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Kim JS, Cha H, Bahn YS. Comprehensive Overview of Candida auris: An Emerging Multidrug-Resistant Fungal Pathogen. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 34:1365-1375. [PMID: 38881183 PMCID: PMC11294645 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2404.04040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The rise of Candida auris, a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen, across more than 40 countries, has signaled an alarming threat to global health due to its significant resistance to existing antifungal therapies. Characterized by its rapid spread and robust drug resistance, C. auris presents a critical challenge in managing infections, particularly in healthcare settings. With research on its biological traits and genetic basis of virulence and resistance still in the early stages, there is a pressing need for a concerted effort to understand and counteract this pathogen. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the epidemiology, biology, genetic manipulation, pathogenicity, diagnostics, and resistance mechanisms of C. auris, and discusses future directions in research and therapeutic development. By exploring the complexities surrounding C. auris, we aim to underscore the importance of advancing research to devise effective control and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Seok Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunjin Cha
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sun Bahn
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
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2
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Ramli AH, Jayathilaka EHTT, Dias MKHM, Abdul Malek E, Jain N, An J, Churchill DG, Rukayadi Y, Swain P, Kim CH, de Zoysa M, Mohd Faudzi SM. Antifungal activity of synthetic xanthenone against fluconazole-resistant Candida auris and its mechanism of action. Microb Pathog 2024; 194:106797. [PMID: 39029597 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Candida auris, an emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen discovered in Japan in 2009, poses a significant global health threat, with infections reported in about 25 countries. The escalation of drug-resistant strains underscores the urgent need for new treatment options. This study aimed to investigate the antifungal potential of 2,3,4,4a-tetrahydro-1H-xanthen-1-one (XA1) against C. auris, as well as its mechanism of action and toxic profile. The antifungal activity of XA1 was first evaluated by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), time-kill kinetics and biofilm inhibition. In addition, structural changes, membrane permeability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and in vitro and in vivo toxicity of C. auris after exposure to XA1 were investigated. The results indicated that XA1 exhibited an MIC of 50 μg/mL against C. auris, with time-kill kinetics highlighting its efficacy. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) showed structural damage in XA1-treated cells, supported by increased membrane permeability leading to cell death. Furthermore, XA1 induced ROS production and significantly inhibited biofilm formation. Importantly, XA1 exhibited low cytotoxicity in human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT), with a cell viability of over 90% at 6.25 μg/mL. In addition, an LD50 of 17.68 μg/mL was determined in zebrafish embryos 24 hours post fertilization (hpf), with developmental delay observed at prolonged exposure at 6.25 μg/mL (48-96 hpf). These findings position XA1 as a promising candidate for further research and development of an effective antifungal agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirah Hani Ramli
- Natural Medicines and Product Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - E H T Thulshan Jayathilaka
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Emilia Abdul Malek
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Neha Jain
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Logic Gate Laboratory, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongkeol An
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Logic Gate Laboratory, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - David G Churchill
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Logic Gate Laboratory, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Yaya Rukayadi
- Natural Medicines and Product Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; Department of Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Puspanjali Swain
- Department of Biology, Chungnam National University, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheol-Hee Kim
- Department of Biology, Chungnam National University, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Mahanama de Zoysa
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea.
| | - Siti Munirah Mohd Faudzi
- Natural Medicines and Product Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
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3
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Borgio JF, Almandil NB, Selvaraj P, John JS, Alquwaie R, AlHasani E, Alhur NF, Aldahhan R, AlJindan R, Almohazey D, Almofty S, Dhas TS, AbdulAzeez S. The Potential of Dutasteride for Treating Multidrug-Resistant Candida auris Infection. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:810. [PMID: 38931930 PMCID: PMC11207579 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16060810] [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: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Novel antifungal drugs are urgently needed to treat candidiasis caused by the emerging fungal multidrug-resistant pathogen Candida auris. In this study, the most cost-effective drug repurposing technology was adopted to identify an appropriate option among the 1615 clinically approved drugs with anti-C. auris activity. High-throughput virtual screening of 1,3-beta-glucanosyltransferase inhibitors was conducted, followed by an analysis of the stability of 1,3-beta-glucanosyltransferase drug complexes and 1,3-beta-glucanosyltransferase-dutasteride metabolite interactions and the confirmation of their activity in biofilm formation and planktonic growth. The analysis identified dutasteride, a drug with no prior antifungal indications, as a potential medication for anti-auris activity in seven clinical C. auris isolates from Saudi Arabian patients. Dutasteride was effective at inhibiting biofilm formation by C. auris while also causing a significant reduction in planktonic growth. Dutasteride treatment resulted in disruption of the cell membrane, the lysis of cells, and crushed surfaces on C. auris, and significant (p-value = 0.0057) shrinkage in the length of C. auris was noted at 100,000×. In conclusion, the use of repurposed dutasteride with anti-C. auris potential can enable rapid recovery in patients with difficult-to-treat candidiasis caused by C. auris and reduce the transmission of nosocomial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Francis Borgio
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultation (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia; (J.F.B.); (N.F.A.); (R.A.)
| | - Noor B. Almandil
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultation (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Prathas Selvaraj
- Entomology Research Unit (ERU), Department of Zoology, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai, Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli 627002, Tamil Nadu, India; (P.S.); (J.S.J.)
| | - J. Sherlin John
- Entomology Research Unit (ERU), Department of Zoology, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai, Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli 627002, Tamil Nadu, India; (P.S.); (J.S.J.)
| | - Rahaf Alquwaie
- Master Program of Biotechnology, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia or (R.A.); or (E.A.)
| | - Eman AlHasani
- Master Program of Biotechnology, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia or (R.A.); or (E.A.)
| | - Norah F. Alhur
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultation (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia; (J.F.B.); (N.F.A.); (R.A.)
| | - Razan Aldahhan
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultation (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia; (J.F.B.); (N.F.A.); (R.A.)
| | - Reem AlJindan
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 40017, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Dana Almohazey
- Department of Stem Cell Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia; (D.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Sarah Almofty
- Department of Stem Cell Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia; (D.A.); (S.A.)
| | - T. Stalin Dhas
- Centre for Ocean Research (DST—FIST Sponsored Centre), MoES-Earth Science & Technology Cell, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600119, India;
| | - Sayed AbdulAzeez
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultation (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia; (J.F.B.); (N.F.A.); (R.A.)
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De Gaetano S, Midiri A, Mancuso G, Avola MG, Biondo C. Candida auris Outbreaks: Current Status and Future Perspectives. Microorganisms 2024; 12:927. [PMID: 38792757 PMCID: PMC11123812 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12050927] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida auris has been identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a critical priority pathogen on its latest list of fungi. C. auris infections are reported in the bloodstream and less commonly in the cerebrospinal fluid and abdomen, with mortality rates that range between 30% and 72%. However, no large-scale epidemiology studies have been reported until now. The diagnosis of C. auris infections can be challenging, particularly when employing conventional techniques. This can impede the early detection of outbreaks and the implementation of appropriate control measures. The yeast can easily spread between patients and in healthcare settings through contaminated environments or equipment, where it can survive for extended periods. Therefore, it would be desirable to screen patients for C. auris colonisation. This would allow facilities to identify patients with the disease and take appropriate prevention and control measures. It is frequently unsusceptible to drugs, with varying patterns of resistance observed among clades and geographical regions. This review provides updates on C. auris, including epidemiology, clinical characteristics, genomic analysis, evolution, colonisation, infection, identification, resistance profiles, therapeutic options, prevention, and control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Carmelo Biondo
- Mycology Laboratory, Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (S.D.G.); (A.M.); (G.M.); (M.G.A.)
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Omardien S, Teska P. Skin and hard surface disinfection against Candida auris - What we know today. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1312929. [PMID: 38384416 PMCID: PMC10879571 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1312929] [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: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida auris has emerged as a global healthcare threat, displaying resistance to important healthcare antifungal therapies. Infection prevention and control protocols have become paramount in reducing transmission of C. auris in healthcare, of which cleaning and disinfection plays an important role. Candida albicans is used as a surrogate yeast for yeasticidal claims of disinfection products, but reports have been made that sensitivity to disinfectants by C. auris differs from its surrogate. In this review, we aimed to compile the information reported for products used for skin and hard surface disinfection against C. auris in its planktonic or biofilm form. A comparison was made with other Candida species, and information were gathered from laboratory studies and observations made in healthcare settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Teska
- Diversey Holdings Ltd., Fort Mill, SC, United States
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Rapti V, Iliopoulou K, Poulakou G. The Gordian Knot of C. auris: If You Cannot Cut It, Prevent It. Pathogens 2023; 12:1444. [PMID: 38133327 PMCID: PMC10747958 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12121444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Since its first description in 2009, Candida auris has, so far, resulted in large hospital outbreaks worldwide and is considered an emerging global public health threat. Exceptionally for yeast, it is gifted with a profoundly worrying invasive potential and high inter-patient transmissibility. At the same time, it is capable of colonizing and persisting in both patients and hospital settings for prolonged periods of time, thus creating a vicious cycle of acquisition, spreading, and infection. It exhibits various virulence qualities and thermotolerance, osmotolerance, filamentation, biofilm formation and hydrolytic enzyme production, which are mainly implicated in its pathogenesis. Owing to its unfavorable profile of resistance to diverse antifungal agents and the lack of effective treatment options, the implementation of robust infection prevention and control (IPC) practices is crucial for controlling and minimizing intra-hospital transmission of C. auris. Rapid and accurate microbiological identification, adherence to hand hygiene, use of adequate personal protective equipment (PPE), proper handling of catheters and implantable devices, contact isolation, periodical environmental decontamination, targeted screening, implementation of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs and communication between healthcare facilities about residents' C. auris colonization status are recognized as coherent strategies for preventing its spread. Current knowledge on C. auris epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and its mechanisms of pathogenicity are summarized in the present review and a comprehensive overview of IPC practices ensuring yeast prevention is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Rapti
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Sotiria General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | | | - Garyfallia Poulakou
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Sotiria General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
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Jusuf S, Dong PT. Chromophore-Targeting Precision Antimicrobial Phototherapy. Cells 2023; 12:2664. [PMID: 37998399 PMCID: PMC10670386 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222664] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Phototherapy, encompassing the utilization of both natural and artificial light, has emerged as a dependable and non-invasive strategy for addressing a diverse range of illnesses, diseases, and infections. This therapeutic approach, primarily known for its efficacy in treating skin infections, such as herpes and acne lesions, involves the synergistic use of specific light wavelengths and photosensitizers, like methylene blue. Photodynamic therapy, as it is termed, relies on the generation of antimicrobial reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the interaction between light and externally applied photosensitizers. Recent research, however, has highlighted the intrinsic antimicrobial properties of light itself, marking a paradigm shift in focus from exogenous agents to the inherent photosensitivity of molecules found naturally within pathogens. Chemical analyses have identified specific organic molecular structures and systems, including protoporphyrins and conjugated C=C bonds, as pivotal components in molecular photosensitivity. Given the prevalence of these systems in organic life forms, there is an urgent need to investigate the potential impact of phototherapy on individual molecules expressed within pathogens and discern their contributions to the antimicrobial effects of light. This review delves into the recently unveiled key molecular targets of phototherapy, offering insights into their potential downstream implications and therapeutic applications. By shedding light on these fundamental molecular mechanisms, we aim to advance our understanding of phototherapy's broader therapeutic potential and contribute to the development of innovative treatments for a wide array of microbial infections and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Jusuf
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
| | - Pu-Ting Dong
- Department of Microbiology, The Forsyth Institute, Boston, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Oral Medicine, Infection and Immunity, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Borgio JF, Alhujaily R, Alquwaie R, Alabdullah MJ, AlHasani E, Alothman W, Alaqeel RK, Alfaraj AS, Kaabi A, Alhur NF, Akhtar S, AlJindan R, Almofty S, Almandil NB, AbdulAzeez S. Mining the nanotube-forming Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MR14M3 genome for determining anti- Candida auris and anti- Candida albicans potential by pathogenicity and comparative genomics analysis. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:4261-4276. [PMID: 37701018 PMCID: PMC10493893 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.08.031] [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: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a global health concern associated with the emergence of the multidrug-resistant (MDR) fungus Candida auris, which has significant mortality rates. Finding innovative and distinctive anti-Candida compounds is essential for treating infections caused by MDR C. auris. A bacterial strain with anti-Candida activity was isolated and identified using 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. The whole genome was sequenced to identify biosynthesis-related gene clusters. The pathogenicity and cytotoxicity of the isolate were analyzed in Candida and HFF-1 cell lines, respectively. This study set out to show that whole-genome sequencing, cytotoxicity testing, and pathogenicity analysis combined with genome mining and comparative genomics can successfully identify biosynthesis-related gene clusters in native bacterial isolates that encode antifungal natural compounds active against Candida albicans and C. auris. The native isolate MR14M3 has the ability to inhibit C. auris (zone of inhibition 25 mm) and C. albicans (zone of inhibition 25 mm). The 16 S rRNA gene sequence of MR14M3 aligned with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens with similarity (100%). Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MR14M3 establishes bridges of intercellular nanotubes (L 258.56 ± 35.83 nm; W 25.32 ± 6.09 nm) connecting neighboring cells. Candida cell size was reduced significantly, and crushed phenotypes were observed upon treatment with the defused metabolites of B. amyloliquefaciens MR14M3. Furthermore, the pathogenicity of B. amyloliquefaciens MR14M3 on Candida cells was observed through cell membrane disruption and lysed yeast cells. The whole-genome alignment of the MR14M3 genome (3981,643 bp) using 100 genes confirmed its affiliation with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Genome mining analysis revealed that MR14M3-coded secondary metabolites are involved in the biosynthesis of polyketides (PKs) and nonribosomal peptide synthases (NRPSs), including 11 biosynthesis-related gene clusters with one hundred percent similarity. Highly conserved biosynthesis-related gene clusters with anti-C. albicans and anti-C. auris potentials and cytotoxic-free activity of B. amyloliquefaciens MR14M3 proposes the utilization of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MR14M3 as a biofactory for an anti-Candida auris and anti-C. albicans compound synthesizer.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Francis Borgio
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Epidemic Diseases Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rahaf Alhujaily
- Summer Research Program, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rahaf Alquwaie
- Master Program of Biotechnology, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam Jawad Alabdullah
- Summer Research Program, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman AlHasani
- Master Program of Biotechnology, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wojod Alothman
- Summer Research Program, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rawan Khalid Alaqeel
- Summer Research Program, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aqeelah Salman Alfaraj
- Summer Research Program, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayidah Kaabi
- Summer Research Program, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Norah F. Alhur
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sultan Akhtar
- Department of Biophysics Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem AlJindan
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 40017, Saudi Arabia)
| | - Sarah Almofty
- Department of Stem Cell Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noor B. Almandil
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sayed AbdulAzeez
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
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Ambrosio FJ, Scribner MR, Wright SM, Otieno JR, Doughty EL, Gorzalski A, Siao DD, Killian S, Hua C, Schneider E, Tran M, Varghese V, Libuit KG, Pandori M, Sevinsky JR, Hess D. TheiaEuk: a species-agnostic bioinformatics workflow for fungal genomic characterization. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1198213. [PMID: 37593727 PMCID: PMC10428623 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1198213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The clinical incidence of antimicrobial-resistant fungal infections has dramatically increased in recent years. Certain fungal pathogens colonize various body cavities, leading to life-threatening bloodstream infections. However, the identification and characterization of fungal isolates in laboratories remain a significant diagnostic challenge in medicine and public health. Whole-genome sequencing provides an unbiased and uniform identification pipeline for fungal pathogens but most bioinformatic analysis pipelines focus on prokaryotic species. To this end, TheiaEuk_Illumina_PE_PHB (TheiaEuk) was designed to focus on genomic analysis specialized to fungal pathogens. Methods TheiaEuk was designed using containerized components and written in the workflow description language (WDL) to facilitate deployment on the cloud-based open bioinformatics platform Terra. This species-agnostic workflow enables the analysis of fungal genomes without requiring coding, thereby reducing the entry barrier for laboratory scientists. To demonstrate the usefulness of this pipeline, an ongoing outbreak of C. auris in southern Nevada was investigated. We performed whole-genome sequence analysis of 752 new C. auris isolates from this outbreak. Furthermore, TheiaEuk was utilized to observe the accumulation of mutations in the FKS1 gene over the course of the outbreak, highlighting the utility of TheiaEuk as a monitor of emerging public health threats when combined with whole-genome sequencing surveillance of fungal pathogens. Results A primary result of this work is a curated fungal database containing 5,667 unique genomes representing 245 species. TheiaEuk also incorporates taxon-specific submodules for specific species, including clade-typing for Candida auris (C. auris). In addition, for several fungal species, it performs dynamic reference genome selection and variant calling, reporting mutations found in genes currently associated with antifungal resistance (FKS1, ERG11, FUR1). Using genome assemblies from the ATCC Mycology collection, the taxonomic identification module used by TheiaEuk correctly assigned genomes to the species level in 126/135 (93.3%) instances and to the genus level in 131/135 (97%) of instances, and provided zero false calls. Application of TheiaEuk to actual specimens obtained in the course of work at a local public health laboratory resulted in 13/15 (86.7%) correct calls at the species level, with 2/15 called at the genus level. It made zero incorrect calls. TheiaEuk accurately assessed clade type of Candida auris in 297/302 (98.3%) of instances. Discussion TheiaEuk demonstrated effectiveness in identifying fungal species from whole genome sequence. It further showed accuracy in both clade-typing of C. auris and in the identification of mutations known to associate with drug resistance in that organism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Steve Killian
- Alameda County Public Health Laboratory, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Chi Hua
- Public Health Laboratories, Division of Disease Control and Health Statistics, Washington State Department of Health, Shoreline, WA, United States
| | - Emily Schneider
- Public Health Laboratories, Division of Disease Control and Health Statistics, Washington State Department of Health, Shoreline, WA, United States
| | - Michael Tran
- Public Health Laboratories, Division of Disease Control and Health Statistics, Washington State Department of Health, Shoreline, WA, United States
| | - Vici Varghese
- Alameda County Public Health Laboratory, Oakland, CA, United States
| | | | - Mark Pandori
- Nevada State Public Health Laboratory, Reno, NV, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, United States
| | | | - David Hess
- Nevada State Public Health Laboratory, Reno, NV, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, United States
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Oliva A, De Rosa FG, Mikulska M, Pea F, Sanguinetti M, Tascini C, Venditti M. Invasive Candida infection: epidemiology, clinical and therapeutic aspects of an evolving disease and the role of rezafungin. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2023; 21:957-975. [PMID: 37494128 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2023.2240956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Invasive Candida Infections (ICIs) have undergone a series of significant epidemiological, pathophysiological, and clinical changes during the last decades, with a shift toward non-albicans species, an increase in the rate of exogenous infections and clinical manifestations ranging from candidemia to an array of highly invasive and life-threatening clinical syndromes. The long-acting echinocandin rezafungin exhibits potent in-vitro activity against most wild-type and azole-resistant Candida spp. including C.auris. AREAS COVERED The following topics regarding candidemia only and ICIs were reviewed and addressed: i) pathogenesis; ii) epidemiology and temporal evolution of Candida species; iii) clinical approach; iv) potential role of the novel long-acting rezafungin in the treatment of ICIs. EXPERT OPINION Authors' expert opinion focused on considering the potential role of rezafungin in the evolving context of ICIs. Rezafungin, which combines a potent in-vitro activity against Candida species, including azole-resistant strains and C.auris, with a low likelihood of drug-drug interactions and a good safety profile, may revolutionize the treatment of candidemia/ICI. Indeed, it may shorten the length of hospital stays when clinical conditions allow and extend outpatient access to treatment of invasive candidiasis, especially when prolonged treatment duration is expected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Oliva
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Giuseppe De Rosa
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Infectious Diseases, City of Health and Sciences, Turin, Italy
| | - Malgorzata Mikulska
- Division of Infectious Diseases Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Federico Pea
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Department for Integrated Infectious Risk Management, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Sanguinetti
- Department of Laboratory Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli"; IRCCS, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Tascini
- Infectious Diseases Clinic: Department of Medical Area (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Mario Venditti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Alvarez-Moreno CA, Morales-López S, Rodriguez GJ, Rodriguez JY, Robert E, Picot C, Ceballos-Garzon A, Parra-Giraldo CM, Le Pape P. The Mortality Attributable to Candidemia in C. auris Is Higher than That in Other Candida Species: Myth or Reality? J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9040430. [PMID: 37108885 PMCID: PMC10143486 DOI: 10.3390/jof9040430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida auris has become a major health threat due to its transmissibility, multidrug resistance and severe outcomes. In a case-control design, 74 hospitalised patients with candidemia were enrolled. In total, 22 cases (29.7%) and 52 controls (C. albicans, 21.6%; C. parapsilosis, 21.6%; C. tropicalis, 21.6%; C. glabrata, 1.4%) were included and analysed in this study. Risk factors, clinical and microbiological characteristics and outcomes of patients with C. auris and non-auris Candida species (NACS) candidemia were compared. Previous fluconazole exposure was significantly higher in C. auris candidemia patients (OR 3.3; 1.15–9.5). Most C. auris isolates were resistant to fluconazole (86.3%) and amphotericin B (59%) whilst NACS isolates were generally susceptible. No isolates resistant to echinocandins were detected. The average time to start antifungal therapy was 3.6 days. Sixty-three (85.1%) patients received adequate antifungal therapy, without significant differences between the two groups. The crude mortality at 30 and 90 days of candidemia was up to 37.8% and 40.5%, respectively. However, there was no difference in mortality both at 30 and 90 days between the group with candidemia by C. auris (31.8%) and by NACS (42.3%) (OR 0.6; 95% IC 0.24–1.97) and 36.4% and 42.3% (0.77; 0.27–2.1), respectively. In this study, mortality due to candidemia between C. auris and NACS was similar. Appropriate antifungal therapy in both groups may have contributed to finding no differences in outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A. Alvarez-Moreno
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Clínica Universitaria Colombia, Clínica Colsanitas, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +57-31-4330-2367
| | - Soraya Morales-López
- Grupo CINBIOS, Programa de Microbiología, Universidad Popular del Cesar, Valledupar 200004, Colombia
| | - Gerson J. Rodriguez
- Centro de Investigaciones Microbiológicas del Cesar (CIMCE), Valledupar 200002, Colombia
| | - Jose Y. Rodriguez
- Centro de Investigaciones Microbiológicas del Cesar (CIMCE), Valledupar 200002, Colombia
| | - Estelle Robert
- Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l’Immunité, Nantes Université, CHU de Nantes, IICiMed, 10 UR1155, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Carine Picot
- Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l’Immunité, Nantes Université, CHU de Nantes, IICiMed, 10 UR1155, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Andrés Ceballos-Garzon
- Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l’Immunité, Nantes Université, CHU de Nantes, IICiMed, 10 UR1155, 44000 Nantes, France
- Unidad de Investigacion en Proteómica y Micosis Humanas, Grupo de investigacion en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá 110231, Colombia
| | - Claudia M. Parra-Giraldo
- Unidad de Investigacion en Proteómica y Micosis Humanas, Grupo de investigacion en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá 110231, Colombia
| | - Patrice Le Pape
- Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l’Immunité, Nantes Université, CHU de Nantes, IICiMed, 10 UR1155, 44000 Nantes, France
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Nwachukwu KC, Nwarunma E, David Uchenna C, Chinyere Ugbogu O. Enablers of Candida auris persistence on medical devices and their mode of eradication. Curr Med Mycol 2023; 9:36-43. [PMID: 37867591 PMCID: PMC10590192 DOI: 10.18502/cmm.2023.150673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is an emerging pathogen predominantly isolated from immunocompromised patients, hospitalized for a long time. It inhabits the skin surfaces of patients causing ear, wound, and systemic infections; if not treated properly, it could lead to severe mortality. Apart from being a skin pathogen, C. auris colonizes the surfaces of medical devices. Medical devices are hospital tools and components often utilized for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases associated with human skin. The mechanism of survival and persistence of C. auris on medical devices has remained unclear and is a serious concern for clinicians. The persistence of C. auris on medical devices has deterred its effective elimination, hindered the treatment of infections, and increased its antifungal resistance. Evidence has shown that a few surface molecules on the cell wall of C. auris and the extracellular matrix of the biofilm are responsible for its persistence and exist as enablers. Due to the increased cases of ear, skin, and systemic infections as well as death resulting from the spread of C. auris in hospitals, there is a need to study these enablers. This review focused on the identification of the enablers and aimed to evaluate them in relation to their ability to induce persistence in C. auris. In order to reduce the spread of or completely eliminate C. auris and its enablers in hospitals, the efficacy of disinfection and sterilization methods were compared.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ebubechukwu Nwarunma
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Science, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Scotland, UK
| | - Chinaza David Uchenna
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria
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Shariq A, Rasheed Z, Alghsham RS, Abdulmonem WA. Candida auris: An emerging fungus that presents a serious global health threat. Int J Health Sci (Qassim) 2023; 17:1-2. [PMID: 36891046 PMCID: PMC9986882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Shariq
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zafar Rasheed
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ruqaih S Alghsham
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Al Abdulmonem
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
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Ashkenazi-Hoffnung L, Rosenberg Danziger C. Navigating the New Reality: A Review of the Epidemiological, Clinical, and Microbiological Characteristics of Candida auris, with a Focus on Children. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:176. [PMID: 36836291 PMCID: PMC9963988 DOI: 10.3390/jof9020176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
During the past decade, Candida auris emerged across the world, causing nosocomial outbreaks in both pediatric and adult populations, particularly in intensive care settings. We reviewed the epidemiological trends and the clinical and microbiological characteristics of C. auris infection, focusing on the pediatric population. The review is based on 22 studies, which included about 250 pediatric patients with C. auris infection, across multiple countries; neonates and premature babies were the predominant pediatric patient group affected. The most common type of infection reported was bloodstream infection, which was associated with exceptionally high mortality rates. Antifungal treatment varied widely between the patients; this signifies a serious knowledge gap that should be addressed in future research. Advances in molecular diagnostic methods for rapid and accurate identification and for detection of resistance may prove especially valuable in future outbreak situations, as well as the development of investigational antifungals. However, the new reality of a highly resistant and difficult-to-treat pathogen calls for preparedness of all aspects of patient care. This spans from laboratory readiness, to raising awareness among epidemiologists and clinicians for global collaborative efforts to improve patient care and limit the spread of C. auris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liat Ashkenazi-Hoffnung
- Department of Day Hospitalization and Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Schneider Children’s Medical Center, Petach Tikva 4920235, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Chen Rosenberg Danziger
- Department of Day Hospitalization, Schneider Children’s Medical Center, Petach Tikva 4920235, Israel
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15
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Kavaliauskas P, Grybaitė B, Vaickelionienė R, Sapijanskaitė-Banevič B, Anusevičius K, Kriaučiūnaitė A, Smailienė G, Petraitis V, Petraitienė R, Naing E, Garcia A, Mickevičius V. Synthesis and Development of N-2,5-Dimethylphenylthioureido Acid Derivatives as Scaffolds for New Antimicrobial Candidates Targeting Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Positive Pathogens. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020220. [PMID: 36830130 PMCID: PMC9952208 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The growing antimicrobial resistance to last-line antimicrobials among Gram-positive pathogens remains a major healthcare emergency worldwide. Therefore, the search for new small molecules targeting multidrug-resistant pathogens remains of great importance. In this paper, we report the synthesis and in vitro antimicrobial activity characterisation of novel thiazole derivatives using representative Gram-negative and Gram-positive strains, including tedizolid/linezolid-resistant S. aureus, as well as emerging fungal pathogens. The 4-substituted thiazoles 3h, and 3j with naphthoquinone-fused thiazole derivative 7 with excellent activity against methicillin and tedizolid/linezolid-resistant S. aureus. Moreover, compounds 3h, 3j and 7 showed favourable activity against vancomycin-resistant E. faecium. Compounds 9f and 14f showed broad-spectrum antifungal activity against drug-resistant Candida strains, while ester 8f showed good activity against Candida auris which was greater than fluconazole. Collectively, these data demonstrate that N-2,5-dimethylphenylthioureido acid derivatives could be further explored as novel scaffolds for the development of antimicrobial candidates targeting Gram-positive bacteria and drug-resistant pathogenic fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Povilas Kavaliauskas
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Kaunas University of Technology, Radvilėnų Rd. 19, LT-50254 Kaunas, Lithuania
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
- Institute for Genome Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, 655 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Pathogenic Microbiology, Birštono Str. 38A, LT-59116 Prienai, Lithuania
| | - Birutė Grybaitė
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Kaunas University of Technology, Radvilėnų Rd. 19, LT-50254 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Rita Vaickelionienė
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Kaunas University of Technology, Radvilėnų Rd. 19, LT-50254 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | | | - Kazimieras Anusevičius
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Kaunas University of Technology, Radvilėnų Rd. 19, LT-50254 Kaunas, Lithuania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +370-646-21841
| | - Agnė Kriaučiūnaitė
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Kaunas University of Technology, Radvilėnų Rd. 19, LT-50254 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Gabrielė Smailienė
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Kaunas University of Technology, Radvilėnų Rd. 19, LT-50254 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Vidmantas Petraitis
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Pathogenic Microbiology, Birštono Str. 38A, LT-59116 Prienai, Lithuania
| | - Rūta Petraitienė
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Pathogenic Microbiology, Birštono Str. 38A, LT-59116 Prienai, Lithuania
| | - Ethan Naing
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Andrew Garcia
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Vytautas Mickevičius
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Kaunas University of Technology, Radvilėnų Rd. 19, LT-50254 Kaunas, Lithuania
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Kim C, Kim JG, Kim KY. Anti- Candida Potential of Sclareol in Inhibiting Growth, Biofilm Formation, and Yeast-Hyphal Transition. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9010098. [PMID: 36675919 PMCID: PMC9862543 DOI: 10.3390/jof9010098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Even though Candida albicans commonly colonizes on most mucosal surfaces including the vaginal and gastrointestinal tract, it can cause candidiasis as an opportunistic infectious fungus. The emergence of resistant Candida strains and the toxicity of anti-fungal agents have encouraged the development of new classes of potential anti-fungal agents. Sclareol, a labdane-type diterpene, showed anti-Candida activity with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 50 μg/mL in 24 h based on a microdilution anti-fungal susceptibility test. Cell membrane permeability with propidium iodide staining and mitochondrial membrane potential with JC-1 staining were increased in C. albicans by treatment of sclareol. Sclareol also suppressed the hyphal formation of C. albicans in both liquid and solid media, and reduced biofilm formation. Taken together, sclareol induces an apoptosis-like cell death against Candida spp. and suppressed biofilm and hyphal formation in C. albicans. Sclareol is of high interest as a novel anti-fungal agent and anti-virulence factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaerim Kim
- Department of Life Science, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Goo Kim
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yingin 17104, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Young Kim
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yingin 17104, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
- College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 17104, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-312012633
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