1
|
Sepúlveda VE, Goldman WE, Matute DR. Genotypic diversity, virulence, and molecular genetic tools in Histoplasma. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0007623. [PMID: 38819148 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00076-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYHistoplasmosis is arguably the most common fungal respiratory infection worldwide, with hundreds of thousands of new infections occurring annually in the United States alone. The infection can progress in the lung or disseminate to visceral organs and can be difficult to treat with antifungal drugs. Histoplasma, the causative agent of the disease, is a pathogenic fungus that causes life-threatening lung infections and is globally distributed. The fungus has the ability to germinate from conidia into either hyphal (mold) or yeast form, depending on the environmental temperature. This transition also regulates virulence. Histoplasma and histoplasmosis have been classified as being of emergent importance, and in 2022, the World Health Organization included Histoplasma as 1 of the 19 most concerning human fungal pathogens. In this review, we synthesize the current understanding of the ecological niche, evolutionary history, and virulence strategies of Histoplasma. We also describe general patterns of the symptomatology and epidemiology of histoplasmosis. We underscore areas where research is sorely needed and highlight research avenues that have been productive.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria E Sepúlveda
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - William E Goldman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Daniel R Matute
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Albergoni EC, Oliveira HC, Honorato L, Valdez AF, Sena BG, Castelli RF, Rodrigues AJC, Marcon BH, Robert AW, Nimrichter L, Rodrigues ML. Morphological and pathogenic investigation of the emerging fungal threat Emergomyces africanus. Microbiol Spectr 2024:e0086324. [PMID: 38916362 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00863-24] [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: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Emergomyces africanus is a highly fatal fungal pathogen affecting individuals with advanced HIV disease. Molecular patterns and ultrastructural aspects of E. africanus are unknown, and pathogenic models have not been investigated in detail. Since the cell wall of fungi is a determinant for interaction with the host and antifungal development, we characterized the ultrastructural aspects of E. africanus and the general properties of cell wall components under different conditions of growth in vitro and in vivo. We also tested the pathogenic potential of E. africanus in a Galleria mellonella model of infection. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the common intracellular, ultrastructural features of fungi in association with a thick cell wall. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a smooth cell surface, with no apparent decorative structures. Yeast cultures of E. africanus showed the distribution of chitin, chitooligomers, and mannoproteins commonly observed in fungi. However, in mixed microenvironments containing yeast and filamenting forms of E. africanus, the detection of chitooligomers was increased in comparison with isolated yeast cells, while the detection of these components in filamenting forms was markedly reduced. These observations were suggestive of the ability of E. africanus to change its cell wall composition in response to different microenvironments. Although E. africanus was unable to kill G. mellonella, this infection model allowed us to isolate infected hemocytes for further analysis of mannoproteins, chitin, and chitooligomers. Once again, the detection of E. africanus chitooligomers was markedly increased. These results reveal previously unknown ultrastructural features of E. africanus and suggest a high plasticity in the cell wall of this lethal pathogen. IMPORTANCE The epidemiology of fungal infections is very dynamic, and novel health emergencies are hard to predict. New fungal pathogens have been continuously emerging for the last few decades, and Emergomyces africanus is one of these threats to human health. This complex scenario points to the need for generating knowledge about emerging pathogens so that new therapeutic strategies can be designed. In this study, we characterized the general cellular and pathogenic properties of the emerging fungal pathogen E. africanus. Our results reveal that E. africanus manifests some of the typical properties of fungal cells but also exhibits some unique characteristics that might be helpful for the future development of therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine C Albergoni
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Haroldo C Oliveira
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Leandro Honorato
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alessandro F Valdez
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bianca G Sena
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rafael F Castelli
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | - Bruna H Marcon
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Anny W Robert
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Nimrichter
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcio L Rodrigues
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
de Andrade VM, de Oliveira VDM, Barcick U, Ramu VG, Heras M, Bardají ER, Castanho MARB, Zelanis A, Capella A, Junqueira JC, Conceição K. Mechanistic insights on the antibacterial action of the kyotorphin peptide derivatives revealed by in vitro studies and Galleria mellonella proteomic analysis. Microb Pathog 2024; 189:106607. [PMID: 38437995 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The selected kyotorphin derivatives were tested to improve their antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity. The antimicrobial screening of the KTP derivatives were ascertained in the representative strains of bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. METHODS Kyotorphin derivatives, KTP-NH2, KTP-NH2-DL, IbKTP, IbKTP-NH2, MetKTP-DL, MetKTP-LD, were designed and synthesized to improve lipophilicity and resistance to enzymatic degradation. Peptides were synthesized by standard solution or solid-phase peptide synthesis and purified using RP-HPLC, which resulted in >95 % purity, and were fully characterized by mass spectrometry and 1H NMR. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) determined for bacterial strains were between 20 and 419 μM. The direct effect of IbKTP-NH2 on bacterial cells was imaged using scanning electron microscopy. The absence of toxicity, high survival after infection and an increase in the hemocytes count was evaluated by injections of derivatives in Galleria mellonella larvae. Proteomics analyses of G. mellonella hemolymph were performed to investigate the underlying mechanism of antibacterial activity of IbKTP-NH2 at MIC. RESULTS IbKTP-NH2 induces morphological changes in bacterial cell, many differentially expressed proteins involved in DNA replication, synthesis of cell wall, and virulence were up-regulated after the treatment of G. mellonella with IbKTP-NH2. CONCLUSION We suggest that this derivative, in addition to its physical activity on the bacterial membranes, can elicit a cellular and humoral immune response, therefore, it could be considered for biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vitor M de Andrade
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Peptídeos, Departamento de Ciência e Tecnologia - Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, SP, 12231-280, Brazil
| | - Vitor D M de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Peptídeos, Departamento de Ciência e Tecnologia - Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, SP, 12231-280, Brazil
| | - Uilla Barcick
- Laboratório de Proteômica Funcional, Departamento de Ciência e Tecnologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, SP, 12231-280, Brazil
| | - Vasanthakumar G Ramu
- Laboratori d'Innovació en Processos i Productes de Síntesi Orgànica (LIPPSO), Departament de Química, Universitat de Girona, Campus Montilivi, 17071, Girona, Spain; Peptides and Complex Generics, #2700, Neovantage, Genome Valley, Shameerpet, Hyderabad, 500078, Telengana, India
| | - Montserrat Heras
- Laboratori d'Innovació en Processos i Productes de Síntesi Orgànica (LIPPSO), Departament de Química, Universitat de Girona, Campus Montilivi, 17071, Girona, Spain
| | - Eduard R Bardají
- Laboratori d'Innovació en Processos i Productes de Síntesi Orgànica (LIPPSO), Departament de Química, Universitat de Girona, Campus Montilivi, 17071, Girona, Spain
| | - Miguel A R B Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina de Lisboa, Av. Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - André Zelanis
- Laboratório de Proteômica Funcional, Departamento de Ciência e Tecnologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, SP, 12231-280, Brazil
| | - Aline Capella
- Laboratório ProLaser, Departamento de Ciência e Tecnologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, SP, 12231-280, Brazil
| | - Juliana C Junqueira
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (Unesp), São José dos Campos, 12245-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Katia Conceição
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Peptídeos, Departamento de Ciência e Tecnologia - Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, SP, 12231-280, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lax C, Nicolás FE, Navarro E, Garre V. Molecular mechanisms that govern infection and antifungal resistance in Mucorales. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0018822. [PMID: 38445820 PMCID: PMC10966947 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00188-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYThe World Health Organization has established a fungal priority pathogens list that includes species critical or highly important to human health. Among them is the order Mucorales, a fungal group comprising at least 39 species responsible for the life-threatening infection known as mucormycosis. Despite the continuous rise in cases and the poor prognosis due to innate resistance to most antifungal drugs used in the clinic, Mucorales has received limited attention, partly because of the difficulties in performing genetic manipulations. The COVID-19 pandemic has further escalated cases, with some patients experiencing the COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, highlighting the urgent need to increase knowledge about these fungi. This review addresses significant challenges in treating the disease, including delayed and poor diagnosis, the lack of accurate global incidence estimation, and the limited treatment options. Furthermore, it focuses on the most recent discoveries regarding the mechanisms and genes involved in the development of the disease, antifungal resistance, and the host defense response. Substantial advancements have been made in identifying key fungal genes responsible for invasion and tissue damage, host receptors exploited by the fungus to invade tissues, and mechanisms of antifungal resistance. This knowledge is expected to pave the way for the development of new antifungals to combat mucormycosis. In addition, we anticipate significant progress in characterizing Mucorales biology, particularly the mechanisms involved in pathogenesis and antifungal resistance, with the possibilities offered by CRISPR-Cas9 technology for genetic manipulation of the previously intractable Mucorales species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Lax
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisco E. Nicolás
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Eusebio Navarro
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Victoriano Garre
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ramírez-Sotelo U, García-Carnero LC, Martínez-Álvarez JA, Gómez-Gaviria M, Mora-Montes HM. An ELISA-based method for Galleria mellonella apolipophorin-III quantification. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17117. [PMID: 38500532 PMCID: PMC10946395 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17117] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Mammalian models, such as murine, are used widely in pathophysiological studies because they have a high degree of similarity in body temperature, metabolism, and immune response with humans. However, non-vertebrate animal models have emerged as alternative models to study the host-pathogen interaction with minimal ethical concerns. Galleria mellonella is an alternative model that has proved useful in studying the interaction of the host with either bacteria or fungi, performing drug testing, and assessing the immunological response to different microorganisms. The G. mellonella immune response includes cellular and humoral components with structural and functional similarities to the immune effectors found in higher vertebrates, such as humans. An important humoral effector stimulated during infections is apolipophorin III (apoLp-III), an opsonin characterized by its lipid and carbohydrate-binding properties that participate in lipid transport, as well as immunomodulatory activity. Despite some parameters, such as the measurement of phenoloxidase activity, melanin production, hemocytes counting, and expression of antimicrobial peptides genes are already used to assess the G. mellonella immune response to pathogens with different virulence degrees, the apoLp-III quantification remains to be a parameter to assess the immune response in this invertebrate. Here, we propose an immunological tool based on an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay that allows apoLp-III quantification in the hemolymph of larvae challenged with pathogenic agents. We tested the system with hemolymph coming from larvae infected with Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Sporothrix schenckii, Sporothrix globosa, and Sporothrix brasiliensis. The results revealed significantly higher concentrations of apoLp-III when each microbial species was inoculated, in comparison with untouched larvae, or inoculated with phosphate-buffered saline. We also demonstrated that the apoLp-III levels correlated with the strains' virulence, which was already reported. To our knowledge, this is one of the first attempts to quantify apoLp-III, using a quick and easy-to-use serological technique.
Collapse
|
6
|
Shi D, Yang Z, Liao W, Liu C, Zhao L, Su H, Wang X, Mei H, Chen M, Song Y, de Hoog S, Deng S. Galleria mellonella in vitro model for chromoblastomycosis shows large differences in virulence between isolates. IMA Fungus 2024; 15:5. [PMID: 38454527 PMCID: PMC10921731 DOI: 10.1186/s43008-023-00134-5] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chromoblastomycosis is the World Health Organization (WHO)-recognized fungal implantation disease that eventually leads to severe mutilation. Cladophialophora carrionii (C. carrionii) is one of the agents. However, the pathogenesis of C. carrionii is not fully investigated yet. METHODS We investigated the pathogenic potential of the fungus in a Galleria mellonella (G. mellonella) larvae infection model. Six strains of C. carrionii, and three of its environmental relative C. yegresii were tested. The G. mellonella model was also applied to determine antifungal efficacy of amphotericin B, itraconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, and terbinafine. RESULTS All strains were able to infect the larvae, but virulence potentials were strain-specific and showed no correlation with clinical background of the respective isolate. Survival of larvae also varied with infection dose, and with growth speed and melanization of the fungus. Posaconazole and voriconazole exhibited best activity against Cladophialophora, followed by itraconazole and terbinafine, while limited efficacy was seen for amphotericin B. CONCLUSION Infection behavior deviates significantly between strains. In vitro antifungal susceptibility of tested strains only partly explained the limited treatment efficacy in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Shi
- Department of Dermatology & Laboratory of Medical Mycology, Jining No. 1 People's Hospital, Shandong, China
- The Laboratory of Medical Mycology, Jining No. 1 People's Hospital, Shandong, China
| | - Zhiya Yang
- The Laboratory of Medical Mycology, Jining No. 1 People's Hospital, Shandong, China
| | - Wanqing Liao
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Medical Mycology, Changzheng Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Liu
- The Laboratory of Medical Mycology, Jining No. 1 People's Hospital, Shandong, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education of Guizhou & Guizhou Talent Base for Microbiology and Human Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Huilin Su
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Department of Dermatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Huan Mei
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Medical Mycology, Changzheng Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yinggai Song
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, First Hospital in Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Sybren de Hoog
- Center of Expertise in Mycology of Radboud University Medical Center, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Medical Microbiology, The People's Hospital of Suzhou New District, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Shuwen Deng
- Department of Medical Microbiology, The People's Hospital of Suzhou New District, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Scheler J, Binder U. Alternative in-vivo models of mucormycosis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1343834. [PMID: 38362495 PMCID: PMC10867140 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1343834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is still regarded a rare fungal infection, but the high incidences of COVID-associated cases in India and other countries have shown its potential threat to large patient cohorts. In addition, infections by these fast-growing fungi are often fatal and cause disfigurement, badly affecting patients' lives. In advancing our understanding of pathogenicity factors involved in this disease, to enhance the diagnostic toolset and to evaluate novel treatment regimes, animal models are indispensable. As ethical and practical considerations typically favor the use of alternative model systems, this review provides an overview of alternative animal models employed for mucormycosis and discusses advantages and limitations of the respective model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ulrike Binder
- Department of Hygiene, Microbiology and Public Health, Division of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Tirol, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mattos LMM, Hottum HM, Pires DC, Segat BB, Horn A, Fernandes C, Pereira MD. Exploring the antioxidant activity of Fe(III), Mn(III)Mn(II), and Cu(II) compounds in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Galleria mellonella models of study. FEMS Yeast Res 2024; 24:foad052. [PMID: 38124682 PMCID: PMC10776354 DOI: 10.1093/femsyr/foad052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are closely related to oxidative stress, aging, and the onset of human diseases. To mitigate ROS-induced damages, extensive research has focused on examining the antioxidative attributes of various synthetic/natural substances. Coordination compounds serving as synthetic antioxidants have emerged as a promising approach to attenuate ROS toxicity. Herein, we investigated the antioxidant potential of a series of Fe(III) (1), Mn(III)Mn(II) (2) and Cu(II) (3) coordination compounds synthesized with the ligand N-(2-hydroxybenzyl)-N-(2-pyridylmethyl)[(3-chloro)(2-hydroxy)]-propylamine in Saccharomyces cerevisiae exposed to oxidative stress. We also assessed the antioxidant potential of these complexes in the alternative model of study, Galleria mellonella. DPPH analysis indicated that these complexes presented moderate antioxidant activity. However, treating Saccharomyces cerevisiae with 1, 2 and 3 increased the tolerance against oxidative stress and extended yeast lifespan. The treatment of yeast cells with these complexes decreased lipid peroxidation and catalase activity in stressed cells, whilst no change in SOD activity was observed. Moreover, these complexes induced the Hsp104 expression. In G. mellonella, complex administration extended larval survival under H2O2 stress and did not affect the insect's life cycle. Our results suggest that the antioxidant potential exhibited by these complexes could be further explored to mitigate various oxidative stress-related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larissa M M Mattos
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Rede de Micologia RJ - FAPERJ
| | - Hyan M Hottum
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Rede de Micologia RJ - FAPERJ
| | - Daniele C Pires
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Rede de Micologia RJ - FAPERJ
| | - Bruna B Segat
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Adolfo Horn
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Christiane Fernandes
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Marcos D Pereira
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Rede de Micologia RJ - FAPERJ
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Takahashi R, J-Khemlani AH, Loh JMS, Radcliff FJ, Proft T, Tsai CJY. Different Group A Streptococcus pili lead to varying proinflammatory cytokine responses and virulence. Immunol Cell Biol 2024; 102:21-33. [PMID: 37795567 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12692] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
The human pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes, or Group A Streptococcus (GAS), is associated with a variety of diseases ranging from mild skin and soft tissue infections to invasive diseases and immune sequelae such as rheumatic heart disease. We have recently reported that one of the virulence factors of this pathogen, the pilus, has inflammatory properties and strongly stimulates the innate immune system. Here we used a range of nonpathogenic Lactococcus lactis gain-of-function mutants, each expressing one of the major pilus types of GAS, to compare the immune responses generated by various types of fully assembled pili. In vitro assays indicated variability in the inflammatory response induced by different pili, with the fibronectin-binding, collagen-binding, T antigen (FCT)-1-type pilus from GAS serotype M6/T6 inducing significantly stronger cytokine secretion than other pili. Furthermore, we established that the same trend of pili-mediated immune response could be modeled in Galleria mellonella larvae, which possess a similar innate immune system to vertebrates. Counterintuitively, across the panel of pili types examined in this study, we observed a negative correlation between the intensity of the immune response demonstrated in our experiments and the disease severity observed clinically in the GAS strains associated with each pilus type. This observation suggests that pili-mediated inflammation is more likely to promote bacterial clearance instead of causing disruptive damages that intensify pathogenesis. This also indicates that pili may not be the main contributor to the inflammatory symptoms seen in GAS diseases. Rather, the immune-potentiating properties of the pilus components could potentially be exploited as a vaccine adjuvant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Risa Takahashi
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Adrina Hema J-Khemlani
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jacelyn Mei San Loh
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Fiona Jane Radcliff
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Thomas Proft
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Catherine Jia-Yun Tsai
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li S, Liu Y, Weng L, Zhao Y, Zhang Y, Zhang Z, Yang Y, Chen Q, Liu X, Zhang H. The F 1F o-ATP synthase α subunit of Candida albicans induces inflammatory responses by controlling amino acid catabolism. Virulence 2023; 14:2190645. [PMID: 36914568 PMCID: PMC10072111 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2190645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is a leading cause of fatality in invasive candidiasis. The magnitude of the inflammatory response is a determinant of sepsis outcomes, and inflammatory cytokine imbalances are central to the pathophysiological processes. We previously demonstrated that a Candida albicans F1Fo-ATP synthase α subunit deletion mutant was nonlethal to mice. Here, the potential effects of the F1Fo-ATP synthase α subunit on host inflammatory responses and the mechanism were studied. Compared with wild-type strain, the F1Fo-ATP synthase α subunit deletion mutant failed to induce inflammatory responses in Galleria mellonella and murine systemic candidiasis models and significantly decreased the mRNA levels of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and increased those of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4 in the kidney. During C. albicans-macrophage co-culture, the F1Fo-ATP synthase α subunit deletion mutant was trapped inside macrophages in yeast form, and its filamentation, a key factor in inducing inflammatory responses, was inhibited. In the macrophage-mimicking microenvironment, the F1Fo-ATP synthase α subunit deletion mutant blocked the cAMP/PKA pathway, the core filamentation-regulating pathway, because it failed to alkalinize environment by catabolizing amino acids, an important alternative carbon source inside macrophages. The mutant downregulated Put1 and Put2, two essential amino acid catabolic enzymes, possibly due to severely impaired oxidative phosphorylation. Our findings reveal that the C. albicans F1Fo-ATP synthase α subunit induces host inflammatory responses by controlling its own amino acid catabolism and it is significant to find drugs that inhibit F1Fo-ATP synthase α subunit activity to control the induction of host inflammatory responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuixiu Li
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuting Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Luobei Weng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yajing Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yishan Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhanpeng Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiaoxin Chen
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaocong Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Reis NF, de Jesus MCS, de Souza LCDSV, Alcântara LM, Rodrigues JADC, Brito SCP, Penna PDA, Vieira CS, Silva JRS, Penna BDA, Machado RLD, Mora-Montes HM, Baptista ARDS. Sporothrix brasiliensis Infection Modulates Antimicrobial Peptides and Stress Management Gene Expression in the Invertebrate Biomodel Galleria mellonella. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1053. [PMID: 37998858 PMCID: PMC10672515 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111053] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Sporothrix brasiliensis is the most pathogenic species, responsible for the Brazilian cat-transmitted sporotrichosis hyperendemic. In this scenario, an investigation of the pathogen-host interaction can provide relevant information for future treatment strategies. To this end, the invertebrate Galleria mellonella has proven to be a suitable alternative for evaluating the virulence of pathogenic fungi, since the insect immune system is similar to the mammalian innate immune response. The aim of this work was to investigate phenotypic and molecular aspects of the immune response of G. mellonella throughout the S. brasiliensis infection. Hemocyte density and the evolution of the fungal load were evaluated. In parallel, RT-qPCR expression analysis of genes encoding antimicrobial peptides (Gallerimycin and Galiomycin) and stress management genes (C7 Contig 15362 and C8 Contig 19101) was conducted. The fungal load and hemocyte densities increased simultaneously and proportionally to the deleterious morphological events and larvae mortality. Gallerimycin, C7 Contig 15362 and C8 Contig 19101 genes were positively regulated (p < 0.05) at distinct moments of S. brasiliensis infection, characterizing a time-dependent and alternately modulated profile. Galiomycin gene expression remained unchanged. Our results contribute to the future proposal of potential alternative pathways for treating and consequently controlling S. brasiliensis zoonosis, a major public health issue in Latin America.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathália Faria Reis
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Myrela Conceição Santos de Jesus
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Lais Cavalcanti dos Santos Velasco de Souza
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Lucas Martins Alcântara
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Julia Andrade de Castro Rodrigues
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Simone Cristina Pereira Brito
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Patrícia de Azambuja Penna
- Laboratory of Insect Biology, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24220-900, RJ, Brazil; (P.d.A.P.); (C.S.V.)
| | - Cecília Stahl Vieira
- Laboratory of Insect Biology, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24220-900, RJ, Brazil; (P.d.A.P.); (C.S.V.)
| | - José Rodrigo Santos Silva
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão 49107-230, SE, Brazil;
| | - Bruno de Araújo Penna
- Laboratory of Gram-Positive Cocci, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil;
| | - Ricardo Luiz Dantas Machado
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Hector M. Mora-Montes
- Department of Biology, Division of Natural and Exact Sciences, Campus Guanajuato, University of Guanajuato, Guanajuato 36050, Mexico;
| | - Andréa Regina de Souza Baptista
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
- Rede Micologia RJ—Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-630, RJ, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nenciarini S, Cavalieri D. Immunomodulatory Potential of Fungal Extracellular Vesicles: Insights for Therapeutic Applications. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1487. [PMID: 37892168 PMCID: PMC10605264 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membranous vesicular organelles that perform a variety of biological functions including cell communication across different biological kingdoms. EVs of mammals and, to a lesser extent, bacteria have been deeply studied over the years, whereas investigations of fungal EVs are still in their infancy. Fungi, encompassing both yeast and filamentous forms, are increasingly recognized for their production of extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing a wealth of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. These EVs play pivotal roles in orchestrating fungal communities, bolstering pathogenicity, and mediating interactions with the environment. Fungal EVs have emerged as promising candidates for innovative applications, not only in the management of mycoses but also as carriers for therapeutic molecules. Yet, numerous questions persist regarding fungal EVs, including their mechanisms of generation, release, cargo regulation, and discharge. This comprehensive review delves into the present state of knowledge regarding fungal EVs and provides fresh insights into the most recent hypotheses on the mechanisms driving their immunomodulatory properties. Furthermore, we explore the considerable potential of fungal EVs in the realms of medicine and biotechnology. In the foreseeable future, engineered fungal cells may serve as vehicles for tailoring cargo- and antigen-specific EVs, positioning them as invaluable biotechnological tools for diverse medical applications, such as vaccines and drug delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Duccio Cavalieri
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kaya S. Immunosuppressive effect of Plantago major on the innate immunity of Galleria mellonella. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15982. [PMID: 37753175 PMCID: PMC10519203 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15982] [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: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Greater plantain (Plantago major), a medicinal plant species, is used in folk medicine for the treatment of various diseases in many countries of the world. Different studies have shown that the bioactive components contained in the plant have a dual effect. It was also reported that in vivo and in vitro studies showed different results. The aim of the study was to determine the effects of P. major extract on the hemocyte-mediated and humoral immune responses of the invertebrate model organism Galleria mellonella, which is widely used in immune studies. In the evaluation of these effects, total hemocyte count, encapsulation, melanization, phenoloxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdehyde and total protein parameters were evaluated. The results of the study showed that the total hemocyte count did not change, that the encapsulation responses decreased, that the melanization responses and phenoloxidase activity increased and that the superoxide dismutase activity decreased. As a result, it was determined that high doses of P. major had negative effects on cell-mediated immunity and antioxidant defence and positive effects on melanization. High doses and continuous use of P. major may have negative effects on living things.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serhat Kaya
- Department of Biology/Faculty of Science, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ma J, Konings M, Verbon A, van de Sande WWJ. A Falciformispora senegalensis grain model in Galleria mellonella larvae. Med Mycol 2023; 61:myad070. [PMID: 37451815 PMCID: PMC10436144 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Eumycetoma is a subcutaneous implantation mycosis often found in the foot. One of the hallmarks of eumycetoma is the formation of grains. These grains are either black or white, and the consistency and morphology differs per causative agent. The two most common causative agents of black-grain eumycetoma are Madurella mycetomatis and Falciformispora senegalensis. Since grains cannot be formed in vitro, in vivo models are needed to study grain formation. Here, we used the invertebrate Galleria mellonella to establish an in vivo grain model for F. senegalensis. Three different F. senegalensis strains were selected, and four different inocula were used to infect G. mellonella larvae, ranging from 0.04 mg/larvae to 10 mg/larvae. Larval survival was monitored for 10 days. Grain formation was studied macroscopically and histologically. The efficacy of antifungal therapy was determined for itraconazole, amphotericin B, and terbinafine. A concentration of 10 mg F. senegalensis per larva was lethal for the majority of the larvae within 10 days. At this inoculum, grains were formed within 24 h after infection. The grains produced in the larvae resembled those formed in human patients. Amphotericin B given at 1 mg/kg 4 h, 28 h, and 52 h after infection prolonged larval survival. No enhanced survival was noted for itraconazole or terbinafine. In conclusion, we developed a F. senegalensis grain model in G. mellonella larvae in which grains were formed that were similar to those formed in patients. This model can be used to monitor grain formation over time and study antifungal efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Ma
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mickey Konings
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies Verbon
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wendy W J van de Sande
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Schindler Y, Rahav G, Nissan I, Valenci G, Ravins M, Hanski E, Ment D, Tekes-Manova D, Maor Y. Type VII secretion system and its effect on group B Streptococcus virulence in isolates obtained from newborns with early onset disease and colonized pregnant women. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1168530. [PMID: 37545859 PMCID: PMC10400891 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1168530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction GBS may cause a devastating disease in newborns. In early onset disease of the newborn the bacteria are acquired from the colonized mother during delivery. We characterized type VII secretion system (T7SS), exporting small proteins of the WXG100 superfamily, in group B Streptococci (GBS) isolates from pregnant colonized women and newborns with early onset disease (EOD) to better understand T7SS contribution to virulence in these different clinical scenarios. Methods GBS genomes [N=33, 17 EOD isolates (serotype III/ST17) and 16 colonizing isolates (12 serotype VI/ST1, one serotype VI/ST19, one serotype VI/ST6, and two serotype 3/ST19)] were analyzed for presence of T7SS genes and genes encoding WXG100 proteins. We also perform bioinformatic analysis. Galleria mellonella larvae were used to compare virulence between colonizing, EOD, and mutant EOD isolates. The EOD isolate number 118659 (III/ST17) was used for knocking out the essC gene encoding a membrane-bound ATPase, considered the driver of T7SS. Results Most GBS T7SS loci encoded core component genes: essC, membrane-embedded proteins (essA; essB), modulators of T7SS activity (esaA; esaB; esaC) and effectors: [esxA (SAG1039); esxB (SAG1030)].Bioinformatic analysis indicated that based on sequence type (ST) the clinicalGBS isolates encode at least three distinct subtypes of T7SS machinery. In all ST1isolates we identified two copies of esxA gene (encoding putative WXG100proteins), when only 23.5% of the ST17 isolates harbored the esxA gene. Five ST17isolates encoded two copies of the essC gene. Orphaned WXG100 molecule(SAG0230), distinct from T7SS locus, were found in all tested strains, except inST17 strains where the locus was found in only 23.5% of the isolates. In ST6 andST19 isolates most of the structure T7SS genes were missing. EOD isolates demonstrated enhanced virulence in G. mellonella modelcompared to colonizing isolates. The 118659DessC strain was attenuated in itskilling ability, and the larvae were more effective in eradicating 118659DessC. Conclusions We demonstrated that T7SS plays a role during infection. Knocking out the essC gene, considered the driver of T7SS, decreased the virulence of ST17 responsible for EOD, causing them to be less virulent comparable to the virulence observed in colonizing isolates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Schindler
- Microbiology Laboratory, Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center, Bney Brak, Israel
- The Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Galia Rahav
- The Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Infectious Disease Unit, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Israel Nissan
- Infectious Disease Unit, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
- National Public Health Laboratory, Ministry of Health (Israel), Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Gal Valenci
- National Public Health Laboratory, Ministry of Health (Israel), Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Miriam Ravins
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research, Israel-Canada (IMRIC), Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Emanuel Hanski
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research, Israel-Canada (IMRIC), Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Dana Ment
- Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, Plant Protection Institute, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Institute, Rishon LeZion, Israel
| | - Dorit Tekes-Manova
- Microbiology Laboratory, Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center, Bney Brak, Israel
| | - Yasmin Maor
- The Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Infectious Disease Unit, Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Bugyna L, Kendra S, Bujdáková H. Galleria mellonella-A Model for the Study of aPDT-Prospects and Drawbacks. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1455. [PMID: 37374956 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella is a promising in vivo model insect used for microbiological, medical, and pharmacological research. It provides a platform for testing the biocompatibility of various compounds and the kinetics of survival after an infection followed by subsequent treatment, and for the evaluation of various parameters during treatment, including the host-pathogen interaction. There are some similarities in the development of pathologies with mammals. However, a limitation is the lack of adaptive immune response. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is an alternative approach for combating microbial infections, including biofilm-associated ones. aPDT is effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, regardless of whether they are resistant to conventional treatment. The main idea of this comprehensive review was to collect information on the use of G. mellonella in aPDT. It provides a collection of references published in the last 10 years from this area of research, complemented by some practical experiences of the authors of this review. Additionally, the review summarizes in brief information on the G. mellonella model, its advantages and methods used in the processing of material from these larvae, as well as basic knowledge of the principles of aPDT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larysa Bugyna
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Virology, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovicova 6, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Samuel Kendra
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Virology, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovicova 6, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Helena Bujdáková
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Virology, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovicova 6, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bertout S, Laroche L, Roger F, Krasteva D, Drakulovski P, Bellet V. Fluconazole Resistance and Virulence in In Vitro Induced-Fluconazole Resistant Strains and in Clinical Fluconazole Resistant Strain of Cryptococcus deuterogattii. Pathogens 2023; 12:758. [PMID: 37375448 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromeningeal cryptococcosis is a life-threatening infection of the central nervous system, caused by encapsulated yeast belonging to the Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii species complexes. Recent data showed that virulence and antifungal resistance are variable for yeasts belonging to the C. gattii species complex. There is an increase in resistance to fluconazole for yeasts of the C. gattii species complex and the virulence is variable according to the genotype. In the present study, (i) we explored and compared the mechanisms of resistance to fluconazole between C. deuterogattii clinically resistant strains and induced fluconazole-resistant strains by exposure to fluconazole in vitro, and (ii) we studied their virulence in the Galleria mellonella study model. We demonstrated that the fluconazole resistance mechanisms involved were different between clinically resistant strains and induced resistant strains. We also demonstrated that fluconazole-induced resistant strains are less virulent when compared to the original susceptible strains. On the contrary, the clinically resistant strain tested maintains its virulence compared to fluconazole-susceptible strains of the same sequence type.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Bertout
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicale, TransVIHMI, University of Montpellier, INSERM, IRD, 15 Avenue Charles Flahaut, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | - Laetitia Laroche
- Laboratoire de Biologie Médicale, Hôpital Lozère, 48000 Mende, France
| | - Frédéric Roger
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicale, TransVIHMI, University of Montpellier, INSERM, IRD, 15 Avenue Charles Flahaut, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | - Donika Krasteva
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicale, TransVIHMI, University of Montpellier, INSERM, IRD, 15 Avenue Charles Flahaut, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | - Pascal Drakulovski
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicale, TransVIHMI, University of Montpellier, INSERM, IRD, 15 Avenue Charles Flahaut, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | - Virginie Bellet
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicale, TransVIHMI, University of Montpellier, INSERM, IRD, 15 Avenue Charles Flahaut, 34093 Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kryukov V, Kosman E, Tomilova O, Polenogova O, Rotskaya U, Yaroslavtseva O, Salimova D, Kryukova N, Berestetskiy A. Tenuazonic acid alters immune and physiological reactions and susceptibility to pathogens in Galleria mellonella larvae. Mycotoxin Res 2023; 39:135-149. [PMID: 37071305 DOI: 10.1007/s12550-023-00479-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Tenuazonic acid (TeA) is synthesized by phytopathogenic and opportunistic fungi and is detected in a broad range of foods. This natural compound is of interest in terms of toxicity to animals, but its mechanisms of action on insects are poorly understood. We administered TeA orally at different concentrations (0.2-5.0 mg/[gram of a growth medium]) to the model insect Galleria mellonella, with subsequent estimation of physiological, histological, and immunological parameters in different tissues (midgut, fat body, and hemolymph). Susceptibility of the TeA-treated larvae to pathogenic microorganisms Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus thuringiensis was also analyzed. The feeding of TeA to the larvae led to a substation delay of larval growth, apoptosis-like changes in midgut cells, and an increase in midgut bacterial load. A decrease in activities of detoxification enzymes and downregulation of genes Nox, lysozyme, and cecropin in the midgut and/or hemocoel tissues were detected. By contrast, genes gloverin, gallerimycin, and galiomycin and phenoloxidase activity proved to be upregulated in the studied tissues. Hemocyte density did not change under the influence of TeA. TeA administration increased susceptibility of the larvae to B. bassiana but diminished their susceptibility to B. thuringiensis. The results indicate that TeA disturbs wax moth gut physiology and immunity and also exerts a systemic action on this insect. Mechanisms underlying the observed changes in wax moth susceptibility to the pathogens are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vadim Kryukov
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Elena Kosman
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Oksana Tomilova
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
- All-Russian Institute of Plant Protection, 196608, Podbel'skogo Sh. 3, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Olga Polenogova
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Ulyana Rotskaya
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Olga Yaroslavtseva
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Dilara Salimova
- All-Russian Institute of Plant Protection, 196608, Podbel'skogo Sh. 3, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Natalia Kryukova
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Alexander Berestetskiy
- All-Russian Institute of Plant Protection, 196608, Podbel'skogo Sh. 3, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Belluco S, Bertola M, Montarsi F, Di Martino G, Granato A, Stella R, Martinello M, Bordin F, Mutinelli F. Insects and Public Health: An Overview. INSECTS 2023; 14:insects14030240. [PMID: 36975925 PMCID: PMC10059202 DOI: 10.3390/insects14030240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Insects are, by far, the most common animals on our planet. The ubiquity and plethora of ecological niches occupied by insects, along with the strict and sometimes forced coexistence between insects and humans, make insects a target of public health interest. This article reports the negative aspects historically linked to insects as pests and vectors of diseases, and describes their potential as bioindicators of environmental pollution, and their use as food and feed. Both negative and positive impacts of insects on human and animal health need to be addressed by public health professionals who should aim to strike a balance within the wide range of sometimes conflicting goals in insect management, such as regulating their production, exploiting their potential, protecting their health and limiting their negative impact on animals and humans. This requires increased insect knowledge and strategies to preserve human health and welfare. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of traditional and emerging topics bridging insects and public health to highlight the need for professionals, to address these topics during their work. The present and future role and activities of public health authorities regarding insects are analyzed.
Collapse
|
20
|
Torres M, Ramírez AMC. Standardization of Galleria mellonella as an Infection Model for Malassezia furfur and Malassezia pachydermatis. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2667:15-29. [PMID: 37145273 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3199-7_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Galleria mellonella larva has been widely exploited as an infection model for bacteria and fungi. Our laboratory uses this insect as a model for fungal infection caused by the genus Malassezia, in particular, systemic infections caused by Malassezia furfur and Malassezia pachydermatis, which are poorly understood. Here, we describe the G. mellonella larva inoculation process with M. furfur and M. pachydermatis and the posterior assessment of the establishment and dissemination of the infection in the larvae. This assessment was done through the evaluation of larval survival, melanization, fungal burden, hemocytes populations, and histological changes. This methodology allows for the identification of virulence patterns between Malassezia species and the impact of inoculum concentration and temperature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maritza Torres
- Grupo de Investigación Celular y Molecular de Microorganismos Patógenos (CeMoP), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Adriana Marcela Celis Ramírez
- Grupo de Investigación Celular y Molecular de Microorganismos Patógenos (CeMoP), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Guevara MA, Francis JD, Lu J, Manning SD, Doster RS, Moore RE, Gaddy JA. Streptococcus agalactiae cadD Is Critical for Pathogenesis in the Invertebrate Galleria mellonella Model. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:2405-2412. [PMID: 36445344 PMCID: PMC10262471 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a gram-positive bacterium that can cause invasive infections in immunocompromised, elderly, pregnant, or neonatal patients. The invertebrate model, Galleria mellonella, has emerged as an effective tool to study GBS-host interactions; specifically, those conserved within the innate arm of the immune system. We sought to determine the role of metal homeostasis functions in GBS infections of G. mellonella larvae and to validate this model as a tool to study GBS-host interactions. Our results indicate that wild-type GBS infects G. mellonella in a dose-dependent manner, replicates in the invertebrate host, induces larval melanization and larval killing. These results were significantly abrogated in cohorts of larvae infected with the isogenic cadD deletion mutant. Additionally, complementation restored GBS-dependent infection, bacterial burden, larval melanization, and killing to wild-type levels. Together, these results indicate that the G. mellonella model is a useful tool for studying GBS pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam A. Guevara
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
| | - Jamisha D. Francis
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
| | - Jacky Lu
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
| | - Shannon D. Manning
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, 48864, U.S.A
| | - Ryan S. Doster
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
| | - Rebecca E. Moore
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
| | - Jennifer A. Gaddy
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
- Tennessee Valley Healthcare Systems, Department of Veterans Affairs, Nashville, Tennessee, 37212, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Admella J, Torrents E. A Straightforward Method for the Isolation and Cultivation of Galleria mellonella Hemocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13483. [PMID: 36362269 PMCID: PMC9657452 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella is an alternative animal model of infection. The use of this species presents a wide range of advantages, as its maintenance and rearing are both easy and inexpensive. Moreover, its use is considered to be more ethically acceptable than other models, it is conveniently sized for manipulation, and its immune system has multiple similarities with mammalian immune systems. Hemocytes are immune cells that help encapsulate and eliminate pathogens and foreign particles. All of these reasons make this insect a promising animal model. However, cultivating G. mellonella hemocytes in vitro is not straightforward and it has many difficult challenges. Here, we present a methodologically optimized protocol to establish and maintain a G. mellonella hemocyte primary culture. These improvements open the door to easily and quickly study the toxicity of nanoparticles and the interactions of particles and materials in an in vitro environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joana Admella
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 15-21, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Torrents
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 15-21, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Microbiology Section, Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 643 Diagonal Ave., 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Stempinski PR, Smith DFQ, Casadevall A. Cryptococcus neoformans Virulence Assay Using a Galleria mellonella Larvae Model System. Bio Protoc 2022; 12:e4480. [PMID: 36082366 PMCID: PMC9411016 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4480] [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: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a human pathogenic fungus that can cause pulmonary infections and meningitis in both immunocompromised and otherwise healthy individuals. Limited treatment options and a high mortality rate underlie the necessity for extensive research of the virulence of C. neoformans . Here we describe a detailed protocol for using the Galleria mellonella (Greater Wax Moth) larvae as a model organism for the virulence analysis of the cryptococcal infections. This protocol describes in detail the evaluation of G. mellonella larvae viability and the alternatives for troubleshooting the infection procedure. This protocol can be easily modified to study different inocula or fungal species, or the effects of a drug or antifungal agent on fungal disease within the larvae. We describe modified alternative versions of the protocol that allow using G. mellonella to study fungal diseases with different inocula and at different temperatures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr R. Stempinski
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Daniel F. Q. Smith
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Takács T, Németh MT, Bohner F, Vágvölgyi C, Jankovics F, Wilson D, Gácser A. Characterization and functional analysis of zinc trafficking in the human fungal pathogen Candida parapsilosis. Open Biol 2022; 12:220077. [PMID: 35857903 PMCID: PMC9277298 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.220077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The zinc restriction and zinc toxicity are part of host defence, called nutritional immunity. The crucial role of zinc homeostasis in microbial survival within a host is established, but little is known about these processes in the opportunistic human fungal pathogen Candida parapsilosis. Our in silico predictions suggested the presence of at least six potential zinc transporters (ZnTs) in C. parapsilosis-orthologues of ZRC1, ZRT3 and ZRT101-but an orthologue of PRA1 zincophore was not found. In addition, we detected a species-specific gene expansion of the novel ZnT ZRT2, as we identified three orthologue genes in the genome of C. parapsilosis. Based on predictions, we created homozygous mutant strains of the potential ZnTs and characterized them. Despite the apparent gene expansion of ZRT2 in C. parapsilosis, only CpZRT21 was essential for growth in a zinc-depleted acidic environment, in addition we found that CpZrc1 is essential for zinc detoxification and also protects the fungi against the elimination of murine macrophages. Significantly, we demonstrated that C. parapsilosis forms zincosomes in a Zrc1-independent manner and zinc detoxification is mediated by the vacuolar importer CpZrc1. Our study defines the functions of C. parapsilosis ZnTs, including a species-specific survival and zinc detoxification system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Takács
- HCEMM-USZ Fungal Pathogens Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Mihály Tibor Németh
- HCEMM-USZ Fungal Pathogens Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Flóra Bohner
- HCEMM-USZ Fungal Pathogens Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Csaba Vágvölgyi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Jankovics
- Department of Medical Biology, Szent-Györgyi Albert Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Attila Gácser
- HCEMM-USZ Fungal Pathogens Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,MTA-SZTE ‘Lendület’ Mycobiome Research Group, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Furtado AA, Daniele-Silva A, Resende de Oliveira IR, Mendes RFV, Gomes dos Santos EC, de Carvalho E, Damasceno IZ, e Silva Parente AM, da Fonseca Ribeiro de Sena KX, da Silva-Júnior AA, Ximenes RM, Vieira DS, de Freitas Fernandes-Pedrosa M. In silico and in vitro structure-stability-function relationship of analog peptides of Stigmurin and its antibacterial and antibiofilm activities. Pharmacol Res 2022; 181:106245. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
26
|
Characterization of the Growth and Morphology of a BSL-2 Coccidioides posadasii Strain That Persists in the Parasitic Life Cycle at Ambient CO2. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8050455. [PMID: 35628711 PMCID: PMC9145405 DOI: 10.3390/jof8050455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Coccidioides is a dimorphic fungus responsible for Valley Fever and is the cause of severe morbidity and mortality in the infected population. Although there is some insight into the genes, pathways, and growth media involved in the parasitic to saprophytic growth transition, the exact determinants that govern this switch are largely unknown. In this work, we examined the growth and morphology of a Coccidioides posadasii strain (C. posadasii S/E) that efficiently produces spherules and endospores and persists in the parasitic life cycle at ambient CO2. We demonstrated that C. posadasii S/E remains virulent in an insect infection model. Surprisingly, under spherule-inducing conditions, the C. posadasii S/E culture was found to be completely hyphal. Differential interference contrast (DIC) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed unexpected cellular changes in this strain including cell wall remodeling and formation of septal pores with Woronin bodies. Our study suggests that the C. posadasii S/E strain is a useful BSL-2 model for studying mechanisms underlying the parasitic to saprophytic growth transition—a morphological switch that can impact the pathogenicity of the organism in the host.
Collapse
|
27
|
Curtis A, Binder U, Kavanagh K. Galleria mellonella Larvae as a Model for Investigating Fungal-Host Interactions. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2022; 3:893494. [PMID: 37746216 PMCID: PMC10512315 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2022.893494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Galleria mellonella larvae have become a widely accepted and utilised infection model due to the functional homology displayed between their immune response to infection and that observed in the mammalian innate immune response. Due to these similarities, comparable results to murine studies can be obtained using G. mellonella larvae in assessing the virulence of fungal pathogens and the in vivo toxicity or efficacy of anti-fungal agents. This coupled with their low cost, rapid generation of results, and lack of ethical/legal considerations make this model very attractive for analysis of host-pathogen interactions. The larvae of G. mellonella have successfully been utilised to analyse various fungal virulence factors including toxin and enzyme production in vivo providing in depth analysis of the processes involved in the establishment and progression of fungal pathogens (e.g., Candida spps, Aspergillus spp., Madurella mycetomatis, Mucormycetes, and Cryptococcus neoformans). A variety of experimental endpoints can be employed including analysis of fungal burdens, alterations in haemocyte density or sub-populations, melanisation, and characterisation of infection progression using proteomic, histological or imaging techniques. Proteomic analysis can provide insights into both sides of the host-pathogen interaction with each respective proteome being analysed independently following infection and extraction of haemolymph from the larvae. G. mellonella can also be employed for assessing the efficacy and toxicity of antifungal strategies at concentrations comparable to those used in mammals allowing for early stage investigation of novel compounds and combinations of established therapeutic agents. These numerous applications validate the model for examination of fungal infection and development of therapeutic approaches in vivo in compliance with the need to reduce animal models in biological research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Curtis
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Ulrike Binder
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Kevin Kavanagh
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
de Sousa HR, de Oliveira GP, Frazão SDO, Gorgonha KCDM, Rosa CP, Garcez EM, Lucas J, Correia AF, de Freitas WF, Borges HM, de Brito Alves LG, Paes HC, Trilles L, Lazera MDS, Teixeira MDM, Pinto VL, Felipe MSS, Casadevall A, Silva-Pereira I, Albuquerque P, Nicola AM. Faster Cryptococcus Melanization Increases Virulence in Experimental and Human Cryptococcosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:393. [PMID: 35448624 PMCID: PMC9029458 DOI: 10.3390/jof8040393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus spp. are human pathogens that cause 181,000 deaths per year. In this work, we systematically investigated the virulence attributes of Cryptococcus spp. clinical isolates and correlated them with patient data to better understand cryptococcosis. We collected 66 C. neoformans and 19 C. gattii clinical isolates and analyzed multiple virulence phenotypes and host-pathogen interaction outcomes. C. neoformans isolates tended to melanize faster and more intensely and produce thinner capsules in comparison with C. gattii. We also observed correlations that match previous studies, such as that between secreted laccase and disease outcome in patients. We measured Cryptococcus colony melanization kinetics, which followed a sigmoidal curve for most isolates, and showed that faster melanization correlated positively with LC3-associated phagocytosis evasion, virulence in Galleria mellonella and worse prognosis in humans. These results suggest that the speed of melanization, more than the total amount of melanin Cryptococcus spp. produces, is crucial for virulence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Herdson Renney de Sousa
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (H.R.d.S.); (K.C.d.M.G.); (C.P.R.); (E.M.G.); (W.F.d.F.); (H.M.B.); (L.G.d.B.A.); (H.C.P.); (M.d.M.T.)
| | - Getúlio Pereira de Oliveira
- Division of Allergy and Inflammation, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
| | - Stefânia de Oliveira Frazão
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Pathogenic Fungi, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (S.d.O.F.); (I.S.-P.); (P.A.)
| | - Kaio César de Melo Gorgonha
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (H.R.d.S.); (K.C.d.M.G.); (C.P.R.); (E.M.G.); (W.F.d.F.); (H.M.B.); (L.G.d.B.A.); (H.C.P.); (M.d.M.T.)
| | - Camila Pereira Rosa
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (H.R.d.S.); (K.C.d.M.G.); (C.P.R.); (E.M.G.); (W.F.d.F.); (H.M.B.); (L.G.d.B.A.); (H.C.P.); (M.d.M.T.)
| | - Emãnuella Melgaço Garcez
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (H.R.d.S.); (K.C.d.M.G.); (C.P.R.); (E.M.G.); (W.F.d.F.); (H.M.B.); (L.G.d.B.A.); (H.C.P.); (M.d.M.T.)
| | - Joaquim Lucas
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz–Brasília), Brasília 70904-130, DF, Brazil; (J.L.J.); (V.L.P.J.)
| | | | - Waleriano Ferreira de Freitas
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (H.R.d.S.); (K.C.d.M.G.); (C.P.R.); (E.M.G.); (W.F.d.F.); (H.M.B.); (L.G.d.B.A.); (H.C.P.); (M.d.M.T.)
| | - Higor Matos Borges
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (H.R.d.S.); (K.C.d.M.G.); (C.P.R.); (E.M.G.); (W.F.d.F.); (H.M.B.); (L.G.d.B.A.); (H.C.P.); (M.d.M.T.)
| | - Lucas Gomes de Brito Alves
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (H.R.d.S.); (K.C.d.M.G.); (C.P.R.); (E.M.G.); (W.F.d.F.); (H.M.B.); (L.G.d.B.A.); (H.C.P.); (M.d.M.T.)
| | - Hugo Costa Paes
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (H.R.d.S.); (K.C.d.M.G.); (C.P.R.); (E.M.G.); (W.F.d.F.); (H.M.B.); (L.G.d.B.A.); (H.C.P.); (M.d.M.T.)
| | - Luciana Trilles
- Mycology Laboratory, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz–Rio de Janeiro), Rio de Janeiro 21045-900, RJ, Brazil; (L.T.); (M.d.S.L.)
| | - Márcia dos Santos Lazera
- Mycology Laboratory, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz–Rio de Janeiro), Rio de Janeiro 21045-900, RJ, Brazil; (L.T.); (M.d.S.L.)
| | - Marcus de Melo Teixeira
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (H.R.d.S.); (K.C.d.M.G.); (C.P.R.); (E.M.G.); (W.F.d.F.); (H.M.B.); (L.G.d.B.A.); (H.C.P.); (M.d.M.T.)
| | - Vitor Laerte Pinto
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz–Brasília), Brasília 70904-130, DF, Brazil; (J.L.J.); (V.L.P.J.)
| | - Maria Sueli Soares Felipe
- Graduate Program in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília 70790-160, DF, Brazil;
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Ildinete Silva-Pereira
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Pathogenic Fungi, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (S.d.O.F.); (I.S.-P.); (P.A.)
| | - Patrícia Albuquerque
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Pathogenic Fungi, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (S.d.O.F.); (I.S.-P.); (P.A.)
- Faculty of Ceilândia, University of Brasília, Brasília 72220-275, DF, Brazil
| | - André Moraes Nicola
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil; (H.R.d.S.); (K.C.d.M.G.); (C.P.R.); (E.M.G.); (W.F.d.F.); (H.M.B.); (L.G.d.B.A.); (H.C.P.); (M.d.M.T.)
- Graduate Program in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília 70790-160, DF, Brazil;
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ménard G, Rouillon A, Cattoir V, Donnio PY. Galleria mellonella as a Suitable Model of Bacterial Infection: Past, Present and Future. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:782733. [PMID: 35004350 PMCID: PMC8727906 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.782733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing interest for Galleria mellonella larvae as an infection model is evidenced by the number of papers reporting its use, which increases exponentially since the early 2010s. This popularity was initially linked to limitation of conventional animal models due to financial, technical and ethical aspects. In comparison, alternative models (e.g. models using Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster or G. mellonella) were cheap, simple to use and not limited by ethical regulation. Since then, similar results have been established with G. mellonella model comparatively to vertebrates, and it is more and more often used as a robust model per se, not only as an alternative to the murine model. This review attempts to summarize the current knowledge supporting the development of this model, both on immunological and microbiological aspects. For that, we focus on investigation of virulence and new therapies for the most important pathogenic bacteria. We also discuss points out directions for standardization, as well as recent advances and new perspectives for monitoring host-pathogen interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Ménard
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, INSERM, Bacterial Regulatory RNAs and Medicine (BRM), service de Bactériologie Hygiène-Hospitalière (SB2H), UMR_S 1230, Rennes, France
| | - Astrid Rouillon
- Univ Rennes, INSERM, Bacterial Regulatory RNAs and Medicine (BRM), UMR_S 1230, Rennes, France
| | - Vincent Cattoir
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, INSERM, Bacterial Regulatory RNAs and Medicine (BRM), service de Bactériologie Hygiène-Hospitalière (SB2H), UMR_S 1230, Rennes, France
| | - Pierre-Yves Donnio
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, INSERM, Bacterial Regulatory RNAs and Medicine (BRM), service de Bactériologie Hygiène-Hospitalière (SB2H), UMR_S 1230, Rennes, France
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Piatek M, Sheehan G, Kavanagh K. Galleria mellonella: The Versatile Host for Drug Discovery, In Vivo Toxicity Testing and Characterising Host-Pathogen Interactions. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10121545. [PMID: 34943757 PMCID: PMC8698334 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10121545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Larvae of the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella, are a convenient in vivo model for assessing the activity and toxicity of antimicrobial agents and for studying the immune response to pathogens and provide results similar to those from mammals. G. mellonella larvae are now widely used in academia and industry and their use can assist in the identification and evaluation of novel antimicrobial agents. Galleria larvae are inexpensive to purchase and house, easy to inoculate, generate results within 24–48 h and their use is not restricted by legal or ethical considerations. This review will highlight how Galleria larvae can be used to assess the efficacy of novel antimicrobial therapies (photodynamic therapy, phage therapy, metal-based drugs, triazole-amino acid hybrids) and for determining the in vivo toxicity of compounds (e.g., food preservatives, ionic liquids) and/or solvents (polysorbate 80). In addition, the disease development processes are associated with a variety of pathogens (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Aspergillus fumigatus, Madurella mycotomatis) in mammals are also present in Galleria larvae thus providing a simple in vivo model for characterising disease progression. The use of Galleria larvae offers many advantages and can lead to an acceleration in the development of novel antimicrobials and may be a prerequisite to mammalian testing.
Collapse
|
31
|
Burns and biofilms: priority pathogens and in vivo models. NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes 2021; 7:73. [PMID: 34504100 PMCID: PMC8429633 DOI: 10.1038/s41522-021-00243-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Burn wounds can create significant damage to human skin, compromising one of the key barriers to infection. The leading cause of death among burn wound patients is infection. Even in the patients that survive, infections can be notoriously difficult to treat and can cause lasting damage, with delayed healing and prolonged hospital stays. Biofilm formation in the burn wound site is a major contributing factor to the failure of burn treatment regimens and mortality as a result of burn wound infection. Bacteria forming a biofilm or a bacterial community encased in a polysaccharide matrix are more resistant to disinfection, the rigors of the host immune system, and critically, more tolerant to antibiotics. Burn wound-associated biofilms are also thought to act as a launchpad for bacteria to establish deeper, systemic infection and ultimately bacteremia and sepsis. In this review, we discuss some of the leading burn wound pathogens and outline how they regulate biofilm formation in the burn wound microenvironment. We also discuss the new and emerging models that are available to study burn wound biofilm formation in vivo.
Collapse
|
32
|
Stączek S, Zdybicka-Barabas A, Wiater A, Pleszczyńska M, Cytryńska M. Activation of cellular immune response in insect model host Galleria mellonella by fungal α-1,3-glucan. Pathog Dis 2021; 78:6000214. [PMID: 33232457 PMCID: PMC7726367 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftaa062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-1,3-glucan, in addition to β-1,3-glucan, is an important polysaccharide component of fungal cell walls. It is reported for many fungal species, including human pathogenic genera: Aspergillus, Blastomyces, Coccidioides, Cryptococcus, Histoplasma and Pneumocystis, plant pathogens, e.g. Magnaporthe oryzae and entomopathogens, e.g. Metarhizium acridum. In human and plant pathogenic fungi, α-1,3-glucan is considered as a shield for the β-1,3-glucan layer preventing recognition of the pathogen by the host. However, its role in induction of immune response is not clear. In the present study, the cellular immune response of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella to Aspergillus niger α-1,3-glucan was investigated for the first time. The changes detected in the total hemocyte count (THC) and differential hemocyte count (DHC), formation of hemocyte aggregates and changes in apolipophorin III localization indicated activation of G. mellonella cellular mechanisms in response to immunization with A. niger α-1,3-glucan. Our results, which have clearly demonstrated the response of the insect immune system to this fungal cell wall component, will help in understanding the α-1,3-glucan role in immune response against fungal pathogens not only in insects but also in mammals, including humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Stączek
- Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Immunobiology, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Zdybicka-Barabas
- Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Immunobiology, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Adrian Wiater
- Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Industrial and Environmental Microbiology, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Pleszczyńska
- Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Industrial and Environmental Microbiology, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Cytryńska
- Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Immunobiology, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
de Siqueira KA, Liotti RG, de Sousa JR, Vendruscullo SJ, de Souza GB, de Vasconcelos LG, Januário AH, de Oliveira Mendes TA, Soares MA. Streptomyces griseocarneus R132 expresses antimicrobial genes and produces metabolites that modulate Galleria mellonella immune system. 3 Biotech 2021; 11:396. [PMID: 34422537 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-021-02942-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Actinobacteria is a phylum composed of aerobic, Gram-positive, and filamentous bacteria with a broad spectrum of biological activity, including antioxidant, antitumor, and antibiotic. The crude extract of Streptomyces griseocarneus R132 was fractionated on a C18 silica column and the isolated compound was identified by 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance as 3-(phenylprop-2-enoic acid), also known as trans-cinnamic acid. Antimicrobial activity against human pathogens was assayed in vitro (disk-diffusion qualitative test) and in vivo using Galleria mellonella larvae (RT-qPCR). The methanol fractions 132-F30%, 132-F50%, 132-F70%, and 132-F100% inhibited the Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) growth in vitro the most effectively. Compared with the untreated control (60-80% of larvae death), the fractions and isolated trans-cinnamic acid increased the survival rate and modulated the immune system of G. mellonella larvae infected with pathogenic microorganisms. The anti-infection effect of the S. griseocarneus R132 fermentation product led us to sequence its genome, which was assembled and annotated using the Rast and antiSMASH platforms. The assembled genome consisted of 227 scaffolds represented on a linear chromosome of 8.85 Mb and 71.3% of GC. We detected conserved domains typical of enzymes that produce molecules with biological activity, such as polyketides and non-ribosomal and ribosomal peptides, indicating a great potential for obtaining new antibiotics and molecules with biotechnological application. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-021-02942-1.
Collapse
|
34
|
Kombucha beverage from non-conventional edible plant infusion and green tea: Characterization, toxicity, antioxidant activities and antimicrobial properties. BIOCATALYSIS AND AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2021.102032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
35
|
Granato MQ, Mello TP, Nascimento RS, Pereira MD, Rosa TLSA, Pessolani MCV, McCann M, Devereux M, Branquinha MH, Santos ALS, Kneipp LF. Silver(I) and Copper(II) Complexes of 1,10-Phenanthroline-5,6-Dione Against Phialophora verrucosa: A Focus on the Interaction With Human Macrophages and Galleria mellonella Larvae. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:641258. [PMID: 34025603 PMCID: PMC8138666 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.641258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Phialophora verrucosa is a dematiaceous fungus that causes mainly chromoblastomycosis, but also disseminated infections such as phaeohyphomycosis and mycetoma. These diseases are extremely hard to treat and often refractory to current antifungal therapies. In this work, we have evaluated the effect of 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione (phendione) and its metal-based complexes, [Ag (phendione)2]ClO4 and [Cu(phendione)3](ClO4)2.4H2O, against P. verrucosa, focusing on (i) conidial viability when combined with amphotericin B (AmB); (ii) biofilm formation and disarticulation events; (iii) in vitro interaction with human macrophages; and (iv) in vivo infection of Galleria mellonella larvae. The combination of AmB with each of the test compounds promoted the additive inhibition of P. verrucosa growth, as judged by the checkerboard assay. During the biofilm formation process over polystyrene surface, sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of phendione and its silver(I) and copper(II) complexes were able to reduce biomass and extracellular matrix production. Moreover, a mature biofilm treated with high concentrations of the test compounds diminished biofilm viability in a concentration-dependent manner. Pre-treatment of conidial cells with the test compounds did not alter the percentage of infected THP-1 macrophages; however, [Ag(phendione)2]ClO4 caused a significant reduction in the number of intracellular fungal cells compared to the untreated system. In addition, the killing process was significantly enhanced by post-treatment of infected macrophages with the test compounds. P. verrucosa induced a typically cell density-dependent effect on G. mellonella larvae death after 7 days of infection. Interestingly, exposure to the silver(I) complex protected the larvae from P. verrucosa infection. Collectively, the results corroborate the promising therapeutic potential of phendione-based drugs against fungal infections, including those caused by P. verrucosa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Q. Granato
- Laboratório de Taxonomia, Bioquímica e Bioprospecção de Fungos (LTBBF), Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Thaís P. Mello
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Renata S. Nascimento
- Laboratório de Citotoxicidade e Genotoxicidade (LaCiGen), Instituto de Química, UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcos D. Pereira
- Laboratório de Citotoxicidade e Genotoxicidade (LaCiGen), Instituto de Química, UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Malachy McCann
- Department of Chemistry, Maynooth University, National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Michael Devereux
- Center for Biomimetic and Therapeutic Research, Focas Research Institute, Technological University Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marta H. Branquinha
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - André L. S. Santos
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Laboratório de Citotoxicidade e Genotoxicidade (LaCiGen), Instituto de Química, UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucimar F. Kneipp
- Laboratório de Taxonomia, Bioquímica e Bioprospecção de Fungos (LTBBF), Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Wang JJ, Yin YP, Song JZ, Hu SJ, Cheng W, Qiu L. A p53-like transcription factor, BbTFO1, contributes to virulence and oxidative and thermal stress tolerances in the insect pathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249350. [PMID: 33788872 PMCID: PMC8011754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The p53-like transcription factor (TF) NDT80 plays a vital role in the regulation of pathogenic mechanisms and meiosis in certain fungi. However, the effects of NDT80 on entomopathogenic fungi are still unknown. In this paper, the NDT80 orthologue BbTFO1 was examined in Beauveria bassiana, a filamentous entomopathogenic fungus, to explore the role of an NDT80-like protein for fungal pest control potential. Disruption of BbTFO1 resulted in impaired resistance to oxidative stress (OS) in a growth assay under OS and a 50% minimum inhibitory concentration experiment. Intriguingly, the oxidation resistance changes were accompanied by transcriptional repression of the two key antioxidant enzyme genes cat2 and cat5. ΔBbTFO1 also displayed defective conidial germination, virulence and heat resistance. The specific supplementation of BbTFO1 reversed these phenotypic changes. As revealed by this work, BbTFO1 can affect the transcription of catalase genes and play vital roles in the maintenance of phenotypes associated with the biological control ability of B. bassiana.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan-Juan Wang
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan, China
- * E-mail: (JJW); (LQ)
| | - Ya-Ping Yin
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan, China
| | - Ji-Zheng Song
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan, China
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Shun-Juan Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Wen Cheng
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan, China
- * E-mail: (JJW); (LQ)
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Reis FCG, Costa JH, Honorato L, Nimrichter L, Fill TP, Rodrigues ML. Small Molecule Analysis of Extracellular Vesicles Produced by Cryptococcus gattii: Identification of a Tripeptide Controlling Cryptococcal Infection in an Invertebrate Host Model. Front Immunol 2021; 12:654574. [PMID: 33796117 PMCID: PMC8008140 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.654574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The small molecule (molecular mass <900 Daltons) composition of extracellular vesicles (EVs) produced by the pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus gattii is unknown, which limits the understanding of the functions of cryptococcal EVs. In this study, we analyzed the composition of small molecules in samples obtained from solid cultures of C. gattii by a combination of chromatographic and spectrometric approaches, and untargeted metabolomics. This analysis revealed previously unknown components of EVs, including small peptides with known biological functions in other models. The peptides found in C. gattii EVs had their chemical structure validated by chemical approaches and comparison with authentic standards, and their functions tested in a Galleria mellonella model of cryptococcal infection. One of the vesicular peptides (isoleucine-proline-isoleucine, Ile-Pro-Ile) improved the survival of G. mellonella lethally infected with C. gattii or C. neoformans. These results indicate that small molecules exported in EVs are biologically active in Cryptococcus. Our study is the first to characterize a fungal EV molecule inducing protection, pointing to an immunological potential of extracellular peptides produced by C. gattii.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flavia C G Reis
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil.,Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Saúde (CDTS), Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jonas H Costa
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Leandro Honorato
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Nimrichter
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Taícia P Fill
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Marcio L Rodrigues
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil.,Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Durieux MF, Melloul É, Jemel S, Roisin L, Dardé ML, Guillot J, Dannaoui É, Botterel F. Galleria mellonella as a screening tool to study virulence factors of Aspergillus fumigatus. Virulence 2021; 12:818-834. [PMID: 33682618 PMCID: PMC7946008 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.1893945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The invertebrate Galleria mellonella has increasingly and widely been used in the last few years to study complex host–microbe interactions. Aspergillus fumigatus is one of the most pathogenic fungi causing life-threatening diseases in humans and animals. Galleria mellonella larvae has been proven as a reliable model for the analysis of pathogenesis and virulence factors, enable to screen a large number of A. fumigatus strains. This review describes the different uses of G. mellonella to study A. fumigatus and provides a comparison of the different protocols to trace fungal pathogenicity. The review also includes a summary of the diverse mutants tested in G. mellonella, and their respective contribution to A. fumigatus virulence. Previous investigations indicated that G. mellonella should be considered as an interesting tool even though a mammalian model may be required to complete and verify initial data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Fleur Durieux
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie - Mycologie, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France.,EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France
| | - Élise Melloul
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France
| | - Sana Jemel
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France
| | - Lolita Roisin
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France
| | - Marie-Laure Dardé
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie - Mycologie, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Jacques Guillot
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France.,École Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Éric Dannaoui
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France.,Unité de Parasitologie-mycologie, Service de Microbiologie, Université Paris Descartes, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Françoise Botterel
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France.,Unité de Mycologie, Département de Prévention, Diagnostic Et Traitement Des Infections, Groupe Hospitalier Henri Mondor - Albert Chenevier, APHP, France
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Comparative response of Spodoptera litura challenged per os with Serratia marcescens strains differing in virulence. J Invertebr Pathol 2021; 183:107562. [PMID: 33652013 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2021.107562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Host plays an important role in influencing virulence of a pathogen and efficacy of a biopesticide. The present study was aimed to characterize the possible factors present in Spodoptera litura that influenced pathogenecity of orally ingested S. marcescens strains, differing in their virulence. Fifth instar larvae of S. litura responded differently as challenged by two Serratia marcescens strains, SEN (virulent strain, LC50 7.02 103 cfu/ml) and ICC-4 (non-virulent strain, LC50 1.19 1012 cfu/ml). Considerable increase in activity of lytic enzymes protease and phospholipase was recorded in the gut and hemolymph of larvae fed on diet supplemented with S. marcescens strain ICC-4 as compared to the larvae treated with S. marcescens strain SEN. However, a significant up-regulation of antioxidative enzymes SOD (in foregut and midgut), CAT (in the midgut) and GST (in the foregut and hemolymph) was recorded in larvae fed on diet treated with the virulent S. marcescens strain SEN in comparison to larvae fed on diet treated with the non-virulent S. marcescens strain ICC-4. Activity of defense related enzymes lysozyme and phenoloxidase activity were also higher in the hemolymph of larvae fed with diet treated with S. marcescens strain SEN as compared to hemolymph of S. marcescens strain ICC-4 treated larvae. More number of over-expressed proteins was observed in the gut and hemolymph of S. marcescens strains ICC-4 and SEN treated larvae, respectively. Identification of the selected differentially expressed proteins indicated induction of proteins involved in insect innate immune response (Immunoglobulin I-set domain, Apolipophorin III, leucine rich repeat and Titin) in S. marcescens strain SEN treated larvae. Over-expression of two proteins, actin related protein and mt DNA helicase, were noted in S. marcescens treated larvae with very high levels observed in the non-virulent strain. Up-regulation of homeobox protein was noted only in S. marcescens strain ICC-4 challenged larvae. This study indicated that ingestion of non-virulent S. marcescens strain ICC-4 induced strong immune response in insect gut while there was weak response to the virulent S. marcescens strain SEN which probably resulted in difference in their virulence.
Collapse
|
40
|
Hesketh-Best PJ, Mouritzen MV, Shandley-Edwards K, Billington RA, Upton M. Galleria mellonella larvae exhibit a weight-dependent lethal median dose when infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Pathog Dis 2021; 79:6121426. [PMID: 33503238 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftab003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella is a recognised model to study antimicrobial efficacy; however, standardisation across the scientific field and investigations of methodological components are needed. Here, we investigate the impact of weight on mortality following infection with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Larvae were separated into six weight groups (180-300 mg at 20 mg intervals) and infected with a range of doses of MRSA to determine the 50% lethal dose (LD50), and the 'lipid weight' of larvae post-infection was quantified. A model of LD50 values correlated with weight was developed. The LD50 values, as estimated by our model, were further tested in vivo to prove our model. We establish a weight-dependent LD50 in larvae against MRSA and demonstrate that G. mellonella is a stable model within 180-260 mg. We present multiple linear models correlating weight with: LD50, lipid weight, and larval length. We demonstrate that the lipid weight is reduced as a result of MRSA infection, identifying a potentially new measure in which to understand the immune response. Finally, we demonstrate that larval length can be a reasonable proxy for weight. Refining the methodologies in which to handle and design experiments involving G. mellonella, we can improve the reliability of this powerful model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Poppy J Hesketh-Best
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Michelle V Mouritzen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Plymouth, Derriford Research Facility, Plymouth Science Park, Plymouth, PL6 8BT, UK
| | - Kayleigh Shandley-Edwards
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Richard A Billington
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Mathew Upton
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Plymouth, Derriford Research Facility, Plymouth Science Park, Plymouth, PL6 8BT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Díaz-García J, Arendrup MC, Cantón R, García-Rodríguez J, de la Pedrosa EGG, Parisi G, Pemán J, Posteraro B, Sanguinetti M, Da Matta DA, Colombo AL, Muñoz P, Sánchez-Carrillo C, Guinea J, Escribano P. Lack of relationship between genotype and virulence in Candida species. Rev Iberoam Micol 2021; 38:9-11. [PMID: 33358083 DOI: 10.1016/j.riam.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The virulence of isolates among different Candida species causing candidemia may play a role in the prognosis of the patients. Furthermore, the potential relationship between genotype and virulence is still unclear and need to be further studied. AIMS We aim to assess the relationship between genotype and virulence in Candida species using a Galleria mellonella larvae infection model. METHODS One hundred and ninety-four isolates from 68 clusters (Candida albicans, 114/41; Candida parapsilosis, 74/24; Candida tropicalis, 6/3) were compared against the same number of each species singleton genotypes in terms of survival of G. mellonella larvae. RESULTS The median of survival and the IQR ranges of clusters and singleton were as follows: C. albicans (2 days, IQR 1.5-2 vs. 2 days, IQR 1-2.25), C. parapsilosis (2 days, IQR 1.5-2.6 vs. 2 days, IQR 2-3.3), and C. tropicalis (1 day, IQR 1-3.5 vs. 2 days, IQR 2-3.5; p<0.05). High intra-cluster variability in terms of median of survival was found regardless the species. CONCLUSIONS No relationship between genotype and virulence in Candida was observed with the G. mellonella model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith Díaz-García
- Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maiken C Arendrup
- Unit of Mycology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Microbiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rafael Cantón
- Servicio de Microbiología. Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid and Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain; Red Española de Investigación en Patología Infecciosa (REIPI), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julio García-Rodríguez
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elia Gómez García de la Pedrosa
- Servicio de Microbiología. Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid and Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain; Red Española de Investigación en Patología Infecciosa (REIPI), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Javier Pemán
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain; Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Brunella Posteraro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Gastroenterologiche, Endocrino-Metaboliche e Nefro-Urologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Sanguinetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze di Laboratorio e Infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A, Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Arnaldo L Colombo
- Special Laboratory of Mycology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patricia Muñoz
- Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias-CIBERES (CB06/06/0058), Madrid, Spain; Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Sánchez-Carrillo
- Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias-CIBERES (CB06/06/0058), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Guinea
- Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias-CIBERES (CB06/06/0058), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Pilar Escribano
- Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Qiu L, Nie SX, Hu SJ, Wang SJ, Wang JJ, Guo K. Screening of Beauveria bassiana with high biocontrol potential based on ARTP mutagenesis and high-throughput FACS. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 171:104732. [PMID: 33357554 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2020.104732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Beauveria bassiana is a promising biocontrol agent due to its entomopathogenic activities and residue-free characteristics. However, its susceptibility to abiotic stresses and naturally low virulence limit the effective application of this fungus. To effectively obtain fungal strains with high biocontrol potential, fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) was used to screen mutant libraries generated by atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP). Among about 8000 mutants obtained by ARTP mutagenesis, six candidate mutants were selected according to the forward scatter (FSC) signal readings of FACS. B6, with a 37.4% higher FSC reading than wild-type (WT), showed a 32.6% increase in virulence. It also presented a 13.5% decrease in median germinating time (GT50) and a 12.1% increase in blastospore production. Comparative analysis between insect transcriptional responses to B6 and WT infection showed that the immune response coupled with protein digestion and absorption progress was highly activated in B6-infected Galleria mellonella larvae, while fatty acid synthesis was suppressed after 3 days of infection. Our results confirmed the feasibility of sorting B. bassiana with high biocontrol potential via the combination of ARTP and FACS and facilitated the understanding of insect-pathogen interactions, highlighting a new strategy for modifying entomopathogenic fungi to improve the efficiency of biological control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan, China.
| | - Sheng-Xin Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Shun-Juan Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Shou-Juan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Juan-Juan Wang
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan, China.
| | - Kai Guo
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Influences of the Culturing Media in the Virulence and Cell Wall of Sporothrix schenckii, Sporothrix brasiliensis, and Sporothrix globosa. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6040323. [PMID: 33260702 PMCID: PMC7712150 DOI: 10.3390/jof6040323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sporothrix schenckii, Sporothrix brasiliensis, and Sporothrix globosa are etiological agents of sporotrichosis, a human subcutaneous mycosis. Although the protocols to evaluate Sporothrix virulence in animal models are well described, the cell preparation before inoculation is not standardized, and several culturing media are used to grow yeast-like cells. Here, we found that carbon or nitrogen limitation during fungal cell preparation negatively impacted the ability of S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis to kill Galleria mellonella larvae, but not S. globosa. The fungal growth conditions associated with the short median survival of animals were accompanied by increased hemocyte countings, phenoloxidase activity, and cytotoxicity. The fungal growth under carbon or nitrogen limitation also affected the cell wall composition of both S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis and showed increased exposure of β-1,3-glucan at the cell surface, while those growing conditions had a minimal impact on the S.globosa wall, which had higher levels of this polysaccharide exposed on the wall regardless of the culture condition. This polysaccharide exposure was linked to the increased ability of insect hemocytes to uptake fungal cells, suggesting that this is one of the mechanisms behind the lower virulence of S.globosa or cells from the other species grown in carbon or nitrogen limitation.
Collapse
|
44
|
Involvement of BbTpc1, an important Zn(II) 2Cys 6 transcriptional regulator, in chitin biosynthesis, fungal development and virulence of an insect mycopathogen. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 166:1162-1172. [PMID: 33159944 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.10.271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Chitin is one of the major components of the fungal cell wall and contributes to the mechanical strength and shape of the fungal cell. Zn(II)2Cys6 transcription factors are unique to the fungal kingdom and have a variety of functions in some fungi. However, the mechanisms by which Zn(II)2Cys6 proteins affect entomopathogenic fungi are largely unknown. Here, we characterized the Zn(II)2Cys6 transcription factor BbTpc1 in the insect pathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana. Disruption of BbTpc1 resulted in a distinct changes in vegetative growth and septation patterns, and a significant decrease in conidia and blastospore yield. The ΔBbTpc1 mutant displayed impaired resistance to chemical stresses and heat shock and attenuated virulence in topical and intrahemocoel injection assays. Importantly, the ΔBbTpc1 mutant had an abnormal cell wall with altered wall thickness and chitin synthesis, which were accompanied by transcriptional repression of the chitin synthetase family genes. In addition, comparative transcriptomics revealed that deletion of BbTpc1 altered fungal asexual reproduction via different genetic pathways. These data revealed that BbTpc1 regulates fungal development, chitin synthesis and biological control potential in B. bassiana.
Collapse
|
45
|
Insights into the Gryllus bimaculatus Immune-Related Transcriptomic Profiling to Combat Naturally Invading Pathogens. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6040232. [PMID: 33080980 PMCID: PMC7711483 DOI: 10.3390/jof6040232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural pathogen pressure is an important factor that shapes the host immune defense mechanism. The current study primarily aimed to explore the molecular basis of the natural immune defense mechanism of a sporadic pest, Gryllus bimaculatus, during swarming by constructing cDNA libraries of the female mid-gut, male mid-gut, testes, and ovaries. The Illumina HiSeq platform generated an average of 7.9 G, 11.77 G, 10.07 G, and 10.07 G bases of outputs from the male mid-gut, female mid-gut, testes, and ovaries and libraries, respectively. The transcriptome of two-spotted field crickets was assembled into 233,172 UniGenes, which yielded approximately 163.58 million reads. On the other hand, there were 43,055 genes in common that were shared among all the biological samples. Gene Ontology analysis successfully annotated 492 immune-related genes, which comprised mainly Pattern Recognition Receptors (62 genes), Signal modulators (57 genes), Signal transduction (214 genes), Effectors (36 genes), and another immune-related 123 genes. In summary, the identified wide range of immune-related genes from G. bimaculatus indicates the existence of a sophisticated and specialized broad spectrum immune mechanism against invading pathogens, which provides, for the first time, insights into the molecular mechanism of disease resistance among two-spotted field crickets.
Collapse
|
46
|
Pereira MF, Rossi CC. Overview of rearing and testing conditions and a guide for optimizing Galleria mellonella breeding and use in the laboratory for scientific purposes. APMIS 2020; 128:607-620. [PMID: 32970339 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The greater wax moth Galleria mellonella is an increasingly popular and consolidated alternative infection model to assess microbial virulence and the effectiveness of antimicrobial compounds. The lack of G. mellonella suppliers aiming at scientific purposes and a lack of well-established protocols for raising and testing these animals may impact results and reproducibility between different laboratories. In this review, we discuss the state of the art of rearing the larvae in situ, providing an overview of breeding and testing conditions commonly used and their influence on larval health and experiments results, from setting up the environment, providing the ideal diet, understanding the effects of pretreatments, choosing the best testing conditions, to exploring the most from the results obtained. Meanwhile, we guide the reader through the most practical ways of dealing with G. mellonella to achieve successful experiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monalessa Fábia Pereira
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais, Carangola, MG, Brazil
| | - Ciro César Rossi
- Laboratório de Microbiologia Molecular, Departamento de Microbiologia Médica, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Vertyporokh L, Hułas‐Stasiak M, Wojda I. Host-pathogen interaction after infection of Galleria mellonella with the filamentous fungus Beauveria bassiana. INSECT SCIENCE 2020; 27:1079-1089. [PMID: 31245909 PMCID: PMC7497211 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The filamentous fungus Beauveria bassiana is a natural pathogen of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella. Infection with this fungus triggered systemic immune response in G. mellonella; nevertheless, the infection was lethal if spores entered the insect hemocel. We observed melanin deposition in the insect cuticle and walls of air bags, while the invading fungus interrupted tissue continuity. We have shown colonization of muscles, air bags, and finally colonization and complete destruction of the fat body-the main organ responsible for the synthesis of defense molecules in response to infection. This destruction was probably not caused by simple fungal growth, because the fat body was not destroyed during colonization with a human opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans. This may mean that the infecting fungus is able to destroy actively the insect's fat body as part of its virulence mechanism. Finally, we were unable to reduce the extremely high virulence of B. bassiana against G. mellonella by priming of larvae with thermally inactivated fungal spores.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lidiia Vertyporokh
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biology and BiochemistryMaria Curie‐Sklodowska UniversityAkademicka 19LublinPoland
| | - Monika Hułas‐Stasiak
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Comparative Anatomy and Anthropology, Institute of Biology and BiochemistryMaria Curie‐Sklodowska UniversityAkademicka 19LublinPoland
| | - Iwona Wojda
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biology and BiochemistryMaria Curie‐Sklodowska UniversityAkademicka 19LublinPoland
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Jiang T, Tang J, Wu Z, Sun Y, Tan J, Yang L. The combined utilization of Chlorhexidine and Voriconazole or Natamycin to combat Fusarium infections. BMC Microbiol 2020; 20:275. [PMID: 32891143 PMCID: PMC7487579 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-020-01960-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fusarium species are the fungal pathogens most commonly responsible for the mycotic keratitis, which are resistant to the majority of currently available antifungal agents. The present study was designed to assess the efficacy of a combination of low doses chlorhexidine with two other commonly used drugs (voriconazole and natamycin) to treat Fusarium infections. Results We utilized combinations of chlorhexidine and natamycin or voriconazole against 20 clinical Fusarium strains in vitro using a checkerboard-based microdilution strategy. In order to more fully understand the synergistic interactions between voriconazole and chlorhexidine, we utilized a Galleria mellonella model to confirm the combined antifungal efficacy of chlorhexidine and voriconazole in vivo. We found that for voriconazole, natamycin, and chlorhexidine as single agents, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranges were 2–8, 4–16, and > 16 μg/ml, respectively. In contrast, the MIC values for voriconazole and chlorhexidine were reduced to 0.25–1 and 1–2 μg/ml, respectively, when these agents were administered in combination, with synergy being observed for 90% of tested Fusarium strains. Combined chlorhexidine and natamycin treatment, in contrast, exhibited synergistic activity for only 10% of tested Fusarium strains. We observed no evidence of antagonism. Our in vivo model results further confirmed the synergistic antifungal activity of chlorhexidine and voriconazole. Conclusions Our results offer novel evidence that voriconazole and chlorhexidine exhibit synergistic activity when used to suppress the growth of Fusarium spp., and these agents may thus offer value as a combination topical antifungal treatment strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Jiang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Jingzhou Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434100, China
| | - Jing Tang
- Department of Stomatology, Jingzhou Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434100, China
| | - Zhiqin Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingzhou Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434100, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Dermatology, Jingzhou Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434100, China
| | - Jingwen Tan
- Department of Medical Mycology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200443, China.
| | - Lianjuan Yang
- Department of Medical Mycology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200443, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Torres M, de Cock H, Celis Ramírez AM. In Vitro or In Vivo Models, the Next Frontier for Unraveling Interactions between Malassezia spp. and Hosts. How Much Do We Know? J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6030155. [PMID: 32872112 PMCID: PMC7558575 DOI: 10.3390/jof6030155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Malassezia is a lipid-dependent genus of yeasts known for being an important part of the skin mycobiota. These yeasts have been associated with the development of skin disorders and cataloged as a causal agent of systemic infections under specific conditions, making them opportunistic pathogens. Little is known about the host-microbe interactions of Malassezia spp., and unraveling this implies the implementation of infection models. In this mini review, we present different models that have been implemented in fungal infections studies with greater attention to Malassezia spp. infections. These models range from in vitro (cell cultures and ex vivo tissue), to in vivo (murine models, rabbits, guinea pigs, insects, nematodes, and amoebas). We additionally highlight the alternative models that reduce the use of mammals as model organisms, which have been gaining importance in the study of fungal host-microbe interactions. This is due to the fact that these systems have been shown to have reliable results, which correlate with those obtained from mammalian models. Examples of alternative models are Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster, Tenebrio molitor, and Galleria mellonella. These are invertebrates that have been implemented in the study of Malassezia spp. infections in order to identify differences in virulence between Malassezia species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maritza Torres
- Grupo de Investigación Celular y Molecular de Microorganismos Patógenos (CeMoP), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Carrera 1 N° 18A—12, Bogotá, Bogotá D.C. 11711, Colombia;
| | - Hans de Cock
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Institute of Biomembranes, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands;
| | - Adriana Marcela Celis Ramírez
- Grupo de Investigación Celular y Molecular de Microorganismos Patógenos (CeMoP), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Carrera 1 N° 18A—12, Bogotá, Bogotá D.C. 11711, Colombia;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
García-Carnero LC, Clavijo-Giraldo DM, Gómez-Gaviria M, Lozoya-Pérez NE, Tamez-Castrellón AK, López-Ramírez LA, Mora-Montes HM. Early Virulence Predictors during the Candida Species- Galleria mellonella Interaction. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6030152. [PMID: 32867152 PMCID: PMC7559698 DOI: 10.3390/jof6030152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are a serious and increasing threat for human health, and one of the most frequent etiological agents for systemic mycoses is Candida spp. The gold standard to assess Candida virulence is the mouse model of systemic candidiasis, a restrictive, expensive, and time-consuming approach; therefore, invertebrate models have been proposed as alternatives. Galleria mellonella larvae have several traits that make them good candidates to study the fungal virulence. Here, we showed that a reduction in circulating hemocytes, increased melanin production, phenoloxidase, and lactate dehydrogenase activities were observed at 12 and 24 h postinoculation of highly virulent Candidatropicalis strains, while minimal changes in these parameters were observed in low-virulent strains. Similarly, the most virulent species Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida auris, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida orthopsilosis have led to significant changes in those parameters; while the low virulent species Candida guilliermondii, Candida krusei, and Candida metapsilosis induced modest variations in these immunological and cytotoxicity parameters. Since changes in circulating hemocytes, melanin production, phenoloxidase and lactate dehydrogenase activities showed a correlation with the larval median survival rates at 12 and 24 h postinoculation, we proposed them as candidates for early virulence predictors in G. mellonella.
Collapse
|