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Predoi D, Ţălu Ş, Carmen Ciobanu S, Iconaru SL, Saraiva Matos R, Duarte da Fonseca Filho H. Exploring the physicochemical traits, antifungal capabilities, and 3D spatial complexity of hydroxyapatite with Ag +Mg 2+ substitution in the biocomposite thin films. Micron 2024; 184:103661. [PMID: 38833994 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2024.103661] [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: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The silver/magnesium doped hydroxyapatite (AgMgHAp, Ca10-x-yAgxMgy(PO4)6(OH)2, xAg=0.05 and yMg=0.02) nanocomposites coatings were deposited on Si substrate using the dip coating technique. The resulting coatings were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR-ATR) spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The EDS analysis highlighted the presence of the constitutive elements of the silver/magnesium doped hydroxyapatite (AgMgHAp) nanocomposites coatings. The surface microtexture of the AgMgHAp was assessed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) technique. The AFM data suggested the obtaining of a uniform deposited layer comprised of equally distributed nanoconglomerates. FT-IR studies highlighted the presence of vibrational modes associated with the phosphate and hydroxyl groups. No bands associated with silver or magnesium were observed. The XPS analysis highlighted the presence of the constituent elements of hydroxyapatite (Ca 2p, P 2 s, O 1 s), as well as dopants (Ag 3d, Mg 1 s and Mg 2p). The antifungal evaluation of AgMgHAp coatings was carried out using the Candida albicans ATCC 10231 fungal strain. The results of the antifungal assay revealed that the AgMgHAp coatings exhibited a strong inhibitory antifungal activity. Furthermore, the data highlighted that the AgMgHAp inhibited the development of biofilm on their surface. The results revealed that the antifungal activity of the coating varied based on the duration of incubation. On the other hand, the data also showed that AgMgHAp nanocomposites coatings inhibited the fungal cell adhesion and development from the early stages of the incubation. In addition to morphological analysis, we additionally take advantage of AFM images to investigate and explore the domain of fractal and multifractal analysis applied to the films under evaluation. Our studies indicates that nanocomposite coatings made from AgMgHAp demonstrate strong antifungal properties. Our studies indicates that nanocomposite coatings made from AgMgHAp demonstrate strong antifungal properties. These results suggest the potential of AgMgHAp nanocomposite coatings as a promising solution for developing innovative antifungal devices in biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Predoi
- National Institute of Materials Physics, Atomistilor Street, No. 405A, P.O. Box MG 07, Magurele 077125, Romania
| | - Ştefan Ţălu
- The Directorate of Research, Development and Innovation Management (DMCDI), Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, 15 Constantin Daicoviciu St., Cluj-Napoca, Cluj 400020, Romania.
| | - Steluţa Carmen Ciobanu
- National Institute of Materials Physics, Atomistilor Street, No. 405A, P.O. Box MG 07, Magurele 077125, Romania
| | - Simona Liliana Iconaru
- National Institute of Materials Physics, Atomistilor Street, No. 405A, P.O. Box MG 07, Magurele 077125, Romania
| | - Robert Saraiva Matos
- Amazonian Materials Group, Physics Department, Federal University of Amapá (UNIFAP), Macapá, Amapá 68903-419, Brazil
| | - Henrique Duarte da Fonseca Filho
- Laboratory of Synthesis of Nanomaterials and Nanoscopy (LSNN), Physics Department, Federal University of Amazonas - UFAM, Manaus, Amazonas 69067-005, Brazil
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Fontanot A, Ellinger I, Unger WWJ, Hays JP. A Comprehensive Review of Recent Research into the Effects of Antimicrobial Peptides on Biofilms-January 2020 to September 2023. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:343. [PMID: 38667019 PMCID: PMC11047476 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13040343] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Microbial biofilm formation creates a persistent and resistant environment in which microorganisms can survive, contributing to antibiotic resistance and chronic inflammatory diseases. Increasingly, biofilms are caused by multi-drug resistant microorganisms, which, coupled with a diminishing supply of effective antibiotics, is driving the search for new antibiotic therapies. In this respect, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are short, hydrophobic, and amphipathic peptides that show activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria and biofilm formation. They also possess broad-spectrum activity and diverse mechanisms of action. In this comprehensive review, 150 publications (from January 2020 to September 2023) were collected and categorized using the search terms 'polypeptide antibiotic agent', 'antimicrobial peptide', and 'biofilm'. During this period, a wide range of natural and synthetic AMPs were studied, of which LL-37, polymyxin B, GH12, and Nisin were the most frequently cited. Furthermore, although many microbes were studied, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the most popular. Publications also considered AMP combinations and the potential role of AMP delivery systems in increasing the efficacy of AMPs, including nanoparticle delivery. Relatively few publications focused on AMP resistance. This comprehensive review informs and guides researchers about the latest developments in AMP research, presenting promising evidence of the role of AMPs as effective antimicrobial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Fontanot
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Centre (Erasmus MC), Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (A.F.); (W.W.J.U.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Laboratory of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Sophia Children’s Hospital, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Isabella Ellinger
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18–20, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Wendy W. J. Unger
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Centre (Erasmus MC), Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (A.F.); (W.W.J.U.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Laboratory of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Sophia Children’s Hospital, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John P. Hays
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Centre (Erasmus MC), Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (A.F.); (W.W.J.U.)
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Chiramba C, Möller DS, Lorenz CD, Chirombo RR, Mason AJ, Bester MJ, Gaspar ARM. Tryptophan End-Tagging Confers Antifungal Activity on a Tick-Derived Peptide by Triggering Reactive Oxygen Species Production. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:15556-15572. [PMID: 38585074 PMCID: PMC10993377 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c00478] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
WHO has identified several Candida species including Candida albicans as critical priority fungal pathogens due to greater infection prevalence and formation of recalcitrant biofilms. Novel antifungal agents are urgently needed, and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are being considered as potential alternatives, but inactivity in physiological salt environments, serum, and plasma often limits further therapeutic development. Tryptophan end-tagging is a strategy to overcome these limitations and is thought to selectively enhance membrane permeabilization in both fungal and bacterial plasma membranes. Here, we show that C-terminal tryptophan end-tagging of the tick-derived peptide Os-C transforms an inactive peptide into Os-C(W5), an antifungal peptide capable of preventing the formation of C. albicans biofilms. Mechanistic insight is provided by circular dichroism spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulations, which demonstrate that tryptophan end-tagging alters the secondary structure of Os-C, while the latter reveals that end-tagging reduces interactions with, and insertion into, a model C. albicans membrane but promotes peptide aggregation on its surface. Interestingly, this leads to the induction of reactive oxygen species production rather than membrane permeabilization, and consequently, oxidative stress leads to cell wall damage. Os-C(W5) does not induce the hemolysis of human erythrocytes. Reduced cell adhesion and viability contribute to decreased biofilm extracellular matrix formation which, although reduced, is retained in the serum-containing medium. In this study, tryptophan end-tagging was identified as a promising strategy for enhancing the antifungal activity, including the biofilm inhibitory activity of Os-C against C. albicans in physiological salt environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Court
K. Chiramba
- Department
of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and
Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Dalton S. Möller
- Department
of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and
Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | | | - Rumbidzai R. Chirombo
- Department
of Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - A. James Mason
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Science, King’s College London, London SE1 9NH, U.K.
| | - Megan J. Bester
- Department
of Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Anabella R. M. Gaspar
- Department
of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and
Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
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Vélez N, Argel A, Kissmann AK, Alpízar-Pedraza D, Escandón P, Rosenau F, Ständker L, Firacative C. Pore-forming peptide C14R exhibits potent antifungal activity against clinical isolates of Candida albicans and Candida auris. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1389020. [PMID: 38601736 PMCID: PMC11004338 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1389020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Invasive candidiasis is a global public health problem as it poses a significant threat in hospital-settings. The aim of this study was to evaluate C14R, an analog derived from peptide BP100, as a potential antimicrobial peptide against the prevalent opportunistic yeast Candida albicans and the emergent multidrug-resistant yeast Candida auris. Methods Antifungal susceptibility testing of C14R against 99 C. albicans and 105 C. auris clinical isolates from Colombia, was determined by broth microdilution. Fluconazole was used as a control antifungal. The synergy between C14R and fluconazole was assessed in resistant isolates. Assays against fungal biofilm and growth curves were also carried out. Morphological alterations of yeast cell surface were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. A permeability assay verified the pore-forming ability of C14R. Results C. albicans and C. auris isolates had a geometric mean MIC against C14R of 4.42 µg/ml and 5.34 µg/ml, respectively. Notably, none of the isolates of any species exhibited growth at the highest evaluated peptide concentration (200 µg/ml). Synergistic effects were observed when combining the peptide and fluconazole. C14R affects biofilm and growth of C. albicans and C. auris. Cell membrane disruptions were observed in both species after treatment with the peptide. It was confirmed that C14R form pores in C. albicans' membrane. Discussion C14R has a potent antifungal activity against a large set of clinical isolates of both C. albicans and C. auris, showing its capacity to disrupt Candida membranes. This antifungal activity remains consistent across isolates regardless of their clinical source. Furthermore, the absence of correlation between MICs to C14R and resistance to fluconazole indicates the peptide's potential effectiveness against fluconazole-resistant strains. Our results suggest the potential of C14R, a pore-forming peptide, as a treatment option for fungal infections, such as invasive candidiasis, including fluconazole and amphotericin B -resistant strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norida Vélez
- Studies in Translational Microbiology and Emerging Diseases (MICROS) Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Andreys Argel
- Studies in Translational Microbiology and Emerging Diseases (MICROS) Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | | | - Daniel Alpízar-Pedraza
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Ciudad de La Habana, Cuba
| | | | - Frank Rosenau
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ludger Ständker
- Core Facility for Functional Peptidomics, Faculty of Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Carolina Firacative
- Studies in Translational Microbiology and Emerging Diseases (MICROS) Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
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Cerqueira F, Medeiros R, Lopes I, Campos C, Ferraz MP, Silva F, Alves LG, Pinto E. A Cyclam Salt as an Antifungal Agent: Interference with Candida spp. and Cryptococcus neoformans Mechanisms of Virulence. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:222. [PMID: 38534657 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13030222] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The importance of fungal infections, particularly those caused by yeasts, is increasing among the medical community. Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans are amongst the high-priority fungal species identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) and are considered in the critical group, while Candida krusei is included in the medium-priority group. The cyclam salt H4[H2(4-CF3PhCH2)2Cyclam]Cl4 proved to be active against the growth of these three yeasts, and the aim of this work was to verify its interference with their virulence mechanisms, whether shared or unique. H4[H2(4-CF3PhCH2)2Cyclam]Cl4 significantly inhibited biofilm production and catalase activity, being able to interfere with C. albicans dimorphic transition and C. neoformans melanin production. At the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, H4[H2(4-CF3PhCH2)2Cyclam]Cl4 had no antioxidant effect, as determined by the DPPH method. When using the RAW264.7 macrophage cell line, H4[H2(4-CF3PhCH2)2Cyclam]Cl4 reduced nitric oxide (NO) detection (the Griess reaction), but this effect was associated with a significant toxic effect on the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fátima Cerqueira
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, GIT-LoSa, University Fernando Pessoa, Praça 9 de Abril, 349, 4249-004 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, Rua Carlos da Maia, 296, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC) Raquel Seruca, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Medeiros
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, GIT-LoSa, University Fernando Pessoa, Praça 9 de Abril, 349, 4249-004 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, Rua Carlos da Maia, 296, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC) Raquel Seruca, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Lopes
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC) Raquel Seruca, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla Campos
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC) Raquel Seruca, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Pia Ferraz
- Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering (FEUP), University of Porto (UP), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- i3S-Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto (UP), 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering (INEB), University of Porto (UP), 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando Silva
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Group of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Luís G Alves
- Centro de Química Estrutural-Institute of Molecular Sciences, Associação do Instituto Superior Técnico para a Investigação e Desenvolvimento, Av. António José de Almeida nº12, 1000-043 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Eugénia Pinto
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto (UP), Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
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Park J, Kim H, Kang DD, Park Y. Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Scorpion-Derived Css54 Peptide Against Candida albicans. J Microbiol 2024; 62:101-112. [PMID: 38589765 PMCID: PMC11021323 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-024-00113-4] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans) is one of the most common opportunistic fungi worldwide, which is associated with a high mortality rate. Despite treatment, C. albicans remains the leading cause of life-threatening invasive infections. Consequently, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are potential alternatives as antifungal agents with excellent antifungal activity. We previously reported that Css54, found in the venom of Centrurodies suffusus suffusus (C. s. suffusus) showed antibacterial activity against zoonotic bacteria. However, the antifungal activity of Css54 has not yet been elucidated. The objective of this study was to identify the antifungal activity of Css54 against C. albicans and analyze its mechanism. Css54 showed high antifungal activity against C. albicans. Css54 also inhibited biofilm formation in fluconazole-resistant fungi. The antifungal mechanism of action of Css54 was investigated using membrane-related assays, including the membrane depolarization assay and analysis of the membrane integrity of C. albicans after treatment with Css54. Css54 induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in C. albicans, which affected its antifungal activity. Our results indicate that Css54 causes membrane damage in C. albicans, highlighting its value as a potential therapeutic agent against C. albicans infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonggwan Park
- Department of Bioinformatics, Kongju National University, Kongju, 32588, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeongsun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, Republic of Korea
| | - Da Dam Kang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonkyung Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, Republic of Korea.
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Ramesh S, Roy U, Roy S, Rudramurthy SM. A promising antifungal lipopeptide from Bacillus subtilis: its characterization and insight into the mode of action. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:161. [PMID: 38252130 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12976-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Emerging resistance of fungal pathogens and challenges faced in drug development have prompted renewed investigations into novel antifungal lipopeptides. The antifungal lipopeptide AF3 reported here is a natural lipopeptide isolated and purified from Bacillus subtilis. The AF3 lipopeptide's secondary structure, functional groups, and the presence of amino acid residues typical of lipopeptides were determined by circular dichroism, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The lipopeptide's low minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 4-8 mg/L against several fungal strains demonstrate its strong antifungal activity. Biocompatibility assays showed that ~ 80% of mammalian cells remained viable at a 2 × MIC concentration of AF3. The treated Candida albicans cells examined by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy clearly showed ultrastructural alterations such as the loss of the cell shape and cell membrane integrity. The antifungal effect of AF3 resulted in membrane permeabilization facilitating the uptake of the fluorescent dyes-acridine orange (AO)/propidium iodide (PI) and FUN-1. Using 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) and 4-(2-[6-(dioctylamino)-2-naphthalenyl] ethenyl)-1-(3-sulfopropyl) pyridinium inner salt (di-8-ANEPPS), we observed that the binding of AF3 to the membrane bilayer results in membrane disruption and depolarization. Flow cytometry analyses revealed a direct correlation between lipopeptide activity, membrane permeabilization (~ 75% PI uptake), and reduced cell viability. An increase in 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) fluorescence demonstrates endogenous reactive oxygen species production. Lipopeptide treatment appears to induce late-stage apoptosis and alterations to nuclear morphology, suggesting that AF3-induced membrane damage may lead to a cellular stress response. Taken together, this study illustrates antifungal lipopeptide's potential as an antifungal drug candidate. KEY POINTS: • The studied lipopeptide variant AF3 displayed potent antifungal activity against C. albicans • Its biological activity was stable to proteolysis • Analytical studies demonstrated that the lipopeptide is essentially membranotropic and able to cause membrane dysfunction, elevated ROS levels, apoptosis, and DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swetha Ramesh
- Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani K.K. Birla Goa Campus, NH 17B Bypass Road, Sancoale, Goa, 403726, India
| | - Utpal Roy
- Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani K.K. Birla Goa Campus, NH 17B Bypass Road, Sancoale, Goa, 403726, India.
| | - Subhasish Roy
- Department of Chemistry, BITS Pilani K.K. Birla Goa Campus, NH 17B Bypass Road, Sancoale, Goa, 403726, India
| | - Shivaprakash M Rudramurthy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India
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Zhu C, Bai Y, Zhao X, Liu S, Xia X, Zhang S, Wang Y, Zhang H, Xu Y, Chen S, Jiang J, Wu Y, Wu X, Zhang G, Zhang X, Hu J, Wang L, Zhao Y, Bai Y. Antimicrobial Peptide MPX with Broad-Spectrum Bactericidal Activity Promotes Proper Abscess Formation and Relieves Skin Inflammation. Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins 2023; 15:1608-1625. [PMID: 36626016 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-022-10035-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Bacteria have developed antibiotic resistance during the large-scale use of antibiotics, and multidrug-resistant strains are common. The development of new antibiotics or antibiotic substitutes has become an important challenge for humankind. MPX is a 14 amino acid peptide belonging to the MP antimicrobial peptide family. In this study, the antibacterial spectrum of the antimicrobial peptide MPX was first tested. The antimicrobial peptide MPX was tested for antimicrobial activity against the gram-positive bacterium S. aureus ATCC 25923, the gram-negative bacteria E. coli ATCC 25922 and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium CVCC541, and the fungus Candida albicans ATCC 90029. The results showed that MPX had good antibacterial activity against the above four strains, especially against E. coli, for which the MIC was as low as 15.625 μg/mL. The study on the bactericidal mechanism of the antimicrobial peptide revealed that MPX can destroy the integrity of the cell membrane, increase membrane permeability, and change the electromotive force of the membrane, thereby allowing the contents to leak out and mediating bacterial death. A mouse acute infection model was used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of MPX after acute infection of subcutaneous tissue by S. aureus. The study showed that MPX could promote tissue repair in S. aureus infection and alleviate lung damage caused by S. aureus. In addition, skin H&E staining showed that MPX treatment facilitated the formation of appropriate abscesses at the subcutaneous infection site and facilitated the clearance of bacteria by the skin immune system. The above results show that MPX has good antibacterial activity and broad-spectrum antibacterial potential and can effectively prevent the invasion of subcutaneous tissue by S. aureus, providing new ideas and directions for the immunotherapy of bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunling Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Yilin Bai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Xueqin Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Shanqin Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Xiaojing Xia
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Shouping Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Yimin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Huihui Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Yanzhao Xu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Shijun Chen
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jinqing Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Yundi Wu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in the South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Xilong Wu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in the South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Gaiping Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Xueming Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Jianhe Hu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Lei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
- School of Biomedical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in the South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China.
| | - Yaya Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
| | - Yueyu Bai
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
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Santos ATD, Kumar S, Albuquerque JVDS, Arcce IML, Chaves OA, Cruz GS, Carretero VJ, Melo LM, Chaves MS, Guijo JMH, Freitas VJDF, Rádis-Baptista G. The anti-infective crotalicidin peptide analog RhoB-Ctn[1-9] is harmless to bovine oocytes and able to induce parthenogenesis in vitro. Toxicon 2023; 234:107274. [PMID: 37657514 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107274] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Crotalicidin is a cathelicidin-related anti-infective (antimicrobial) peptide expressed in the venom glands of the South American rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus. Congener peptides of crotalicidin, named vipericidins, are found in other pit vipers inhabiting South America. Crotalicidin is active against bacteria and pathogenic yeasts and has anti-proliferative activity for some cancer cells. The structural dissection of crotalicidin produced fragments (e.g., Ctn [15-34]) with multiple biological functionalities that mimic the native peptide. Another structural characteristic of crotalidicin and congeners is a unique repetitive stretch of amino acid sequences in tandem embedded in their primary structures. One of the encrypted vipericidn peptides (Ctn [1-9]) was synthesized, and the analog covalently conjugated with rhodamine B (RhoB-Ctn [1-9]) displayed considerable antimicrobial activity and selective cytotoxicity. Methods to evaluate antimicrobial peptides' toxicity include lysis of red blood cells (hemolysis) in vitro and cytotoxicity of healthy cultured cells (e.g., fibroblasts). Here, as a non-conventional model of toxicity, the bovine oocytes were exposed to two standardized concentrations of RhoB-Ctn [1-9], and embryo viability and development at its first stage of cleavage (division of cells) and blastocyst formation were evaluated. Oocytes treated with peptide at 10 and 40 μM induced cleavage rates of 44.94% and 51.53%, resulting in the formation of blastocysts of 7.07% and 11.73%, respectively. Light sheet microscopy and in silico prediction analysis indicated that RhoB-Ctn [1-9] peptide interacts with zona pellucida and internalizes into bovine oocytes and developing embryos. The ADMET prediction estimated good bioavailability of RhoB-Ctn [1-9]. In conclusion, the peptide appeared harmless to bovine oocytes and, remarkably, activated the parthenogenesis in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Teixeira Dos Santos
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Dentistry, And Nursing, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Instituto Teófilo Hernando, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - Satish Kumar
- Laboratory of Physiology and Control of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - João Victor da Silva Albuquerque
- Laboratory of Physiology and Control of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Irving Mitchell Laines Arcce
- Laboratory of Physiology and Control of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Otávio Augusto Chaves
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; CQC-IMS, Departament of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga S/n, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Gabriela Silva Cruz
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Dentistry, And Nursing, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Victoria Jimenez Carretero
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Instituto Teófilo Hernando, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - Luciana Magalhães Melo
- Molecular Genetics Research Unit, University Center Fametro (UNIFAMETRO), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Maiana Silva Chaves
- Laboratory of Physiology and Control of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Jesus Miguel Hernandez Guijo
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Instituto Teófilo Hernando, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Gandhi Rádis-Baptista
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.
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10
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Shen G, Yang L, Lv X, Zhang Y, Hou X, Li M, Zhou M, Pan L, Chen A, Zhang Z. Antibiofilm Activity and Mechanism of Linalool against Food Spoilage Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10980. [PMID: 37446158 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pellicle biofilm-forming bacteria Bacillus amyloliquefaciens are the major spoilage microorganisms of soy products. Due to their inherent resistance to antibiotics and disinfectants, pellicle biofilms formed are difficult to eliminate and represent a threat to food safety. Here, we assessed linalool's ability to prevent the pellicle of two spoilage B. amyloliquefaciens strains. The minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) of linalool against B. amyloliquefaciens DY1a and DY1b was 4 μL/mL and 8 μL/mL, respectively. The MBIC of linalool had a considerable eradication rate of 77.15% and 83.21% on the biofilm of the two strains, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy observations revealed that less wrinkly and thinner pellicle biofilms formed on a medium supplemented with 1/2 MBIC and 1/4 MBIC linalool. Also, linalool inhibited cell motility and the production of extracellular polysaccharides and proteins of the biofilm matrix. Furthermore, linalool exposure reduced the cell surface hydrophobicity, zeta potential, and cell auto-aggregation of B. amyloliquefaciens. Molecular docking analysis demonstrated that linalool interacted strongly with quorum-sensing ComP receptor and biofilm matrix assembly TasA through intermolecular hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic contacts, and van der Waals forces interacting with site residues. Overall, our findings suggest that linalool may be employed as a potential antibiofilm agent to control food spoilage B. amyloliquefaciens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanghui Shen
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Lu Yang
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Xinyu Lv
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Yingfan Zhang
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Xiaoyan Hou
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Meiliang Li
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Man Zhou
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Le Pan
- Chemical Engineering College, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China
| | - Anjun Chen
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Zhiqing Zhang
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
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11
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Darwish RM, Salama AH. A pilot study on ultrashort peptide with fluconazole: A promising novel anticandidal combination. Vet World 2023; 16:1284-1288. [PMID: 37577210 PMCID: PMC10421555 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.1284-1288] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Human infections caused by Candida albicans are common and range in severity from relatively treatable skin and mucosal conditions to systemic, fatal invasive candidiasis. The treatment of fungal infections is challenged by major obstacles, including the scarcity of effective therapeutic options, the toxicity of available medications, and the escalating antifungal resistance. Hence, there exists an urgent need to develop new classes of antimicrobial agents. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of KW-23 peptide against standard and resistant strains of C. albicans alone and in combination with fluconazole. Materials and Methods A conjugated ultrashort antimicrobial peptide (KW-23) was designed and synthesized. KW-23 was challenged against standard and multidrug-resistant C. albicans alone and in combination with fluconazole using standard antimicrobial and checkerboard assays. The toxicity of the peptide was examined using hemolytic assays. Results KW-23 positively affected the standard and resistant Candidal strains (at 5 and 15 μg/mL respectively), exhibiting potent synergistic antimicrobial activity against the standard strain when combined with fluconazole. The effect of the combination was additive against the resistant strain (0.6 μg/mL). Furthermore, the peptide exhibited negligible toxicity on human erythrocytes. Conclusion KW-23 and its combination with fluconazole could be a promising candidate for developing anticandidal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rula M. Darwish
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, the University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Ali H. Salama
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman 11831, Jordan
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12
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Gonçalves S, Santos NC. Membrane-Peptide Interactions: From Basics to Current Applications 2.0. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087202. [PMID: 37108363 PMCID: PMC10138927 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The interaction between peptides and biological membranes is of fundamental importance in the mechanism of numerous membrane-mediated cellular processes, including antimicrobial peptide action, hormone-receptor interactions, drug bioavailability across the blood-brain barrier, and viral fusion processes [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Gonçalves
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Nuno C Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
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13
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Reversal of Azole Resistance in Candida albicans by Human Neutrophil Peptide. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020513. [PMID: 36831048 PMCID: PMC9953362 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020513] [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: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
With the spread of AIDS and the increase in immunocompromised patients, multi-drug-resistant fungal infections have become a serious concern among clinicians, predominantly in the developing world. Therefore, developing novel strategies and new drugs is essential to overcome drug resistance in fungal pathogens. Antimicrobial peptides of human origin have been investigated as a potential treatment against Candida infections. In this study, human neutrophil peptide (HNP) was tested for its antifungal activity alone and in combination with fluconazole (FLC) against azole-susceptible and resistant C. albicans isolates, following CLSI guidelines. Susceptibility and combination interactions were also confirmed by MUSE cell viability assay and isobolograms for synergistic combinations, respectively. The effect of HNP on biofilm inhibition was determined spectrophotometrically and microscopically. Drug susceptibility testing showed minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) ranging from 7.813 to 62.5 µg/mL and 15.625 to 250 µg/mL against all the tested C. albicans strains. The combination activity of FLC with HNP exhibited synergistic and additive interactions in 43% of each and indifferent interaction in 14%, and none of the combinations showed antagonistic interaction. Furthermore, HNB inhibited biofilm formation in all the tested C. albicans isolates. At the respective MICs, HNP exhibited inhibitory effects on the activity of the drug efflux pumps and their genes. These results warrant the application of HNP as a mono- or combination therapy with FLC to treat azole-resistant C. albicans.
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Ramesh S, Madduri M, Rudramurthy SM, Roy U. Functional Characterization of a Bacillus-Derived Novel Broad-Spectrum Antifungal Lipopeptide Variant against Candida tropicalis and Candida auris and Unravelling Its Mode of Action. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0158322. [PMID: 36744953 PMCID: PMC10100908 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01583-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Limited treatment options, recalcitrance, and resistance to existing therapeutics encourage the discovery of novel antifungal leads for alternative therapeutics. Antifungal lipopeptides have emerged as potential candidates for developing new and alternative antifungal therapies. In our previous studies, we isolated and identified the lipopeptide variant AF4 and purified it to homogeneity via chromatography from the cell-free supernatant of Bacillus subtilis. AF4 was found to have broad-spectrum antifungal activity against more than 110 fungal isolates. In this study, we found that clinical isolates of Candida tropicalis and Candida auris exposed to AF4 exhibited low MICs of 4 to 8 mg/L. Time-kill assays indicated the in vitro pharmacodynamic potential of AF4. Biocompatibility assays demonstrated ~75% cell viability at 8 mg/L of AF4, indicating the lipopeptide's minimally cytotoxic nature. In lipopeptide-treated C. tropicalis and C. auris cells, scanning electron microscopy revealed damage to the cell surface, while confocal microscopy with acridine orange(AO)/propidium iodide (PI) and FUN-1 indicated permeabilization of the cell membrane, and DNA damage upon DAPI (4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) staining. These observations were corroborated using flow cytometry (FC) in which propidium iodide, 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA), and rhodamine 123 (Rh123) staining of cells treated with AF4 revealed loss of membrane integrity, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and mitochondrial membrane dysfunction, respectively. Membrane perturbation was also observed in the 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) fluorescence study and the interaction with ergosterol was observed by an ergosterol binding assay. Decreased membrane dipole potential also indicated the probable binding of lipopeptide to the cell membrane. Collectively, these findings describe the mode of action of AF4 against fungal isolates by membrane disruption and ROS generation, demonstrating its antifungal potency. IMPORTANCE C. tropicalis is a major concern for candidiasis in India and C. auris has emerged as a resistant yeast causing difficult-to-treat infections. Currently, amphotericin B (AMB) and 5-flucytosine (5-FC) are the main therapeutics for systemic fungal infections; however, the nephrotoxicity of AMB and resistance to 5-FC is a serious concern. Antifungal lead molecules with low adverse effects are the need of the hour. In this study, we briefly describe the antifungal potential of the AF4 lipopeptide and its mode of action using microscopy, flow cytometry, and fluorescence-based assays. Our investigation reveals the basic mode of action of the investigated lipopeptide. This lipopeptide with broad-spectrum antifungal potency is apparently membrane-active, and there is a smaller chance that organisms exposed to such a compound will develop drug resistance. It could potentially act as a lead molecule for the development of an alternative antifungal agent to combat candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swetha Ramesh
- Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani K.K. Birla Goa Campus, Goa, India
| | - Madhuri Madduri
- Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani K.K. Birla Goa Campus, Goa, India
| | - Shivaprakash M. Rudramurthy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - Utpal Roy
- Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani K.K. Birla Goa Campus, Goa, India
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15
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Oliveira BPD, Bessa NUDC, do Nascimento JF, de Paula Cavalcante CS, Fontenelle RODS, Abreu FOMDS. Synthesis of luminescent chitosan-based carbon dots for Candida albicans bioimaging. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 227:805-814. [PMID: 36549618 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.12.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In this work, we used chitosan as a raw material to synthesize carbon dots using fast microwave carbonization. We studied the influence of the synthesis time, doping agent, and the molar ratio between the reactants on the quantum yield of carbon dots. Chitosan-based carbon dots displayed stable blue fluorescence emission with excitation-dependent behavior and quantum yield values ranging from 1.16 to 7.07 %. ANOVA results showed that the interaction factor between the doping agent and the molar ratio of the reactants was a significant combination to produce carbon dots with higher quantum yield. The presence of the doping agent improved the carbon dots optical properties by obtaining higher fluorescence intensity values. Confocal laser microscope images showed that the carbon dots internalized in the Candida albicans cellular membrane, exhibiting blue, green, and red emissions, acting as a promising agent for bioimaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Peixoto de Oliveira
- Program in Natural Sciences, State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza 60.714-903, CE, Brazil; Educators Training Institute, Federal University of Cariri (UFCA), Brejo Santo, CE, 63.260-000, Brazil.
| | - Nathalia Uchoa de Castro Bessa
- Natural Polymers Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, CE, 60.714-903, Brazil
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Biological and Medical Aspects Related to South American Rattlesnake Crotalus durissus (Linnaeus, 1758): A View from Colombia. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14120875. [PMID: 36548772 PMCID: PMC9784998 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14120875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In Colombia, South America, there is a subspecies of the South American rattlesnake Crotalus durissus, C. d. cumanensis, a snake of the Viperidae family, whose presence has been reduced due to the destruction of its habitat. It is an enigmatic snake from the group of pit vipers, venomous, with large articulated front fangs, special designs on its body, and a characteristic rattle on its tail. Unlike in Brazil, the occurrence of human envenomation by C. durisus in Colombia is very rare and contributes to less than 1% of envenomation caused by snakes. Its venom is a complex cocktail of proteins with different biological effects, which evolved with the purpose of paralyzing the prey, killing it, and starting its digestive process, as well as having defense functions. When its venom is injected into humans as the result of a bite, the victim presents with both local tissue damage and with systemic involvement, including a diverse degree of neurotoxic, myotoxic, nephrotoxic, and coagulopathic effects, among others. Its biological effects are being studied for use in human health, including the possible development of analgesic, muscle relaxant, anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, anti-infection, and antineoplastic drugs. Several groups of researchers in Brazil are very active in their contributions in this regard. In this work, a review is made of the most relevant biological and medical aspects related to the South American rattlesnake and of what may be of importance for a better understanding of the snake C. d. cumanensis, present in Colombia and Venezuela.
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Gonçalves S, Martins IC, Santos NC. Nanoparticle‐peptide conjugates for bacterial detection and neutralization: Potential applications in diagnostics and therapy. WIRES NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 14:e1819. [DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Gonçalves
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina Universidade de Lisboa Lisbon Portugal
| | - Ivo C. Martins
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina Universidade de Lisboa Lisbon Portugal
| | - Nuno C. Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina Universidade de Lisboa Lisbon Portugal
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18
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Alfian AR, Watchaputi K, Sooklim C, Soontorngun N. Production of new antimicrobial palm oil-derived sophorolipids by the yeast Starmerella riodocensis sp. nov. against Candida albicans hyphal and biofilm formation. Microb Cell Fact 2022; 21:163. [PMID: 35974372 PMCID: PMC9382743 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-022-01852-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microbial derived-surfactants display low eco-toxicity, diverse functionality, high biodegradability, high specificity, and stability under extreme conditions. Sophorolipids are emerging as key biosurfactants of yeast origins, used in various industrial sectors to lower surface tension. Recently, sophorolipid complexes have been applied in biomedicals and agriculture to eradicate infectious problems related to human and plant fungal pathogens. This study aimed to characterize the functional properties and antifungal activities of sophorolipids produced by a newly characterized Starmerella riodocensis GT-SL1R sp. nov. strain. RESULTS Starmerella riodocensis GT-SL1R sp. nov. strain was belonged to Starmerella clade with 93.12% sequence similarity using the ITS technique for strain identification. Sophorolipids production was examined, using co-carbon substrates glucose and palm oil, with a yield on the substrate between 30 and 46%. Using shake-flasks, the S. riodocensis GT-SL1R strain produced biosurfactants with an emulsification activity of 54.59% against kerosene compared to the S. bombicola BCC5426 strain with an activity of 60.22%. Maximum productivities of GT-SL1R and the major sophorolipid-producer S. bombicola were similar at 0.8 gl-1 h-1. S. riodocensis GT-SL1R produced mixed forms of lactonic and acidic sophorolipids, shown by TCL, FTIR, and HPLC. Importantly, the complex sophorolipid mixture displayed antifungal activity against an opportunistic yeast pathogen Candida albicans by effectively reducing hyphal and biofilm formation. CONCLUSIONS Sophorolipids derived from S. riodocensis demonstrate potential industrial and biomedical applications as green surfactant and antifungal agent. Since numerous renewable bioresources and industrial wastes could be used by microbial cell factories in the biosynthesis of biosurfactants to reduce the production cost, sophorolipids hold a promising alternative to current antimicrobials in treatments against infectious diseases in humans, animals, and plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achmad Rifky Alfian
- Gene Technology Laboratory, Biochemical Technology Division, School of Bioresources and Technology, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, 49, Tian Talay Road, Tha Kham, Bang Khuntian, Bangkok, 10150, Thailand
| | - Kwanrutai Watchaputi
- Gene Technology Laboratory, Biochemical Technology Division, School of Bioresources and Technology, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, 49, Tian Talay Road, Tha Kham, Bang Khuntian, Bangkok, 10150, Thailand
| | - Chayaphathra Sooklim
- Gene Technology Laboratory, Biochemical Technology Division, School of Bioresources and Technology, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, 49, Tian Talay Road, Tha Kham, Bang Khuntian, Bangkok, 10150, Thailand
| | - Nitnipa Soontorngun
- Gene Technology Laboratory, Biochemical Technology Division, School of Bioresources and Technology, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, 49, Tian Talay Road, Tha Kham, Bang Khuntian, Bangkok, 10150, Thailand.
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Wójcik A, Stephan M, Ryczek W, Olechowska K, Wydro P, Dimova R, Broniatowski M. Interactions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and their nitro derivatives with bilayer and monolayer models of fungal membranes. J Mol Liq 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2022.119591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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20
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Gong Y, Li H, Wu F, Li Y, Zhang S. Fungicidal Activity of AP10W, a Short Peptide Derived from AP-2 Complex Subunit mu-A, In Vitro and In Vivo. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12070965. [PMID: 35883521 PMCID: PMC9313395 DOI: 10.3390/biom12070965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increase in the incidence of fungal infections, and the restrictions of existing antifungal drugs, the development of novel antifungal agents is urgent. Here we prove that AP10W, a short peptide derived from AP-2 complex subunit mu-A, displays conspicuous antifungal activities against the main fungal pathogens of human infections Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus. We also show that AP10W suppresses the fungal biofilm formation, and reduces the pre-established fungal biofilms. AP10W appears to exert its fungicidal activity through a mode of combined actions, including interaction with the fungal cell walls via laminarin, mannan and chitin, enhancement of cell wall permeabilization, induction of membrane depolarization, and increase in intracellular ROS generation. Importantly, we demonstrate that AP10W exhibits little toxicity towards mammalian fibroblasts, and effectively promotes the healing of wounded skins infected by C. albicans. These together indicate that AP10W is a new member of fungicidal agents. It also suggests that AP10W has a considerable potential for future development as a novel antifungal drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Gong
- Department of Marine Biology, Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (Y.G.); (H.L.); (F.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Haoyi Li
- Department of Marine Biology, Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (Y.G.); (H.L.); (F.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Fei Wu
- Department of Marine Biology, Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (Y.G.); (H.L.); (F.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yishuai Li
- Department of Marine Biology, Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (Y.G.); (H.L.); (F.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Shicui Zhang
- Department of Marine Biology, Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (Y.G.); (H.L.); (F.W.); (Y.L.)
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao 266003, China
- Correspondence:
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Flavonoid-Rich Fractions of Bauhinia holophylla Leaves Inhibit Candida albicans Biofilm Formation and Hyphae Growth. PLANTS 2022; 11:plants11141796. [PMID: 35890430 PMCID: PMC9322443 DOI: 10.3390/plants11141796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of the extract and fractions of Bauhinia holophylla on Candida albicans planktonic growth, biofilm formation, mature biofilm, and hyphae growth. Three C. albicans strains (SC5314, ATCC 18804, and ATCC 10231) were tested. The crude extract and the fractions were obtained by exhaustive percolation and liquid–liquid partition, respectively. Phytochemical analyses of B. holophylla extract and fractions were performed using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode-array detector and mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS). A microdilution assay was used to evaluate the effect of the B. holophylla extract and fractions on C. albicans planktonic growth, and crystal violet staining was used to measure the total biomass of the biofilm. Hyphae growth was analyzed using light microscopy. Thirteen flavonoids were identified, with a predominance of the flavonol-3-O-glycoside type based on quercetin, myricetin, and kaempferol. Flavonoid-rich fractions of B. holophylla leaves displayed antifungal activity and inhibited both biofilm formation and hyphae growth in all the tested strains, but were not effective on C. albicans planktonic growth and mature biofilm. This study indicates that flavonoid-rich fractions from B. holophylla leaves interfere with the virulence of Candida species and support the use of Bauhinia spp. in folk medicine to treat infections.
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22
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de Moura GA, de Oliveira JR, Rocha YM, de Oliveira Freitas J, Rodrigues JPV, Ferreira VPG, Nicolete R. Antitumor and antiparasitic activity of antimicrobial peptides derived from snake venom: a systematic review approach. Curr Med Chem 2022; 29:5358-5368. [PMID: 35524668 DOI: 10.2174/0929867329666220507011719] [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: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a scenario of increased pathogens with multidrug resistance phenotypes, it is necessary to seek new pharmacological options. This fact is responsible for an increase in neoplasms and multiresistant parasitic diseases. In turn, snake venom-derived peptides exhibited cytotoxic action on fungal and bacterial strains, possibly presenting activities in resistant tumor cells and parasites. Therefore, the aim of this work is to verify an antitumor and antiparasitic activity of antimicrobial peptides derived from snake venom. METHODS For this purpose, searches were performed in the Pubmed, Embase and Virtual Health Library databases by combining the descriptors peptides, venom and snake with antitumor/ antiparasitic agent and in silico. The inclusion criteria: in vitro and in vivo experimental articles in addition to in silico studies. The exclusion criteria: articles that were out of scope, review articles, abstracts, and letters to the reader. Data extracted: peptide name, peptide sequence, semi-maximal inhibitory concentration, snake species, tumor lineage or parasitic strain, cytotoxicity, in vitro and in vivo activity. RESULTS In total 164 articles were found, of which 14 were used. A total of ten peptides with antiproliferative activity on tumor cells were identified. Among the articles, seven peptides addressed the antiparasitic activity. CONCLUSION In conclusion, snake venom-derived peptides can be considered as potential pharmacological options for parasites and tumors, however more studies are needed to prove their specific activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juliana R de Oliveira
- Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz Ceará), Eusébio-CE, Brazil.,Northeast Network of Biotechnology (RENORBIO), State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Yasmim M Rocha
- Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz Ceará), Eusébio-CE, Brazil.,Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | | | - João Pedro V Rodrigues
- Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz Ceará), Eusébio-CE, Brazil.,Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Vanessa P G Ferreira
- Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz Ceará), Eusébio-CE, Brazil.,Northeast Network of Biotechnology (RENORBIO), State University of Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
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Sun CQ, Peng J, Yang LB, Jiao ZL, Zhou LX, Tao RY, Zhu LJ, Tian ZQ, Huang MJ, Guo G. A Cecropin-4 Derived Peptide C18 Inhibits Candida albicans by Disturbing Mitochondrial Function. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:872322. [PMID: 35531288 PMCID: PMC9075107 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.872322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Global burden of fungal infections and related health risk has accelerated at an incredible pace, and multidrug resistance emergency aggravates the need for the development of new effective strategies. Candida albicans is clinically the most ubiquitous pathogenic fungus that leads to high incidence and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), in this context, represent promising alternatives having potential to be exploited for improving human health. In our previous studies, a Cecropin-4-derived peptide named C18 was found to possess a broader antibacterial spectrum after modification and exhibit significant antifungal activity against C. albicans. In this study, C18 shows antifungal activity against C. albicans or non-albicans Candida species with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) at 4∼32 μg/ml, and clinical isolates of fluconazole (FLZ)-resistance C. tropicalis were highly susceptible to C18 with MIC value of 8 or 16 μg/ml. Additionally, C18 is superior to FLZ for killing planktonic C. albicans from inhibitory and killing kinetic curves. Moreover, C18 could attenuate the virulence of C. albicans, which includes damaging the cell structure, retarding hyphae transition, and inhibiting biofilm formation. Intriguingly, in the Galleria mellonella model with C. albicans infection, C18 could improve the survival rate of G. mellonella larvae to 70% and reduce C. albicans load from 5.01 × 107 to 5.62 × 104 CFU. For mechanistic action of C18, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and cytosolic Ca2 + increased in the presence of C18, which is closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Meanwhile, mitochondrial membrane potential (△Ψm) loss and ATP depletion of C. albicans occurred with the treatment of C18. We hypothesized that C18 might inhibit C. albicans via triggering mitochondrial dysfunction driven by ROS generation and Ca2 + accumulation. Our observation provides a basis for future research to explore the antifungal strategies and presents C18 as an attractive therapeutic candidate to be developed to treat candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Qin Sun
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Center of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jian Peng
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Guizhou Medical University, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, China
| | - Long-Bing Yang
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Zheng-Long Jiao
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Luo-Xiong Zhou
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Guizhou Medical University, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, China
| | - Ru-Yu Tao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Kaili, China
| | - Li-Juan Zhu
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Zhu-Qing Tian
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Ming-Jiao Huang
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Guo Guo
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Guizhou Medical University, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, China
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- *Correspondence: Guo Guo,
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24
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Zhu C, Zhao Y, Zhao X, Liu S, Xia X, Zhang S, Wang Y, Zhang H, Xu Y, Chen S, Jiang J, Wu Y, Wu X, Zhang G, Bai Y, Hu J, Fotina H, Wang L, Zhang X. The Antimicrobial Peptide MPX Can Kill Staphylococcus aureus, Reduce Biofilm Formation, and Effectively Treat Bacterial Skin Infections in Mice. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:819921. [PMID: 35425831 PMCID: PMC9002018 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.819921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a common pathogen that can cause pneumonia and a variety of skin diseases. Skin injuries have a high risk of colonization by S. aureus, which increases morbidity and mortality. Due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains, antimicrobial peptides are considered to be among the best alternatives to antibiotics due to their unique mechanism of action and other characteristics. MPX is an antibacterial peptide extracted from wasp venom that has antibacterial activity against a variety of bacteria. This study revealed that MPX has good bactericidal activity against S. aureus and that its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) is 0.08 μM. MPX (4×MIC) can kill 99.9% of bacteria within 1 h, and MPX has good stability. The research on the bactericidal mechanism found that MPX could destroy the membrane integrity, increase the membrane permeability, change the membrane electromotive force, and cause cellular content leakage, resulting in bactericidal activity. Results from a mouse scratch model experiment results show that MPX can inhibit colonization by S. aureus, which reduces the wound size, decreases inflammation, and promotes wound healing. This study reports the activity of MPX against S. aureus and its mechanism and reveals the ability of MPX to treat S. aureus infection in mice, laying the foundation for the development of new drugs for bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunling Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yaya Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xueqin Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sumy National Agrarian University, Sumy, Ukraine
| | - Shanqin Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiaojing Xia
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Shouping Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yimin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Huihui Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yanzhao Xu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Shijun Chen
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Jinqing Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yundi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, School of Biomedical Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Xilong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, School of Biomedical Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Gaiping Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yueyu Bai
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Jianhe Hu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Hanna Fotina
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sumy National Agrarian University, Sumy, Ukraine
| | - Lei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, School of Biomedical Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- *Correspondence: Lei Wang
| | - Xueming Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Xueming Zhang
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25
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Antimicrobial Peptides as an Alternative for the Eradication of Bacterial Biofilms of Multi-Drug Resistant Bacteria. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14030642. [PMID: 35336016 PMCID: PMC8950055 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14030642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial resistance is an emergency public health problem worldwide, compounded by the ability of bacteria to form biofilms, mainly in seriously ill hospitalized patients. The World Health Organization has published a list of priority bacteria that should be studied and, in turn, has encouraged the development of new drugs. Herein, we explain the importance of studying new molecules such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with potential against multi-drug resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) bacteria and focus on the inhibition of biofilm formation. This review describes the main causes of antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation, as well as the main and potential AMP applications against these bacteria. Our results suggest that the new biomacromolecules to be discovered and studied should focus on this group of dangerous and highly infectious bacteria. Alternative molecules such as AMPs could contribute to eradicating biofilm proliferation by MDR/XDR bacteria; this is a challenging undertaking with promising prospects.
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26
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Emerging Antifungal Targets and Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052756. [PMID: 35269898 PMCID: PMC8911111 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite abundant research in the field of antifungal drug discovery, fungal infections remain a significant healthcare burden. There is an emerging need for the development of novel antifungals since those currently available are limited and do not completely provide safe and secure protection. Since the current knowledge regarding the physiology of fungal cells and the infection mechanisms is greater than ever, we have the opportunity to use this for the development of novel generations of antifungals. In this review, we selected and summarized recent studies describing agents employing different antifungal mechanisms. These mechanisms include interference with fungal resistance, including impact on the efflux pumps and heat shock protein 90. Additionally, interference with virulence factors, such as biofilms and hyphae; the impact on fungal enzymes, metabolism, mitochondria, and cell wall; and antifungal vaccines are explored. The agents investigated belong to different classes of natural or synthetic molecules with significant attention given also to plant extracts. The efficacy of these antifungals has been studied mainly in vitro with some in vivo, and clinical studies are needed. Nevertheless, there is a large quantity of products employing novel antifungal mechanisms that can be further explored for the development of new generation of antifungals.
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27
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Barbosa JC, Gonçalves S, Makowski M, Silva ÍC, Caetano T, Schneider T, Mösker E, Süssmuth RD, Santos NC, Mendo S. Insights into the mode of action of the two-peptide lantibiotic lichenicidin. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2022; 211:112308. [PMID: 34973602 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2021.112308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Lantibiotics are promising candidates to address the worldwide problem of antibiotic resistance. They belong to a class of natural compounds exhibiting strong activity against clinically relevant Gram-positive bacterial strains, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE). Lichenicidin is a class II two-peptide lantibiotic. The presence of the two mature peptides, Bliα and Bliβ, is necessary for full activity against target bacteria. This work aims at clarifying the synergistic activity of both peptides in their interaction with the target membranes. The effect of lichenicidin was tested against S. aureus cells and large unilamellar vesicles. Lichenicidin increases the net surface charge of S. aureus, as shown by zeta-potential measurements, without reaching electroneutralization. In addition, lichenicidin causes cell surface perturbations that culminate in the leakage of its internal contents, as observed by atomic force microscopy. Bliα seems to have low affinity for S. aureus, however, it contributes to increase the affinity of Bliβ, because together they present higher affinity than separately. In contrast, Bliα seems to provide an anchoring site for lichenicidin in lipid II-containing membranes. Interestingly, Bliβ alone can induce high levels of membrane leakage, but this effect appears to be faster in the presence of Bliα. Based on this information, we propose a mechanism of action of lichenicidin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana C Barbosa
- Department of Biology & Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Sónia Gonçalves
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Marcin Makowski
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Ítala C Silva
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Tânia Caetano
- Department of Biology & Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Tanja Schneider
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Microbiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Eva Mösker
- Institut für Chemie, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | | | - Nuno C Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Sónia Mendo
- Department of Biology & Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.
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28
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Gach J, Olejniczak T, Krężel P, Boratyński F. Microbial Synthesis and Evaluation of Fungistatic Activity of 3-Butyl-3-hydroxyphthalide, the Mammalian Metabolite of 3- n-Butylidenephthalide. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147600. [PMID: 34299220 PMCID: PMC8304955 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalides are bioactive compounds that naturally occur in the family Apiaceae. Considering their potentially versatile applications, it is desirable to determine their physical properties, activity and metabolic pathways. This study aimed to examine the utility of whole-cell biocatalysts for obtaining 3-butyl-3-hydroxyphthalide, which is the metabolite formulated during mammalian metabolism of 3-n-butylidenephthalide. We performed transformations using 10 strains of fungi, five of which efficiently produced 3-butyl-3-hydroxyphthalide. The product yield, determined by high-performance liquid chromatography, reached 97.6% when Aspergillus candidus AM 386 was used as the biocatalyst. Increasing the scale of the process resulted in isolation yields of 29–45% after purification via reversed-phase thin layer chromatography, depending on the strain of the microorganism used. We proposed different mechanisms for product formation; however, hydration of 3-n-butylidenephthalide seems to be the most probable. Additionally, all phthalides were tested against clinical strains of Candida albicans using the microdilution method. Two phthalides showed a minimum inhibitory concentration, required to inhibit the growth of 50% of organisms, below 50 µg/mL. The 3-n-butylidenephthalide metabolite was generally inactive, and this feature in combination with its low lipophilicity suggests its involvement in the detoxification pathway. The log P value of tested compounds was in the range of 2.09–3.38.
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29
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Raber HF, Sejfijaj J, Kissmann AK, Wittgens A, Gonzalez-Garcia M, Alba A, Vázquez AA, Morales Vicente FE, Erviti JP, Kubiczek D, Otero-González A, Rodríguez A, Ständker L, Rosenau F. Antimicrobial Peptides Pom-1 and Pom-2 from Pomacea poeyana Are Active against Candidaauris, C. parapsilosis and C. albicans Biofilms. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10040496. [PMID: 33924039 PMCID: PMC8072573 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10040496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently two peptides isolated from the Cuban freshwater snail Pomacea poeyana (Pilsbry, 1927) were described to have antimicrobial activity against bacterial pathogens. Here we show considerable activities of Pom-1 and Pom-2 to reduce the viability of C. albicans, C. parapsilosis and the less common species C. auris measured as the decrease of metabolic activity in the resazurin reduction assay for planktonic cells. Although these activities were low, Pom-1 and Pom-2 turned out to be highly potent inhibitors of biofilm formation for the three Candida species tested. Whereas Pom-1 was slightly more active against C. albicans and C. parapsilosis as representatives of the more common Candida species Pom-2 showed no preference and was fully active also against biofilms of the more uncommon species C. auris. Pom-1 and Pom-2 may represent promising lead structures for the development of a classical peptide optimization strategy with the realistic aim to further increase antibiofilm properties and other pharmacologic parameters and to generate finally the first antifungal drug with a pronounced dedication against Candida biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heinz Fabian Raber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (H.F.R.); (J.S.); (A.-K.K.); (A.W.); (D.K.)
| | - Jetmira Sejfijaj
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (H.F.R.); (J.S.); (A.-K.K.); (A.W.); (D.K.)
| | - Ann-Kathrin Kissmann
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (H.F.R.); (J.S.); (A.-K.K.); (A.W.); (D.K.)
| | - Andreas Wittgens
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (H.F.R.); (J.S.); (A.-K.K.); (A.W.); (D.K.)
| | - Melaine Gonzalez-Garcia
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, 25 Street, Havana 10400, Cuba; (M.G.-G.); (J.P.E.); (A.O.-G.)
| | - Annia Alba
- Pedro Kourí Institute for Tropical Medicine, Havana 13600, Cuba; (A.A.); (A.A.V.)
| | - Antonio A. Vázquez
- Pedro Kourí Institute for Tropical Medicine, Havana 13600, Cuba; (A.A.); (A.A.V.)
| | - Fidel E. Morales Vicente
- General Chemistry Department, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Havana, Zapata y G, Havana 10400, Cuba;
- Synthetic Peptides Group, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, P.O. Box 6162, Havana 10600, Cuba
| | - Julio Pérez Erviti
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, 25 Street, Havana 10400, Cuba; (M.G.-G.); (J.P.E.); (A.O.-G.)
| | - Dennis Kubiczek
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (H.F.R.); (J.S.); (A.-K.K.); (A.W.); (D.K.)
| | - Anselmo Otero-González
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, 25 Street, Havana 10400, Cuba; (M.G.-G.); (J.P.E.); (A.O.-G.)
| | - Armando Rodríguez
- Core Facility for Functional Peptidomics, Faculty of Medicine, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.R.); (L.S.)
| | - Ludger Ständker
- Core Facility for Functional Peptidomics, Faculty of Medicine, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.R.); (L.S.)
| | - Frank Rosenau
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (H.F.R.); (J.S.); (A.-K.K.); (A.W.); (D.K.)
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research Mainz, Ackermannweg 10, 55128 Mainz, Germany
- Correspondence:
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30
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Rádis-Baptista G. Cell-Penetrating Peptides Derived from Animal Venoms and Toxins. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:147. [PMID: 33671927 PMCID: PMC7919042 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13020147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) comprise a class of short polypeptides that possess the ability to selectively interact with the cytoplasmic membrane of certain cell types, translocate across plasma membranes and accumulate in the cell cytoplasm, organelles (e.g., the nucleus and mitochondria) and other subcellular compartments. CPPs are either of natural origin or de novo designed and synthesized from segments and patches of larger proteins or designed by algorithms. With such intrinsic properties, along with membrane permeation, translocation and cellular uptake properties, CPPs can intracellularly convey diverse substances and nanomaterials, such as hydrophilic organic compounds and drugs, macromolecules (nucleic acids and proteins), nanoparticles (nanocrystals and polyplexes), metals and radionuclides, which can be covalently attached via CPP N- and C-terminals or through preparation of CPP complexes. A cumulative number of studies on animal toxins, primarily isolated from the venom of arthropods and snakes, have revealed the cell-penetrating activities of venom peptides and toxins, which can be harnessed for application in biomedicine and pharmaceutical biotechnology. In this review, I aimed to collate examples of peptides from animal venoms and toxic secretions that possess the ability to penetrate diverse types of cells. These venom CPPs have been chemically or structurally modified to enhance cell selectivity, bioavailability and a range of target applications. Herein, examples are listed and discussed, including cysteine-stabilized and linear, α-helical peptides, with cationic and amphipathic character, from the venom of insects (e.g., melittin, anoplin, mastoparans), arachnids (latarcin, lycosin, chlorotoxin, maurocalcine/imperatoxin homologs and wasabi receptor toxin), fish (pardaxins), amphibian (bombesin) and snakes (crotamine and cathelicidins).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gandhi Rádis-Baptista
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza 60165-081, Brazil
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