1
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Ball B, Sukumaran A, Krieger JR, Geddes-McAlister J. Comparative Cross-Kingdom DDA- and DIA-PASEF Proteomic Profiling Reveals Novel Determinants of Fungal Virulence and a Putative Druggable Target. J Proteome Res 2024. [PMID: 39140824 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.4c00255] [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: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Accurate and reliable detection of fungal pathogens presents an important hurdle to manage infections, especially considering that fungal pathogens, including the globally important human pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans, have adapted diverse mechanisms to survive the hostile host environment and moderate virulence determinant production during coinfections. These pathogen adaptations present an opportunity for improvements (e.g., technological and computational) to better understand the interplay between a host and a pathogen during disease to uncover new strategies to overcome infection. In this study, we performed comparative proteomic profiling of an in vitro coinfection model across a range of fungal and bacterial burden loads in macrophages. Comparing data-dependent acquisition and data-independent acquisition enabled with parallel accumulation serial fragmentation technology, we quantified changes in dual-perspective proteome remodeling. We report enhanced and novel detection of pathogen proteins with data-independent acquisition-parallel accumulation serial fragmentation (DIA-PASEF), especially for fungal proteins during single and dual infection of macrophages. Further characterization of a fungal protein detected only with DIA-PASEF uncovered a novel determinant of fungal virulence, including altered capsule and melanin production, thermotolerance, and macrophage infectivity, supporting proteomics advances for the discovery of a novel putative druggable target to suppress C. neoformans pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Ball
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph N1G 2W1, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arjun Sukumaran
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph N1G 2W1, Ontario, Canada
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2
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Bhardwaj S, Bulluss M, D'Aubeterre A, Derakhshani A, Penner R, Mahajan M, Mahajan VB, Dufour A. Integrating the analysis of human biopsies using post-translational modifications proteomics. Protein Sci 2024; 33:e4979. [PMID: 38533548 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Proteome diversities and their biological functions are significantly amplified by post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins. Shotgun proteomics, which does not typically survey PTMs, provides an incomplete picture of the complexity of human biopsies in health and disease. Recent advances in mass spectrometry-based proteomic techniques that enrich and study PTMs are helping to uncover molecular detail from the cellular level to system-wide functions, including how the microbiome impacts human diseases. Protein heterogeneity and disease complexity are challenging factors that make it difficult to characterize and treat disease. The search for clinical biomarkers to characterize disease mechanisms and complexity related to patient diagnoses and treatment has proven challenging. Knowledge of PTMs is fundamentally lacking. Characterization of complex human samples that clarify the role of PTMs and the microbiome in human diseases will result in new discoveries. This review highlights the key role of proteomic techniques used to characterize unknown biological functions of PTMs derived from complex human biopsies. Through the integration of diverse methods used to profile PTMs, this review explores the genetic regulation of proteoforms, cells of origin expressing specific proteins, and several bioactive PTMs and their subsequent analyses by liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Bhardwaj
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mitchell Bulluss
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ana D'Aubeterre
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Afshin Derakhshani
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Regan Penner
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - MaryAnn Mahajan
- Molecular Surgery Laboratory, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Vinit B Mahajan
- Molecular Surgery Laboratory, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Antoine Dufour
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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3
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Gutierrez-Gongora D, Woods M, Prosser RS, Geddes-McAlister J. Natural compounds from freshwater mussels disrupt fungal virulence determinants and influence fluconazole susceptibility in the presence of macrophages in Cryptococcus neoformans. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0284123. [PMID: 38329361 PMCID: PMC10913472 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02841-23] [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] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a human fungal pathogen responsible for fatal infections, especially in patients with a depressed immune system. Overexposure to antifungal drugs due to prolonged treatment regimens and structure-similar applications in agriculture have weakened the efficacy of current antifungals in the clinic. The rapid evolution of antifungal resistance urges the discovery of new compounds that inhibit fungal virulence determinants, rather than directly killing the pathogen, as alternative strategies to overcome disease and reduce selective pressure toward resistance. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of freshwater mussel extracts (crude and clarified) against the production of well-defined virulence determinants (i.e., thermotolerance, melanin, capsule, and biofilm) and fluconazole resistance in C. neoformans. We demonstrated the extracts' influence on fungal thermotolerance, capsule production, and biofilm formation, as well as susceptibility to fluconazole in the presence of macrophages. Additionally, we measured the inhibitory activity of extracts against commercial peptidases (family representatives of cryptococcal orthologs) related to fungal virulence determinants and fluconazole resistance, and integrated these phenotypic findings with quantitative proteomics profiling. Our approach defined distinct signatures of each treatment and validated a new mechanism of anti-virulence action toward the polysaccharide capsule from a selected extract following fractionation. By understanding the mechanisms driving the antifungal activity of mussels, we may develop innovative treatment options to overcome fungal infections and promote susceptibility to fluconazole in resistant strains. IMPORTANCE As the prevalence and severity of global fungal infections rise, along with an increasing incidence of antifungal resistance, new strategies to combat fungal pathogens and overcome resistance are urgently needed. Critically, our current methods to overcome fungal infections are limited and drive the evolution of resistance forward; however, an anti-virulence approach to disarm virulence factors of the pathogen and promote host cell clearance is promising. Here, we explore the efficacy of natural compounds derived from freshwater mussels against classical fungal virulence determinants, including thermotolerance, capsule production, stress response, and biofilm formation. We integrate our phenotypic discoveries with state-of-the-art mass spectrometry-based proteomics to identify mechanistic drivers of these antifungal properties and propose innovative avenues to reduce infection and support the treatment of resistant strains.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Woods
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ryan S. Prosser
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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4
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Adejor J, Tumukunde E, Li G, Lin H, Xie R, Wang S. Impact of Lysine Succinylation on the Biology of Fungi. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:1020-1046. [PMID: 38392183 PMCID: PMC10888112 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46020065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications (PTMs) play a crucial role in protein functionality and the control of various cellular processes and secondary metabolites (SMs) in fungi. Lysine succinylation (Ksuc) is an emerging protein PTM characterized by the addition of a succinyl group to a lysine residue, which induces substantial alteration in the chemical and structural properties of the affected protein. This chemical alteration is reversible, dynamic in nature, and evolutionarily conserved. Recent investigations of numerous proteins that undergo significant succinylation have underscored the potential significance of Ksuc in various biological processes, encompassing normal physiological functions and the development of certain pathological processes and metabolites. This review aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying Ksuc and its diverse functions in fungi. Both conventional investigation techniques and predictive tools for identifying Ksuc sites were also considered. A more profound comprehension of Ksuc and its impact on the biology of fungi have the potential to unveil new insights into post-translational modification and may pave the way for innovative approaches that can be applied across various clinical contexts in the management of mycotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Adejor
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Elisabeth Tumukunde
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Guoqi Li
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Hong Lin
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Rui Xie
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Shihua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
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5
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Muselius B, Bodein A, Roux-Dalvai F, Droit A, Geddes-McAlister J. Proteomic Profiling of Samples Derived from a Murine Model Following Cryptococcus neoformans Infection. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2775:127-137. [PMID: 38758315 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3722-7_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Proteomic profiling provides in-depth information about the regulation of diverse biological processes, activation of and communication across signaling networks, and alterations to protein production, modifications, and interactions. For infectious disease research, mass spectrometry-based proteomics enables detection of host defenses against infection and mechanisms used by the pathogen to evade such responses. In this chapter, we outline protein extraction from organs, tissues, and fluids collected following intranasal inoculation of a murine model with the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. We describe sample preparation, followed by purification, processing on the mass spectrometer, and a robust bioinformatics analysis. The information gleaned from proteomic profiling of fungal infections supports the detection of novel biomarkers for diagnostic and prognostic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Muselius
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Antoine Bodein
- Computational Biology Laboratory, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Center, QC, Canada
| | - Florence Roux-Dalvai
- Computational Biology Laboratory, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Center, QC, Canada
- Proteomics platform, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Center, QC, Canada
- Canadian Proteomics and Artificial Intelligence Consortium, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Arnaud Droit
- Computational Biology Laboratory, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Center, QC, Canada
- Proteomics platform, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Center, QC, Canada
- Canadian Proteomics and Artificial Intelligence Consortium, Guelph, ON, Canada
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6
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Procópio-Azevedo AC, de Abreu Almeida M, Almeida-Paes R, Zancopé-Oliveira RM, Gutierrez-Galhardo MC, de Macedo PM, Novaes E, Bailão AM, de Almeida Soares CM, Freitas DFS. The State of the Art in Transcriptomics and Proteomics of Clinically Relevant Sporothrix Species. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:790. [PMID: 37623561 PMCID: PMC10455387 DOI: 10.3390/jof9080790] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteomics provide a robust approach to profile and quantify proteins within cells, organs, or tissues, providing comprehensive insights about the dynamics of cellular processes, modifications, and interactions. Similarly, understanding the transcriptome is essential to decipher functional elements of the genome, unraveling the mechanisms of disease development and the molecular constituents of cells and tissues. Some thermodimorphic fungi of the genus Sporothrix cause sporotrichosis, a subcutaneous mycosis of worldwide relevance. The transcriptome and proteome of the main Sporothrix species of clinical interest can elucidate the mechanisms underlying pathogenesis and host interactions. Studies of these techniques can contribute to the advancement of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. A literature review was carried out, addressing all articles based on proteomics using mass spectrometry and transcriptomics of Sporothrix spp. Twenty-one studies were eligible for this review. The main findings include proteins and genes involved in dimorphism, cell differentiation, thermotolerance, virulence, immune evasion, metabolism, cell adhesion, cell transport, and biosynthesis. With the spread and emergence of sporotrichosis in different countries, ongoing research efforts and new discoveries are welcome to advance knowledge about this mycosis and its agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Carolina Procópio-Azevedo
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marcos de Abreu Almeida
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Almeida-Paes
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rosely Maria Zancopé-Oliveira
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Maria Clara Gutierrez-Galhardo
- Laboratório de Pesquisa Clínica em Dermatologia Infecciosa, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Priscila Marques de Macedo
- Laboratório de Pesquisa Clínica em Dermatologia Infecciosa, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Evandro Novaes
- Setor de Genética, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras 37203-202, MG, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Melo Bailão
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil
| | - Dayvison Francis Saraiva Freitas
- Laboratório de Pesquisa Clínica em Dermatologia Infecciosa, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
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7
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Gutierrez-Gongora D, Raouf-Alkadhimi F, Prosser RS, Geddes-McAlister J. Differentiated extracts from freshwater and terrestrial mollusks inhibit virulence factor production in Cryptococcus neoformans. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4928. [PMID: 36967422 PMCID: PMC10040410 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32140-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The human fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans, is responsible for deadly infections among immunocompromised individuals with the evolution of antifungal resistance driving the solution to discover new compounds that inhibit fungal virulence factors rather than kill the pathogen. Recently, exploration into natural sources (e.g., plants, invertebrates, microbes) of antifungal agents has garnered attention by integrating a One Health approach for new compound discovery. Here, we explore extracts from three mollusk species (freshwater and terrestrial) and evaluate effects against the growth and virulence factor production (i.e., thermotolerance, melanin, capsule, and biofilm) in C. neoformans. We demonstrate that clarified extracts of Planorbella pilsbryi have a fungicidal effect on cryptococcal cells comparable to fluconazole. Similarly, all extracts of Cipangopaludina chinensis affect cryptococcal thermotolerance and impair biofilm and capsule production, with clarified extracts of Cepaea nemoralis also conveying the latter effect. Next, inhibitory activity of extracts against peptidases related to specific virulence factors, combined with stress assays and quantitative proteomics, defined distinct proteome signatures and proposed proteins driving the observed anti-virulence properties. Overall, this work highlights the potential of compounds derived from natural sources to inhibit virulence factor production in a clinically important fungal pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ryan S Prosser
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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8
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Brown AJP. Fungal resilience and host-pathogen interactions: Future perspectives and opportunities. Parasite Immunol 2023; 45:e12946. [PMID: 35962618 PMCID: PMC10078341 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
We are constantly exposed to the threat of fungal infection. The outcome-clearance, commensalism or infection-depends largely on the ability of our innate immune defences to clear infecting fungal cells versus the success of the fungus in mounting compensatory adaptive responses. As each seeks to gain advantage during these skirmishes, the interactions between host and fungal pathogen are complex and dynamic. Nevertheless, simply compromising the physiological robustness of fungal pathogens reduces their ability to evade antifungal immunity, their virulence, and their tolerance against antifungal therapy. In this article I argue that this physiological robustness is based on a 'Resilience Network' which mechanistically links and controls fungal growth, metabolism, stress resistance and drug tolerance. The elasticity of this network probably underlies the phenotypic variability of fungal isolates and the heterogeneity of individual cells within clonal populations. Consequently, I suggest that the definition of the fungal Resilience Network represents an important goal for the future which offers the clear potential to reveal drug targets that compromise drug tolerance and synergise with current antifungal therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair J P Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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9
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Zhang L, Xiao J, Du M, Lei W, Yang W, Xue X. Post-translational modifications confer amphotericin B resistance in Candida krusei isolated from a neutropenic patient. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1148681. [PMID: 36936926 PMCID: PMC10015421 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1148681] [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: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neutropenia is a common complication in the treatment of hematological diseases and the most common predisposing factor for invasion by fungi, such as Candida krusei. Recent studies have shown that C. krusei, a life-threatening pathogen, has developed resistance to amphotericin B (AMB). However, the mechanisms that led to the rapid emergence of this AMB-resistant phenotype are unclear. In this study, we found the sensitivity for AMB could be promoted by inhibiting histone acyltransferase activity and western blot analysis revealed differences in the succinylation levels of C. krusei isolated from immunocompromised patients and of the corresponding AMB-resistant mutant. By comparative succinyl-proteome analysis, we identified a total of 383 differentially expressed succinylated sites in with 344 sites in 134 proteins being upregulated in the AMB-resistant mutant, compared to 39 sites in 23 proteins in the wild-type strain. These differentially succinylated proteins were concentrated in the ribosome and cell wall. The critical pathways associated with these proteins included those involved in glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, the ribosome, and fructose and mannose metabolism. In particular, AMB resistance was found to be associated with enhanced ergosterol synthesis and aberrant amino acid and glucose metabolism. Analysis of whole-cell proteomes, confirmed by parallel reaction monitoring, showed that the key enzyme facilitating lysine acylation was significantly upregulated in the AMB-resistant strain. Our results suggest that lysine succinylation may play an indispensable role in the development of AMB resistance in C. krusei. Our study provides mechanistic insights into the development of drug resistance in fungi and can aid in efforts to stifle the emergence of AMB-resistant pathogenic fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Institute of Dermatology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinzhou Xiao
- Institute of Dermatology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingwei Du
- Department of Cardiology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenzhi Lei
- Institute of Dermatology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wenzhi Lei, ; Weiwei Yang, ; Xiaochun Xue,
| | - Weiwei Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Lung Transplantation, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wenzhi Lei, ; Weiwei Yang, ; Xiaochun Xue,
| | - Xiaochun Xue
- Department of Pharmacy, 905th Hospital of PLA Navy, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wenzhi Lei, ; Weiwei Yang, ; Xiaochun Xue,
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10
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Proteomics analysis of the phytopathogenic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum: a narrative review. JOURNAL OF BIO-X RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/jbr.0000000000000130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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11
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Geddes-McAlister J. Moms in Proteomics: building a supportive and unified community together. Trends Biochem Sci 2022; 47:552-555. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2022.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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12
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Balotf S, Wilson R, Tegg RS, Nichols DS, Wilson CR. Shotgun Proteomics as a Powerful Tool for the Study of the Proteomes of Plants, Their Pathogens, and Plant-Pathogen Interactions. Proteomes 2022; 10:5. [PMID: 35225985 PMCID: PMC8883913 DOI: 10.3390/proteomes10010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The interaction between plants and pathogenic microorganisms is a multifaceted process mediated by both plant- and pathogen-derived molecules, including proteins, metabolites, and lipids. Large-scale proteome analysis can quantify the dynamics of proteins, biological pathways, and posttranslational modifications (PTMs) involved in the plant-pathogen interaction. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics has become the preferred method for characterizing proteins at the proteome and sub-proteome (e.g., the phosphoproteome) levels. MS-based proteomics can reveal changes in the quantitative state of a proteome and provide a foundation for understanding the mechanisms involved in plant-pathogen interactions. This review is intended as a primer for biologists that may be unfamiliar with the diverse range of methodology for MS-based shotgun proteomics, with a focus on techniques that have been used to investigate plant-pathogen interactions. We provide a summary of the essential steps required for shotgun proteomic studies of plants, pathogens and plant-pathogen interactions, including methods for protein digestion, identification, separation, and quantification. Finally, we discuss how protein PTMs may directly participate in the interaction between a pathogen and its host plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Balotf
- New Town Research Laboratories, Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, New Town, TAS 7008, Australia; (S.B.); (R.S.T.)
| | - Richard Wilson
- Central Science Laboratory, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7001, Australia;
| | - Robert S. Tegg
- New Town Research Laboratories, Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, New Town, TAS 7008, Australia; (S.B.); (R.S.T.)
| | - David S. Nichols
- Central Science Laboratory, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7001, Australia;
| | - Calum R. Wilson
- New Town Research Laboratories, Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, New Town, TAS 7008, Australia; (S.B.); (R.S.T.)
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13
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Gutierrez-Gongora D, Geddes-McAlister J. Peptidases: promising antifungal targets of the human fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans. Facets (Ott) 2022. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2021-0157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a globally important fungal pathogen, primarily inflicting disease on immunocompromised individuals. The widespread use of antifungal agents in medicine and agriculture supports the development of antifungal resistance through evolution, and the emergence of new strains with intrinsic resistance drives the need for new therapeutics. For C. neoformans, the production of virulence factors, including extracellular peptidases (e.g., CnMpr-1 and May1) with mechanistic roles in tissue invasion and fungal survival, constitute approximately 2% of the fungal proteome and cover five classes of enzymes. Given their role in fungal virulence, peptidases represent promising targets for anti-virulence discovery in the development of new approaches against C. neoformans. Additionally, intracellular peptidases, which are involved in resistance mechanisms against current treatment options (e.g., azole drugs), as well as capsule biosynthesis and elaboration of virulence factors, present additional opportunities to combat the pathogen. In this review, we highlight key cryptococcal peptidases with defined or predicted roles in fungal virulence and assess sequence alignments against their human homologs. With this information, we define the feasibility of the select peptidases as “druggable” targets for inhibition, representing prospective therapeutic options against the deadly fungus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davier Gutierrez-Gongora
- The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
- Centro de Estudio de Proteínas, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de La Habana, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Jennifer Geddes-McAlister
- The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
- Canadian Proteomics and Artificial Intelligence Research and Training Consortium
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Sukumaran A, Geddes-McAlister J. Proteomic Profiling of the Interplay Between a Bacterial Pathogen and Host Uncovers Novel Anti-Virulence Strategies. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2456:253-262. [PMID: 35612747 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2124-0_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Bottom-up proteomics enables a systems-level analysis of proteins involved in a particular sample set. In this protocol, we describe the workflow to prepare Klebsiella pneumoniae and macrophage cells for co-culture, how to extract and prepare samples for analysis by high-resolution mass spectrometry, and lastly, how to analyze the output data files. This workflow allows for the identification of proteins involved in both the bacterial and host perspective during pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Sukumaran
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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15
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Ball B, Krieger JR, Geddes-McAlister J. Phosphoproteomic Sample Preparation for Global Phosphorylation Profiling of a Fungal Pathogen. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2456:141-151. [PMID: 35612740 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2124-0_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Phosphorylation is a key post-translational modification central to the biological behavior of proteins. This reversible modification specifically regulates cell signaling mechanisms to control survival and growth. Moreover, microbial pathogens, including both fungi and bacteria, rely on this modification to coordinate protein production and functioning during infection and dissemination within a host. Understanding phosphorylation and its involvement with effector proteins and complex networks are now possible with the recent technological advancements of mass spectrometry. Herein, we describe a phosphopeptide enrichment strategy optimized for the invasive mycosis-causing fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. Our protocol details proper sample preparation for efficient lysis and protein extraction with minimal phosphorylation losses followed by outlined steps for enrichment, instrumentation handling, and data analysis to permit deep profiling of the global phosphoproteome. The high-throughput versatility of bottom-up proteomics combined with our sample preparation approach facilitates opportunities for in-depth phosphorylation mapping and novel biological discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Ball
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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16
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Ball B, Woroszchuk E, Sukumaran A, West H, Afaq A, Carruthers-Lay D, Muselius B, Gee L, Langille M, Pladwig S, Kazi S, Hendriks A, Geddes-McAlister J. Proteome and secretome profiling of zinc availability in Cryptococcus neoformans identifies Wos2 as a subtle influencer of fungal virulence determinants. BMC Microbiol 2021; 21:341. [PMID: 34903172 PMCID: PMC8667453 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-021-02410-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fungal infections impact over 25% of the global population. For the opportunistic fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans, infection leads to cryptococcosis. In the presence of the host, disease is enabled by elaboration of sophisticated virulence determinants, including polysaccharide capsule, melanin, thermotolerance, and extracellular enzymes. Conversely, the host protects itself from fungal invasion by regulating and sequestering transition metals (e.g., iron, zinc, copper) important for microbial growth and survival. RESULTS Here, we explore the intricate relationship between zinc availability and fungal virulence via mass spectrometry-based quantitative proteomics. We observe a core proteome along with a distinct zinc-regulated protein-level signature demonstrating a shift away from transport and ion binding under zinc-replete conditions towards transcription and metal acquisition under zinc-limited conditions. In addition, we revealed a novel connection among zinc availability, thermotolerance, as well as capsule and melanin production through the detection of a Wos2 ortholog in the secretome under replete conditions. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we provide new biological insight into cellular remodeling at the protein level of C. neoformans under regulated zinc conditions and uncover a novel connection between zinc homeostasis and fungal virulence determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Ball
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - E Woroszchuk
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - A Sukumaran
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - H West
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - A Afaq
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - D Carruthers-Lay
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - B Muselius
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - L Gee
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - M Langille
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - S Pladwig
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - S Kazi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - A Hendriks
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - J Geddes-McAlister
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada.
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Muselius B, Durand SL, Geddes-McAlister J. Proteomics of Cryptococcus neoformans: From the Lab to the Clinic. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12390. [PMID: 34830272 PMCID: PMC8618913 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal pathogens cause an array of diseases by targeting both immunocompromised and immunocompetent hosts. Fungi overcome our current arsenal of antifungals through the emergence and evolution of resistance. In particular, the human fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans is found ubiquitously within the environment and causes severe disease in immunocompromised individuals around the globe with limited treatment options available. To uncover fundamental knowledge about this fungal pathogen, as well as investigate new detection and treatment strategies, mass spectrometry-based proteomics provides a plethora of tools and applications, as well as bioinformatics platforms. In this review, we highlight proteomics approaches within the laboratory to investigate changes in the cellular proteome, secretome, and extracellular vesicles. We also explore regulation by post-translational modifications and the impact of protein-protein interactions. Further, we present the development and comprehensive assessment of murine models of cryptococcal infection, which provide valuable tools to define the dynamic relationship between the host and pathogen during disease. Finally, we explore recent quantitative proteomics studies that begin to extrapolate the findings from the bench to the clinic for improved methods of fungal detection and monitoring. Such studies support a framework for personalized medical approaches to eradicate diseases caused by C. neoformans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jennifer Geddes-McAlister
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (B.M.); (S.-L.D.)
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18
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Ijoma GN, Heri SM, Matambo TS, Tekere M. Trends and Applications of Omics Technologies to Functional Characterisation of Enzymes and Protein Metabolites Produced by Fungi. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:700. [PMID: 34575737 PMCID: PMC8464691 DOI: 10.3390/jof7090700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying and adopting industrial applications for proteins and enzymes derived from fungi strains have been at the focal point of several studies in recent times. To facilitate such studies, it is necessary that advancements and innovation in mycological and molecular characterisation are concomitant. This review aims to provide a detailed overview of the necessary steps employed in both qualitative and quantitative research using the omics technologies that are pertinent to fungi characterisation. This stems from the understanding that data provided from the functional characterisation of fungi and their metabolites is important towards the techno-economic feasibility of large-scale production of biological products. The review further describes how the functional gaps left by genomics, internal transcribe spacer (ITS) regions are addressed by transcriptomics and the various techniques and platforms utilised, including quantitive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), hybridisation techniques, and RNA-seq, and the insights such data provide on the effect of environmental changes on fungal enzyme production from an expressional standpoint. The review also offers information on the many available bioinformatics tools of analysis necessary for the analysis of the overwhelming data synonymous with the omics approach to fungal characterisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace N. Ijoma
- Institute for the Development of Energy for African Sustainability (IDEAS), College of Science, Engineering and Technology, University of South Africa, P.O. Box 392, UNISA, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (S.M.H.); (T.S.M.)
| | - Sylvie M. Heri
- Institute for the Development of Energy for African Sustainability (IDEAS), College of Science, Engineering and Technology, University of South Africa, P.O. Box 392, UNISA, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (S.M.H.); (T.S.M.)
| | - Tonderayi S. Matambo
- Institute for the Development of Energy for African Sustainability (IDEAS), College of Science, Engineering and Technology, University of South Africa, P.O. Box 392, UNISA, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (S.M.H.); (T.S.M.)
| | - Memory Tekere
- Department of Environmental Science, College of Agricultural and Environmental Science, University of South Africa, P.O. Box 392, UNISA, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
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Yeung J, Lamb J, Krieger JR, Gadjeva M, Geddes-McAlister J. Quantitative Proteomic Profiling of Murine Ocular Tissue and the Extracellular Environment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 10:e83. [PMID: 32897649 DOI: 10.1002/cpmo.83] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mass spectrometry-based proteomics provides a robust and reliable method for detecting and quantifying changes in protein abundance among samples, including cells, tissues, organs, and supernatants. Physical damage or inflammation can compromise the ocular surface permitting colonization by bacterial pathogens, commonly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the formation of biofilms. The interplay between P. aeruginosa and the immune system at the site of infection defines the host's ability to defend against bacterial invasion and promote clearance of infection. Profiling of the ocular tissue following infection describes the nature of the host innate immune response and specifically the presence and abundance of neutrophil-associated proteins to neutralize the bacterial biofilm. Moreover, detection of unique proteins produced by P. aeruginosa enable identification of the bacterial species and may serve as a diagnostic approach in a clinical setting. Given the emergence and prevalence of antimicrobial resistant bacterial strains, the ability to rapidly diagnose a bacterial infection promoting quick and accurate treatment will reduce selective pressure towards resistance. Furthermore, the ability to define differences in the host immune response towards bacterial invasion enhances our understanding of innate immune system regulation at the ocular surface. Here, we describe murine ocular infection and sample collection, as well as outline protocols for protein extraction and mass spectrometry profiling from corneal tissue and extracellular environment (eye wash) samples. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Murine model of ocular infection Basic Protocol 2: Murine model sample collection Basic Protocol 3: Protein extraction from eye wash Basic Protocol 4: Protein extraction from corneal tissue Basic Protocol 5: Mass spectrometry-based proteomics and bioinformatics from eye wash and corneal tissue samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Yeung
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeffrey Lamb
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Mihaela Gadjeva
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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20
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Messner CB, Demichev V, Bloomfield N, Yu JSL, White M, Kreidl M, Egger AS, Freiwald A, Ivosev G, Wasim F, Zelezniak A, Jürgens L, Suttorp N, Sander LE, Kurth F, Lilley KS, Mülleder M, Tate S, Ralser M. Ultra-fast proteomics with Scanning SWATH. Nat Biotechnol 2021; 39:846-854. [PMID: 33767396 PMCID: PMC7611254 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-021-00860-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Accurate quantification of the proteome remains challenging for large sample series and longitudinal experiments. We report a data-independent acquisition method, Scanning SWATH, that accelerates mass spectrometric (MS) duty cycles, yielding quantitative proteomes in combination with short gradients and high-flow (800 µl min-1) chromatography. Exploiting a continuous movement of the precursor isolation window to assign precursor masses to tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) fragment traces, Scanning SWATH increases precursor identifications by ~70% compared to conventional data-independent acquisition (DIA) methods on 0.5-5-min chromatographic gradients. We demonstrate the application of ultra-fast proteomics in drug mode-of-action screening and plasma proteomics. Scanning SWATH proteomes capture the mode of action of fungistatic azoles and statins. Moreover, we confirm 43 and identify 11 new plasma proteome biomarkers of COVID-19 severity, advancing patient classification and biomarker discovery. Thus, our results demonstrate a substantial acceleration and increased depth in fast proteomic experiments that facilitate proteomic drug screens and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph B Messner
- Molecular Biology of Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vadim Demichev
- Molecular Biology of Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Biochemistry, Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Jason S L Yu
- Molecular Biology of Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Matthew White
- Molecular Biology of Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Marco Kreidl
- Molecular Biology of Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Anna-Sophia Egger
- Molecular Biology of Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Anja Freiwald
- Department of Biochemistry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Core Facility - High Throughput Mass Spectrometry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Aleksej Zelezniak
- Molecular Biology of Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Linda Jürgens
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Norbert Suttorp
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Leif Erik Sander
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Florian Kurth
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine & I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kathryn S Lilley
- Department of Biochemistry, Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michael Mülleder
- Core Facility - High Throughput Mass Spectrometry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Markus Ralser
- Molecular Biology of Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
- Department of Biochemistry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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21
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Owens RA, Doyle S. Effects of antifungal agents on the fungal proteome: informing on mechanisms of sensitivity and resistance. Expert Rev Proteomics 2021; 18:185-199. [PMID: 33797307 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2021.1912601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antifungal agents are essential in the fight against serious fungal disease, however emerging resistance is threatening an already limited collection of therapeutics. Proteomic analyses of effects of antifungal agents can expand our understanding of multifactorial mechanisms of action and have also proven valuable to elucidate proteomic changes associated with antifungal resistance. AREAS COVERED This review covers the application of proteomic techniques to examine sensitivity and resistance to antifungals including commonly used therapeutics, amphotericin B, echinocandins and the azoles, based predominantly on studies involving Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans and Candida glabrata from the last 10 years. In addition, non-clinical antimicrobial agents are also discussed, which highlight the potential of proteomics to identify new antifungal targets. EXPERT COMMENTARY Fungal proteomics has evolved in the last decade with increased genome availability and developments in mass spectrometry. Collectively, these have led to the advancement of proteomic techniques, allowing increased coverage of the proteome. Gel-based proteomics laid the foundation for these types of studies, which has now shifted to the more powerful gel-free proteomics. This has resulted in the identification of key mediators and potential biomarkers of antifungal resistance, as well as elucidating the mechanisms of action of novel and established antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A Owens
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland.,The Kathleen Lonsdale Institute for Human Health Research, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Sean Doyle
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
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22
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Retanal C, Ball B, Geddes-McAlister J. Post-Translational Modifications Drive Success and Failure of Fungal-Host Interactions. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7020124. [PMID: 33572187 PMCID: PMC7914884 DOI: 10.3390/jof7020124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications (PTMs) change the structure and function of proteins and regulate a diverse array of biological processes. Fungal pathogens rely on PTMs to modulate protein production and activity during infection, manipulate the host response, and ultimately, promote fungal survival. Given the high mortality rates of fungal infections on a global scale, along with the emergence of antifungal-resistant species, identifying new treatment options is critical. In this review, we focus on the role of PTMs (e.g., phosphorylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, glycosylation, and methylation) among the highly prevalent and medically relevant fungal pathogens, Candida spp., Aspergillus spp., and Cryptococcus spp. We explore the role of PTMs in fungal stress response and host adaptation, the use of PTMs to manipulate host cells and the immune system upon fungal invasion, and the importance of PTMs in conferring antifungal resistance. We also provide a critical view on the current knowledgebase, pose questions key to our understanding of the intricate roles of PTMs within fungal pathogens, and provide research opportunities to uncover new therapeutic strategies.
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Bidaud AL, Schwarz P, Herbreteau G, Dannaoui E. Techniques for the Assessment of In Vitro and In Vivo Antifungal Combinations. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7020113. [PMID: 33557026 PMCID: PMC7913650 DOI: 10.3390/jof7020113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic fungal infections are associated with high mortality rates despite adequate treatment. Moreover, acquired resistance to antifungals is increasing, which further complicates the therapeutic management. One strategy to overcome antifungal resistance is to use antifungal combinations. In vitro, several techniques are used to assess drug interactions, such as the broth microdilution checkerboard, agar-diffusion methods, and time-kill curves. Currently, the most widely used technique is the checkerboard method. The aim of all these techniques is to determine if the interaction between antifungal agents is synergistic, indifferent, or antagonistic. However, the interpretation of the results remains difficult. Several methods of analysis can be used, based on different theories. The most commonly used method is the calculation of the fractional inhibitory concentration index. Determination of the usefulness of combination treatments in patients needs well-conducted clinical trials, which are difficult. It is therefore important to study antifungal combinations in vivo, in experimental animal models of fungal infections. Although mammalian models have mostly been used, new alternative animal models in invertebrates look promising. To evaluate the antifungal efficacy, the most commonly used criteria are the mortality rate and the fungal load in the target organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Laure Bidaud
- Parasitology-Mycology Unit, Microbiology Department, APHP, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Paris-Descartes University, F-75015 Paris, France;
| | - Patrick Schwarz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, University Hospital Marburg, Baldingerstraße, D-35043 Marburg, Germany;
- Center for Invasive Mycoses and Antifungals, Philipps University Marburg, D-35037 Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Eric Dannaoui
- Parasitology-Mycology Unit, Microbiology Department, APHP, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Paris-Descartes University, F-75015 Paris, France;
- Dynamyc Research Group, Paris Est Créteil University (UPEC, EnvA), F-94010 Paris, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-1-56-09-39-48; Fax: +33-1-56-09-24-46
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Almeida MA, Almeida-Paes R, Guimarães AJ, Valente RH, Soares CMDA, Zancopé-Oliveira RM. Immunoproteomics Reveals Pathogen's Antigens Involved in Homo sapiens- Histoplasma capsulatum Interaction and Specific Linear B-Cell Epitopes in Histoplasmosis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:591121. [PMID: 33251160 PMCID: PMC7673445 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.591121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Histoplasmosis is one of the most frequent systemic mycosis in HIV patients. In these patients, histoplasmosis has high rates of morbidity/mortality if diagnosis and treatment are delayed. Despite its relevance, there is a paucity of information concerning the interaction between Histoplasma capsulatum and the human host, especially regarding the B-cell response, which has a direct impact on the diagnosis. Culture-based “gold-standard” methods have limitations, making immunodiagnostic tests an attractive option for clinical decisions. Despite the continuous development of those tests, improving serological parameters is necessary to make these methods efficient tools for definitive diagnosis of histoplasmosis. This includes the determination of more specific and immunogenic antigens to improve specificity and sensitivity of assays. In this study, we performed a co-immunoprecipitation assay between a protein extract from the yeast form of H. capsulatum and pooled sera from patients with proven histoplasmosis, followed by shotgun mass spectrometry identification of antigenic targets. Sera from patients with other pulmonary infections or from healthy individuals living in endemic areas of histoplasmosis were also assayed to determine potentially cross-reactive proteins. The primary structures of H. capsulatum immunoprecipitated proteins were evaluated using the DNAStar Protean 7.0 software. In parallel, the online epitope prediction server, BCPREDS, was used to complement the B-epitope prediction analysis. Our approach detected 132 reactive proteins to antibodies present in histoplasmosis patients’ sera. Among these antigens, 127 were recognized also by antibodies in heterologous patients’ and/or normal healthy donors’ sera. Therefore, the only three antigens specifically recognized by antibodies of histoplasmosis patients were mapped as potential antigenic targets: the M antigen, previously demonstrated in the diagnosis of histoplasmosis, and the catalase P and YPS-3 proteins, characterized as virulence factors of H. capsulatum, with antigenic properties still unclear. The other two proteins were fragments of the YPS-3 and M antigen. Overlapping results obtained from the two aforementioned bioinformatic tools, 16 regions from these three proteins are proposed as putative B-cell epitopes exclusive to H. capsulatum. These data reveal a new role for these proteins on H. capsulatum interactions with the immune system and indicate their possible use in new methods for the diagnosis of histoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Abreu Almeida
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Almeida-Paes
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Allan Jefferson Guimarães
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Richard Hemmi Valente
- Laboratório de Toxinologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Rosely Maria Zancopé-Oliveira
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Sukumaran A, Woroszchuk E, Ross T, Geddes-McAlister J. Proteomics of host-bacterial interactions: new insights from dual perspectives. Can J Microbiol 2020; 67:213-225. [PMID: 33027598 DOI: 10.1139/cjm-2020-0324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mass-spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics is a powerful and robust platform for studying the interactions between biological systems during health and disease. Bacterial infections represent a significant threat to global health and drive the pursuit of novel therapeutic strategies to combat emerging and resistant pathogens. During infection, the interplay between a host and pathogen determines the ability of the microbe to survive in a hostile environment and promotes an immune response by the host as a protective measure. It is the protein-level changes from either biological system that define the outcome of infection, and MS-based proteomics provides a rapid and effective platform to identify such changes. In particular, proteomics detects alterations in protein abundance, quantifies protein secretion and (or) release, measures an array of post-translational modifications that influence signaling cascades, and profiles protein-protein interactions through protein complex and (or) network formation. Such information provides new insight into the role of known and novel bacterial effectors, as well as the outcome of host cell activation. In this Review, we highlight the diverse applications of MS-based proteomics in profiling the relationship between bacterial pathogens and the host. Our work identifies a plethora of strategies for exploring mechanisms of infection from dual perspectives (i.e., host and pathogen), and we suggest opportunities to extrapolate the current knowledgebase to other biological systems for applications in therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Sukumaran
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.,Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Woroszchuk
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.,Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Taylor Ross
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.,Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Jennifer Geddes-McAlister
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.,Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
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Fun(gi)omics: Advanced and Diverse Technologies to Explore Emerging Fungal Pathogens and Define Mechanisms of Antifungal Resistance. mBio 2020; 11:mBio.01020-20. [PMID: 33024032 PMCID: PMC7542357 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01020-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The landscape of infectious fungal agents includes previously unidentified or rare pathogens with the potential to cause unprecedented casualties in biodiversity, food security, and human health. The influences of human activity, including the crisis of climate change, along with globalized transport, are underlying factors shaping fungal adaptation to increased temperature and expanded geographical regions. Furthermore, the emergence of novel antifungal-resistant strains linked to excessive use of antifungals (in the clinic) and fungicides (in the field) offers an additional challenge to protect major crop staples and control dangerous fungal outbreaks. The landscape of infectious fungal agents includes previously unidentified or rare pathogens with the potential to cause unprecedented casualties in biodiversity, food security, and human health. The influences of human activity, including the crisis of climate change, along with globalized transport, are underlying factors shaping fungal adaptation to increased temperature and expanded geographical regions. Furthermore, the emergence of novel antifungal-resistant strains linked to excessive use of antifungals (in the clinic) and fungicides (in the field) offers an additional challenge to protect major crop staples and control dangerous fungal outbreaks. Hence, the alarming frequency of fungal infections in medical and agricultural settings requires effective research to understand the virulent nature of fungal pathogens and improve the outcome of infection in susceptible hosts. Mycology-driven research has benefited from a contemporary and unified approach of omics technology, deepening the biological, biochemical, and biophysical understanding of these emerging fungal pathogens. Here, we review the current state-of-the-art multi-omics technologies, explore the power of data integration strategies, and highlight discovery-based revelations of globally important and taxonomically diverse fungal pathogens. This information provides new insight for emerging pathogens through an in-depth understanding of well-characterized fungi and provides alternative therapeutic strategies defined through novel findings of virulence, adaptation, and resistance.
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Bermas A, Geddes-McAlister J. Experimental Evolution of Antifungal Resistance in Cryptococcus neoformans. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 59:e116. [PMID: 32986290 DOI: 10.1002/cpmc.116] [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: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans, an opportunistic yeast-like fungal pathogen, has demonstrated resistance to all major classes of antifungals used to treat cryptococcal meningitis. However, combatting this fungal disease is an ongoing challenge among clinicians due to the evolution of antifungal-resistant strains. The limited availability of clinically approved antifungals has heightened the urgency to investigate the molecular mechanisms underscoring resistance. Studying how a fungal pathogen evolves to an antifungal drug in vitro using experimental evolution provides a simple, yet powerful approach to study the mechanisms of antifungal resistance. Experimental evolution involves the serial passaging of microbial populations under laboratory conditions, such that adaptive mutations can occur and be monitored in real time. This technique plays a key role in investigating the mechanisms of antifungal resistance in C. neoformans, and this can help in developing novel strategies to combat the emergence of resistance. Here, we outline how to make overnight cultures of C. neoformans and how to perform experimental evolution, and we present a spectrophotometric analysis to evaluate the evolution of antifungal resistance. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Growth and sample preparation of Cryptococcus neoformans Basic Protocol 2: Experimental evolution of antifungal resistance Basic Protocol 3: Analyzing the evolution of antifungal resistance Basic Protocol 4: Glycerol stock preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianne Bermas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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28
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Prudhomme N, Pastora R, Muselius B, McLean MD, Cossar D, Geddes-McAlister J. Exposure of Agrobacterium tumefaciens to agroinfiltration medium demonstrates cellular remodelling and may promote enhanced adaptability for molecular pharming. Can J Microbiol 2020; 67:85-97. [PMID: 32721220 DOI: 10.1139/cjm-2020-0239] [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: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Agroinfiltration is used to treat plants with modified strains of Agrobacterium tumefaciens for the purpose of transient in planta expression of genes transferred from the bacterium. These genes encode valuable recombinant proteins for therapeutic or industrial applications. Treatment of large quantities of plants for industrial-scale protein production exposes bacteria (harboring genes of interest) to agroinfiltration medium that is devoid of nutrients and carbon sources for prolonged periods of time (possibly upwards of 24 h). Such conditions may negatively influence bacterial viability, infectivity of plant cells, and target protein production. Here, we explored the role of timing in bacterial culture preparation for agroinfiltration using mass spectrometry-based proteomics to define changes in cellular processes. We observed distinct profiles associated with bacterial treatment conditions and exposure timing, including significant changes in proteins involved in pathogenesis, motility, and nutrient acquisition systems as the bacteria adapt to the new environment. These data suggest a progression towards increased cellular remodelling over time. In addition, we described changes in growth- and environment-specific processes over time, underscoring the interconnectivity of pathogenesis and chemotaxis-associated proteins with transport and metabolism. Overall, our results have important implications for the production of transiently expressed target protein products, as prolonged exposure to agroinfiltration medium suggests remodelling of the bacterial proteins towards enhanced infection of plant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Prudhomme
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - R Pastora
- PlantForm Corporation Canada, Toronto, ON M4S 3E2, Canada
| | - B Muselius
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - M D McLean
- PlantForm Corporation Canada, Toronto, ON M4S 3E2, Canada
| | - D Cossar
- PlantForm Corporation Canada, Toronto, ON M4S 3E2, Canada
| | - J Geddes-McAlister
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
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Ball B, Geddes‐McAlister J. Quantitative Proteomic Profiling of
Cryptococcus neoformans. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 55:e94. [DOI: 10.1002/cpmc.94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Ball
- Department of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of Guelph Guelph Ontario Canada
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