1
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Son YE, Cho HJ, Park HS. The MYB-like protein MylA contributes to conidiogenesis and conidial germination in Aspergillus nidulans. Commun Biol 2024; 7:768. [PMID: 38918572 PMCID: PMC11199622 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05866-7] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Myeloblastosis (MYB)-like proteins are a family of highly conserved transcription factors in animals, plants, and fungi and are involved in the regulation of mRNA expression of genes. In this study, we identified and characterized one MYB-like protein in the model organism Aspergillus nidulans. We screened the mRNA levels of genes encoding MYB-like proteins containing two MYB repeats in conidia and found that the mRNA levels of four genes including flbD, cicD, and two uncharacterized genes, were high in conidia. To investigate the roles of two uncharacterized genes, AN4618 and AN10944, deletion mutants for each gene were generated. Our results revealed that AN4618 was required for fungal development. Therefore, we further investigated the role of AN4618, named as mylA, encoding the MYB-like protein containing two MYB repeats. Functional studies revealed that MylA was essential for normal fungal growth and development. Phenotypic and transcriptomic analyses demonstrated that deletion of mylA affected stress tolerance, cell wall integrity, and long-term viability in A. nidulans conidia. In addition, the germination rate of the mylA deletion mutant conidia was decreased compared with that of the wild-type conidia. Overall, this study suggests that MylA is critical for appropriate development, conidial maturation, dormancy, and germination in A. nidulans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Eun Son
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - He-Jin Cho
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Soo Park
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Integrative Biology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Zareshahrabadi Z, Amirzadeh N, Pakshir K, Nasr R, Mohammadi R, Zomorodian K. Evaluation of building washing machines as an extreme environment for potentially pathogenic fungi. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21408. [PMID: 38049507 PMCID: PMC10695939 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48598-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Washing machines are commonly used in households and are considered indispensable appliances for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene. Environmental conditions within household washing machines are ideal for fungal colonization, which may pose risks to human health and contribute to sick building syndrome. This study aimed to investigate the fungal species contamination in the building washing machines. A total of 50 building washing machines were swab-sampled at three locations: the detergent drawer, the inner and outer parts of the rubber door seal. The housekeeping conditions of these appliances were assessed through a questionnaire. The isolated fungi were identified using standard mycological diagnostic procedures and molecular analysis based on the ITS1/ITS4 and β-tubulin gene regions. The possibility of fungal agents transferring from contaminated washing machines to autoclaved clothes during laundry cycles was investigated. Fungi were detected in 82% of the sampled appliances, with the inner rubber door seal being the most frequently colonized area. Using conventional and molecular techniques, we identified 122 fungal isolates, encompassing 17 diverse genera of molds, yeast-like, and yeast fungi. The mold fungi included 14 genera of hyaline and black genus. Among these, the most frequently identified genera of hyaline and black fungi were Aspergillus (27.7%), and Cladosporium (10.7%), respectively. This study demonstrates that building washing machines may serve as suitable ecological niches for fungal growth and transmission. Therefore, regular cleaning and disinfection of these devices are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Zareshahrabadi
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Neda Amirzadeh
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Keyvan Pakshir
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Nasr
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Rasoul Mohammadi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Kamiar Zomorodian
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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3
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Novak Babič M, Marolt G, Imperl J, Breskvar M, Džeroski S, Gunde-Cimerman N. Effect of Location, Disinfection, and Building Materials on the Presence and Richness of Culturable Mycobiota through Oligotrophic Drinking Water Systems. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1086. [PMID: 37998891 PMCID: PMC10672563 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111086] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Safe drinking water is a constant challenge due to global environmental changes and the rise of emerging pathogens-lately, these also include fungi. The fungal presence in water greatly varies between sampling locations. Little is known about fungi from water in combination with a selection of materials used in water distribution systems. Our research was focused on five water plants located in the Pannonian Plain, Slovenia. Sampled water originated from different natural water sources and was subjected to different cleaning methods before distribution. The average numbers of fungi from natural water, water after disinfection, water at the first sampling point in the water network, and water at the last sampling point were 260, 49, 64, and 97 CFU/L, respectively. Chlorination reduced the number of fungi by a factor of 5, but its effect decreased with the length of the water network. The occurrence of different fungi in water and on materials depended on the choice of material. The presence of the genera Aspergillus, Acremonium, Furcasterigmium, Gliomastix, and Sarocladium was mostly observed on cement, while Cadophora, Cladosporium, Cyphellophora, and Exophiala prevailed on metals. Plastic materials were more susceptible to colonization with basidiomycetous fungi. Opportunistically pathogenic fungi were isolated sporadically from materials and water and do not represent a significant health risk for water consumers. In addition to cultivation data, physico-chemical features of water were measured and later processed with machine learning methods, revealing the sampling location and water cleaning processes as the main factors affecting fungal presence and richness in water and materials in contact with water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Novak Babič
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Gregor Marolt
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (G.M.); (J.I.)
| | - Jernej Imperl
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (G.M.); (J.I.)
| | - Martin Breskvar
- Department of Knowledge Technologies, Jožef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.B.); (S.D.)
- DZR, Luize Pesjakove ulica 11, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sašo Džeroski
- Department of Knowledge Technologies, Jožef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.B.); (S.D.)
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4
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Douglas AP, Stewart AG, Halliday CL, Chen SCA. Outbreaks of Fungal Infections in Hospitals: Epidemiology, Detection, and Management. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1059. [PMID: 37998865 PMCID: PMC10672668 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Nosocomial clusters of fungal infections, whilst uncommon, cannot be predicted and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Here, we review reports of nosocomial outbreaks of invasive fungal disease to glean insight into their epidemiology, risks for infection, methods employed in outbreak detection including genomic testing to confirm the outbreak, and approaches to clinical and infection control management. Both yeasts and filamentous fungi cause outbreaks, with each having general and specific risks. The early detection and confirmation of the outbreak are essential for diagnosis, treatment of affected patients, and termination of the outbreak. Environmental sampling, including the air in mould outbreaks, for the pathogen may be indicated. The genetic analysis of epidemiologically linked isolates is strongly recommended through a sufficiently discriminatory approach such as whole genome sequencing or a method that is acceptably discriminatory for that pathogen. An analysis of both linked isolates and epidemiologically unrelated strains is required to enable genetic similarity comparisons. The management of the outbreak encompasses input from a multi-disciplinary team with epidemiological investigation and infection control measures, including screening for additional cases, patient cohorting, and strict hygiene and cleaning procedures. Automated methods for fungal infection surveillance would greatly aid earlier outbreak detection and should be a focus of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abby P. Douglas
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Adam G. Stewart
- Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital Campus, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia;
| | - Catriona L. Halliday
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia; (C.L.H.); (S.C.-A.C.)
| | - Sharon C.-A. Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia; (C.L.H.); (S.C.-A.C.)
- Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
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5
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Cecchi G, Manzi D, Di Piazza S, Sacchi R, Zotti M, Picco AM. Fungi in Rice Field Open Irrigation System: Ecological Implications and Biosecurity. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:316. [PMID: 37558905 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03427-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Italy is the leading producer of rice in Europe, but this crop is increasingly threatened by many factors such as pathogens' resistance, pollution and climate change. To date, few works keep in consideration the ecological role that the open irrigation system can play in the dispersion of important opportunistic species, and if it is affected by agricultural management and environmental seasonal changing. This work carried out the mycological characterization of a rice field irrigation system located in Vistarino (Pavia, Lombardy, Italy). Three main sections of an irrigation system (canal, ditch and paddy) were sampled during the summer 2018 (irrigation season of the rice crop). Water samples processing underlined how the irrigation system is rich of fungal diversity (59 species isolated). In order of abundance, the canal samples are characterized by the dominance of Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium and Trichoderma genera, while the ditch samples by Alternaria, Cladosporium, Fusarium, and Penicillium genera, and the paddy samples by Alternaria, Cladosporium, Fusarium and Trichoderma genera. Results showed that the three environments are mycologically independent of each other: fungi do not exploit the irrigation system for their dispersion in paddy. Probably fungi prefer others dispersion systems such as air dispersion. This means that an open irrigation system is not to be considered as a continue system with free circulation of fungi. Indeed, each sector of the system appears characterized by a typical funga, which undergoes variations during the sampled season due to agricultural management and environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Cecchi
- Department of Environmental, Earth and Life Sciences, University of Genoa, Corso Europa 26, 16132, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Danilo Manzi
- Department of Earth and Environment Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 1, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Simone Di Piazza
- Department of Environmental, Earth and Life Sciences, University of Genoa, Corso Europa 26, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Roberto Sacchi
- Department of Earth and Environment Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 1, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mirca Zotti
- Department of Environmental, Earth and Life Sciences, University of Genoa, Corso Europa 26, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Picco
- Department of Earth and Environment Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 1, 27100, Pavia, Italy
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6
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Naidoo S, Zwane AM, Paruk A, Hardcastle TC. Diagnosis and Management of Severe Water-Related Skin and Soft Tissue Sepsis: A Summative Review of the Literature. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2150. [PMID: 37443543 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13132150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are common presentations in the emergency department. However, this is less common after contact with contaminated saltwater or freshwater. This review presents the diagnosis and management of water-related soft tissue sepsis in this vulnerable and difficult-to-treat subgroup of necrotizing soft tissue sepsis. METHODS A summative literature overview is presented regarding bacterial and fungal SSTI after contact with contaminated water, with practical diagnostic and management aspects. RESULTS The literature indicates that these wounds and infections remain difficult to treat. An approach using appropriate diagnostic tools with both medical and surgical management strategies is provided. CONCLUSIONS SSTIs due to water contamination of wounds involve unusual organisms with unusual resistance patterns, and require a nuanced and directed diagnostic approach with an adaptation of the usual antibiotic or antifungal selection to achieve a successful cure, along with aggressive debridement and wound care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanisa Naidoo
- Department of Surgery, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
- Trauma and Burn Service, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Mayville 4058, South Africa
| | - Arnold M Zwane
- Department of Surgery, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Ahmed Paruk
- Trauma and Burn Service, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Mayville 4058, South Africa
- Orthopaedics, Addington Hospital, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Timothy Craig Hardcastle
- Department of Surgery, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
- Trauma and Burn Service, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Mayville 4058, South Africa
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7
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Zhao HX, Zhang TY, Wang H, Hu CY, Tang YL, Xu B. Occurrence of fungal spores in drinking water: A review of pathogenicity, odor, chlorine resistance and control strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 853:158626. [PMID: 36087680 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Fungi in drinking water have been long neglected due to the lack of convenient analysis methods, widely accepted regulations and efficient control strategies. However, in the last few decades, fungi in drinking water have been widely recognized as opportunity pathogens that cause serious damage to the health of immune-compromised individuals. In drinking water treatment plants, fungal spores are more resistant to chlorine disinfection than bacteria and viruses, which can regrow in drinking water distribution systems and subsequently pose health threats to water consumers. In addition, fungi in drinking water may represent an ignored source of taste and odor (T&O). This review identified 74 genera of fungi isolated from drinking water and presented their detailed taxonomy, sources and biomass levels in drinking water systems. The typical pathways of exposure of water-borne fungi and the main effects on human health are clarified. The fungi producing T&O compounds and their products are summarized. Data on free chlorine or monochloramine inactivation of fungal spores and other pathogens are compared. At the first time, we suggested four chlorine-resistant mechanisms including aggregation to tolerate chlorine, strong cell walls, cellular responses to oxidative stress and antioxidation of melanin, which are instructive for the future fungi control attempts. Finally, the inactivation performance of fungal spores by various technologies are comprehensively analyzed. The purpose of this study is to provide an overview of fungi distribution and risks in drinking water, provide insight into the chlorine resistance mechanisms of fungal spores and propose approaches for the control of fungi in drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng-Xuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Key Laboratory of Yangtze Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Tian-Yang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Key Laboratory of Yangtze Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Hong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Key Laboratory of Yangtze Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Chen-Yan Hu
- College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Electric Power, Shanghai 200090, PR China
| | - Yu-Lin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Key Laboratory of Yangtze Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Bin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Key Laboratory of Yangtze Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
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8
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Dailly S, Boatswain E, Brooks J, Campbell G, Dallow K, Dushianthan A, Glover S, Griffiths M, Gupta S, Austin J, Chambers R, Jeremiah S, Morris C, Mahobia N, Poxon M, Rickman A, Jaques H, Yam T, Saeed K. Aspergillus in COVID-19 intensive care unit; what is lurking above your head? J Infect Prev 2022; 23:278-284. [PMID: 36277859 PMCID: PMC9475376 DOI: 10.1177/17571774221127548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Through routine respiratory samples surveillance among COVID-19 patients in
the intensive care, three patients with aspergillus were identified in a
newly opened general intensive care unit during the second wave of the
pandemic. Methodology As no previous cases of aspergillus had occurred since the unit had opened.
An urgent multidisciplinary outbreak meeting was held. The possible sources
of aspergillus infection were explored. The multidisciplinary approach
enabled stakeholders from different skills to discuss possible sources and
management strategies. Environmental precipitants like air handling units
were considered and the overall clinical practice was reviewed. Settle
plates were placed around the unit to identify the source. Reports of recent
water leaks were also investigated. Results Growth of aspergillus on a settle plate was identified the potential source
above a nurse’s station. This was the site of a historic water leak from the
ceiling above, that resolved promptly and was not investigated further.
Subsequent investigation above the ceiling tiles found pooling of water and
mould due to a slow water leak from a pipe. Conclusion Water leaks in patient areas should be promptly notified to infection
prevention. Detailed investigation to ascertain the actual cause of the leak
and ensure any remedial work could be carried out swiftly. Outbreak meetings
that include diverse people with various expertises (clinical and
non-clinical) can enable prompt identification and resolution of
contaminated areas to minimise risk to patients and staff. During
challenging pandemic periods hospitals must not lose focus on other clusters
and outbreaks occurring simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sue Dailly
- Infection Prevention and Control, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Erin Boatswain
- Intensive Care, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Julie Brooks
- Infection Prevention and Control, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Glen Campbell
- Estates, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Katy Dallow
- Department of Infection, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Ahilanandan Dushianthan
- Intensive Care, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility and NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Sarah Glover
- Department of Infection, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Melanie Griffiths
- Intensive Care, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Sanjay Gupta
- Intensive Care, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - James Austin
- Department of Infection, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Robert Chambers
- Intensive Care, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Sarah Jeremiah
- Infection Prevention and Control, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Charlotte Morris
- Intensive Care, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Nitin Mahobia
- Infection Prevention and Control, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Department of Infection, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Martyn Poxon
- Estates, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Alison Rickman
- Department of Infection, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Helen Jaques
- Department of Infection, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Tatshing Yam
- Department of Infection, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Kordo Saeed
- Department of Infection, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility and NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
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9
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Urbaniak C, Morrison MD, Thissen JB, Karouia F, Smith DJ, Mehta S, Jaing C, Venkateswaran K. Microbial Tracking-2, a metagenomics analysis of bacteria and fungi onboard the International Space Station. MICROBIOME 2022; 10:100. [PMID: 35765106 PMCID: PMC9241228 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-022-01293-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The International Space Station (ISS) is a unique and complex built environment with the ISS surface microbiome originating from crew and cargo or from life support recirculation in an almost entirely closed system. The Microbial Tracking 1 (MT-1) project was the first ISS environmental surface study to report on the metagenome profiles without using whole-genome amplification. The study surveyed the microbial communities from eight surfaces over a 14-month period. The Microbial Tracking 2 (MT-2) project aimed to continue the work of MT-1, sampling an additional four flights from the same locations, over another 14 months. METHODS Eight surfaces across the ISS were sampled with sterile wipes and processed upon return to Earth. DNA extracted from the processed samples (and controls) were treated with propidium monoazide (PMA) to detect intact/viable cells or left untreated and to detect the total DNA population (free DNA/compromised cells/intact cells/viable cells). DNA extracted from PMA-treated and untreated samples were analyzed using shotgun metagenomics. Samples were cultured for bacteria and fungi to supplement the above results. RESULTS Staphylococcus sp. and Malassezia sp. were the most represented bacterial and fungal species, respectively, on the ISS. Overall, the ISS surface microbiome was dominated by organisms associated with the human skin. Multi-dimensional scaling and differential abundance analysis showed significant temporal changes in the microbial population but no spatial differences. The ISS antimicrobial resistance gene profiles were however more stable over time, with no differences over the 5-year span of the MT-1 and MT-2 studies. Twenty-nine antimicrobial resistance genes were detected across all samples, with macrolide/lincosamide/streptogramin resistance being the most widespread. Metagenomic assembled genomes were reconstructed from the dataset, resulting in 82 MAGs. Functional assessment of the collective MAGs showed a propensity for amino acid utilization over carbohydrate metabolism. Co-occurrence analyses showed strong associations between bacterial and fungal genera. Culture analysis showed the microbial load to be on average 3.0 × 105 cfu/m2 CONCLUSIONS: Utilizing various metagenomics analyses and culture methods, we provided a comprehensive analysis of the ISS surface microbiome, showing microbial burden, bacterial and fungal species prevalence, changes in the microbiome, and resistome over time and space, as well as the functional capabilities and microbial interactions of this unique built microbiome. Data from this study may help to inform policies for future space missions to ensure an ISS surface microbiome that promotes astronaut health and spacecraft integrity. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Urbaniak
- Biotechnology and Planetary Protection Group, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91109, USA
| | - Michael D Morrison
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - James B Thissen
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Fathi Karouia
- KBRwyle, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Mountain View, CA, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Exobiology Branch, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA
| | - David J Smith
- Space Biosciences Research Branch, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Mountain View, CA, USA
| | - Satish Mehta
- JesTech, NASA-Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Crystal Jaing
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Kasthuri Venkateswaran
- Biotechnology and Planetary Protection Group, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91109, USA.
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10
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Almansob A, Bahkali AH, Ameen F. Efficacy of Gold Nanoparticles against Drug-Resistant Nosocomial Fungal Pathogens and Their Extracellular Enzymes: Resistance Profiling towards Established Antifungal Agents. NANOMATERIALS 2022; 12:nano12050814. [PMID: 35269303 PMCID: PMC8912448 DOI: 10.3390/nano12050814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Drug resistance of filamentous fungi to the commonly used antifungal agents is a major concern in medicine. Therefore, an effective approach to treat several opportunistic fungal infections is the need of the hour. Mentha piperita is used in home remedies to treat different disorders. Isolates of fungi were taken from hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and identified using molecular tools. Amphotericin B, Voriconazole, and Micafungin were applied to screen the resistance of these isolates using both disc and broth microdilution techniques. An aqueous extract of Mentha piperita was utilized to synthesize AuNPs and the nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis, FTIR, TEM, EDAX, and XRD. The AuNPs were tested for antifungal activity against the nosocomial fungal pathogens and the activity of extracellular enzymes of such pathogens were analyzed after treatment with AuNPs. We conclude that AuNPs synthesized using Mentha piperita do not possess especially effective antifungal properties against multi-drug resistant Aspergillus species. Five out of eighteen isolates were inhibited by AuNPs. When inhibition was observed, significant alterations in the activity profile of extracellular enzymes of the nosocomial fungi were observed.
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11
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Gil-de-la-Fuente A, Mamani-Huanca M, Stroe MC, Saugar S, Garcia-Alvarez A, Brakhage AA, Barbas C, Otero A. Aspergillus Metabolome Database for Mass Spectrometry Metabolomics. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7050387. [PMID: 34063531 PMCID: PMC8156648 DOI: 10.3390/jof7050387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The Aspergillus Metabolome Database is a free online resource to perform metabolite annotation in mass spectrometry studies devoted to the genus Aspergillus. The database was created by retrieving and curating information on 2811 compounds present in 601 different species and subspecies of the genus Aspergillus. A total of 1514 scientific journals where these metabolites are mentioned were added as meta-information linked to their respective compounds in the database. A web service to query the database based on m/z (mass/charge ratio) searches was added to CEU Mass Mediator; these queries can be performed over the Aspergillus database only, or they can also include a user-selectable set of other general metabolomic databases. This functionality is offered via web applications and via RESTful services. Furthermore, the complete content of the database has been made available in .csv files and as a MySQL database to facilitate its integration into third-party tools. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first database and the first service specifically devoted to Aspergillus metabolite annotation based on m/z searches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Gil-de-la-Fuente
- Centre for Metabolomics and Bioanalysis (CEMBIO), Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, Boadilla del Monte, 28660 Madrid, Spain; (M.M.-H.); (C.B.); (A.O.)
- Department of Information Technology, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, Boadilla del Monte, 28660 Madrid, Spain; (S.S.); (A.G.-A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Maricruz Mamani-Huanca
- Centre for Metabolomics and Bioanalysis (CEMBIO), Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, Boadilla del Monte, 28660 Madrid, Spain; (M.M.-H.); (C.B.); (A.O.)
| | - María C. Stroe
- Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology, Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07745 Jena, Germany; (M.C.S.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Sergio Saugar
- Department of Information Technology, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, Boadilla del Monte, 28660 Madrid, Spain; (S.S.); (A.G.-A.)
| | - Alejandra Garcia-Alvarez
- Department of Information Technology, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, Boadilla del Monte, 28660 Madrid, Spain; (S.S.); (A.G.-A.)
| | - Axel A. Brakhage
- Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology, Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07745 Jena, Germany; (M.C.S.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Coral Barbas
- Centre for Metabolomics and Bioanalysis (CEMBIO), Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, Boadilla del Monte, 28660 Madrid, Spain; (M.M.-H.); (C.B.); (A.O.)
| | - Abraham Otero
- Centre for Metabolomics and Bioanalysis (CEMBIO), Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, Boadilla del Monte, 28660 Madrid, Spain; (M.M.-H.); (C.B.); (A.O.)
- Department of Information Technology, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, Boadilla del Monte, 28660 Madrid, Spain; (S.S.); (A.G.-A.)
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12
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Navale V, Vamkudoth KR, Ajmera S, Dhuri V. Aspergillus derived mycotoxins in food and the environment: Prevalence, detection, and toxicity. Toxicol Rep 2021; 8:1008-1030. [PMID: 34408970 PMCID: PMC8363598 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus species are the paramount ubiquitous fungi that contaminate various food substrates and produce biochemicals known as mycotoxins. Aflatoxins (AFTs), ochratoxin A (OTA), patulin (PAT), citrinin (CIT), aflatrem (AT), secalonic acids (SA), cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), terrein (TR), sterigmatocystin (ST) and gliotoxin (GT), and other toxins produced by species of Aspergillus plays a major role in food and human health. Mycotoxins exhibited wide range of toxicity to the humans and animal models even at nanomolar (nM) concentration. Consumption of detrimental mycotoxins adulterated foodstuffs affects human and animal health even trace amounts. Bioaerosols consisting of spores and hyphal fragments are active elicitors of bronchial irritation and allergy, and challenging to the public health. Aspergillus is the furthermost predominant environmental contaminant unswervingly defile lives with a 40-90 % mortality risk in patients with conceded immunity. Genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics approaches useful for mycotoxins' detection which are expensive. Antibody based detection of toxins chemotypes may result in cross-reactivity and uncertainty. Aptamers (APT) are single stranded DNA (ssDNA/RNA), are specifically binds to the target molecules can be generated by systematic evolution of ligands through exponential enrichment (SELEX). APT are fast, sensitive, simple, in-expensive, and field-deployable rapid point of care (POC) detection of toxins, and a better alternative to antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishwambar Navale
- Biochemical Sciences Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, 411008, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Anusandhan Bhawan, New Delhi, India
| | - Koteswara Rao Vamkudoth
- Biochemical Sciences Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, 411008, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Anusandhan Bhawan, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Vaibhavi Dhuri
- Biochemical Sciences Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, 411008, India
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13
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Atriwal T, Azeem K, Husain FM, Hussain A, Khan MN, Alajmi MF, Abid M. Mechanistic Understanding of Candida albicans Biofilm Formation and Approaches for Its Inhibition. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:638609. [PMID: 33995297 PMCID: PMC8121174 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.638609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the demand for novel antifungal therapies has increased several- folds due to its potential to treat severe biofilm-associated infections. Biofilms are made by the sessile microorganisms attached to the abiotic or biotic surfaces, enclosed in a matrix of exopolymeric substances. This results in new phenotypic characteristics and intrinsic resistance from both host immune response and antimicrobial drugs. Candida albicans biofilm is a complex association of hyphal cells that are associated with both abiotic and animal tissues. It is an invasive fungal infection and acts as an important virulent factor. The challenges linked with biofilm-associated diseases have urged scientists to uncover the factors responsible for the formation and maturation of biofilm. Several strategies have been developed that could be adopted to eradicate biofilm-associated infections. This article presents an overview of the role of C. albicans biofilm in its pathogenicity, challenges it poses and threats associated with its formation. Further, it discusses strategies that are currently available or under development targeting prostaglandins, quorum-sensing, changing surface properties of biomedical devices, natural scaffolds, and small molecule-based chemical approaches to combat the threat of C. albicans biofilm. This review also highlights the recent developments in finding ways to increase the penetration of drugs into the extracellular matrix of biofilm using different nanomaterials against C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanu Atriwal
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Kashish Azeem
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Fohad Mabood Husain
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Food and Agriculture Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afzal Hussain
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammed Nadeem Khan
- Department of Tashreehul Badan, Faculty of Unani Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - Mohamed F Alajmi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Abid
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
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14
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van der Torre MH, Shen H, Rautemaa-Richardson R, Richardson MD, Novak-Frazer L. Molecular Epidemiology of Aspergillus fumigatus in Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis Patients. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7020152. [PMID: 33672698 PMCID: PMC7924367 DOI: 10.3390/jof7020152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular fungal genotyping techniques developed and employed for epidemiological studies have understandably concentrated on establishing the genetic diversity of Aspergillus fumigatus in invasive aspergillosis due to its severity, the urgency for treatment, and the need to demonstrate possible sources. Some early studies suggested that these strains were phenotypically, if not genotypically, different from others. However, with improved discrimination and evaluations, incorporating environmental as well as clinical isolates from other Aspergillus conditions (e.g., chronic pulmonary aspergillosis and cystic fibrosis), this premise is no longer upheld. Moreover, with the onset of increased global triazole resistance, there has been a concerted effort to incorporate resistance profiling into genotyping studies and the realisation that the wider population of non-immunocompromised aspergillosis patients are at risk. This review summarises the developments in molecular genotyping studies that incorporate resistance profiling with attention to chronic pulmonary aspergillosis and an example of our UK experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireille H. van der Torre
- Mycology Reference Centre Manchester, ECMM Centre of Excellence in Clinical and Laboratory Mycology and Clinical Studies, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester M23 9LT, UK; (M.H.v.d.T.); (R.R.-R.); (M.D.R.)
- Division of Infection, Inflammation and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
| | - Hongwei Shen
- Division of Infection, Inflammation and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
| | - Riina Rautemaa-Richardson
- Mycology Reference Centre Manchester, ECMM Centre of Excellence in Clinical and Laboratory Mycology and Clinical Studies, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester M23 9LT, UK; (M.H.v.d.T.); (R.R.-R.); (M.D.R.)
- Division of Infection, Inflammation and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
| | - Malcolm D. Richardson
- Mycology Reference Centre Manchester, ECMM Centre of Excellence in Clinical and Laboratory Mycology and Clinical Studies, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester M23 9LT, UK; (M.H.v.d.T.); (R.R.-R.); (M.D.R.)
- Division of Infection, Inflammation and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
| | - Lilyann Novak-Frazer
- Mycology Reference Centre Manchester, ECMM Centre of Excellence in Clinical and Laboratory Mycology and Clinical Studies, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester M23 9LT, UK; (M.H.v.d.T.); (R.R.-R.); (M.D.R.)
- Division of Infection, Inflammation and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-161-2915856
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15
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Brumfield KD, Cotruvo JA, Shanks OC, Sivaganesan M, Hey J, Hasan NA, Huq A, Colwell RR, Leddy MB. Metagenomic Sequencing and Quantitative Real-Time PCR for Fecal Pollution Assessment in an Urban Watershed. FRONTIERS IN WATER 2021; 3:626849. [PMID: 34263162 PMCID: PMC8274573 DOI: 10.3389/frwa.2021.626849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microbial contamination of recreation waters is a major concern globally, with pollutants originating from many sources, including human and other animal wastes often introduced during storm events. Fecal contamination is traditionally monitored by employing culture methods targeting fecal indicator bacteria (FIB), namely E. coli and enterococci, which provides only limited information of a few microbial taxa and no information on their sources. Host-associated qPCR and metagenomic DNA sequencing are complementary methods for FIB monitoring that can provide enhanced understanding of microbial communities and sources of fecal pollution. Whole metagenome sequencing (WMS), quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), and culture-based FIB tests were performed in an urban watershed before and after a rainfall event to determine the feasibility and application of employing a multi-assay approach for examining microbial content of ambient source waters. Cultivated E. coli and enterococci enumeration confirmed presence of fecal contamination in all samples exceeding local single sample recreational water quality thresholds (E. coli, 410 MPN/100 mL; enterococci, 107 MPN/100 mL) following a rainfall. Test results obtained with qPCR showed concentrations of E. coli, enterococci, and human-associated genetic markers increased after rainfall by 1.52-, 1.26-, and 1.11-fold log10 copies per 100 mL, respectively. Taxonomic analysis of the surface water microbiome and detection of antibiotic resistance genes, general FIB, and human-associated microorganisms were also employed. Results showed that fecal contamination from multiple sources (human, avian, dog, and ruminant), as well as FIB, enteric microorganisms, and antibiotic resistance genes increased demonstrably after a storm event. In summary, the addition of qPCR and WMS to traditional surrogate techniques may provide enhanced characterization and improved understanding of microbial pollution sources in ambient waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle D. Brumfield
- Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
- University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | | | - Orin C. Shanks
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Cincin nati, OH, United States
| | - Mano Sivaganesan
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Cincin nati, OH, United States
| | - Jessica Hey
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Cincin nati, OH, United States
| | - Nur A. Hasan
- University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Anwar Huq
- Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Rita R. Colwell
- Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
- University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
- CosmosID Inc., Rockville, MD, United States
- Correspondence: Rita R. Colwell , Menu B. Leddy
| | - Menu B. Leddy
- Essential Environmental and Engineering Systems, Huntington Beach, CA, United States
- Correspondence: Rita R. Colwell , Menu B. Leddy
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16
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Sabino R, Gonçalves P, Martins Melo A, Simões D, Oliveira M, Francisco M, Viegas C, Carvalho D, Martins C, Ferreira T, Toscano C, Simões H, Veríssimo C. Trends on Aspergillus Epidemiology-Perspectives from a National Reference Laboratory Surveillance Program. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7010028. [PMID: 33418997 PMCID: PMC7825284 DOI: 10.3390/jof7010028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Identification of Aspergillus to species level is important since sibling species may display variable susceptibilities to multiple antifungal drugs and also because correct identification contributes to improve the knowledge of epidemiological studies. Two retrospective laboratory studies were conducted on Aspergillus surveillance at the Portuguese National Mycology Reference Laboratory. The first, covering the period 2017–2018, aimed to study the molecular epidemiology of 256 Aspergillus isolates obtained from patients with respiratory, subcutaneous, or systemic infections and from environmental samples. The second, using our entire collection of clinical and environmental A. fumigatus isolates (N = 337), collected between 2012 and 2019, aimed to determine the frequency of azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates. Aspergillus fumigatus sensu stricto was the most frequent species in both clinical and environmental samples. Overall, and considering all Aspergillus sections identified, a high frequency of cryptic species was detected, based on beta-tubulin or calmodulin sequencing (37% in clinical and 51% in environmental isolates). Regarding all Fumigati isolates recovered from 2012–2019, the frequency of cryptic species was 5.3% (18/337), with the identification of A. felis (complex), A. lentulus, A. udagawae, A. hiratsukae, and A. oerlinghauensis. To determine the frequency of azole resistance of A. fumigatus, isolates were screened for azole resistance using azole-agars, and 53 possible resistant isolates were tested by the CLSI microdilution reference method. Nine A. fumigatus sensu stricto and six Fumigati cryptic isolates showed high minimal inhibitory concentrations to itraconazole, voriconazole, and/or posaconazole. Real-time PCR to detect cyp51A mutations and sequencing of cyp51A gene and its promoter were performed. The overall frequency of resistance to azoles in A. fumigatus sensu stricto was 3.0%. With this retrospective analysis, we were able to detect one azole-resistant G54R mutant A. fumigatus environmental isolate, collected in 2015. The TR34/L98H mutation, linked to environmental transmission route of azole resistance, was the most frequently detected mutation (N = 4; 1.4%). Our findings underline the demand for correct identification and susceptibility testing of Aspergillus isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Sabino
- Infectious Diseases Department, National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (P.G.); (A.M.M.); (D.S.); (M.O.); (M.F.); (H.S.); (C.V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-217519247
| | - Paulo Gonçalves
- Infectious Diseases Department, National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (P.G.); (A.M.M.); (D.S.); (M.O.); (M.F.); (H.S.); (C.V.)
- European Programme for Public Health Microbiology Training (EUPHEM), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, 16973 Solna, Sweden
| | - Aryse Martins Melo
- Infectious Diseases Department, National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (P.G.); (A.M.M.); (D.S.); (M.O.); (M.F.); (H.S.); (C.V.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Avenida Eliseu Maciel, Pelotas 96010-610, Brazil
| | - Daniela Simões
- Infectious Diseases Department, National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (P.G.); (A.M.M.); (D.S.); (M.O.); (M.F.); (H.S.); (C.V.)
| | - Mariana Oliveira
- Infectious Diseases Department, National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (P.G.); (A.M.M.); (D.S.); (M.O.); (M.F.); (H.S.); (C.V.)
| | - Mariana Francisco
- Infectious Diseases Department, National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (P.G.); (A.M.M.); (D.S.); (M.O.); (M.F.); (H.S.); (C.V.)
| | - Carla Viegas
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal;
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1600-560 Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Dinah Carvalho
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte EPE, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.); (C.M.)
| | - Carlos Martins
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte EPE, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.); (C.M.)
| | - Teresa Ferreira
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Central, 1050-099 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Cristina Toscano
- Microbiology Laboratory, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Ocidental, Hospital Egas Moniz, 1349-019 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Helena Simões
- Infectious Diseases Department, National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (P.G.); (A.M.M.); (D.S.); (M.O.); (M.F.); (H.S.); (C.V.)
| | - Cristina Veríssimo
- Infectious Diseases Department, National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (P.G.); (A.M.M.); (D.S.); (M.O.); (M.F.); (H.S.); (C.V.)
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17
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Abdolrasouli A, Gibani MM, de Groot T, Borman AM, Hoffman P, Azadian BS, Mughal N, Moore LSP, Johnson EM, Meis JF. A pseudo-outbreak of Rhinocladiella similis in a bronchoscopy unit of a tertiary care teaching hospital in London, United Kingdom. Mycoses 2020; 64:394-404. [PMID: 33314345 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Outbreaks of fungal infections due to emerging and rare species are increasingly reported in healthcare settings. We investigated a pseudo-outbreak of Rhinocladiella similis in a bronchoscopy unit of a tertiary care teaching hospital in London, UK. We aimed to determine route of healthcare-associated transmission and prevent additional infections. From July 2018 through February 2019, we detected a pseudo-outbreak of R. similis isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid samples collected from nine patients who had undergone bronchoscopy in a multispecialty teaching hospital, during a period of 8 months. Isolates were identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed by EUCAST broth microdilution. To determine genetic relatedness among R. similis isolates, we undertook amplified fragment length polymorphism analysis. To determine the potential source of contamination, an epidemiological investigation was carried out. We reviewed patient records retrospectively and audited steps taken during bronchoscopy as well as the subsequent cleaning and decontamination procedures. Fungal cultures were performed on samples collected from bronchoscopes and automated endoscope washer-disinfector systems. No patient was found to have an infection due to R. similis either before or after bronchoscopy. One bronchoscope was identified to be used among all affected patients with positive fungal cultures. Physical damage was found in the index bronchoscope; however, no fungus was recovered after sampling of the affected scope or the rinse water of automated endoscope washer-disinfectors. Use of the scope was halted, and, during the following 12-month period, Rhinocladiella species were not isolated from any BAL specimen. All pseudo-outbreak isolates were identified as R. similis with high genetic relatedness (>90% similarity) on ALFP analysis. The study emphasises the emergence of a rare and uncommon black yeast R. similis, with reduced susceptibility to echinocandins, in a bronchoscope-related pseudo-outbreak with a potential water-related reservoir. Our findings highlight the importance of prolonged fungal culture and species-level identification of melanised yeasts isolated from bronchoscopy samples. Possibility of healthcare-associated transmission should be considered when R. similis is involved in clinical microbiology samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Abdolrasouli
- Department of Medical Microbiology, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Malick M Gibani
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Theun de Groot
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Canisius-Wilhelmina Hospital (CWZ), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Andrew M Borman
- National Mycology Reference Laboratory, Public Health England, Bristol, UK.,Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter Hoffman
- HCAI & AMR Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Berge S Azadian
- Chelsea and Westminster National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Nabeela Mughal
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Chelsea and Westminster National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, London, UK.,North West London Pathology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Luke S P Moore
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Chelsea and Westminster National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, London, UK.,North West London Pathology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth M Johnson
- National Mycology Reference Laboratory, Public Health England, Bristol, UK.,Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Jacques F Meis
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Canisius-Wilhelmina Hospital (CWZ), Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Bioprocess Engineering and Biotechnology Graduate Program, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil.,Centre of Expertise in Mycology Radboudumc/CWZ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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18
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Novak Babič M, Gostinčar C, Gunde-Cimerman N. Microorganisms populating the water-related indoor biome. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 104:6443-6462. [PMID: 32533304 PMCID: PMC7347518 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-020-10719-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Modernisation of our households created novel opportunities for microbial growth and thus changed the array of microorganisms we come in contact with. While many studies have investigated microorganisms in the air and dust, tap water, another major input of microbial propagules, has received far less attention. The quality of drinking water in developed world is strictly regulated to prevent immediate danger to human health. However, fungi, algae, protists and bacteria of less immediate concern are usually not screened for. These organisms can thus use water as a vector of transmission into the households, especially if they are resistant to various water treatment procedures. Good tolerance of unfavourable abiotic conditions is also important for survival once microbes enter the household. Limitation of water availability, high or low temperatures, application of antimicrobial chemicals and other measures are taken to prevent indoor microbial overgrowth. These conditions, together with a large number of novel chemicals in our homes, shape the diversity and abundance of indoor microbiota through constant selection of the most resilient species, resulting in a substantial overlap in diversity of indoor and natural extreme environments. At least in fungi, extremotolerance has been linked to human pathogenicity, explaining why many species found in novel indoor habitats (such as dishwasher) are notable opportunistic pathogens. As a result, microorganisms that often enter our households with water and are then enriched in novel indoor habitats might have a hitherto underestimated impact on the well-being of the increasingly indoor-bound human population. KEY POINTS: Domestic environment harbours a large diversity of microorganisms. Microbiota of water-related indoor habitats mainly originates from tap water. Bathrooms, kitchens and household appliances select for polyextremotolerant species. Many household-related microorganisms are human opportunistic pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Novak Babič
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Cene Gostinčar
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, 266555, China
| | - Nina Gunde-Cimerman
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Editorial for the Special Issue: Human Pathogenic Filamentous Fungi from Food/Water and Mycotoxins from Water. Microorganisms 2019; 7:microorganisms7010021. [PMID: 30654464 PMCID: PMC6352221 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7010021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This special issue was conceived due to the success of the book by Paterson and Lima [...].
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