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Prusty JS, Kumar A, Kumar A. Anti-fungal peptides: an emerging category with enthralling therapeutic prospects in the treatment of candidiasis. Crit Rev Microbiol 2024:1-37. [PMID: 39440616 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2024.2418125] [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: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 10/10/2024] [Accepted: 10/13/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
Candida infections, particularly invasive candidiasis, pose a serious global health threat. Candida albicans is the most prevalent species causing candidiasis, and resistance to key antifungal drugs, such as azoles, echinocandins, polyenes, and fluoropyrimidines, has emerged. This growing multidrug resistance (MDR) complicates treatment options, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Antifungal peptides (AFPs) are gaining recognition for their potential as new antifungal agents due to their diverse structures and functions. These natural or recombinant peptides can effectively target fungal virulence and viability, making them promising candidates for future antifungal development. This review examines infections caused by Candida species, the limitations of current antifungal treatments, and the therapeutic potential of AFPs. It emphasizes the importance of identifying novel AFP targets and their production for advancing treatment strategies. By discussing the therapeutic development of AFPs, the review aims to draw researchers' attention to this promising field. The integration of knowledge about AFPs could pave the way for novel antifungal agents with broad-spectrum activity, reduced toxicity, targeted action, and mechanisms that limit resistance in pathogenic fungi, offering significant advancements in antifungal therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Sankar Prusty
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Raipur, Raipur, India
| | - Ashwini Kumar
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Awanish Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Raipur, Raipur, India
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2
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Tanwar S, Kalra S, Bari VK. Insights into the role of sterol metabolism in antifungal drug resistance: a mini-review. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1409085. [PMID: 39464401 PMCID: PMC11502366 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1409085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Sterols are essential for eukaryotic cells and are crucial in cellular membranes' structure, function, fluidity, permeability, adaptability to environmental stressors, and host-pathogen interactions. Fungal sterol, such as ergosterol metabolism, involves several organelles, including the mitochondria, lipid droplets, endoplasmic reticulum, and peroxisomes that can be regulated mainly by feedback mechanisms and transcriptionally. The majority of sterol transport in yeast occurs via non-vesicular transport pathways mediated by lipid transfer proteins, which determine the quantity of sterol present in the cell membrane. Pathogenic fungi Candida, Aspergillus, and Cryptococcus species can cause a range of superficial to potentially fatal systemic and invasive infections that are more common in immunocompromised patients. There is a significant risk of morbidity and mortality from these infections, which are very difficult to cure. Several antifungal drugs with different modes of action have received clinical approval to treat fungal infections. Antifungal drugs targeting the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway are well-known for their antifungal activity; however, an imbalance in the regulation and transport of ergosterol could lead to resistance to antifungal therapy. This study summarizes how fungal sterol metabolism and regulation can modulate sterol-targeting antifungal drug resistance.
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3
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Haji Ali S, Osmaniye D, Sağlık BN, Levent S, Özkay Y, Kaplancıklı ZA. Design, Synthesis, Investigation, and Biological Activity Assessments of (4-Substituted-Phenyl)- N-(3-morpholinopropyl)-3-phenylthiazol-2(3 H)-imine Derivatives as Antifungal Agents. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:39326-39343. [PMID: 39346840 PMCID: PMC11425616 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
In this study, a series of novel thiazol-2(3H)-imine (2a-2j) were designed, synthesized, and characterized by means of 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS spectral analyses. In vitro antifungal activity was performed using a modified EUCAST protocol. Two of the synthesized compounds (2d and 2e) showed activity against Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis. Compound 2e showed activity against C. parapsilosis (MIC50 = 1.23 μg/mL) for 48 h. This value is very similar to ketoconazole. The dynamic analysis of the potential compounds 2d and 2e revealed notable stability while interacting with the 14α-demethylase enzyme substrate. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) studies of the candidate compound showed acceptable ADME parameter data and verified their drug-likeness characteristics. According to the results of this study, compound 4-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-(3-morpholinopropyl)-3-phenylthiazol-2(3H)-imine (2e) and its derivatives as 14α-demethylase inhibitors can be used as a new antifungal for further structural improvements and additional research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sazan Haji Ali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil 44000, Iraq
- Graduate Education Institute, Anadolu University, Eskişehir 26470, Turkey
| | - Derya Osmaniye
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry,
Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskişehir 26470, Turkey
- Central Research Laboratory,
Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskişehir 26470, Turkey
| | - Begüm Nurpelin Sağlık
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry,
Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskişehir 26470, Turkey
- Central Research Laboratory,
Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskişehir 26470, Turkey
| | - Serkan Levent
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry,
Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskişehir 26470, Turkey
- Central Research Laboratory,
Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskişehir 26470, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Özkay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry,
Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskişehir 26470, Turkey
- Central Research Laboratory,
Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskişehir 26470, Turkey
| | - Zafer Asım Kaplancıklı
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry,
Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskişehir 26470, Turkey
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Calvo M, Scalia G, Trovato L. Antifungal Susceptibility Data and Epidemiological Distribution of Candida spp.: An In Vitro Five-Year Evaluation at University Hospital Policlinico of Catania and a Comprehensive Literature Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:914. [PMID: 39452181 PMCID: PMC11505318 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13100914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Invasive fungal infections represent a concerning healthcare issue, with Candida spp. reported as the main aetiological agent. Candida spp. bloodstream infections show high mortality rates, indicating increasing antifungal-resistance episodes as a contributing feature. Despite the global prevalence of C. albicans, non-albicans species emerged as significant in the last decades. METHODS The present manuscript reports a five-year evaluation on Candida spp. bloodstream isolates and their antifungal susceptibility profiles, aiming to enrich the literature and epidemiological data. RESULTS According to the gathered data, antifungal-resistance cases remained uncommon. However, the study revealed rare resistance phenotypes such as a single case of pan-echinocandin resistance C. albicans. CONCLUSIONS Finally, a comprehensive review of Candida spp. antifungal resistance integrates the data, emphasizing the extreme species-specific variability and the consequent importance of always providing species identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Calvo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (G.S.)
- U.O.C. Laboratory Analysis Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico “G. Rodolico-San Marco” Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Guido Scalia
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (G.S.)
- U.O.C. Laboratory Analysis Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico “G. Rodolico-San Marco” Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Laura Trovato
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (G.S.)
- U.O.C. Laboratory Analysis Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico “G. Rodolico-San Marco” Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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5
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Ferreira RLPS, Nova BGV, Carmo MS, Abreu AG. Mechanisms of action of Lactobacillus spp. in the treatment of oral candidiasis. BRAZ J BIOL 2024; 84:e282609. [PMID: 39319927 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.282609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is often associated with oral candidiasis, and drug-resistance profiles have contributed to an increase in morbidity and mortality. It is known that Lactobacillus spp. acts by competing for adhesion to the epithelium, absorption of nutrients and modulation of the human microbiota. Therefore, they are important to assist in the host's microbiological balance and reduce the growth of Candida spp. Until now, there have been no reports in the literature of reviews correlating to the use of Lactobacillus spp. in the treatment of oral candidiasis. Thus, this review aims to highlight the mechanisms of action of Lactobacillus spp. and methods that can be used in the treatment of oral candidiasis. This is a study carried out through the databases PubMed Central and Scientific Electronic Library Online, using the following keywords: Oral Candidiasis and Lactobacillus. Original articles about oral candidiasis were included, with both in vitro and in vivo analyses, and published from 2012 to 2022. Lactobacillus rhamnosus was the most common microorganism used in the experiments against Candida, acting mainly in the reduction of biofilm, filamentation, and competing for adhesion sites of Candida spp. Among in vivo studies, most researchers used immunosuppressed mouse modelsof Candida infection. The studies showed that Lactobacillus has a great potential as a probiotic, acting mainly in the prevention and treatment of mucosal diseases. Thus, the use of Lactobacillus may be a good strategy for the treatment of oral candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L P S Ferreira
- Universidade Ceuma - UniCEUMA, Laboratório de Patogenicidade Microbiana, São Luís, MA, Brasil
- Universidade Federal do Maranhão - UFMA, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, São Luís, MA, Brasil
| | - B G V Nova
- Universidade Ceuma - UniCEUMA, Laboratório de Patogenicidade Microbiana, São Luís, MA, Brasil
| | - M S Carmo
- Universidade Ceuma - UniCEUMA, Laboratório de Patogenicidade Microbiana, São Luís, MA, Brasil
| | - A G Abreu
- Universidade Ceuma - UniCEUMA, Laboratório de Patogenicidade Microbiana, São Luís, MA, Brasil
- Universidade Federal do Maranhão - UFMA, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, São Luís, MA, Brasil
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6
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Zaj N, Kopyt W, Kamizela E, Zarychta J, Kowalczyk A, Lejman M, Zawitkowska J. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge Caused by Candida albicans and Aspergillus spp. Infections in a Pediatric Patient as a Complication of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treatment: A Case Report and Literature Review. Pathogens 2024; 13:772. [PMID: 39338963 PMCID: PMC11435145 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13090772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections constitute a significant challenge and continue to be a predominant cause of treatment failure in pediatric leukemia cases. Despite the implementation of antifungal prophylaxis, these infections contribute to approximately 20% of cases in children undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The aim of this study is to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with invasive fungal infections (IFIs). We also present a review of the epidemiology, risk factors, treatment, and a clinical presentation of IFI in patients with ALL. This case report details the clinical course of confirmed Candida albicans (C. albicans) and Aspergillus spp. infections during the consolidation phase of ALL treatment in a 5-year-old pediatric patient. This male patient did not experience any complications until Day 28 of protocol II. Then, the patient's condition deteriorated. Blood culture detected the growth of C. albicans. Despite the implementation of targeted therapy, the boy's condition did not show improvement. The appearance of respiratory symptoms necessitated a computed tomography (CT) of the chest, which revealed multiple nodular densities atypical for C. albicans etiology. In spite of ongoing antifungal treatment, the lesions depicted in the CT scans showed no regression. A lung biopsy ultimately identified Aspergillus species as the source of the infection. Overcoming fungal infections poses a considerable challenge; therefore, an accurate diagnosis and the prompt initiation of targeted therapy are crucial in managing these infections in patients with leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Zaj
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (N.Z.); (W.K.); (E.K.); (J.Z.); (A.K.)
| | - Weronika Kopyt
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (N.Z.); (W.K.); (E.K.); (J.Z.); (A.K.)
| | - Emilia Kamizela
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (N.Z.); (W.K.); (E.K.); (J.Z.); (A.K.)
| | - Julia Zarychta
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (N.Z.); (W.K.); (E.K.); (J.Z.); (A.K.)
| | - Adrian Kowalczyk
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (N.Z.); (W.K.); (E.K.); (J.Z.); (A.K.)
| | - Monika Lejman
- Independent Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Joanna Zawitkowska
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
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Subedi A, Upreti MK, Rana JC, Sapkota RP, Thapa Shrestha U. Vulvovaginal candidiasis, an increasing burden to women in the tropical regions attending Bharatpur Hospital, Chitwan. J Mycol Med 2024; 34:101509. [PMID: 39276531 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2024.101509] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a yeast infection commonly caused by the overgrowth of Candida species in and around the vulva and vagina. Abnormal vaginal discharge, itching and irritation, swelling and redness of the vaginal area, pain during sexual intercourse, and dyspareunia are important clinical findings of the infection. Currently, the infection is one of the growing burdens to married women. Moreover, the infection with antifungal-resistant Candida species adds challenges to managing the disease. Hence, this study was conducted to identify the different Candida species causing vulvovaginal candidiasis and to determine its susceptibility pattern against different antifungal drugs. A hospital-based cross-sectional and quantitative study was conducted for the period of six months from September 2022 to March 2023 among symptomatic married women in the Gynecology and Obstetrics Department of Bharatpur Hospital, Chitwan. A total of 300 symptomatic cases were enrolled in the study. Candida species were isolated from vaginal swabs following standard microbiological procedures and antifungal susceptibility testing was performed with different antifungal agents. The total prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis was found to be 37.3 % (112/300). Among different isolates, Candida albicans was found to be the most predominant (52.6 %), followed by Candida glabrata (29.3 %) among non-albicans. Women from the age group 25-35 years were found to be more infected (47.3 %) and the relationship between contraceptive use and vulvovaginal candidiasis was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05). Candida species showed higher susceptibility toward Amphotericin-B (68.1 %), followed by fluconazole (Diflucan), and Clotrimazole (50.9 %). Whereas the least susceptibility was observed to Voriconazole (27.6 %) and Itraconazole (35.30 %). Candida albicans was comparatively more susceptible to different antifungal drugs than non-albicans species. Candida parapsilosis was only susceptible to Amphotericin-B and the increasing incidence of vaginal candidiasis due to non-albicans Candida indicates the need for routine speciation of Candida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anisha Subedi
- Department of Microbiology, Goldengate International College, Battisputali, Kathmandu
| | - Milan Kumar Upreti
- Department of Microbiology, Goldengate International College, Battisputali, Kathmandu
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8
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Tanwar SN, Parauha YR, There Y, Ameen F, Dhoble SJ. Inorganic nanoparticles: An effective antibiofilm strategy. LUMINESCENCE 2024; 39:e4878. [PMID: 39223925 DOI: 10.1002/bio.4878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Biofilm is a common problem associated with human health. Pathogenicity and increase in resistance of bacteria require urgent development of effective ways for the treatment of bacterial diseases. Different strategies have been developed for the treatment of bacterial infections among which nanoparticles have shown greater prospects in battling with infections. Biofilms are resistant microbial colonies that possess resistance and, hence, cannot be killed by conventional drugs. Nanoparticles offer new avenues for treating biofilm-related infections involving multi-drug resistant organisms. They possess great antibiofilm properties, disrupting cell architecture and preventing colony formation. Green-synthesised nanoparticles are more effective and less toxic to human cells than commercially available or chemically synthesised antibiofilm nanoparticles. This review summarises the antibiofilm efficiency of plant-mediated nanoparticles and knowledge about biofilm inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Nandkishor Tanwar
- Department of Microbiology, Taywade College, Mahadula-Koradi, Nagpur, India
- Department of Physics, R.T.M., Nagpur University, Nagpur, India
| | - Yatish Ratn Parauha
- Department of Physics, Shri Ramdeobaba College of Engineering and Management, Nagpur, India
- Ramdeobaba University, Nagpur, India
| | - Yogesh There
- Department of Microbiology, Taywade College, Mahadula-Koradi, Nagpur, India
| | - Faud Ameen
- Department of Botany & Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arbia
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9
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Pelliccia S, Russomanno P, Barone S, Mateu B, Alfano AI, Miranda M, Coretti L, Lembo F, Piccolo M, Irace C, Friggeri L, Hargrove TY, Curtis A, Lepesheva GI, Kavanagh K, Buommino E, Brindisi M. A First-in-Class Pyrazole-isoxazole Enhanced Antifungal Activity of Voriconazole: Synergy Studies in an Azole-Resistant Candida albicans Strain, Computational Investigation and in Vivo Validation in a Galleria mellonella Fungal Infection Model. J Med Chem 2024; 67:14256-14276. [PMID: 39115219 PMCID: PMC11482282 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
The widespread and irrational use of azole antifungal agents has led to an increase of azole-resistant Candida albicans strains with an urgent need for combination drug therapy, enhancing the treatment efficacy. Here, we report the discovery of a first-in-class pyrazole-isoxazole, namely, 5b, that showed remarkable growth inhibition against the C. albicans ATCC 10231 strain in combination with voriconazole, acting as a downregulator of ERG 11 (Cyp51) gene expression with a significant reduction of the yeast-to-hypha morphological transition. Furthermore, C. albicans CYP51 enzyme assay and in-depth molecular docking studies unveiled the unique ability of the combination of 5b and voriconazole to completely fill the CYP51 binding sites. In vivo studies using a Galleria mellonella model confirmed the previously in vitro observed synergistic effect of 5b with voriconazole. Also considering its biocompatibility in a cellular model of human keratinocytes, these results indicate that 5b represents a promising compound for a further optimization campaign.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sveva Pelliccia
- Department of Pharmacy (DoE 2023-2027), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Russomanno
- Magnetic Resonance Centre (CERM), Consorzio Interuniversitario Risonanze Magnetiche di Metallo Proteine (CIRMMP) and Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino 50019, Italy
| | - Simona Barone
- Department of Pharmacy (DoE 2023-2027), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Baptiste Mateu
- Department of Pharmacy (DoE 2023-2027), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Ilenia Alfano
- Department of Pharmacy (DoE 2023-2027), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Miranda
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Cell Biological Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Lorena Coretti
- Department of Pharmacy (DoE 2023-2027), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Lembo
- Department of Pharmacy (DoE 2023-2027), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Marialuisa Piccolo
- BioChemLab, Department of Pharmacy,School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Irace
- BioChemLab, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Friggeri
- Department of Cell and Development Biology, U4225 Medical Research Building III, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Tatiana Y. Hargrove
- Department of Biochemistry,Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Aaron Curtis
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, W23 F2H6 Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Galina I. Lepesheva
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Kevin Kavanagh
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, W23 F2H6 Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Elisabetta Buommino
- Department of Pharmacy (DoE 2023-2027), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Margherita Brindisi
- Department of Pharmacy (DoE 2023-2027), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
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Abruzzo A, Corazza E, Giordani B, Nicoletta FP, Vitali B, Cerchiara T, Luppi B, Bigucci F. Association of mucoadhesive polymeric matrices and liposomes for local delivery of miconazole: A new approach for the treatment of oral candidiasis. Int J Pharm 2024; 661:124461. [PMID: 38996824 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Since the local treatment of oral candidiasis usually requires long-term administration of the antifungal drug, an ideal dosage form should be able to maintain the drug release over an extended period, assuring an adequate concentration at the infection site. In this context, we have considered the possibility of a buccal delivery of miconazole nitrate (MN) by mucoadhesive polymeric matrices. The loading of the antifungal drug in a hydrophilic matrix was made possible by taking advantage of the amphiphilic nature of liposomes (LP). The MN-loaded LP were prepared by a thin film evaporation method followed by extrusion, while solid matrices were obtained by freeze-drying a suspension of the LP in a polymeric solution based on chitosan (CH), sodium hyaluronate (HYA), or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). MN-loaded LP measured 284.7 ± 20.1 nm with homogeneous size distribution, adequate drug encapsulation efficiency (86.0 ± 3.3 %) and positive zeta potential (+47.4 ± 3.3). CH and HYA-based formulations almost completely inhibited C. albicans growth after 24 h, even if the HYA-based one released a higher amount of the drug. The CH-based matrix also provided the best mucoadhesive capacity and therefore represents the most promising candidate for the local treatment of oral candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Abruzzo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Elisa Corazza
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Barbara Giordani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Fiore Pasquale Nicoletta
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Edificio Polifunzionale, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy.
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Teresa Cerchiara
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Barbara Luppi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Federica Bigucci
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
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Prusty JS, Kumar A. In silico-driven identification and experimental confirmation of antifungal proteins (AFPs) against Candidaalbicans. Biochimie 2024:S0300-9084(24)00194-9. [PMID: 39134296 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Mycoses infect millions of people annually across the world. The most common mycosis agent, Candida albicans is responsible for a great deal of illness and death. C. albicans infection is becoming more widespread and the current antifungals polyenes, triazoles, and echinocandins are less efficient against it. Investigating antifungal peptides (AFPs) as therapeutic is gaining momentum. Therefore, we used MALDI-TOF/MS analysis to identify AFPs and protein-protein docking to analyze their interactions with the C. albicans target protein. Some microorganisms with strong antifungal action against C. albicans were selected for the isolation of AFPs. Using MALDI-TOF/MS, we identified 3 AFPs Chitin binding protein (ACW83017.1; Bacillus licheniformis), the bifunctional protein GlmU (BBQ13478.1; Stenotrophomonas maltophilia), and zinc metalloproteinase aureolysin (BBA25172.1; Staphylococcus aureus). These AFPs showed robust interactions with C. albicans target protein Sap5. We deciphered some important residues in identified APFs and highlighted interaction with Sap5 through hydrogen bonds, protein-protein interactions, and salt bridges using protein-protein docking and MD simulations. The three discovered AFPs-Sap5 complexes exhibit different levels of stability, as seen by the RMSD analysis and interaction patterns. Among protein-protein interactions, the remarkable stability of the BBQ25172.1-2QZX complex highlights the role of salt bridges and hydrogen bonds. Identified AFPs could be further studied for developing successful antifungal candidates and peptide-based new antifungal therapeutic strategies as fresh insights into addressing antifungal resistance also.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Sankar Prusty
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, 492010, CG, India
| | - Awanish Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, 492010, CG, India.
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12
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Chao W, Qiu L, Gao L, Feng J, Liu Y, Yan L, Jiang Y, Lv Q. Antifungal Tetrahydrocarbazole Compound CAR-8 Induces Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Candida albicans. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:2705-2716. [PMID: 38989983 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The development of new effective antifungal agents is essential to combat fungal infections. Tetrahydrocarbazole has been exploited as a promising skeleton against various pathogenic microorganisms and is used to search for novel active antifungal compounds. In this study, a library composed of small tetrahydrocarbazole compounds was screened, and a potent antifungal agent, CAR-8, was identified with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 2-4 μg/mL against Candida albicans. CAR-8 showed strong fungicidal activities and killed almost all C. albicans within 3 h at a concentration of 16 μg/mL. At concentrations of 2 and 8 μg/mL, CAR-8 significantly inhibited the formation of hyphae and biofilms. Moreover, CAR-8 at 10 and 20 mg/kg reduced the fungal load and improved the survival in the C. albicans infection model in the invertebrate Galleria mellonella. Transcriptome analysis revealed significant changes in the expression of genes associated with protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), ER-associated degradation, and unfolded protein response (UPR), which suggested that CAR-8 treatment induced ER stress. Moreover, CAR-8 treatment resulted in various phenotypes similar to tunicamycin, a classical ER stress inducer. These included nonconventional splicing of HAC1 mRNA, the fragmented morphology of ER, the distribution changes of GFP-Snc1 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and cell apoptosis probably caused by ER stress. More importantly, the disruption of IRE1 or HAC1 increased the sensitivity of C. albicans to CAR-8, confirming that the UPR signaling pathway was critical for CAR-8 resistance. Overall, our study identifies a potent ER stress-induced antifungal compound that will help the discovery of new antifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Chao
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Lijuan Qiu
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Lu Gao
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Jia Feng
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yu Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Lan Yan
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
- The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yuanying Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Quanzhen Lv
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
- The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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13
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Van Genechten W, Vergauwen R, Van Dijck P. The intricate link between iron, mitochondria and azoles in Candida species. FEBS J 2024; 291:3568-3580. [PMID: 37846606 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16977] [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: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are rapidly increasing, and the opportunistic pathogenic Candida species are the fourth most common cause of nosocomial systemic infections. The current antifungal classes, of which azoles are the most widely used, all have shortcomings. Azoles are generally considered fungistatic rather than fungicidal, they do not actively kill fungal cells and therefore resistance against azoles can be rapidly acquired. Combination therapies with azoles provide an interesting therapeutic outlook and agents limiting iron are excellent candidates. We summarize how iron is acquired by the host and transported towards both storage and iron-utilizing organelles. We indicate whether these pathways alter azole susceptibility and/or tolerance, to finally link these transport mechanisms to mitochondrial iron availability. In this review, we highlight putative novel intracellular iron shuffling mechanisms and indicate that mitochondrial iron dynamics in relation to azole treatment and iron limitation is a significant knowledge gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter Van Genechten
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Botany and Microbiology, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rudy Vergauwen
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Botany and Microbiology, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Van Dijck
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Botany and Microbiology, KU Leuven, Belgium
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14
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Soto ER, Rus F, Ostroff GR. Yeast Particle Encapsulation of Azole Fungicides for Enhanced Treatment of Azole-Resistant Candida albicans. J Funct Biomater 2024; 15:203. [PMID: 39194641 DOI: 10.3390/jfb15080203] [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: 06/09/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Addressing the growing problem of antifungal resistance in medicine and agriculture requires the development of new drugs and strategies to preserve the efficacy of existing fungicides. One approach is to utilize delivery technologies. Yeast particles (YPs) are 3-5 µm porous, hollow microspheres, a byproduct of food-grade Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast extract manufacturing processes and an efficient and flexible drug delivery platform. Here, we report the use of YPs for encapsulation of tetraconazole (TET) and prothioconazole (PRO) with high payload capacity and stability. The YP PRO samples were active against both sensitive and azole-resistant strains of Candida albicans. The higher efficacy of YP PRO versus free PRO is due to interactions between PRO and saponifiable lipids in the YPs. Encapsulation of PRO in glucan lipid particles (GLPs), a highly purified form of YPs that do not contain saponifiable lipids, did not result in enhanced PRO activity. We evaluated the co-encapsulation of PRO with a mixture of the terpenes: geraniol, eugenol, and thymol. Samples co-encapsulating PRO and terpenes in YPs or GLPs were active on both sensitive and azole-resistant C. albicans. These approaches could lead to the development of more effective drug combinations co-encapsulated in YPs for agricultural or GLPs for pharmaceutical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto R Soto
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Florentina Rus
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Gary R Ostroff
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
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15
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Ismail SA, Fayed B, Abdelhameed RM, Hassan AA. Chitinase-functionalized UiO-66 framework nanoparticles active against multidrug-resistant Candida Auris. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:269. [PMID: 39030474 PMCID: PMC11264975 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03414-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida auris (C. auris) is a yeast that has caused several outbreaks in the last decade. Cell wall chitin plays a primary role in the antifungal resistance of C. auris. Herein, we investigated the potential of chitinase immobilized with UiO-66 to act as a potent antifungal agent against C. auris. Chitinase was produced from Talaromyces varians SSW3 in a yield of 8.97 U/g dry substrate (ds). The yield was statistically enhanced to 120.41 U/g ds by using Plackett-Burman and Box-Behnken design. We synthesized a UiO-66 framework that was characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, FTIR, a particle size analyzer, and a zeta sizer. The produced framework had a size of 70.42 ± 8.43 nm with a uniform cubic shape and smooth surface. The produced chitinase was immobilized on UiO-66 with an immobilization yield of 65% achieved after a 6 h loading period. The immobilization of UiO-66 increased the enzyme activity and stability, as indicated by the obtained Kd and T1/2 values. Furthermore, the hydrolytic activity of chitinase was enhanced after immobilization on UiO-66, with an increase in the Vmax and a decrease in the Km of 2- and 38-fold, respectively. Interestingly, the antifungal activity of the produced chitinase was boosted against C. auris by loading the enzyme on UiO-66, with an MIC50 of 0.89 ± 0.056 U/mL, compared to 5.582 ± 0.57 U/mL for the free enzyme. This study offers a novel promising alternative approach to combat the new emerging pathogen C. auris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaymaa A Ismail
- Department of Chemistry of Natural and Microbial Products, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, P.O. 12622, 33 El Bohouth Street, Dokki, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Bahgat Fayed
- Department of Chemistry of Natural and Microbial Products, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, P.O. 12622, 33 El Bohouth Street, Dokki, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Reda M Abdelhameed
- Applied Organic Chemistry Department, Chemical Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 EL Buhouth St, Dokki, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Amira A Hassan
- Department of Chemistry of Natural and Microbial Products, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, P.O. 12622, 33 El Bohouth Street, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
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16
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Vasconcelos PGS, Lee KM, Abuna GF, Costa EMMB, Murata RM. Monoterpene antifungal activities: evaluating geraniol, citronellal, and linalool on Candida biofilm, host inflammatory responses, and structure-activity relationships. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1394053. [PMID: 39101130 PMCID: PMC11294919 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1394053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Despite the rising concern with fungal resistance, a myriad of molecules has yet to be explored. Geraniol, linalool, and citronellal are monoterpenes with the same molecular formula (C10H18O), however, neither the effect of these compounds on inflammatory axis induced by Candida spp. nor the antibiofilm Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) have been well-investigated. Herein we analyzed geraniol, linalool and citronellal antifungal activity, cytotoxicity, and distinctive antibiofilm SAR, also the influence of geraniol on Candida spp induced dysregulated inflammatory axis, and in vivo toxicity. Methods: Minimal inhibitory (MIC) and fungicidal (MFC) concentrations against Candida spp were defined, followed by antibiofilm activity (CFU-colony forming unit/mL/g of dry weight). Cytotoxic activity was assessed using human monocytes (THP-1) and oral squamous cell (TR146). Geraniol was selected for further analysis based on antifungal, antibiofilm and cytotoxic results. Geraniol was tested using a dual-chamber co-culture model with TR146 cells infected with C. albicans, and THP-1 cells, used to mimic oral epithelium upon fungal infection. Expression of Candida enzymes (phospholipase-PLB and aspartyl proteases-SAP) and host inflammatory cytokines (interleukins: IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IL-18, IL-10, and Tumor necrosis factor-TNF) were analyzed. Lastly, geraniol in vivo toxicity was assessed using Galleria mellonella. Results: MIC values obtained were 1.25-5 mM/mL for geraniol, 25-100 mM/mL for linalool, and 100-200 mM/mL for citronellal. Geraniol 5 and 50 mM/mL reduced yeast viability during biofilm analysis, only 500 mM/mL of linalool was effective against a 72 h biofilm and no biofilm activity was seen for citronellal. LD50 for TR146 and THP-1 were, respectively: geraniol 5.883 and 8.027 mM/mL; linalool 1.432 and 1.709 mM/mL; and citronellal 0.3006 and 0.1825 mM/mL. Geraniol was able to downregulate expression of fungal enzymes and host pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-18. Finally, safety in vivo parameters were observed up to 20 mM/Kg. Discussion: Despite chemical similarities, geraniol presented better antifungal, antibiofilm activity, and lower cytotoxicity when compared to the other monoterpenes. It also showed low in vivo toxicity and capacity to downregulate the expression of fungal enzymes and host pro-inflammatory cytokines. Thus, it can be highlighted as a viable option for oral candidiasis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kyu Min Lee
- Department of Foundational Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Gabriel Flores Abuna
- Department of Foundational Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Edja Maria Melo Brito Costa
- Department of Dentistry, Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, State University of Paraiba, Campina Grande, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Ramiro Mendonça Murata
- Department of Foundational Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
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17
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Bisen AC, Sanap SN, Agrawal S, Biswas A, Mishra A, Verma SK, Singh V, Bhatta RS. Etiopathology, Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Fungal Keratitis. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:2356-2380. [PMID: 38847789 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis (FK) is a severe ocular condition resulting from corneal infection that is prevalent in tropical countries, particularly in developing regions of Asia and Africa. Factors like corneal lens misuse, inappropriate steroid use, and diagnostic challenges have provoked the epidemic. FK causes significant vision impairment, scarring, and ocular deformities. Accurate pathological diagnosis is crucial for effective therapeutic intervention. Topical antifungal therapy with surface healing medications proves effective in preventing fungal-borne ulcers. Managing FK requires a comprehensive understanding of fungal pathogenesis, guiding formulation strategies and preventive measures to curb global ocular blindness. This review provides in-depth insights into FK, covering etiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, therapeutic interventions, antifungal resistance, limitations, prevention, and future perspectives on ocular surface disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amol Chhatrapati Bisen
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
- Sophisticated Analytical Instrument Facility and Research, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Sachin Nashik Sanap
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Sristi Agrawal
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Arpon Biswas
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Anjali Mishra
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Sarvesh Kumar Verma
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Vaishali Singh
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Rabi Sankar Bhatta
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
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18
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Nunes IPF, de Jesus RS, Almeida JA, Costa WLR, Malta M, Soares LGP, de Almeida PF, Pinheiro ALB. Evaluation of 1,9-Dimethyl-Methylene Blue nanoencapsulation using rhamnolipid nanoparticles to potentiate the Photodynamic Therapy technique in Candida albicans: In vitro study. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY. B, BIOLOGY 2024; 256:112943. [PMID: 38788534 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2024.112943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
With the rapid development of nanotechnology, various functional nanomaterials have shown exciting potential in biomedical areas such as drug delivery, antitumor, and antibacterial therapy. These nanomaterials improve the stability and selectivity of loaded drugs, reduce drug-induced side effects, realize controlled and targeted drug release, and increase therapeutic efficacy. The increased resistance to antifungal microbicides in medical practice and their side effects stimulate interest in new therapies, such as Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), which do not generate resistance in microorganisms and effectively control the pathology. The present study aimed to evaluate, in vitro, the efficacy of photodynamic therapy on Candida albicans using 1,9-Dimethyl-Methylene Blue (DMMB) as photosensitizer, red LED (λ630), and nanoencapsulation of DMMB (RL-NPs/DMMB) using rhamnolipids produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa to evaluate if there is better performance of DMMB + RL particles compared to DMMB alone via the characterization of DMMB + RL and colony forming count. The tests were carried out across six experimental groups (Control, DMMB, RL-NPs, RL-NPs/DMMB, PDT and PDT + RL-NPs/DMMB) using in the groups with nanoparticles, DMMB (750 ng/mL) encapsulated with rhamnolipids in a 1:1 ratio, the light source consisted of a prototype built with a set of red LEDs with an energy density of 20 J/cm2. The results showed that applying PDT combined with encapsulation (RL-NPs/DMMB) was a more practical approach to inhibit Candida albicans (2 log reduction) than conventional applications, with a possible clinical application protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iago P F Nunes
- Center of Biophotonics, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia - UFBA, Av. Araújo Pinho, 62, Canela, Salvador, BA CEP: 40110-150, Brazil
| | - Romário S de Jesus
- Center of Biophotonics, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia - UFBA, Av. Araújo Pinho, 62, Canela, Salvador, BA CEP: 40110-150, Brazil
| | - Jeovana Amorim Almeida
- Center of Biophotonics, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia - UFBA, Av. Araújo Pinho, 62, Canela, Salvador, BA CEP: 40110-150, Brazil.
| | - Wellington L R Costa
- Center of Biophotonics, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia - UFBA, Av. Araújo Pinho, 62, Canela, Salvador, BA CEP: 40110-150, Brazil.
| | - Marcos Malta
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Chemistry of Microorganisms, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Bahia, Rua Barão de Geremoabo, 147, Ondina, Salvador, Bahia CEP: 40.170-115, Brazil.
| | - Luiz G P Soares
- Center of Biophotonics, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia - UFBA, Av. Araújo Pinho, 62, Canela, Salvador, BA CEP: 40110-150, Brazil
| | - Paulo F de Almeida
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Ecology of Microorganisms, Institute of Health Science, Federal University of Bahia, Reitor Miguel Calmon Ave, S/N, Salvador, BA CEP:40110-100, Brazil
| | - Antônio L B Pinheiro
- Center of Biophotonics, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia - UFBA, Av. Araújo Pinho, 62, Canela, Salvador, BA CEP: 40110-150, Brazil.
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19
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Vora M, Selvi SGA, Gunasekaran S, Jayaseelan VP. Computational Evaluation on the Interactions of an Opaque-Phase ABC Transporter Associated with Fluconazole Resistance in Candida albicans, by the Psidium guajava Bio-Active Compounds. J Pharmacopuncture 2024; 27:91-100. [PMID: 38948309 PMCID: PMC11194528 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2024.27.2.91] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Candida albicans is an opportunistic pathogen that occurs as harmless commensals in the intestine, urogenital tract, and skin. It has been influenced by a variety of host conditions and has now evolved as a resistant strain. The aim of this study was thus detect the fluconazole resistant C. albicans from the root caries specimens and to computationally evaluate the interactions of an opaque-phase ABC transporter protein with the Psidium guajava bio-active compounds. Methods 20 carious scrapings were collected from patients with root caries and processed for the isolation of C. albicans and was screened for fluconazole resistance. Genomic DNA was extracted and molecular characterization of Cdrp1 and Cdrp2 was done by PCR amplification. P. guajava methanolic extract was checked for the antifungal efficacy against the resistant strain of C. albicans. Further in-silico docking involves retrieval of ABC transporter protein and ligand optimization, molinspiration assessment on drug likeness, docking simulations and visualizations. Results 65% of the samples showed the presence of C.albicans and 2 strains were fluconazole resistant. Crude methanolic extract of P. guajava was found to be promising against the fluconazole resistant strains of C. albicans. In-silico docking analysis showed that Myricetin was a promising candidate with a high docking score and other drug ligand interaction scores. Conclusion The current study emphasizes that bioactive compounds from Psidium guajava to be a promising candidate for treating candidiasis in fluconazole resistant strains of C. albicans However, further in-vivo studies have to be implemented for the experimental validation of the same in improving the oral health and hygiene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mithil Vora
- Department of Microbiology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, P.H.Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Smiline Girija Aseervatham Selvi
- Department of Microbiology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, P.H.Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Shoba Gunasekaran
- Department of Biotechnology, Dwarakadoss Goverdhan Doss Vaishnav College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vijayashree Priyadharsini Jayaseelan
- Department of Microbiology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, P.H.Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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20
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Katsipoulaki M, Stappers MHT, Malavia-Jones D, Brunke S, Hube B, Gow NAR. Candida albicans and Candida glabrata: global priority pathogens. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0002123. [PMID: 38832801 PMCID: PMC11332356 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00021-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYA significant increase in the incidence of Candida-mediated infections has been observed in the last decade, mainly due to rising numbers of susceptible individuals. Recently, the World Health Organization published its first fungal pathogen priority list, with Candida species listed in medium, high, and critical priority categories. This review is a synthesis of information and recent advances in our understanding of two of these species-Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. Of these, C. albicans is the most common cause of candidemia around the world and is categorized as a critical priority pathogen. C. glabrata is considered a high-priority pathogen and has become an increasingly important cause of candidemia in recent years. It is now the second most common causative agent of candidemia in many geographical regions. Despite their differences and phylogenetic divergence, they are successful as pathogens and commensals of humans. Both species can cause a broad variety of infections, ranging from superficial to potentially lethal systemic infections. While they share similarities in certain infection strategies, including tissue adhesion and invasion, they differ significantly in key aspects of their biology, interaction with immune cells, host damage strategies, and metabolic adaptations. Here we provide insights on key aspects of their biology, epidemiology, commensal and pathogenic lifestyles, interactions with the immune system, and antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrto Katsipoulaki
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Mark H. T. Stappers
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Dhara Malavia-Jones
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Neil A. R. Gow
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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21
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Wang Z, Zhang Q, Zhang H, Lu Y. Roles of alcohol dehydrogenase 1 in the biological activities of Candida albicans. Crit Rev Microbiol 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38916139 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2024.2371510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans stands as the foremost prevalent human commensal pathogen and a significant contributor to nosocomial fungal infections. In the metabolism of C. albicans, alcohol dehydrogenase 1 (Adh1) is one of the important enzymes that converts acetaldehyde produced by pyruvate decarboxylation into ethanol at the end of glycolysis. Leveraging the foundational processes of alcoholic fermentation, Adh1 plays an active role in multiple biological phenomena, including biofilm formation, interactions between different species, the development of drug resistance, and the potential initiation of gastrointestinal cancer. Additionally, Adh1 within C. albicans has demonstrated associations with regulating the cell cycle, stress responses, and various intracellular states. Furthermore, Adh1 is extracellularly localized on the cell wall surface, where it plays roles in processes such as tissue invasion and host immune responses. Drawing from an analysis of ADH1 gene structure, expression patterns, and fundamental functions, this review elucidates the intricate connections between Adh1 and various biological processes within C. albicans, underscoring its potential implications for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haoying Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Lu
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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22
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Kurnia D, Lestari S, Mayanti T, Gartika M, Nurdin D. Anti-Infection of Oral Microorganisms from Herbal Medicine of Piper crocatum Ruiz & Pav. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:2531-2553. [PMID: 38952486 PMCID: PMC11215520 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s453375] [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: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The WHO Global Status Report on Oral Health 2022 reveals that oral diseases caused by infection with oral pathogenic microorganisms affect nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide. Oral health problems are caused by the presence of S. mutans, S. sanguinis, E. faecalis and C. albicans in the oral cavity. Synthetic anti-infective drugs have been widely used to treat oral infections, but have been reported to cause side effects and resistance. Various strategies have been implemented to overcome this problem. Synthetic anti-infective drugs have been widely used to treat oral infections, but they have been reported to cause side effects and resistance. Therefore, it is important to look for safe anti-infective alternatives. Ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological studies suggest that Red Betel leaf (Piper crocatum Ruiz & Pav) could be a potential source of oral anti-infectives. This review aims to discuss the pathogenesis mechanism of several microorganisms that play an important role in causing health problems, the mechanism of action of synthetic oral anti-infective drugs in inhibiting microbial growth in the oral cavity, and the potential of red betel leaf (Piper crocatum Ruiz & Pav) as an herbal oral anti-infective drug. This study emphasises the importance of researching natural components as an alternative treatment for oral infections that is more effective and can meet global needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dikdik Kurnia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Indonesia
| | - Seftiana Lestari
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Indonesia
| | - Tri Mayanti
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Indonesia
| | - Meirina Gartika
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Denny Nurdin
- Departement of Conservative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
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23
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Vasconcelos PGS, Abuna GF, Raimundo e Silva JP, Tavares JF, Costa EMMDB, Murata RM. Syzygium aromaticum essential oil and its major constituents: Assessment of activity against Candida spp. and toxicity. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305405. [PMID: 38889118 PMCID: PMC11185461 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Syzigium aromaticum essential oil (EO), eugenol, and β-caryophyllene were evaluated regarding antifungal, antibiofilm, and in vitro toxicity. Additionally, in vivo toxicity of EO was observed. Anti-Candida activity was assessed through broth microdilution assay for all compounds. Time-kill assay (0, 1, 10, 30 min, 1, 2, and 4 h) was used to determine the influence of EO and eugenol on Candida Growth kinetics. Thereafter, both compounds were evaluated regarding their capacity to act on a biofilm formation and on mature biofilm, based on CFU/ml/g of dry weight. Cell Titer Blue Viability Assay was used for in vitro cytotoxicity, using oral epithelial cells (TR146) and human monocytes (THP-1). Lastly, Galleria mellonella model defined the EO in vivo acute toxicity. All compounds, except β-cariofilene (MIC > 8000 μg/ml), presented antifungal activity against Candida strains (MIC 500-1000 μg/ml). The growth kinetics of Candida was affected by the EO (5xMIC 30 min onward; 10xMIC 10 min onward) and eugenol (5xMIC 10 min onward; 10xMIC 1 min onward). Fungal viability was also affected by 5xMIC and 10xMIC of both compounds during biofilm formation and upon mature biofilms. LD50 was defined for TR146 and THP1 cells at, respectively, 59.37 and 79.54 μg/ml for the EO and 55.35 and 84.16 μg/ml for eugenol. No sign of toxicity was seen in vivo up to 10mg/ml (20 x MIC) for the EO. S. aromaticum and eugenol presented antifungal and antibiofilm activity, with action on cell growth kinetics. In vivo acute toxicity showed a safe parameter for the EO up to 10 mg/ml.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriel Flores Abuna
- Department of Foundational Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | - Josean Fechine Tavares
- Multi-User Laboratory for Characterization and Analysis, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Edja Maria Melo de Brito Costa
- Department of Dentistry, Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, State University of Paraiba, Campina Grande, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Ramiro Mendonça Murata
- Department of Foundational Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States of America
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Dladla M, Gyzenhout M, Marias G, Ghosh S. Azole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus- comprehensive review. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:305. [PMID: 38878211 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-04026-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitous filamentous fungus commonly found in the environment. It is also an opportunistic human pathogen known to cause a range of respiratory infections, such as invasive aspergillosis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Azole antifungal agents are widely used for the treatment and prophylaxis of Aspergillus infections due to their efficacy and tolerability. However, the emergence of azole resistance in A. fumigatus has become a major concern in recent years due to their association with increased treatment failures and mortality rates. The development of azole resistance in A. fumigatus can occur through both acquired and intrinsic mechanisms. Acquired resistance typically arises from mutations in the target enzyme, lanosterol 14-α-demethylase (Cyp51A), reduces the affinity of azole antifungal agents for the enzyme, rendering them less effective, while intrinsic resistance refers to a natural resistance of certain A. fumigatus isolates to azole antifungals due to inherent genetic characteristics. The current review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of azole antifungal resistance in A. fumigatus, discusses underlying resistance mechanisms, including alterations in the target enzyme, Cyp51A, and the involvement of efflux pumps in drug efflux. Impact of azole fungicide uses in the environment and the spread of resistant strains is also explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mthokozisi Dladla
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa
| | - Marieka Gyzenhout
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.
| | - Gert Marias
- Department of Plant Sciences, Division of Plant Pathology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Soumya Ghosh
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Birkat Al Mawz, Oman.
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25
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Katta CB, Bahuguna D, Veerabomma H, Gollapalli S, Shaikh AS, Bhale NA, Dikundwar AG, Kaki VR, Singh PK, Madan J. Naringenin-Zinc Oxide Nanocomposites Amalgamated Polymeric Gel Augmented Drug Delivery and Attenuated Experimental Cutaneous Candidiasis in Balb/c Mice: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies. AAPS PharmSciTech 2024; 25:130. [PMID: 38844611 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-024-02841-7] [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: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Naringenin (NRG) inhibits the fungal 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase accountable for ergosterol synthesis in Candida albicans (C. albicans), a causative agent for cutaneous candidiasis. In present research, NRG was complexed with ZnO nanomaterial (NRG-Zn2+) to synthesize NRG-Zn2+ nanocomposites. The particle size and ζ-potential of NRG-Zn2+ nanocomposites were respectively estimated to be 180.33 ± 1.22-nm and - 3.92 ± 0.35-mV. In silico data predicted the greater affinity of NRG-Zn2+ nanocomposite for 14α-demethylase and ceramide in comparison to NRG alone. Later, NRG-Zn2+ nanocomposites solution was transformed in to naringenin-zinc oxide nanocomposites loaded chitosan gel (NRG-Zn-CS-Gel) with viscosity and firmness of 854806.7 ± 52386.43 cP and 698.27 ± 10.35 g, respectively. The ex-vivo skin permeation demonstrated 70.49 ± 5.22% skin retention, significantly greater (P < 0.05) than 44.48 ± 3.06% of naringenin loaded chitosan gel (NRG-CS-Gel) and 31.24 ± 3.28% of naringenin solution (NRG Solution). NRG-Zn-CS-Gel demonstrated 6.71 ± 0.84% permeation of NRG with a flux value of 0.046 ± 0.01-µg/cm2/h. The MIC50 of NRG-Zn-CS-Gel against C. albicans was estimated to be 0.156-µg/mL with FICI (fractional inhibitory concentration index) of 0.018 that consequently exhibited synergistic efficacy. Further, NRG-Zn-CS-Gel demonstrated superior antifungal efficacy in C. albicans induced cutaneous candidiasis infection in Balb/c mice. The fungal burden in NRG-Zn-CS-Gel treated group was 109 ± 25 CFU/mL, significantly lower (P < 0.05) than positive control (2260 ± 446 CFU/mL), naringenin loaded chitosan gel (NRG-CS-Gel; 928 ± 127 CFU/mL) and chitosan gel (CS-Gel; 2116 ± 186 CFU/mL) treated mice. Further, histopathology examination and cytokine profiling of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10 revealed the healing of skin and inflammation associated with cutaneous candidiasis infection. In conclusion, NRG-Zn-CS-Gel may be a potential candidate for translating in to a clinical viable topical nanotherapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanti Babu Katta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Deepankar Bahuguna
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Harithasree Veerabomma
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Spandana Gollapalli
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Arbaz Sujat Shaikh
- Department of Chemical Sciences, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Nagesh A Bhale
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Amol G Dikundwar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Venkat Rao Kaki
- Department of Chemical Sciences, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Pankaj Kumar Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Jitender Madan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
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Góralska K, Szybka M, Karuga FF, Pastuszak-Lewandoska D, Brzeziańska-Lasota E. Acquired resistance or tolerance? - in search of mechanisms underlying changes in the resistance profile of Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis as a result of exposure to methotrexate. J Mycol Med 2024; 34:101476. [PMID: 38507825 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2024.101476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of fungal strains showing acquired resistance and multidrug resistance is an increasing therapeutic problem, especially in patients with a severely weakened immune system and undergoing chemotherapy. What is also extremely disturbing is the similarity of the resistance mechanisms of fungal cells and other eukaryotic cells, including human cells, which may contribute to the development of cross-resistance in fungi in response to substances used in e.g. anticancer treatment. An example of such a drug is methotrexate, which is pumped out of eukaryotic cells by ABC transmembrane transporters - in fungi, used to remove azoles from fungal cells. For this reason, the aim of the study was to analyze the expression levels of genes: ERG11, MDR1 and CDR1, potentially responsible for the occurrence of cross-resistance in Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis as a result of fungal exposure to methotrexate (MTX). In vitro exposure of C. albicans and C. parapsilosis strains to methotrexate showed a high increase in resistance to fluconazole and a partial increase in resistance to voriconazole. Analysis of the expression of resistance genes showed varied responses of the tested strains depending on the species. In the case of C. albicans, an increase in the expression of the MDR1 gene was observed, and a decrease in ERG11 and CDR1. However, for C. parapsilosis there was an increase in the expression of the CDR1 gene and a decrease in ERG11 and MDR1. We noted the relationship between the level of resistance to voriconazole and the level of ERG11 gene expression in C. albicans. This indicates that this type of relationship is different for each species. Our research confirms that the mechanisms by which fungi acquire resistance and develop cross-resistance are highly complex and most likely involve several pathways simultaneously. The emergence of multidrug resistance may be related to the possibility of developing tolerance to antimycotics by fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Góralska
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Chair of Biology and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lodz. Żeligowskiego Street 7/9 90-752 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Małgorzata Szybka
- Department of Microbiology and Medical Laboratory Immunology, Chair of Biology and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lodz. Pomorska Street 251 (Building C5) 92-213 Lodz, Poland
| | - Filip Franciszek Karuga
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Chair of Biology and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lodz. Żeligowskiego Street 7/9 90-752 Lodz, Poland; Department of Sleep Medicine and Metabolic Disorders, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland
| | - Dorota Pastuszak-Lewandoska
- Department of Microbiology and Medical Laboratory Immunology, Chair of Biology and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lodz. Pomorska Street 251 (Building C5) 92-213 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewa Brzeziańska-Lasota
- Department of Biomedicine and Genetics, Chair of Biology and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lodz. Mazowiecka Street 5 (Building A6) 92-215 Lodz, Poland
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Nouraei H, Zare S, Nemati M, Amirzadeh N, Motamedi M, Shabanzadeh S, Zomorodian K, Pakshir K. Comparative analysis of enzymatic profiles and biofilm formation in clinical and environmental Candida kefyr isolates. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2024; 16:e13282. [PMID: 38923398 PMCID: PMC11194042 DOI: 10.1111/1758-2229.13282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The global landscape of Candida infections has seen a significant shift. Previously, Candida albicans was the predominant species. However, there has been an emergence of non-albicans Candida species, which are often less susceptible to antifungal treatment. Candida kefyr, in particular, has been increasingly associated with infections. This study aimed to investigate the profiles of enzymatic activity and biofilm formation in both clinical and non-clinical isolates of C. kefyr. A total of 66 C. kefyr isolates were analysed. The activities of proteinase and phospholipase were assessed using bovine serum albumin and egg yolk agar, respectively. Haemolysin, caseinolytic and esterase activities were evaluated using specific methods. Biofilm formation was investigated using crystal violet staining. The findings indicated that biofilm and proteinase activity were detected in 81.8% and 93.9% of all the isolates, respectively. Haemolysin activity was observed with the highest occurrence (95.5%) among normal microbiota isolates. Esterase activity was predominantly identified in dairy samples and was absent in hospital samples. Caseinase production was found with the highest occurrence (18.2%) in normal microbiota and hospital samples. Phospholipase activity was limited, found in only 3% of all the isolates. These findings reveal variations in enzyme activity between clinical and non-clinical C. kefyr isolates. This sheds light on their pathogenic potential and has implications for therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasti Nouraei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Samira Zare
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Maryam Nemati
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Neda Amirzadeh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Marjan Motamedi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Shafigheh Shabanzadeh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Kamiar Zomorodian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Keyvan Pakshir
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
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28
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Fattouh N, Husni R, Finianos M, Bitar I, Khalaf RA. Adhesive and biofilm-forming Candida glabrata Lebanese hospital isolates harbour mutations in subtelomeric silencers and adhesins. Mycoses 2024; 67:e13750. [PMID: 38813959 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13750] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of Candida glabrata healthcare-associated infections is on the rise worldwide and in Lebanon, Candida glabrata infections are difficult to treat as a result of their resistance to azole antifungals and their ability to form biofilms. OBJECTIVES The first objective of this study was to quantify biofilm biomass in the most virulent C. glabrata isolates detected in a Lebanese hospital. In addition, other pathogenicity attributes were evaluated. The second objective was to identify the mechanisms of azole resistance in those isolates. METHODS A mouse model of disseminated systemic infection was developed to evaluate the degree of virulence of 41 azole-resistant C. glabrata collected from a Lebanese hospital. The most virulent isolates were further evaluated alongside an isolate having attenuated virulence and a reference strain for comparative purposes. A DNA-sequencing approach was adopted to detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) leading to amino acid changes in proteins involved in azole resistance and biofilm formation. This genomic approach was supported by several phenotypic assays. RESULTS All chosen virulent isolates exhibited increased adhesion and biofilm biomass compared to the isolate having attenuated virulence. The amino acid substitutions D679E and I739N detected in the subtelomeric silencer Sir3 are potentially involved- in increased adhesion. In all isolates, amino acid substitutions were detected in the ATP-binding cassette transporters Cdr1 and Pdh1 and their transcriptional regulator Pdr1. CONCLUSIONS In summary, increased adhesion led to stable biofilm formation since mutated Sir3 could de-repress adhesins, while decreased azole susceptibility could result from mutations in Cdr1, Pdh1 and Pdr1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour Fattouh
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
- Department of Biology, Saint George University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rola Husni
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Lebanese American University Medical Center, Rizk Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marc Finianos
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Ibrahim Bitar
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Roy A Khalaf
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
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29
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Nogueira FC, de Souza AÁ, Araújo NMS, de Souza LAL, Guimarães Gomes Silva R, de Oliveira Bezerra de Sousa D, Coêlho Cavalcanti B, de Moraes Filho MO, Gurgel do Amaral Valente Sá L, Vitoriano Nobre Júnior H, de Oliveira HD. Antifungal activity of a trypsin inhibitor from Salvia hispanica L. (chia) seeds against fluconazole-resistant strains of Candida spp. and evaluation of its toxicity in vitro. Braz J Microbiol 2024; 55:1205-1217. [PMID: 38594492 PMCID: PMC11153404 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-024-01337-7] [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: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of Candida species resistant to traditional antifungal drugs is increasing globally. This issue significantly impacts patients' lives and increases healthcare expenses, confirming the need to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Recently, a thermostable trypsin inhibitor named ShTI (11.558 kDa), which has antibacterial effects on Staphylococcus aureus, was isolated from Salvia hispanica L. (chia) seeds. This study aimed to assess the antifungal effect of ShTI against Candida species and its synergism with fluconazole and to evaluate its mode of action. Preliminary toxicological studies on mouse fibroblasts were also performed. ShTI exhibited antifungal effects against C. parapsilosis (ATCC® 22,019), C. krusei (ATCC® 6258), and six clinical fluconazole-resistant strains of C. albicans (2), C. parapsilosis (2), and C. tropicalis (2). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were 4.1 µM (inhibiting 50% of the isolates) and 8.2 µM (inhibiting 100% of the isolates). Additionally, when combined with fluconazole, ShTI had a synergistic effect on C. albicans, altering the morphological structure of the yeast. The mode of action of ShTI against C. krusei (ATCC® 6258) and C. albicans involves cell membrane permeabilization, the overproduction of reactive oxygen species, the formation of pseudohyphae, pore formation, and consequently, cell death. In addition, ShTI (8.65 and 17.3 µM) had noncytotoxic and nongenotoxic effects on L929 mouse fibroblasts. These findings suggest that ShTI could be a promising antimicrobial candidate, but further research is necessary to advance its application as a novel antifungal agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Cristiane Nogueira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Adson Ávila de Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Nadine Monteiro Salgueiro Araújo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Larissa Alves Lopes de Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Rafael Guimarães Gomes Silva
- Department of Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Daniele de Oliveira Bezerra de Sousa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Bruno Coêlho Cavalcanti
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Porangabussu, Fortaleza, CE, 60430-270, Brazil
| | - Manoel Odorico de Moraes Filho
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Porangabussu, Fortaleza, CE, 60430-270, Brazil
| | | | - Hélio Vitoriano Nobre Júnior
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Porangabussu, Fortaleza, CE, 60430-270, Brazil
| | - Hermógenes David de Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil.
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Jiang J, Keniya MV, Puri A, Zhan X, Cheng J, Wang H, Lin G, Lee YK, Jaber N, Hassoun Y, Shor E, Shi Z, Lee SH, Xu M, Perlin DS, Dai W. Structural and Biophysical Dynamics of Fungal Plasma Membrane Proteins and Implications for Echinocandin Action in Candida glabrata. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.29.596243. [PMID: 38854035 PMCID: PMC11160696 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.29.596243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Fungal plasma membrane proteins represent key therapeutic targets for antifungal agents, yet their structure and spatial distribution in the native context remain poorly characterized. Herein, we employ an integrative multimodal approach to elucidate the structural and functional organization of plasma membrane protein complexes in Candida glabrata , focusing on prominent and essential membrane proteins, the polysaccharide synthase β-(1,3)-glucan synthase (GS) and the proton pump Pma1. Cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) and live cell imaging reveal that GS and Pma1 are heterogeneously distributed into distinct plasma membrane microdomains. Treatment with caspofungin, an echinocandin antifungal that targets GS, alters the plasma membrane and disrupts the native distribution of GS and Pma1. Based on these findings, we propose a model for echinocandin action that considers how drug interactions with the plasma membrane environment lead to inhibition of GS. Our work underscores the importance of interrogating the structural and dynamic characteristics of fungal plasma membrane proteins in situ to understand function and facilitate precisely targeted development of novel antifungal therapies.
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31
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Izadi A, Paknia F, Roostaee M, Mousavi SAA, Barani M. Advancements in nanoparticle-based therapies for multidrug-resistant candidiasis infections: a comprehensive review. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 35:332001. [PMID: 38749415 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ad4bed] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Candida auris, a rapidly emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen, poses a global health threat, with cases reported in over 47 countries. Conventional detection methods struggle, and the increasing resistance ofC. auristo antifungal agents has limited treatment options. Nanoparticle-based therapies, utilizing materials like silver, carbon, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, polymer, and gold, show promise in effectively treating cutaneous candidiasis. This review explores recent advancements in nanoparticle-based therapies, emphasizing their potential to revolutionize antifungal therapy, particularly in combatingC. aurisinfections. The discussion delves into mechanisms of action, combinations of nanomaterials, and their application against multidrug-resistant fungal pathogens, offering exciting prospects for improved clinical outcomes and reduced mortality rates. The aim is to inspire further research, ushering in a new era in the fight against multidrug-resistant fungal infections, paving the way for more effective and targeted therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Izadi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Medical Mycology and Bacteriology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Paknia
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14115-154, Iran
| | - Maryam Roostaee
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Seyed Amin Ayatollahi Mousavi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Medical Mycology and Bacteriology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mahmood Barani
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Nano and Bio Science and Technology, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr 75168, Iran
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32
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de Souza Rodrigues R, de Souza AQL, Feitoza MDO, Alves TCL, Barbosa AN, da Silva Santiago SRS, de Souza ADL. Biotechnological potential of actinomycetes in the 21st century: a brief review. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 2024; 117:82. [PMID: 38789815 DOI: 10.1007/s10482-024-01964-y] [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: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
This brief review aims to draw attention to the biotechnological potential of actinomycetes. Their main uses as sources of antibiotics and in agriculture would be enough not to neglect them; however, as we will see, their biotechnological application is much broader. Far from intending to exhaust this issue, we present a short survey of the research involving actinomycetes and their applications published in the last 23 years. We highlight a perspective for the discovery of new active ingredients or new applications for the known metabolites of these microorganisms that, for approximately 80 years, since the discovery of streptomycin, have been the main source of antibiotics. Based on the collected data, we organize the text to show how the cosmopolitanism of actinomycetes and the evolutionary biotic and abiotic ecological relationships of actinomycetes translate into the expression of metabolites in the environment and the richness of biosynthetic gene clusters, many of which remain silenced in traditional laboratory cultures. We also present the main strategies used in the twenty-first century to promote the expression of these silenced genes and obtain new secondary metabolites from known or new strains. Many of these metabolites have biological activities relevant to medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology industries, including candidates for new drugs or drug models against infectious and non-infectious diseases. Below, we present significant examples of the antimicrobial spectrum of actinomycetes, which is the most commonly investigated and best known, as well as their non-antimicrobial spectrum, which is becoming better known and increasingly explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael de Souza Rodrigues
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil.
- Central Analítica, Centro de Apoio Multidisciplinar, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Av. General Rodrigo Octavio Jordão Ramos, 6200, Coroado I, Manaus, Amazonas, CEP 69.077-000, Brazil.
| | - Antonia Queiroz Lima de Souza
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
- Central Analítica, Centro de Apoio Multidisciplinar, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Av. General Rodrigo Octavio Jordão Ramos, 6200, Coroado I, Manaus, Amazonas, CEP 69.077-000, Brazil
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | | | | | - Anderson Nogueira Barbosa
- Central Analítica, Centro de Apoio Multidisciplinar, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Av. General Rodrigo Octavio Jordão Ramos, 6200, Coroado I, Manaus, Amazonas, CEP 69.077-000, Brazil
| | - Sarah Raquel Silveira da Silva Santiago
- Central Analítica, Centro de Apoio Multidisciplinar, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Av. General Rodrigo Octavio Jordão Ramos, 6200, Coroado I, Manaus, Amazonas, CEP 69.077-000, Brazil
| | - Afonso Duarte Leão de Souza
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
- Central Analítica, Centro de Apoio Multidisciplinar, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Av. General Rodrigo Octavio Jordão Ramos, 6200, Coroado I, Manaus, Amazonas, CEP 69.077-000, Brazil
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
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Çaklovica Küçükkaya I, Orhun G, Çağatay AA, Kalaycı S, Esen F, Şahin F, Ağaçfidan A, Erturan Z. Comparison of Candida colonization in intensive care unit patients with and without COVID-19: First prospective cohort study from Turkey. Med Mycol 2024; 62:myae035. [PMID: 38592959 PMCID: PMC11491735 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myae035] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida species are the primary cause of fungal infections in intensive care units (ICUs). Despite the increasing prevalence of Candida-related infections, monitoring the progression of these infections from colonization in COVID-19 ICU patients lacks sufficient information. This study aims prospectively to compare 62 COVID-19 and 60 non-COVID-19 ICU patients from admission to discharge in terms of colonization development, rates, isolated Candida species, risk factors, and Candida infections during hospitalization. A total of 1464 samples were collected at specific time intervals from various body sites [mouth, skin (axilla), rectal, and urine]. All samples were inoculated onto CHROMagar Candida and CHROMagar Candida Plus media, and isolates identified using MALDI-TOF MS. COVID-19 patients exhibited significantly higher colonization rates in oral, rectal, and urine samples compared to non-COVID-19 patients, (p < 0.05). Among the Candida species, non-albicans Candida was more frequently detected in COVID-19 patients, particularly in oral (75.8%-25%; p < 0.001) and rectal regions (74.19% - 46.66%; p < 0.05). Colonization with mixed Candida species was also more prevalent in the oropharyngeal region (p < 0.05). Mechanical ventilation and corticosteroid use emerged as elevated risk factors among COVID-19 patients (p < 0.05). Despite the colonization prevalence, both COVID-19-positive and negative patients exhibited low incidences of Candida infections, with rates of 9.67% (n = 6/62) and 6.67% (n = 3/60), respectively. Consequently, although Candida colonization rates were higher in COVID-19 ICU patients, there was no significant difference in Candida infection development compared to the non-COVID-19 group. However, the elevated rate of non-albicans Candida isolates highlights potential future infections, particularly given their intrinsic resistance in prophylactic or empirical treatments if needed. Additionally, the high rate of mixed colonization emphasizes the importance of using chromogenic media for routine evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilvana Çaklovica Küçükkaya
- Istanbul University Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical
Microbiology, 34093, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Günseli Orhun
- Istanbul University Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of
Anesthesiology and Reanimation, 34093, Istanbul,
Turkey
| | - Arif Atahan Çağatay
- Istanbul University Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Infectious
Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, 34093,
Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sadık Kalaycı
- Yeditepe University Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and
Bioengineering, 34755, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Figen Esen
- Istanbul University Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of
Anesthesiology and Reanimation, 34093, Istanbul,
Turkey
| | - Fikrettin Şahin
- Istanbul University Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Infectious
Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, 34093,
Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Ağaçfidan
- Istanbul University Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical
Microbiology, 34093, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zayre Erturan
- Istanbul University Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical
Microbiology, 34093, Istanbul, Turkey
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Medrano-Colmenares SM, Ladera-Castañeda M, Cornejo-Pinto A, Cervantes-Ganoza LA, López-Gurreonero C, Garcia-Luna G, Cayo-Rojas CF. Antifungal Activity of Morinda citrifolia Methanolic Extract against Candida albicans: An In Vitro Study. J Int Soc Prev Community Dent 2024; 14:192-200. [PMID: 39055297 PMCID: PMC11268526 DOI: 10.4103/jispcd.jispcd_113_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim Natural medicine used as an alternative and/or complementary treatment to counteract diseases is of great importance in public health. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to assess the in vitro antifungal activity of Morinda citrifolia methanolic extract of peel, pulp, and seed against Candida albicans. Materials and Methods The present study was experimental in vitro and cross-sectional. Eight replicates were prepared in Sabouraud dextrose agar with five wells each, where 0.12% chlorhexidine, distilled water, and methanolic extract of seed, peel, and pulp of Morinda citrifolia fruit were placed at concentrations of 10,690, 8,270, and 6,430 mg/mL, respectively, to evaluate sensitivity according to Duraffourd's scale. In addition, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were determined by dilution and agar seeding method. Statistical analysis was performed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc test, considering a significance level of P < 0.05. Results The inhibition halos of Morinda citrifolia methanolic extract of seed, peel, and pulp against Candida albicans measured on average 15.94, 11.94, and 11.56 mm, respectively. The MIC of seed, peel, and pulp extract were 1366.25, 2067.5, and 1607.5 mg/mL respectively, whereas the MFC for seed, peel, and pulp extract were 2672.50, 2067.5, and 3215 mg/mL, respectively. Moreover, seed extract presented significantly higher antifungal activity than peel and pulp (P < 0.001). Conclusions Morinda citrifolia methanolic extract of peel, pulp, and seed showed fungistatic and fungicidal effect against Candida albicans, being this very sensitive to seed extract with a MIC of 1366.25 mg/mL and a MFC of 2672.5 mg/mL, which allows recommending the development of effective pharmacological formulations for the control of candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Medrano-Colmenares
- “Grupo de Investigación Salud y Bienestar Global”, Faculty of Dentistry and Postgraduate School, Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal, Lima, Peru
| | - Marysela Ladera-Castañeda
- “Grupo de Investigación Salud y Bienestar Global”, Faculty of Dentistry and Postgraduate School, Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal, Lima, Peru
| | - Alberto Cornejo-Pinto
- “Grupo de Investigación Salud y Bienestar Global”, Faculty of Dentistry and Postgraduate School, Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | - Goretty Garcia-Luna
- School of Stomatology, Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista, Lima and Ica, Peru
| | - César F Cayo-Rojas
- “Grupo de Investigación Salud y Bienestar Global”, Faculty of Dentistry and Postgraduate School, Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal, Lima, Peru
- School of Stomatology, Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista, Lima and Ica, Peru
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Rabaan AA, Alfouzan WA, Garout M, Halwani MA, Alotaibi N, Alfaresi M, Al Kaabi NA, Almansour ZH, Bueid AS, Yousuf AA, Eid HMA, Alissa M. Antifungal drug discovery for targeting Candida albicans morphogenesis through structural dynamics study. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-17. [PMID: 38634700 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2332507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
In response to the escalating threat of drug-resistant fungi to human health, there is an urgent need for innovative strategies. Our focus is on addressing this challenge by exploring a previously untapped target, yeast casein kinase (Yck2), as a potential space for antifungal development. To identify promising antifungal candidates, we conducted a thorough screening of the diverse-lib drug-like molecule library, comprising 99,288 molecules. Five notable drug-like compounds with diverse-lib IDs 24334243, 24342416, 17516746, 17407455, and 24360740 were selected based on their binding energy scores surpassing 11 Kcal/mol. Our investigation delved into the interaction studies and dynamic stability of these compounds. Remarkably, all selected molecules demonstrated acceptable RMSD values during the 200 ns simulation, indicating their stable nature. Further analysis through Principal Component Analysis (PCA)-based Free Energy Landscape (FEL) revealed minimal energy transitions for most compounds, signifying dynamic stability. Notably, the two compounds exhibited slightly different behaviour in terms of energy transitions. These findings mark a significant breakthrough in the realm of antifungal drugs against C. albicans by targeting the Yck2 protein. However, it is crucial to note that additional experimental validation is imperative to assess the efficacy of these molecules as potential antifungal candidates. This study serves as a promising starting point for further exploration and development in the quest for effective antifungal solutions.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan
| | - Wadha A Alfouzan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
- Microbiology Unit, Department of Laboratories, Farwania Hospital, Farwania, Kuwait
| | - Mohammed Garout
- Department of Community Medicine and Health Care for Pilgrims, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad A Halwani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Al Baha University, Al Baha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouf Alotaibi
- Clinical pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mubarak Alfaresi
- Department of Microbiology, National Reference laboratory, Cleveland clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nawal A Al Kaabi
- College of Medicine and Health Science, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zainab H Almansour
- Biological Science Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed S Bueid
- Microbiology Laboratory, King Faisal General Hospital, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad A Yousuf
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamza M A Eid
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alissa
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
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Liang X, Pacuła-Miszewska AJ, Vartak R, Prajapati M, Zheng H, Zhao C, Mao G, Patel K, Fedosova NU, Ścianowski J, Billack B. N-3-Methylbutyl-benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one Exerts Antifungal Activity In Vitro and in a Mouse Model of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:2480-2496. [PMID: 38534773 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46030157] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In the present work, we evaluated the antifungal activities of two novel ebselen analogs, N-allyl-benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one (N-allyl-bs) and N-3-methylbutylbenzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one (N-3mb-bs). Colorimetric and turbidity assays were performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of these compounds in S1 (fluconazole-sensitive) and S2 (fluconazole-resistant) strains of C. albicans. N-3mb-bs was more active than the N-allyl-bs compound. It is noteworthy that the concentration of N-3mb-bs observed to inhibit fungal growth by 50% (18.2 µM) was similar to the concentration observed to inhibit the activity of the yeast plasma membrane H+-ATPase (Pma1p) by 50% (19.6 µM). We next implemented a mouse model of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) using the S1 strain and examined the mouse and yeast proteins present in the vaginal lavage fluid using proteomics. The yeast proteins detected were predominately glycolytic enzymes or virulence factors associated with C. albicans while the mouse proteins present in the lavage fluid included eosinophil peroxidase, desmocollin-1, and gasdermin-A. We then utilized the N-3mb-bs compound (12.5 mg/kg) in the mouse VVC model and observed that it significantly reduced the vaginal fungal burden, histopathological changes in vagina tissue, and expression of myeloperoxidase (MPO). All in all, the present work has identified a potentially promising drug candidate for VVC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuyi Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | | | - Richa Vartak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Milankumar Prajapati
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Haiyan Zheng
- Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Caifeng Zhao
- Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Ganming Mao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Ketankumar Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | | | - Jacek Ścianowski
- Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Blase Billack
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
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Duarte ABS, Perez-Castillo Y, da Nóbrega Alves D, de Castro RD, de Souza RL, de Sousa DP, Oliveira EE. Antifungal activity against Candida albicans of methyl 3,5-dinitrobenzoate loaded nanoemulsion. Braz J Microbiol 2024; 55:25-39. [PMID: 38135805 PMCID: PMC10920570 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-023-01214-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of free methyl 3,5 dinitrobenzoate (MDNB) and its nanoemulsion (MDNB-NE) against strains of Candida albicans. Additionally, a molecular modeling study was also carried out to propose the mechanism of action and toxicity of MDNB. These results demonstrated the MDNB-NE presented a droplet size of 181.16 ± 3.20 nm and polydispersity index of 0.30 ± 0.03. MDNB and MDNB-NE inhibited the growth of all strains with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 0.27-1.10 mM. The biological results corroborated the molecular model, which pointed to a multi-target antifungal mechanism of action for MDNB in C. albicans. The study could serve as a basis for further research involving compounds with nitro groups with antifungal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allana Brunna Sucupira Duarte
- Post Graduation Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Yunierkis Perez-Castillo
- Bio-Cheminformatics Research Group and Escuela de Ciencias Físicas y Matemáticas, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Danielle da Nóbrega Alves
- Laboratory of Experimental Pharmacology and Cell Culture, Department of Clinical and Social Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Dias de Castro
- Laboratory of Experimental Pharmacology and Cell Culture, Department of Clinical and Social Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | | | | | - Elquio Eleamen Oliveira
- Laboratory of Synthesis and Drug Delivery, State University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
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Almeida-Bezerra JW, Pereira da Cruz R, Bezerra da Silva V, Da Silva Neto JX, Alves Lopes de Souza L, de Oliveira Bezerra de Sousa D, Monteiro Salgueiro Araujo N, Guimarães Gomes Silva R, Quefi B, Rau M, Andrade Rebelo R, Castro Dos Santos S, Everson da Silva L, Douglas Melo Coutinho H, Almeida Menezes S, Bezerra Morais-Braga MF, Morais de Oliveira AF. Exploring the Fluconazole-Resistance Modifying Activity and Potential Mechanism of Action of Fixed Oil from Caryocar coriaceum Wittm. (Caryocaraceae) against Candida Species. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202301960. [PMID: 38196022 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202301960] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
The fixed oil from the inner mesocarp of Caryocar coriaceum Wittm. is used in the Chapada do Araripe region of Brazil for the treatment of genitourinary candidiasis. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition, antifungal activity, reduction of fungal virulence, and the preliminary toxicity of the fixed oil from the inner mesocarp of C. coriaceum tested against three Candida yeasts. The oil was characterized by gas chromatography (GC-MS and GC-FID). Antifungal activity was assessed using the serial microdilution method. Additionally, the potential of the oil as an enhancer of fluconazole action was tested at sub-inhibitory concentrations (MIC/8). The mechanism of action of C. coriaceum fixed oil was determined by evaluating the inhibition of morphological transition in Candida spp. The chemical composition of the fixed oil of C. coriaceum comprised both unsaturated and saturated fatty acids. Oleic (61 %) and palmitic (33 %) acids were the major constituents. Regarding its anti-Candida activity, the oil inhibited the growth of C. albicans (IC50 : 371 μg/mL) and C. tropicalis (IC50 : 830 μg/mL). Furthermore, the oil reversed the antifungal resistance of C. albicans and C. tropicalis, restoring the susceptibility to fluconazole and reducing their IC50 from 12.33 μg/mL and 362 μg/mL to 0.22 μg/mL and 13.93 μg/mL, respectively. The fixed oil of C. coriaceum completely inhibited the morphological transition of C. albicans and C. tropicalis at a concentration of 512 μg/mL, but exhibited limited low antifungal potential against C. krusei. The observed antifungal activity may be attributed to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species. Additionally, the oil showed no toxic effect on the Drosophila melanogaster in vivo model. The fixed oil from the inner mesocarp of C. coriaceum emerge as a strong candidate for the development of new pharmaceutical formulations to treat infections caused by Candida spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Weverton Almeida-Bezerra
- Department of Botany, Federal University of Pernambuco-UFPE, s/n, Rua Professor Moraes Rego, Recife, Pernambuco, 50.670-901, Brazil
| | - Rafael Pereira da Cruz
- Department of Biological Sciences, Regional University of Cariri-URCA, 1161, Rua Cel. Antônio Luiz, Crato, Ceará, 63.105-000, Brazil
| | - Viviane Bezerra da Silva
- Department of Biological Sciences, Regional University of Cariri-URCA, 1161, Rua Cel. Antônio Luiz, Crato, Ceará, 63.105-000, Brazil
| | - João Xavier Da Silva Neto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara'-UFC, s/n, Av. Humberto Monte, Fortaleza, 60.451-970, Brazil
| | - Larissa Alves Lopes de Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara'-UFC, s/n, Av. Humberto Monte, Fortaleza, 60.451-970, Brazil
| | | | - Nadine Monteiro Salgueiro Araujo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara'-UFC, s/n, Av. Humberto Monte, Fortaleza, 60.451-970, Brazil
| | - Rafael Guimarães Gomes Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara'-UFC, s/n, Av. Humberto Monte, Fortaleza, 60.451-970, Brazil
| | - Blasco Quefi
- Department of Chemistry, Regional University of Blumenau, FURB, Itoupava Seca, 89030-903, Blumenau, SC, Brazil
| | - Martinho Rau
- Department of Chemistry, Regional University of Blumenau, FURB, Itoupava Seca, 89030-903, Blumenau, SC, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Andrade Rebelo
- Department of Chemistry, Regional University of Blumenau, FURB, Itoupava Seca, 89030-903, Blumenau, SC, Brazil
| | - Sarah Castro Dos Santos
- Department of Chemistry, Regional University of Blumenau, FURB, Itoupava Seca, 89030-903, Blumenau, SC, Brazil
| | - Luiz Everson da Silva
- Postgraduate Program in Sustainable Territorial Development, Coastal Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Matinhos, PR, Brazil
| | - Henrique Douglas Melo Coutinho
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Regional University of Cariri-URCA, 1161, Rua Cel. Antônio Luiz, Crato, Ceará, 63.105-000, Brazil
| | - Saulo Almeida Menezes
- Center of Biotechnology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul-UFRGS, 9500, Av. Bento Gonçalves, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, 91501-970, Brazil
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Wang J, Shen J, Chen D, Liao B, Chen X, Zong Y, Wei Y, Shi Y, Liu Y, Gou L, Zhou X, Cheng L, Ren B. Secretory IgA reduced the ergosterol contents of Candida albicans to repress its hyphal growth and virulence. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:244. [PMID: 38421461 PMCID: PMC10904422 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13063-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans, one of the most prevalent conditional pathogenic fungi, can cause local superficial infections and lethal systemic infections, especially in the immunocompromised population. Secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) is an important immune protein regulating the pathogenicity of C. albicans. However, the actions and mechanisms that sIgA exerts directly against C. albicans are still unclear. Here, we investigated that sIgA directs against C. albicans hyphal growth and virulence to oral epithelial cells. Our results indicated that sIgA significantly inhibited C. albicans hyphal growth, adhesion, and damage to oral epithelial cells compared with IgG. According to the transcriptome and RT-PCR analysis, sIgA significantly affected the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. Furthermore, sIgA significantly reduced the ergosterol levels, while the addition of exogenous ergosterol restored C. albicans hyphal growth and adhesion to oral epithelial cells, indicating that sIgA suppressed the growth of hyphae and the pathogenicity of C. albicans by reducing its ergosterol levels. By employing the key genes mutants (erg11Δ/Δ, erg3Δ/Δ, and erg3Δ/Δ erg11Δ/Δ) from the ergosterol pathway, sIgA lost the hyphal inhibition on these mutants, while sIgA also reduced the inhibitory effects of erg11Δ/Δ and erg3Δ/Δ and lost the inhibition of erg3Δ/Δ erg11Δ/Δ on the adhesion to oral epithelial cells, further proving the hyphal repression of sIgA through the ergosterol pathway. We demonstrated for the first time that sIgA inhibited C. albicans hyphal development and virulence by affecting ergosterol biosynthesis and suggest that ergosterol is a crucial regulator of C. albicans-host cell interactions. KEY POINTS: • sIgA repressed C. albicans hyphal growth • sIgA inhibited C. albicans virulence to host cells • sIgA affected C. albicans hyphae and virulence by reducing its ergosterol levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiannan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiawei Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Ding Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Binyou Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yawen Zong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yangyang Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yaqi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Lichen Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xuedong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Lei Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Biao Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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Hefny ZA, Ji B, Elsemman IE, Nielsen J, Van Dijck P. Transcriptomic meta-analysis to identify potential antifungal targets in Candida albicans. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:66. [PMID: 38413885 PMCID: PMC10898158 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03213-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida albicans is a fungal pathogen causing human infections. Here we investigated differential gene expression patterns and functional enrichment in C. albicans strains grown under different conditions. METHODS A systematic GEO database search identified 239 "Candida albicans" datasets, of which 14 were selected after rigorous criteria application. Retrieval of raw sequencing data from the ENA database was accompanied by essential metadata extraction from dataset descriptions and original articles. Pre-processing via the tailored nf-core pipeline for C. albicans involved alignment, gene/transcript quantification, and diverse quality control measures. Quality assessment via PCA and DESeq2 identified significant genes (FDR < = 0.05, log2-fold change > = 1 or <= -1), while topGO conducted GO term enrichment analysis. Exclusions were made based on data quality and strain relevance, resulting in the selection of seven datasets from the SC5314 strain background for in-depth investigation. RESULTS The meta-analysis of seven selected studies unveiled a substantial number of genes exhibiting significant up-regulation (24,689) and down-regulation (18,074). These differentially expressed genes were further categorized into 2,497 significantly up-regulated and 2,573 significantly down-regulated Gene Ontology (GO) IDs. GO term enrichment analysis clustered these terms into distinct groups, providing insights into the functional implications. Three target gene lists were compiled based on previous studies, focusing on central metabolism, ion homeostasis, and pathogenicity. Frequency analysis revealed genes with higher occurrence within the identified GO clusters, suggesting their potential as antifungal targets. Notably, the genes TPS2, TPS1, RIM21, PRA1, SAP4, and SAP6 exhibited higher frequencies within the clusters. Through frequency analysis within the GO clusters, several key genes emerged as potential targets for antifungal therapies. These include RSP5, GLC7, SOD2, SOD5, SOD1, SOD6, SOD4, SOD3, and RIM101 which exhibited higher occurrence within the identified clusters. CONCLUSION This comprehensive study significantly advances our understanding of the dynamic nature of gene expression in C. albicans. The identification of genes with enhanced potential as antifungal drug targets underpins their value for future interventions. The highlighted genes, including TPS2, TPS1, RIM21, PRA1, SAP4, SAP6, RSP5, GLC7, SOD2, SOD5, SOD1, SOD6, SOD4, SOD3, and RIM101, hold promise for the development of targeted antifungal therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Abdelmoghis Hefny
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
| | - Boyang Ji
- BioInnovation Institute, Ole Maaløes Vej 3, Copenhagen, DK2200, Denmark
| | - Ibrahim E Elsemman
- Department of Information Systems, Faculty of Computers and Information, Assiut University, Assiut, 2071515, Egypt
| | - Jens Nielsen
- BioInnovation Institute, Ole Maaløes Vej 3, Copenhagen, DK2200, Denmark.
- Department of Life Sciences, Chalmers University of Technology, Kemivägen 10, SE41296, Gothenburg, SE41296, Sweden.
| | - Patrick Van Dijck
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium.
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Kumar SAS, Krishnan D, Jothipandiyan S, Durai R, Hari BNV, Nithyanand P. Cell-free supernatants of probiotic consortia impede hyphal formation and disperse biofilms of vulvovaginal candidiasis causing Candida in an ex-vivo model. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 2024; 117:37. [PMID: 38367023 DOI: 10.1007/s10482-024-01929-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is the second most common vaginal infection caused by drug-resistant Candida species that affects about 70-75% of reproductive age group women across the globe. As current-day antifungal drugs are ineffective against the biofilms formed by the drug-resistant Candida strains, several natural compounds and antagonistic microbes are being explored as alternative antifungal agents. In the present study, we investigated the anti-biofilm activity of Cell-Free Supernatant (CFS) extracted from the commercially available probiotics VSL-3 against the biofilms of Candida species and also evaluated their efficacy in curbing the yeast-to-hyphal transition. Various methodologies like crystal violet staining and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the effect of CFS against the biofilms formed by the species. The ability of CFS to interfere with yeast to hyphal transition in Candida was studied by colony morphology assay and visually confirmed with phase contrast microscopy. The potential of the CFS of the probiotics was also evaluated using goat buccal tissue, a novel ex-vivo model that mimics the vaginal environment. Moreover, the supernatant extracted from VSL-3 had the ability to down-regulate the expression of virulence genes of Candida from the biofilm formed over the ex-vivo model. These results emphasize the anti-fungal and anti-infective properties of the CFS of VSL-3 against drug-resistant Candida strains causing vulvovaginal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudaarsan Aruna Senthil Kumar
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Dhesiga Krishnan
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Sowndarya Jothipandiyan
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Ramyadevi Durai
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - B Narayanan Vedha Hari
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Paramasivam Nithyanand
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India.
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Sharma K, Parmanu PK, Sharma M. Mechanisms of antifungal resistance and developments in alternative strategies to combat Candida albicans infection. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:95. [PMID: 38349529 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03824-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal fungus that infects the humans and becomes an opportunistic pathogen particularly in immuno-compromised patients. Among the Candida genus, yeast C. albicans is the most frequently incriminated species and is responsible for nearly 50-90% of human candidiasis, with vulvovaginal candidiasis alone, affecting about 75% of the women worldwide. One of the significant virulence traits in C. albicans is its tendency to alternate between the yeast and hyphae morphotypes, accounting for the development of multi-drug resistance in them. Thus, a thorough comprehension of the decision points and genes controlling this transition is necessary, to understand the pathogenicity of this, naturally occurring, pernicious fungus. Additionally, the formation of C. albicans biofilm is yet another pathogenesis trait and a paramount cause of invasive candidiasis. Since 1980 and in 90 s, wide spread use of immune-suppressing therapies and over prescription of fluconazole, a drug used to treat chronic fungal infections, triggered the emergence of novel anti-fungal drug development. Thus, this review thoroughly elucidates the diseases associated with C. albicans infection as well as the anti-fungal resistance mechanism associated with them and identifies the emerging therapeutic agents, along with a rigorous discussion regarding the future strategies that can possibly be adopted for the cure of this deleterious pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kajal Sharma
- Molecular Genetics of Aging, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi (DU), Delhi, India
| | - Prashant Kumar Parmanu
- Molecular Genetics of Aging, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi (DU), Delhi, India
| | - Meenakshi Sharma
- Molecular Genetics of Aging, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi (DU), Delhi, India.
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Gomaa SE, Abbas HA, Mohamed FA, Ali MAM, Ibrahim TM, Abdel Halim AS, Alghamdi MA, Mansour B, Chaudhary AA, Elkelish A, Boufahja F, Hegazy WAH, Yehia FAZA. The anti-staphylococcal fusidic acid as an efflux pump inhibitor combined with fluconazole against vaginal candidiasis in mouse model. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:54. [PMID: 38341568 PMCID: PMC10858509 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03181-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida albicans is the most common fungus that causes vaginal candidiasis in immunocompetent women and catastrophic infections in immunocompromised patients. The treatment of such infections is hindered due to the increasing emergence of resistance to azoles in C. albicans. New treatment approaches are needed to combat candidiasis especially in the dwindled supply of new effective and safe antifungals. The resistance to azoles is mainly attributed to export of azoles outside the cells by means of the efflux pump that confers cross resistance to all azoles including fluconazole (FLC). OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the possible efflux pump inhibiting activity of fusidic acid (FA) in C. albicans resistant isolates and the potential use of Fusidic acid in combination with fluconazole to potentiate the antifungal activity of fluconazole to restore its activity in the resistant C. albicans isolates. METHODS The resistance of C. albicans isolates was assessed by determination of minimum inhibitory concentration. The effect of Fusidic acid at sub-inhibitory concentration on efflux activity was assayed by rhodamine 6G efflux assay and intracellular accumulation. Mice model studies were conducted to evaluate the anti-efflux activity of Fusidic acid and its synergistic effects in combination with fluconazole. Impact of Fusidic acid on ergosterol biosynthesis was quantified. The synergy of fluconazole when combined with Fusidic acid was investigated by determination of minimum inhibitory concentration. The cytotoxicity of Fusidic acid was tested against erythrocytes. The effect of Fusidic acid on efflux pumps was tested at the molecular level by real-time PCR and in silico study. In vivo vulvovaginitis mice model was used to confirm the activity of the combination in treating vulvovaginal candidiasis. RESULTS Fusidic acid showed efflux inhibiting activity as it increased the accumulation of rhodamine 6G, a substrate for ABC-efflux transporter, and decreased its efflux in C. albicans cells. The antifungal activity of fluconazole was synergized when combined with Fusidic acid. Fusidic acid exerted only minimal cytotoxicity on human erythrocytes indicating its safety. The FA efflux inhibitory activity could be owed to its ability to interfere with efflux protein transporters as revealed by docking studies and downregulation of the efflux-encoding genes of both ABC transporters and MFS superfamily. Moreover, in vivo mice model showed that using fluconazole-fusidic acid combination by vaginal route enhanced fluconazole antifungal activity as shown by lowered fungal burden and a negligible histopathological change in vaginal tissue. CONCLUSION The current findings highlight FA's potential as a potential adjuvant to FLC in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salwa E Gomaa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Hisham A Abbas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Fatma A Mohamed
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology-Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti Út 12, Pécs, H-7624, Hungary
| | - Mohamed A M Ali
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Tarek M Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Alyaa S Abdel Halim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Mashael A Alghamdi
- Department of Chemistry, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basem Mansour
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa, Belqas, 11152, Egypt
| | - Anis Ahmad Chaudhary
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amr Elkelish
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Fehmi Boufahja
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wael A H Hegazy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
- Pharmacy Program, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Oman College of Health Sciences, Muscat, 113, Oman.
| | - Fatma Al-Zahraa A Yehia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
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Gamil Y, Hamed MG, Elsayed M, Essawy A, Medhat S, Zayed SO, Ismail RM. The anti-fungal effect of miconazole and miconazole-loaded chitosan nanoparticles gels in diabetic patients with Oral candidiasis-randomized control clinical trial and microbiological analysis. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:196. [PMID: 38321454 PMCID: PMC10848391 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-03952-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral thrush is the most common occurring fungal infection in the oral cavity in uncontrolled diabetic patients, it is treated by various antifungal drugs according to each case. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of topical application of miconazole and miconazole-loaded chitosan nanoparticles in treatment of diabetic patients with oral candidiasis. METHODS In this randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 80 diabetic patients presenting with symptomatic oral candidiasis were randomly assigned into two treatment groups: miconazole and miconazole-loaded chitosan nanoparticles. The patients were treated for 28 days, and clinical assessments were conducted at baseline, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. Clinical parameters, including signs and symptoms of oral candidiasis were evaluated and microbiological analysis was performed to determine the Candida species and assess their susceptibility to the antifungal agents. Statistical analysis was done to the categorical and numerical data using chi-square test and Kruskal Wallis test. RESULTS The antifungal efficacy between the miconazole and miconazole-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CS-MCZ) groups insignificant difference (P > 0.05) was observed. Both treatment modalities exhibited comparable effectiveness in controlling oral candidiasis symptoms and reducing Candida colonization as miconazole-loaded chitosan nanoparticles group showed a significant difference in the clinical improvement in respect of both signs and symptoms from baseline (70%) until the end of study at 28 days (5%) (P < 0.05) Moreover, miconazole-loaded chitosan nanoparticles, there was a significant reduction in the number of colonies forming units of Candida albicans from baseline until the end of the study at 28-day with P value < 0.000. CONCLUSIONS This randomized controlled clinical trial and microbiological analysis demonstrate that both miconazole and miconazole-loaded chitosan nanoparticles are effective in the treatment of oral candidiasis in diabetic patients with no adverse reactions. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT06072716 with first registration first registration in 10/10/2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine Gamil
- Department of Oral Medicine, Periodontology and Oral Diagnosis, Faculty of oral and dental surgery, Modern University for Technology & Information, Al Gamea Al Haditha St, Cairo, 4410240, Egypt
| | - Mohamed G Hamed
- Faculty of medicine, Helwan University, Al Masaken Al Iqtisadeyah, Cairo, 4034572, Egypt
| | - Mahitab Elsayed
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology & Information, Al Gamea Al Haditha St, Cairo, 4410240, Egypt
| | - Aya Essawy
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology & Information, Al Gamea Al Haditha St, Cairo, 4410240, Egypt
| | - Sara Medhat
- Faculty of oral and dental surgery, Modern University for Technology & Information, Al Gamea Al Haditha St, Cairo, 4410240, Egypt
| | - Shaimaa O Zayed
- Oral & maxillofacial Pathology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University. Misr university for science & technology, Giza, 3236101, Egypt
| | - Radwa M Ismail
- Lecturer of oral medicine, periodontology and oral diagnosis, Faculty of oral and dental surgery, Misr University for Science and Technology, Giza, 3236101, Egypt.
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Gómez-Gaviria M, García-Carnero LC, Baruch-Martínez DA, Mora-Montes HM. The Emerging Pathogen Candida metapsilosis: Biological Aspects, Virulence Factors, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Infect Drug Resist 2024; 17:171-185. [PMID: 38268929 PMCID: PMC10807450 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s448213] [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: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections represent a constant and growing menace to public health. This concern is due to the emergence of new fungal species and the increase in antifungal drug resistance. Mycoses caused by Candida species are among the most common nosocomial infections and are associated with high mortality rates when the infection affects deep-seated organs. Candida metapsilosis is part of the Candida parapsilosis complex and has been described as part of the oral microbiota of healthy individuals. Within the complex, this species is considered the least virulent; however, the prevalence has been increasing in recent years, as well as an increment in the resistance to some antifungal drugs. One of the main concerns of candidiasis caused by this species is the wide range of clinical manifestations, ranging from tissue colonization to superficial infections, and in more severe cases it can spread, which makes diagnosis and treatment difficult. The study of virulence factors of this species is limited, however, proteomic comparisons between species indicate that virulence factors in this species could be similar to those already described for C. albicans. However, differences may exist, taking into account changes in the lifestyle of the species. Here, we provide a detailed review of the current literature about this organism, the caused disease, and some sharing aspects with other members of the complex, focusing on its biology, virulence factors, the host-fungus interaction, the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Gómez-Gaviria
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Gto., México
| | - Laura C García-Carnero
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Gto., México
| | - Dario A Baruch-Martínez
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Gto., México
| | - Héctor M Mora-Montes
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Gto., México
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Pereira D, Ferreira S, Ramírez-Rodríguez GB, Alves N, Sousa Â, Valente JFA. Silver and Antimicrobial Polymer Nanocomplexes to Enhance Biocidal Effects. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1256. [PMID: 38279254 PMCID: PMC10815966 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance has become a major problem over the years and threatens to remain in the future, at least until a solution is found. Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and antimicrobial polymers (APs) are known for their antimicrobial properties and can be considered an alternative approach to fighting resistant microorganisms. Hence, the main goal of this research is to shed some light on the antimicrobial properties of Ag-NPs and APs (chitosan (CH), poly-L-lysine (PLL), ε-poly-L-lysine (ε-PLL), and dopamine (DA)) when used alone and complexed to explore the potential enhancement of the antimicrobial effect of the combination Ag-NPs + Aps. The resultant nanocomplexes were chemically and morphologically characterized by UV-visible spectra, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Moreover, the Ag-NPs, APs, and Ag-NPs + APs nanocomplexes were tested against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and the Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, as well as the fungi Candida albicans (C. albicans). Overall, the antimicrobial results showed potentiation of the activity of the nanocomplexes with a focus on C. albicans. For the biofilm eradication ability, Ag-NPs and Ag-NPs + DA were able to significantly remove S. aureus preformed biofilm, and Ag-NPs + CH were able to significantly destroy C. albicans biofilm, with both performing better than Ag-NPs alone. Overall, we have proven the successful conjugation of Ag-NPs and APs, with some of these formulations showing potential to be further investigated for the treatment of microbial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Pereira
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (D.P.); (S.F.)
| | - Susana Ferreira
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (D.P.); (S.F.)
| | - Gloria Belén Ramírez-Rodríguez
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry (BioNanoMetals Group), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, Avenida Fuente Nueva, s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain;
| | - Nuno Alves
- CDRSP-PL-Centre for Rapid and Sustainable Product Development, Polytechnic of Leiria, Marinha Grande, 2430-028 Leiria, Portugal;
| | - Ângela Sousa
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (D.P.); (S.F.)
| | - Joana F. A. Valente
- CDRSP-PL-Centre for Rapid and Sustainable Product Development, Polytechnic of Leiria, Marinha Grande, 2430-028 Leiria, Portugal;
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Shankarnarayan SA, Charlebois DA. Machine learning to identify clinically relevant Candida yeast species. Med Mycol 2024; 62:myad134. [PMID: 38130236 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections, especially due to Candida species, are on the rise. Multi-drug resistant organisms such as Candida auris are difficult and time consuming to identify accurately. Machine learning is increasingly being used in health care, especially in medical imaging. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of six convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to identify four clinically important Candida species. Wet-mounted images were captured using bright field live-cell microscopy followed by separating single-cells, budding-cells, and cell-group images which were then subjected to different machine learning algorithms (custom CNN, VGG16, ResNet50, InceptionV3, EfficientNetB0, and EfficientNetB7) to learn and predict Candida species. Among the six algorithms tested, the InceptionV3 model performed best in predicting Candida species from microscopy images. All models performed poorly on raw images obtained directly from the microscope. The performance of all models increased when trained on single and budding cell images. The InceptionV3 model identified budding cells of C. albicans, C. auris, C. glabrata (Nakaseomyces glabrata), and C. haemulonii in 97.0%, 74.0%, 68.0%, and 66.0% cases, respectively. For single cells of C. albicans, C. auris, C. glabrata, and C. haemulonii InceptionV3 identified 97.0%, 73.0%, 69.0%, and 73.0% cases, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of InceptionV3 were 77.1% and 92.4%, respectively. Overall, this study provides proof of the concept that microscopy images from wet-mounted slides can be used to identify Candida yeast species using machine learning quickly and accurately.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel A Charlebois
- Department of Physics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G-2E1, Canada
- Department of Physics, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G-2E9, Canada
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Janeczko M, Kochanowicz E. Biochanin A Inhibits the Growth and Biofilm of Candida Species. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:89. [PMID: 38256922 PMCID: PMC10818846 DOI: 10.3390/ph17010089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the antifungal activity of biochanin A (BCA) against planktonic growth and biofilms of six Candida species, including C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. auris, and C. krusei. We applied various assays that determined (a) the antimicrobial effect on growth of Candida species, (b) the effect on formation of hyphae and biofilm, (c) the effect on the expression of genes related to hyphal growth and biofilm formation, (d) the influence on cell wall structure, and (e) the effect on cell membrane integrity and permeability. Moreover, disk diffusion tests were used to investigate the effect of a combination of BCA with fluconazole to assess their possible synergistic effect on drug-resistant C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. auris. Our results showed that the BCA MIC50 values against Candida species ranged between 125 µg/mL and 500 µg/mL, and the MIC90 values were in a concentration range from 250 µg/mL to 1000 µg/mL. The treatment with BCA inhibited adhesion of cells, cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH), and biofilm formation and reduced hyphal growth in all the analyzed Candida species. Real-time qRT-PCR revealed that BCA down-regulated the expression of biofilm-specific genes in C. albicans. Furthermore, physical destruction of C. albicans cell membranes and cell walls as a result of the treatment with BCA was observed. The combination of BCA and fluconazole did not exert synergistic effects against fluconazole-resistant Candida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Janeczko
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Konstantynów 1i, 20-708 Lublin, Poland;
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Steyn HF, White LJ, Hilton KLF, Hiscock JR, Pohl CH. Supramolecular Self-Associating Amphiphiles Inhibit Biofilm Formation by the Critical Pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:1770-1785. [PMID: 38222503 PMCID: PMC10785623 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
In 2019, 4.95 million deaths were directly attributed to antimicrobial-resistant bacterial infections globally. In addition, the mortality associated with fungal infections is estimated at 1.7 million annually, with many of these deaths attributed to species that are no longer susceptible to traditional therapeutic regimes. Herein, we demonstrate the use of a novel class of supramolecular self-associating amphiphilic (SSA) salts as antimicrobial agents against the critical pathogens Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. We also identify preliminary structure-activity relationships for this class of compound that will aid the development of next-generation SSAs demonstrating enhanced antibiofilm activity. To gain insight into the possible mode of action for these agents, a series of microscopy studies were performed, taking advantage of the intrinsic fluorescent nature of benzothiazole-substituted SSAs. Analysis of these data showed that the SSAs interact with the cell surface and that a benzothiazole-containing SSA inhibits hyphal formation by C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik
J. F. Steyn
- Department
of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University
of the Free State, Bloemfontein, Free State 9301, South Africa
| | - Lisa J. White
- School
of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University
of Kent, Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NH, United Kingdom
| | - Kira L. F. Hilton
- School
of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University
of Kent, Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NH, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer R. Hiscock
- School
of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University
of Kent, Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NH, United Kingdom
| | - Carolina H. Pohl
- Department
of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University
of the Free State, Bloemfontein, Free State 9301, South Africa
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Al Mousa AA, Abouelela ME, Al Ghamidi NS, Abo-Dahab Y, Mohamed H, Abo-Dahab NF, Hassane AMA. Anti-Staphylococcal, Anti-Candida, and Free-Radical Scavenging Potential of Soil Fungal Metabolites: A Study Supported by Phenolic Characterization and Molecular Docking Analysis. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 46:221-243. [PMID: 38248318 PMCID: PMC10814734 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46010016] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus and Candida are recognized as causative agents in numerous diseases, and the rise of multidrug-resistant strains emphasizes the need to explore natural sources, such as fungi, for effective antimicrobial agents. This study aims to assess the in vitro anti-staphylococcal and anti-candidal potential of ethyl acetate extracts from various soil-derived fungal isolates. The investigation includes isolating and identifying fungal strains as well as determining their antioxidative activities, characterizing their phenolic substances through HPLC analysis, and conducting in silico molecular docking assessments of the phenolics' binding affinities to the target proteins, Staphylococcus aureus tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase and Candida albicans secreted aspartic protease 2. Out of nine fungal species tested, two highly potent isolates were identified through ITS ribosomal gene sequencing: Aspergillus terreus AUMC 15447 and A. nidulans AUMC 15444. Results indicated that A. terreus AUMC 15447 and A. nidulans AUMC 15444 extracts effectively inhibited S. aureus (concentration range: 25-0.39 mg/mL), with the A. nidulans AUMC 15444 extract demonstrating significant suppression of Candida spp. (concentration range: 3.125-0.39 mg/mL). The A. terreus AUMC 15447 extract exhibited an IC50 of 0.47 mg/mL toward DPPH radical-scavenging activity. HPLC analysis of the fungal extracts, employing 18 standards, revealed varying degrees of detected phenolics in terms of their presence and quantities. Docking investigations highlighted rutin as a potent inhibitor, showing high affinity (-16.43 kcal/mol and -12.35 kcal/mol) for S. aureus tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase and C. albicans secreted aspartic protease 2, respectively. The findings suggest that fungal metabolites, particularly phenolics, hold significant promise for the development of safe medications to combat pathogenic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal A. Al Mousa
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 145111, Riyadh 4545, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohamed E. Abouelela
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo P.O. Box 11884, Egypt;
| | - Nadaa S. Al Ghamidi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 145111, Riyadh 4545, Saudi Arabia;
| | | | - Hassan Mohamed
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt; (H.M.); (N.F.A.-D.)
| | - Nageh F. Abo-Dahab
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt; (H.M.); (N.F.A.-D.)
| | - Abdallah M. A. Hassane
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt; (H.M.); (N.F.A.-D.)
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