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Clack K, Sallam M, Matheson C, Muyldermans S, Nguyen NT. Towards a Wearable Feminine Hygiene Platform for Detection of Invasive Fungal Pathogens via Gold Nanoparticle Aggregation. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:899. [PMID: 39064410 PMCID: PMC11278863 DOI: 10.3390/mi15070899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungus that becomes pathogenic and problematic under certain biological conditions. C. albicans may cause painful and uncomfortable symptoms, as well as deaths in immunocompromised patients. Therefore, early detection of C. albicans is essential. However, conventional detection methods are costly, slow, and inaccessible to women in remote or developing areas. To address these concerns, we have developed a wearable and discrete naked-eye detectable colorimetric platform for C. albicans detection. With some modification, this platform is designed to be directly adhered to existing feminine hygiene pads. Our platform is rapid, inexpensive, user-friendly, and disposable and only requires three steps: (i) the addition of vaginal fluid onto sample pads; (ii) the addition of gold nanoparticle gel and running buffer, and (iii) naked eye detection. Our platform is underpinned by selective thiolated aptamer-based recognition of 1,3-β-D glucan molecules-a hallmark of C. albicans cell walls. In the absence of C. albicans, wearable sample pads turn bright pink. In the presence of C. albicans, the wearable pads turn dark blue due to significant nanoparticle target-induced aggregation. We demonstrate naked-eye colorimetric detection of 4.4 × 106C. albicans cells per ml and nanoparticle stability over a pH range of 3.0-8.0. We believe that this proof-of-concept platform has the potential to have a significant impact on women's health globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley Clack
- Queensland Micro and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (K.C.); (M.S.)
- School of Environment and Science (ESC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia;
| | - Mohamed Sallam
- Queensland Micro and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (K.C.); (M.S.)
- School of Environment and Science (ESC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia;
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery (GRIDD), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Carney Matheson
- School of Environment and Science (ESC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia;
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology (CMIM), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- Queensland Micro and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (K.C.); (M.S.)
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2
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Abril-Parreño L, Krogenæs A, Fair S. Lipidomic profiling of cervical mucus reveals the potential role of pro-inflammatory derived metabolites on sperm transport across the ovine cervix. Animal 2024; 18:101136. [PMID: 38626706 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2024.101136] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Internationally, cervical artificial insemination (AI) in sheep yields low pregnancy rates when frozen-thawed semen is used. An exception to this is in Norway where vaginal AI of frozen-thawed semen to a natural oestrus yields non-return rates in excess of 60%, which has been attributed to the ewe breed used in Norway. This study used both metabolomics and an RNA-sequencing approach to assess the lipid production and composition from cervical mucus and tissue of four European ewe breeds (n = 28-30 ewes per breed) with previously reported differences in pregnancy rates following cervical AI with frozen-thawed semen. These breeds included Suffolk (exhibiting low fertility), Belclare (medium fertility) as well as Norwegian White Sheep and Fur (both with high fertility and pregnancy rates > 60%) at both a synchronised and natural oestrous cycle. The aim was to explore the differences between ewe breeds in the lipidomic profile and to identify candidate biomarkers associated with an optimal environment for cervical sperm transport. The results revealed the identification of 255 lipids, of which 170, 102 and 83 were different between ewe breeds, types of cycle and affected by their interaction, respectively (P < 0.05). Reduced levels of lipids involved in the resolution of inflammation (i.e. 14-HDoHE,17-HDoHE, 15-HETE) were identified in the low-fertility Suffolk breed compared to high-fertility ewe breeds. However, there was an up-regulation of the COX pathway accompanied by increased levels of prostaglandins in the Suffolk breed. These findings indicated a sub-optimal and pro-inflammatory environment that could have a negative effect on cervical sperm transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Abril-Parreño
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering. University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
| | - Anette Krogenæs
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 5003 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Sean Fair
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering. University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland.
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3
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Pedro NA, Mira NP. A molecular view on the interference established between vaginal Lactobacilli and pathogenic Candida species: Challenges and opportunities for the development of new therapies. Microbiol Res 2024; 281:127628. [PMID: 38246122 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Vaginal infectious diseases caused by viruses and bacteria have been linked to the occurrence of dysbiosis, that is, a reduction in the abundance of the normally dominating vaginal Lactobacillus species. Mucosal infections in the vagina and/or vulva caused by Candida species, usually known as vulvovaginal candidiasis (or VVC), are among the leading causes of diseases in the vaginal tract. The existence of a clear link between the occurrence of dysbiosis and the development of VVC is still unclear, although multiple observations point in that direction. Based on the idea that vaginal health is linked to a microbiota dominated by lactobacilli, several probiotics have been used in management of VVC, either alone or in combination with antifungals, having obtained different degrees of success. In most cases, the undertaken trials resorted to lactobacilli species other than those indigenous to the vaginal tract, although in vitro these vaginal species were shown to reduce growth, viability and virulence of Candida. In this paper we overview the role of lactobacilli and Candida in the vaginal micro- and myco-biomes, while discussing the results obtained in what concerns the establishment of interference mechanisms in vivo and the environmental factors that could determine that. We also overview the molecular mechanisms by which lactobacilli species have been shown to inhibit pathophysiology of Candida, including the description of the genes and pathways determining their ability to thrive in the presence of each other. In a time where concerns are increasing with the emergence of antifungal resistance and the slow pace of discovery of new antifungals, a thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms underneath the anti-Candida effect prompted by vaginal lactobacilli is of utmost importance to assure a knowledge-based design of what can be a new generation of pharmaceuticals, eventually focusing therapeutic targets other than the usual ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno A Pedro
- iBB, Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico - Department of Bioengineering, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy at Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Nuno P Mira
- iBB, Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico - Department of Bioengineering, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy at Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
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4
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Wang Y, Liu Z, Chen T. Vaginal microbiota: Potential targets for vulvovaginal candidiasis infection. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27239. [PMID: 38463778 PMCID: PMC10923723 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is the second most common cause of vaginal infection globally after bacterial vaginosis (BV) and associated with adverse reproductive and obstetric outcomes, including preterm delivery, sexually transmitted infections and pelvic inflammatory disease. Although effective control of VVC is achievable with the use of traditional treatment strategies (i.e., antifungals), the possibility of drug intolerance, treatment failure and recurrence, as well as the appearance of antifungal-resistant Candida species remain critical challenges. Therefore, alternative therapeutic strategies against VVC are urgently required. In recent years, an improved understanding of the dysbiotic vaginal microbiota (VMB) during VVC has prompted the consideration of administering -biotics to restore the balance of the VMB within the context of VVC prevention and treatment. Here, we aim to summarize the current evidence of the anti-Candida effects of probiotics, postbiotics and synbiotics and their potential use as an alternative/complementary therapy against VVC. Additionally, this review discusses advantages and challenges associated with the application of -biotics in VVC to provide guidance for their later use. We also review new developments in VVC therapy, i.e., vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) as an emerging live biotherapeutic therapy against VVC and discuss existing shortcomings associated with this nascent field, expecting to stimulate further investigations for introduction of new therapies against VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, No.1299, Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
- Queen Mary School, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, No.1299, Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zhaoxia Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, No.1299, Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Tingtao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, No.1299, Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
- School of Pharmacy, National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, No.1299, Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
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Hosmer J, McEwan AG, Kappler U. Bacterial acetate metabolism and its influence on human epithelia. Emerg Top Life Sci 2024; 8:1-13. [PMID: 36945843 PMCID: PMC10903459 DOI: 10.1042/etls20220092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Short-chain fatty acids are known modulators of host-microbe interactions and can affect human health, inflammation, and outcomes of microbial infections. Acetate is the most abundant but least well-studied of these modulators, with most studies focusing on propionate and butyrate, which are considered to be more potent. In this mini-review, we summarize current knowledge of acetate as an important anti-inflammatory modulator of interactions between hosts and microorganisms. This includes a summary of the pathways by which acetate is metabolized by bacteria and human cells, the functions of acetate in bacterial cells, and the impact that microbially derived acetate has on human immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Hosmer
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Alastair G. McEwan
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Ulrike Kappler
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
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6
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Clack K, Sallam M, Muyldermans S, Sambasivam P, Nguyen CM, Nguyen NT. Instant Candida albicans Detection Using Ultra-Stable Aptamer Conjugated Gold Nanoparticles. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:216. [PMID: 38398945 PMCID: PMC10892967 DOI: 10.3390/mi15020216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Fungal pathogens such as Candida albicans have significant impacts on women's health and the economy worldwide. Current detection methods often require access to laboratory facilities that are costly, inconvenient, and slow to access. This often leads to self-diagnosis, self-treatment and eventual antifungal resistance. We have created a rapid (within five minutes), cost-effective, and user-friendly method for the early detection of Candida albicans. Our platform utilises aptamer-tagged-gold-core-shell nanoparticles for Candida albicans detection based on the presence of 1,3-β-d glucan molecules. Nanoparticle aggregation occurs in the presence of Candida albicans fungal cells, causing a redshift in the UV-visible absorbance, turning from pink/purple to blue. This colour change is perceptible by the naked eye and provides a "yes"/"no" result. Our platform was also capable of detecting Candida albicans from individual yeast colonies without prior sample processing, dilution or purification. Candida albicans yeast cells were detected with our platform at concentrations as low as 5 × 105 cells within a 50 μL sample volume. We believe that this technology has the potential to revolutionise women's health, enabling women to test for Candida albicans accurately and reliably from home. This approach would be advantageous within remote or developing areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley Clack
- Queensland Micro and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (K.C.); (M.S.); (C.M.N.)
| | - Mohamed Sallam
- Queensland Micro and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (K.C.); (M.S.); (C.M.N.)
- School of Environment and Science (ESC), Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery (GRIDD), Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology (CMIM), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Prabhakaran Sambasivam
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Cong Minh Nguyen
- Queensland Micro and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (K.C.); (M.S.); (C.M.N.)
- School of Environment and Science (ESC), Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- Queensland Micro and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (K.C.); (M.S.); (C.M.N.)
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7
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Zhao Y, Wang P, Sun X, Zhao M, Chen Y, Gao X. Candida albicans Infection Disrupts the Metabolism of Vaginal Epithelial Cells and Inhibits Cellular Glycolysis. Microorganisms 2024; 12:292. [PMID: 38399696 PMCID: PMC10891792 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12020292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common gynecologic disorder caused by fungal infections of the vaginal mucosa, with the most common pathogen being Candida albicans (C. albicans). Exploring metabolite changes in the disease process facilitates further discovery of targets for disease treatment. However, studies on the metabolic changes caused by C. albicans are still lacking. In this study, we used C. albicans-infected vaginal epithelial cells to construct an in vitro model of VVC, analyzed the metabolites by UHPLC-Q-Exactive MS, and screened the potential metabolites based on metabolomics. The results showed that C. albicans infection resulted in significant up-regulation of D-arabitol, palmitic acid, adenosine, etc.; significant down-regulation of lactic acid, nicotinamide (NAM), nicotinate (NA), etc.; and disruption of amino acid metabolism, and that these significantly altered metabolites might be potential therapeutic targets of VVC. Further experiments showed that C. albicans infection led to a decrease in glycolytic enzymes in damaged cells, inhibiting glycolysis and leading to significant alterations in glycolytic metabolites. The present study explored the potential metabolites of VVC induced by C. albicans infection based on metabolomics and verified the inhibitory effect of C. albicans on vaginal epithelial cell glycolysis, which is valuable for the diagnosis and treatment of VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanni Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
- Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmaceutical Engineering Research Center, Guizhou Provincial Department of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
| | - Pengjiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
- Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmaceutical Engineering Research Center, Guizhou Provincial Department of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
- Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmaceutical Engineering Research Center, Guizhou Provincial Department of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
| | - Mei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
- Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmaceutical Engineering Research Center, Guizhou Provincial Department of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
| | - Yixuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
- Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmaceutical Engineering Research Center, Guizhou Provincial Department of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
| | - Xiuli Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
- Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmaceutical Engineering Research Center, Guizhou Provincial Department of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550031, China
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8
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Zahra A, Menon R, Bento GFC, Selim J, Taylor BD, Vincent KL, Pyles RB, Richardson LS. Validation of vaginal microbiome proxies for in vitro experiments that biomimic Lactobacillus-dominant vaginal cultures. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13797. [PMID: 38009054 PMCID: PMC10691763 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13797] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiome includes diverse microbiota dominated by Lactobacillus [L.] spp. that protect against infections, modulate inflammation, and regulate vaginal homeostasis. Because it is challenging to incorporate vaginal microbiota into in vitro models, including organ-on-a-chip systems, we assessed microbial metabolites as reliable proxies in addition to traditional vaginal epithelial cultures (VECs). Human immortalized VECs cultured on transwells with an air-liquid interface generated stratified cell layers colonized by transplanted healthy microbiomes (L. jensenii- or L. crispatus-dominant) or a community representing bacterial vaginosis (BV). After 48-h, a qPCR array confirmed the expected donor community profiles. Pooled apical and basal supernatants were subjected to metabolomic analysis (untargeted mass spectrometry) followed by ingenuity pathways analysis (IPA). To determine the bacterial metabolites' ability to recreate the vaginal microenvironment in vitro, pooled bacteria-free metabolites were added to traditional VEC cultures. Cell morphology, viability, and cytokine production were assessed. IPA analysis of metabolites from colonized samples contained fatty acids, nucleic acids, and sugar acids that were associated with signaling networks that contribute to secondary metabolism, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory functions indicative of a healthy vaginal microbiome compared to sterile VEC transwell metabolites. Pooled metabolites did not affect cell morphology or induce cell death (∼5.5%) of VEC cultures (n = 3) after 72-h. However, metabolites created an anti-inflammatory milieu by increasing IL-10 production (p = .06, T-test) and significantly suppressing pro-inflammatory IL-6 (p = .0001), IL-8 (p = .009), and TNFα (p = .0007) compared to naïve VEC cultures. BV VEC conditioned-medium did not affect cell morphology nor viability; however, it induced a pro-inflammatory environment by elevating levels of IL-6 (p = .023), IL-8 (p = .031), and TNFα (p = .021) when compared to L.-dominate microbiome-conditioned medium. VEC transwells provide a suitable ex vivo system to support the production of bacterial metabolites consistent with the vaginal milieu allowing subsequent in vitro studies with enhanced accuracy and utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abir Zahra
- School of Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Giovana Fernanda Cosi Bento
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jessica Selim
- School of Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Brandie D. Taylor
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Kathleen L. Vincent
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Richard B. Pyles
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Lauren S. Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
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9
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de Vos J, Otto RE, Achetib N, Gasser A, Aalders MCG, van Dam A. Analysis of the fluorescent properties of vaginal fluid upon ageing. Methods Appl Fluoresc 2023; 12:015007. [PMID: 37879326 DOI: 10.1088/2050-6120/ad06dd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Detection and identification of body fluids are crucial aspects of forensic investigations, aiding in crime scene reconstructions and providing important leads. Although many methods have been developed for these purposes, no method is currently in use in the forensic field that allows rapid, non-contact detection and identification of vaginal fluids directly at the crime scene. The development of such technique is mainly challenged by the complex chemistry of the constituents, which can differ between donors and exhibits changes based on woman's menstrual cycle. The use of fluorescence spectroscopy has shown promise in this area for other biological fluids. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify specific fluorescent signatures of vaginal fluid with fluorescence spectroscopy to allow on-site identification. Additionally, the fluorescent properties were monitored over time to gain insight in the temporal changes of the fluorescent spectra of vaginal fluid. The samples were excited at wavelengths ranging from 200 to 600 nm and the induced fluorescence emission was measured from 220 to 700 nm. Excitation and emission maps (EEMs) were constructed for eight donors at seven time points after donation. Four distinctive fluorescence peaks could be identified in the EEMs, indicating the presence of proteins, fluorescent oxidation products (FOX), and an unidentified component as the dominant contributors to the fluorescence. To further asses the fluorescence characteristics of vaginal fluid, the fluorescent signatures of protein and FOX were used to monitor protein and lipid oxidation reactions over time. The results of this study provide insights into the intrinsic fluorescent properties of vaginal fluid over time which could be used for the development of a detection and identification method for vaginal fluids. Furthermore, the observed changes in fluorescence signatures over time could be utilized to establish an accurate ageing model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith de Vos
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rosa E Otto
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nihad Achetib
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anas Gasser
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laboratorium for Micro- and Photolectronics, Electronics and Informatics, Faculty of Engineering, Applied Physics and Photonics, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maurice C G Aalders
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Co van Ledden Hulsebosch Center (CLHC), University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke van Dam
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Forensic Science, University of Applied Sciences, Tafelbergweg 51, 1105 BD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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10
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Pinjari OF, Jones GH, Vecera CM, Smith K, Barrera A, Machado-Vieira R. The Role of the Gut Microbiome in Bipolar Disorder and its Common Comorbidities. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023:101078. [PMID: 37220806 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Bipolar disorder is a decidedly heterogeneous and multifactorial disease, with significant psychosocial and medical disease burden. Much difficulty has been encountered in developing novel therapeutics and objective biomarkers for clinical use in this population. In that regard, gut-microbial homeostasis appears to modulate several key pathways relevant to a variety of psychiatric, metabolic, and inflammatory disorders. Microbial impact on immune, endocrine, endocannabinoid, kynurenine, and other pathways are discussed throughout this review. Emphasis is placed on this system's relevance to current pharmacology, diet, and comorbid illness in bipolar disorder. Despite the high level of optimism promoted in many reviews on this topic, substantial obstacles exist before any microbiome-related findings can provide meaningful clinical utility. Beyond a comprehensive overview of pathophysiology, this review hopes to highlight several key areas where progress is needed. As well, novel microbiome-associated suggestions are presented for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar F Pinjari
- Wayne Scott (J-IV) Unit of Correctional Managed Care, University of Texas Medical Branch.
| | - Gregory H Jones
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth).
| | - Courtney M Vecera
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth).
| | - Kacy Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth).
| | - Anita Barrera
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth).
| | - Rodrigo Machado-Vieira
- Wayne Scott (J-IV) Unit of Correctional Managed Care, University of Texas Medical Branch.
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11
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Filardo S, Di Pietro M, De Angelis M, Brandolino G, Porpora MG, Sessa R. In-Silico Functional Metabolic Pathways Associated to Chlamydia trachomatis Genital Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415847. [PMID: 36555488 PMCID: PMC9781786 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The advent of high-throughput technologies, such as 16s rDNA sequencing, has significantly contributed to expanding our knowledge of the microbiota composition of the genital tract during infections such as Chlamydia trachomatis. The growing body of metagenomic data can be further exploited to provide a functional characterization of microbial communities via several powerful computational approaches. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the predicted metabolic pathways of the cervicovaginal microbiota associated with C. trachomatis genital infection in relation to the different Community State Types (CSTs), via PICRUSt2 analysis. Our results showed a more rich and diverse mix of predicted metabolic pathways in women with a CST-IV microbiota as compared to all the other CSTs, independently from infection status. C. trachomatis genital infection further modified the metabolic profiles in women with a CST-IV microbiota and was characterized by increased prevalence of the pathways for the biosynthesis of precursor metabolites and energy, biogenic amino-acids, nucleotides, and tetrahydrofolate. Overall, predicted metabolic pathways might represent the starting point for more precisely designed future metabolomic studies, aiming to investigate the actual metabolic pathways characterizing C. trachomatis genital infection in the cervicovaginal microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Filardo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Microbiology Section, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marisa Di Pietro
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Microbiology Section, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marta De Angelis
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Microbiology Section, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Brandolino
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urology, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Porpora
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urology, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Sessa
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Microbiology Section, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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12
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Nakama C, Thompson B, Szybala C, McBeth A, Dobner P, Zwickey H. The Continuum of Microbial Ecosystems along the Female Reproductive Tract: Implications for Health and Fertility. Pathogens 2022; 11:1244. [PMID: 36364994 PMCID: PMC9693519 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The microbial ecosystem of the female urogenital tract is composed of many niche microenvironments across multiple organ systems in the urinary and reproductive tract. It is complex and contains a variety of bacteria, archaea, viruses, yeast, and protozoa-Many of which are still unidentified or whose functionality is unknown. Unlike the gut microbiome, whose composition is relatively stable in the absence of external perturbations, the urogenital microbiome is constantly shifting in response to biological cycles such as hormonal fluctuations during menstruation. Microbial composition differs between women but the dominance of some microbial families, such as Lactobacillaceae and other lactic acid-producing bacteria, are shared. Research suggests that it is difficult to define a universal healthy urogenital microbiome and consequently map a path to recovery from disease due to dysbiosis. Due to its temporal shifts, the female urogenital microbiome offers a unique opportunity to examine the biological mechanisms that work to restore a microbiome to its baseline. Common functional disorders in women's health are often difficult to diagnose and treat, are prone to recurrence, and can lead to subfertility or infertility. Knowledge of the interconnected microorganism communities along the continuum of the female reproductive tract could revolutionize the quality of women's healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Nakama
- Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Thaena, Inc., Vancouver, WA 98661, USA
| | - Brice Thompson
- Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Thaena, Inc., Vancouver, WA 98661, USA
| | | | - Andrea McBeth
- Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Thaena, Inc., Vancouver, WA 98661, USA
| | | | - Heather Zwickey
- Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Thaena, Inc., Vancouver, WA 98661, USA
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13
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Gaur SS, Annapure US. Untargeted metabolite profiling of Enterococcus villorum SB2, isolated from the vagina of pregnant women, by HR-LCMS. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 38:219. [PMID: 36070101 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-022-03404-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Enterococcus bacteria are studied in various sectors including fermentation, food and dairy industries,as well as studied for their probiotic properties but have limited use due to their possible pathogenic behavior. The present report talks about the metabolites produced, by the previously isolated Enterococcus strain, E.villorum SB2 (accession number KX830968), from the vaginal source. The growth of the bacteria in three types of media (M17, MRS and LAPTg) was compared, where the M17 media gave better bacterial colonies, also maximum growth rate was observed in M17 media (Td = 1.6 h & k = 0.4 h-1), and thus was selected as the metabolite production media. Further, the studied bacteria did not show any hemolytic activity, making it safe for industrial applications. The HR-LCMS results showed the production of various amino acids, organic acids, peptides, and other metabolites like flavonoids (Quercetin 3-O-Manoglucoside), terpenoids (7',8',Dihydro-8'-hydroxycitraniaxanthin, O-Methylganoderic acid O, Thalicsessine, Austinol, Valdiate), indole derivatives produced by tryptophan metabolism (5-hydroxykynurenamine, 2S,4R)-4-(9H-Pyrido[3,4-b]indol-1-yl)-1,2,4-butanetriol, Indoleacrylic acid), antimicrobial compounds (Fortimicin A) and fatty acids (Stearic acid, Myristic acid), which were earlier unreported form Enterococcus species opening new scope for discovering new industrial applications of the strain. As the studied bacteria has been reported to be a potential probiotic, the detection of these industrially important metabolites can be studied further in future studies to reveal the potential industrial applications of the strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Singh Gaur
- Department of Food Engineering and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Matunga, Mumbai, India
| | - Uday S Annapure
- Department of Food Engineering and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Matunga, Mumbai, India. .,Institute of Chemical Technology, Marathwada Campus, Jalna, India.
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14
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Carrillo-Salinas FJ, Parthasarathy S, Moreno de Lara L, Borchers A, Ochsenbauer C, Panda A, Rodriguez-Garcia M. Short-Chain Fatty Acids Impair Neutrophil Antiviral Function in an Age-Dependent Manner. Cells 2022; 11:2515. [PMID: 36010593 PMCID: PMC9406757 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Half of the people living with HIV are women. Younger women remain disproportionally affected in endemic areas, but infection rates in older women are rising worldwide. The vaginal microbiome influences genital inflammation and HIV infection risk. Multiple factors, including age, induce vaginal microbial alterations, characterized by high microbial diversity that generate high concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), known to modulate neutrophil function. However, how SCFAs may modulate innate anti-HIV protection by neutrophils is unknown. To investigate SCFA-mediated alterations of neutrophil function, blood neutrophils from younger and older women were treated with SCFAs (acetate, butyrate and propionate) at concentrations within the range reported during bacterial vaginosis, and phenotype, migration and anti-HIV responses were evaluated. SCFA induced phenotypical changes preferentially in neutrophils from older women. Butyrate decreased CD66b and increased CD16 and CD62L expression, indicating low activation and prolonged survival, while propionate increased CD54 and CXCR4 expression, indicating a mature aged phenotype. Furthermore, acetate and butyrate significantly inhibited neutrophil migration in vitro and specifically reduced α-defensin release in older women, molecules with anti-HIV activity. Following HIV stimulation, SCFA treatment delayed NET release and dampened chemokine secretion compared to untreated neutrophils in younger and older women. Our results demonstrate that SCFAs can impair neutrophil-mediated anti-HIV responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Siddharth Parthasarathy
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Immunology Program, Tufts Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Laura Moreno de Lara
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Immunology Unit, Biomedical Research Centre (CIBM), University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Anna Borchers
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Christina Ochsenbauer
- Department of Medicine, Hem/Onc & CFAR, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Alexander Panda
- Tufts Medical Center/Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care (PCCM), Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI), Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Marta Rodriguez-Garcia
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Immunology Program, Tufts Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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15
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Lee JY, Seo S, Shin B, Hong SH, Kwon E, Park S, Hur YM, Lee DK, Kim YJ, Han SB. Development of a New Biomarker Model for Predicting Preterm Birth in Cervicovaginal Fluid. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12080734. [PMID: 36005605 PMCID: PMC9416165 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12080734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) is a social problem that adversely affects not only the survival rate of the fetus, but also the premature babies and families, so there is an urgent need to find accurate biomarkers. We noted that among causes, eubiosis of the vaginal microbial community to dysbiosis leads to changes in metabolite composition. In this study, short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) representing dysbiosis were derivatized using (N-tert-butyldimethylsilyl-N-methyltrifluoroacetamide, MTBSTFA) and targeted analysis was conducted in extracted organic phases of cervicovaginal fluid (CVF). In residual aqueous CVF, polar metabolites produced biochemistry process were derivatized using methoxyamine and N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA), and non-targeted analysis were conducted. Nine SCFAs were quantified, and 58 polar metabolites were detected in 90 clinical samples using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The criteria of statistical analysis and detection rate of clinical sample for development of PTB biomarkers were presented, and 19 biomarkers were selected based on it, consisting of 1 SCFA, 2 organic acids, 4 amine compounds, and 12 amino acids. In addition, the model was evaluated as a suitable indicator for predicting PTB without distinction between sample collection time. We hope that the developed biomarkers based on microbiota-derived metabolites could provide useful diagnostic biomarkers for actual patients and pre-pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Youn Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Sumin Seo
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Bohyun Shin
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Se Hee Hong
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Eunjin Kwon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Ewha Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07984, Korea
| | - Sunwha Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Ewha Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07984, Korea
| | - Young Min Hur
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Ewha Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07984, Korea
| | - Dong-Kyu Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Korea
- Correspondence: (D.-K.L.); (Y.J.K.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Young Ju Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Ewha Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07984, Korea
- Correspondence: (D.-K.L.); (Y.J.K.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Sang Beom Han
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Korea
- Correspondence: (D.-K.L.); (Y.J.K.); (S.B.H.)
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16
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Bommana S, Richards G, Kama M, Kodimerla R, Jijakli K, Read TD, Dean D. Metagenomic Shotgun Sequencing of Endocervical, Vaginal, and Rectal Samples among Fijian Women with and without Chlamydia trachomatis Reveals Disparate Microbial Populations and Function across Anatomic Sites: a Pilot Study. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0010522. [PMID: 35579443 PMCID: PMC9241848 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00105-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is a sexually transmitted pathogen and a global public health concern. Little is known about the microbial composition and function across endocervical, vaginal, and rectal microbiomes in the context of C. trachomatis infection. We evaluated the microbiomes of 10 age-matched high-risk Fijian women with and without C. trachomatis using metagenomic shotgun sequencing (MSS). Lactobacillus iners and Lactobacillus crispatus dominated the vagina and endocervix of uninfected women. Species often found in higher relative abundance in bacterial vaginosis (BV)-Mageeibacillus indolicus, Prevotella spp., Sneathia spp., Gardnerella vaginalis, and Veillonellaceae spp.-were dominant in C. trachomatis-infected women. This combination of BV pathogens was unique to Pacific Islanders compared to previously studied groups. The C. trachomatis-infected endocervix had a higher diversity of microbiota and microbial profiles that were somewhat different from those of the vagina. However, community state type III (CST-III) and CST-IV predominated, reflecting pathogenic microbiota regardless of C. trachomatis infection status. Rectal microbiomes were dominated by Prevotella and Bacteroides, although four women had unique microbiomes with Gardnerella, Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium, and Brachyspira. A high level of microbial similarity across microbiomes in two C. trachomatis-infected women suggested intragenitorectal transmission. A number of metabolic pathways in the endocervix, driven by BV pathogens and C. trachomatis to meet nutritional requirements for survival/growth, 5-fold higher than that in the vagina indicated that endocervical microbial functions are likely more diverse and complex than those in the vagina. Our novel findings provide the impetus for larger prospective studies to interrogate microbial/microbiome interactions that promote C. trachomatis infection and better define the unique genitorectal microbiomes of Pacific Islanders. IMPORTANCE Chlamydia trachomatis is the primary cause of bacterial sexually transmitted infections worldwide, with a disturbing increase in annual rates. While there is a plethora of data on healthy and pathogenic vaginal microbiomes-defining microbial profiles and associations with sexually transmitted infections (STIs)-far fewer studies have similarly examined the endocervix or rectum. Further, vulnerable populations, such as Pacific Islanders, remain underrepresented in research. We investigated the microbial composition, structure, and function of these anatomic microbiomes using metagenomic shotgun sequencing among a Fijian cohort. We found, primarily among C. trachomatis-infected women, unique microbial profiles in endocervical, vaginal, and rectal microbiomes with an increased diversity and more complex microbial pathways in endocervical than vaginal microbiomes. Similarities in microbiome composition across sites for some women suggested intragenitorectal transmission. These novel insights into genitorectal microbiomes and their purported function require prospective studies to better define Pacific Islander microbiomes and microbial/microbiome interactions that promote C. trachomatis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sankhya Bommana
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Gracie Richards
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Mike Kama
- Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Suva, Fiji
| | - Reshma Kodimerla
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Kenan Jijakli
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Timothy D. Read
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Deborah Dean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Joint Graduate Program, University of California San Francisco and University of California Berkeley, San Francisco, California, USA
- Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Benioff Center for Microbiome Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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17
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Lipid metabolism in the cervicovaginal space during pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 227:679-680. [PMID: 35679894 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.05.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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18
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Ruiz-Castilla FJ, Ruiz Pérez FS, Ramos-Moreno L, Ramos J. Candida albicans Potassium Transporters. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094884. [PMID: 35563275 PMCID: PMC9105532 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Potassium is basic for life. All living organisms require high amounts of intracellular potassium, which fulfils multiple functions. To reach efficient potassium homeostasis, eukaryotic cells have developed a complex and tightly regulated system of transporters present both in the plasma membrane and in the membranes of internal organelles that allow correct intracellular potassium content and distribution. We review the information available on the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans. While some of the plasma membrane potassium transporters are relatively well known and experimental data about their nature, function or regulation have been published, in the case of most of the transporters present in intracellular membranes, their existence and even function have just been deduced because of their homology with those present in other yeasts, such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Finally, we analyse the possible links between pathogenicity and potassium homeostasis. We comment on the possibility of using some of these transporters as tentative targets in the search for new antifungal drugs.
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Wang C, Yan D, Huang J, Li Y. Impacts of changes in intestinal flora on the metabolism of Sprague-Dawley rats. Bioengineered 2021; 12:10603-10611. [PMID: 34852718 PMCID: PMC8809924 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.2000242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in intestinal flora affect the health and cause metabolic diseases of the host. The extent to which the impact of different changes in intestinal flora would have on the metabolism of an individual has not been reported. This study aims to investigate the effect of different changes in intestinal flora on the metabolism of Sprague-Dawley (SD) normal rats' individuals. Forty-eight SD rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (8 rats per group), which were treated with normal saline, probiotics, nonpathogenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella enteritidis, gentamicin, and magnesium sulfate, respectively. After 7 days, the ileum of each group of rats was collected and real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze the composition of intestinal flora. And gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) was used to analyze plasma metabolic profile. The results revealed that the decrease in alanine content in the probiotics group was statistically significant, while the alanine content in the nonpathogenic Escherichia group increased significantly. Alanine, leucine, isoleucine, and serine decreased significantly in the Salmonella group. Proline and butyric acid decreased significantly in the gentamicin group. The principal component analysis showed significant differences in the Salmonella group compared with other test groups. Overall, the most significant metabolic changes were observed in SD rats in the Salmonella group, while a great similarity was observed in the probiotics, Escherichia group, and gentamicin groups compared with the normal group. Changes in intestinal flora had a certain impact on the metabolism in SD rats, especially on amino acid levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengfei Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, HangzhouZhejiang Province, China
| | - Dong Yan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, HangzhouZhejiang Province, China
| | - Jianrong Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, HangzhouZhejiang Province, China
| | - Yongtao Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, HangzhouZhejiang Province, China
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