is located in the gastrointestinal tract, and the development of infections occurs due to dysbiosis of the residential microbiota, immune dysfunction, and damage to the muco-intestinal barrier. The presence of C. albicans in the blood is associated with candidemia-invasive Candida infections. The commensal relationship exists as long as there is a balance between the host immune system and the virulence factors of C. albicans. This paper presents the virulence traits of Candida albicans and clinical manifestations of specific candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasminka Talapko
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia; (J.T.); (M.J.)
| | - Martina Juzbašić
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia; (J.T.); (M.J.)
| | - Tatjana Matijević
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Clinical Hospital Center Osijek, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia;
| | - Emina Pustijanac
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Juraj Dobrila University of Pula, HR-52100 Pula, Croatia;
| | - Sanja Bekić
- Family Medicine Practice, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia;
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Ivan Kotris
- Department of Internal Medicine, General County Hospital Vukovar, HR-3200 Vukovar, Croatia;
| | - Ivana Škrlec
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia; (J.T.); (M.J.)
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