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Arboleda A, Ta CN. Overview of Mycotic Keratitis. Cornea 2024; 43:1065-1071. [PMID: 39102310 PMCID: PMC11300963 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000003559] [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: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Keratomycosis is a serious corneal infection associated with high ocular morbidity that can lead to severe vision loss. It is estimated to affect more than 1 million patients annually, most commonly occurring in tropical climates, and represents a growing threat to patients worldwide. Despite aggressive medical management, fungal infections have a higher rate of perforation requiring surgical intervention compared with other infectious etiologies. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are keys to preserving vision and saving patients' eyes.Timely diagnosis of fungal keratitis helps minimize corneal damage and scarring and increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Studies have shown that correct identification of fungal infections is often delayed up to 2 to 3 weeks after initial presentation. This leads to incorrect or ineffective treatment for many patients. Diagnostic techniques explored in this study include corneal scrapings with staining and culture, visualization with in vivo confocal microscopy, molecular diagnostic techniques including polymerase chain reaction, and recently developed omics-based technologies.Treatment of fungal keratitis begins with topical antifungals. Medical management has been proven to be effective, but with limitations including poor drug penetration and low bioavailability. Cases that do not respond to topical therapy require more invasive and novel treatments to control the infection. We review the clinical trials that have shaped current practice patterns, with focus on the efficacy of topical natamycin as the primary therapy for filamentous fungal keratitis. We explore additional management strategies such as localized intrastromal and intracameral injections of antifungal medications, photodynamic therapy, and surgical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Arboleda
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation for Research in Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Christopher N. Ta
- Byers Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
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Macwan M, Paliwal H, Prajapati BG. A novel liposomal formulation for ocular delivery of caspofungin: an experimental study by quality by design-based approach. Ther Deliv 2024; 15:667-683. [PMID: 39101438 DOI: 10.1080/20415990.2024.2379756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: This study focuses on the development of a Caspofungin liposome for efficient ocular delivery by enhancing corneal penetration.Method: Quality by design (QbD) approach was adopted to identify critical factors that influence final liposomal formulation. The liposome developed using thin film hydration after optimization was subjected to characterization for physicochemical properties, irritation potential and corneal uptake.Results: The numerical optimization suggests an optimal formulation with a desirability value of 0.706, using CQAs as optimization goals with 95% prediction intervals. The optimized formulation showed no signs of irritation potential along with observation of significant corneal permeation.Conclusion: The liposomal formulation increased the permeability of Caspofungin, which could enhance the efficacy for the treatment of conditions, like fungal keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercy Macwan
- Department of Pharmaceutics & Pharmaceutical Technology, Shree S. K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Ganpat University, Kherva, Gujarat, 384012, India
| | - Himanshu Paliwal
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Sanjivani College of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Kopargaon, Maharashtra , 423603, India
| | - Bhupendra G Prajapati
- Department of Pharmaceutics & Pharmaceutical Technology, Shree S. K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Ganpat University, Kherva, Gujarat, 384012, India
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom, 73000, Thailand
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3
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Zhu Y, Nan P, Zhu Z, Ji Y, Zhuo B, Xu W, Ge Y. Pseudonectria keratitis-emerging pathogenic fungi in the eye. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2024; 23:64. [PMID: 39026348 PMCID: PMC11264510 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-024-00723-1] [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: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infectious keratitis, a significant contributor to blindness, with fungal keratitis accounting for nearly half of cases, poses a formidable diagnostic and therapeutic challenge due to its delayed clinical presentation, prolonged culture times, and the limited availability of effective antifungal medications. Furthermore, infections caused by rare fungal strains warrant equal attention in the management of this condition. CASE PRESENTATION A case of fungal keratitis was presented, where corneal scraping material culture yielded pink colonies. Lactophenol cotton blue staining revealed distinctive spore formation consistent with the Fusarium species. Further analysis using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) identified the causative agent as Fusarium proliferatum. However, definitive diagnosis of Pseudonectria foliicola infection was confirmed through ITS sequencing. The patient's recovery was achieved with a combination therapy of voriconazole eye drops and itraconazole systemic treatment. CONCLUSION Pseudonectria foliicola is a plant pathogenic bacterium that has never been reported in human infections before. Therefore, ophthalmologists should consider Pseudonectria foliicola as a possible cause of fungal keratitis, as early identification and timely treatment can help improve vision in most eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongze Zhu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Peng Nan
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Zhongliang Zhu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Youqi Ji
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Bingqian Zhuo
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Yumei Ge
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China.
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Head and Neck Cancers of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China.
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Bisen AC, Sanap SN, Agrawal S, Biswas A, Mishra A, Verma SK, Singh V, Bhatta RS. Etiopathology, Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Fungal Keratitis. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:2356-2380. [PMID: 38847789 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis (FK) is a severe ocular condition resulting from corneal infection that is prevalent in tropical countries, particularly in developing regions of Asia and Africa. Factors like corneal lens misuse, inappropriate steroid use, and diagnostic challenges have provoked the epidemic. FK causes significant vision impairment, scarring, and ocular deformities. Accurate pathological diagnosis is crucial for effective therapeutic intervention. Topical antifungal therapy with surface healing medications proves effective in preventing fungal-borne ulcers. Managing FK requires a comprehensive understanding of fungal pathogenesis, guiding formulation strategies and preventive measures to curb global ocular blindness. This review provides in-depth insights into FK, covering etiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, therapeutic interventions, antifungal resistance, limitations, prevention, and future perspectives on ocular surface disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amol Chhatrapati Bisen
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
- Sophisticated Analytical Instrument Facility and Research, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Sachin Nashik Sanap
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Sristi Agrawal
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Arpon Biswas
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Anjali Mishra
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Sarvesh Kumar Verma
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Vaishali Singh
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Rabi Sankar Bhatta
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
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Giachos I, Velegraki A, Palioura S. First case of fungal keratitis secondary to Yamadazyma mexicana. Int J Ophthalmol 2024; 17:1164-1167. [PMID: 38895682 PMCID: PMC11144775 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2024.06.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Giachos
- First Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens 11527, Greece
| | - Aristea Velegraki
- Mycology Research Laboratory, Microbiology Department, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athen 11527, Greece
- BIOIATRIKI S.A Healthcare Group, Athens 11526, Greece
| | - Sotiria Palioura
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cyprus Medical School, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus
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Warnnissorn P, Sawatdiwithayayong J, Surit P. Efficacy and Rapidity of Potassium Hydroxide Mount and Modified Chicago Sky Blue 6B Stain with Potassium Hydroxide in Fungal Keratitis Detection. KOREAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2024; 38:98-104. [PMID: 38351488 PMCID: PMC11016681 DOI: 10.3341/kjo.2023.0106] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the efficacy and rapidity of direct microscopic detection of fungal elements from corneal ulcers between 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) and 1% Chicago Sky Blue 6B (CSB) in 10% KOH (CSB-KOH). METHODS Thirty patients with clinically suspected fungal keratitis were recruited. Participants with impending corneal perforation were excluded. Two slides were smeared with corneal ulcer scrapings from the ulcer's edge and base for comparison of fungal staining solutions. One slide was infused with KOH, and the other slide was filled with CSB-KOH. Additional scraping was collected for inoculation on Sabouraud dextrose agar for fungal culture. The sensitivity, specificity and rapidity of both stainings were analyzed. RESULTS The sensitivity of fungal culture, KOH, and CSB-KOH were 43.75% (95% confidence interval [CI], 19.75%-70.12%), 62.50% (95% CI, 35.43%-84.80%), and 87.50% (95% CI, 61.65%-98.45%), respectively. The specificity were 100% (95% CI, 69.15%-100%) of both stainings and fungal culture which analyzed from 16 fungal keratitis cases by laboratory and clinical diagnosis. Mean CSB-KOH examination time was quicker than KOH with the mean time difference of 5.6 minutes (95% CI, 3.22-7.98 minutes) and p-value < 0.001. CONCLUSIONS CSB-KOH was more effective and faster than KOH in detecting fungal elements from corneal ulcers. Therefore, CSB-KOH may be beneficial in diagnosing fungal keratitis and preventing blindness. Moreover, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first use of CSB stain in fungal keratitis detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prateep Warnnissorn
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok,
Thailand
| | | | - Phrutthinun Surit
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok,
Thailand
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Zhao JY, He YX, Wu ML, Wang RQ. The application of high-throughput sequencing technology in corneal diseases. Int Ophthalmol 2024; 44:53. [PMID: 38340174 PMCID: PMC10858842 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-024-03049-1] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
High-throughput sequencing technology, also known as next-generation sequencing technology, can explore new biomarkers and specific gene mutations. It has a pivotal role in promoting the gene research, which can limit the detection area, lessen the time needed for sequencing. Also, it can quickly screen out the suspected pathogenic genes of patients, gain the necessary genetic data, and provide the basis for clinical diagnosis and genetic counseling. In the research of corneal diseases, through the DNA sequencing of patients' diseased cells, it can provide a deeper understanding of corneal diseases and improve the diagnosis, classification and treatment alternatives of various corneal diseases. This article will introduce the application progress of high-throughput sequencing technology in corneal diseases, which will help to understand the application of this technology in various corneal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yi Zhao
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, Jilin, China
| | - Yu Xi He
- The Eye Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, Jilin, China
| | - Mei Liang Wu
- The Eye Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, Jilin, China
| | - Rui Qing Wang
- The Eye Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, Jilin, China.
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Yolin Angel PASR, Jeyakumar P, Jasmin Suriya AR, Sheena A, Karuppiah P, Periyasami G, Stalin A, Murugan K. Topical antifungal keratitis therapeutic potential of Clitoria ternatea Linn. flower extract: phytochemical profiling, in silico modelling, and in vitro biological activity assessment. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1343988. [PMID: 38328419 PMCID: PMC10849212 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1343988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Fungal keratitis (FK) poses a severe threat to vision, potentially leading to blindness if not promptly addressed. Clitoria ternatea flower extracts have a history of use in Ayurvedic and Indian traditional medicines, particularly for treating eye ailments. This study investigates the antifungal and antibiofilm effects of Clitoria ternatea flower extracts on the FK clinical isolate Coniochaeta hoffmannii. Structural details and key compound identification were analysed through FTIR and GC-MS. Methods The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of Clitoria ternatea flower extracts were determined using broth dilution and well plate techniques. Biofilm inhibitory activity was assessed through microscopic evaluation, while anti-irritant and cytotoxic properties were evaluated using CAE-EI and MTT assays. Through GC-MS and FT-IR analysis the compounds dissolved in the extract and their functional group were studied, and their toxicity screening and pharmacokinetic prediction were conducted in silico. Subsequently, compounds with high corneal permeability were further identified, and molecular docking and simulation studies at 150 ns were used to investigate their interactions with fungal virulence factors and human inflammatory proteins. Results and Discussion At a concentration of 250 µg/mL, the Clitoria ternatea flower extract displayed effective biofilm inhibition. MIC and MFC values were determined as 500 and 1000 µg/mL, respectively. CAE-EI and MTT assays indicated no significant irritant and cytotoxic effects up to a concentration of 3 mg/mL. Compounds like 9,9-dimethoxybicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-2,4-dione showed high corneal permeability with strong and stable interactions with fungal virulence cellobiose dehydrogenase, endo β 1,4 xylanase, and glucanase, as well as corneal inflammation-associated human TNF-α and Interleukin IL-1b protein targets. The findings indicate that extracts from C. ternatea flowers could be formulated for an effective and safe alternative for developing new topical FK therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Palanisamy Jeyakumar
- Biofilm and Bioprocess Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Arul Raj Jasmin Suriya
- Biofilm and Bioprocess Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Aliyas Sheena
- Biofilm and Bioprocess Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ponmurugan Karuppiah
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Antony Stalin
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Kasi Murugan
- Biofilm and Bioprocess Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India
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Ghenciu LA, Faur AC, Bolintineanu SL, Salavat MC, Maghiari AL. Recent Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches in Fungal Keratitis: A Narrative Review. Microorganisms 2024; 12:161. [PMID: 38257986 PMCID: PMC10820712 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12010161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal keratitis represents a potentially sight-threatening infection associated with poor prognosis, as well as financial burden. Novel diagnostic methods include polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR)-based approaches, metagenomic deep sequences, in vivo confocal microscopy, and antifungal susceptibility testing. The ideal therapeutic approaches and outcomes have been widely discussed in recent times, with early therapy being of the utmost importance for the preservation of visual acuity, minimizing corneal damage and reducing the scar size. However, combination therapy can be more efficacious compared to monotherapy. Understanding the pathogenesis, early diagnosis, and prevention strategies can be of great importance. In this narrative, we discuss the recent progress that may aid our understanding of the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mycotic keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Andreea Ghenciu
- Department III Functional Sciences, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, E. Murgu Sq., no. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department IX Surgery, Discipline of Ophtalmology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, E. Murgu Sq., no. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Alexandra Corina Faur
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, E. Murgu Sq., no. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.L.B.); (A.L.M.)
| | - Sorin Lucian Bolintineanu
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, E. Murgu Sq., no. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.L.B.); (A.L.M.)
| | - Madalina Casiana Salavat
- Department IX Surgery, Discipline of Ophtalmology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, E. Murgu Sq., no. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Anca Laura Maghiari
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, E. Murgu Sq., no. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.L.B.); (A.L.M.)
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Awad R, Ghaith AA, Awad K, Mamdouh Saad M, Elmassry AA. Fungal Keratitis: Diagnosis, Management, and Recent Advances. Clin Ophthalmol 2024; 18:85-106. [PMID: 38223815 PMCID: PMC10788054 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s447138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal keratitis is one of the major causes of microbial keratitis that may lead to corneal blindness. Many problems related to diagnosis and therapy are encountered in fungal keratitis, including difficulty in obtaining laboratory diagnoses and the availability and efficacy of antifungal medications. Intensive and prolonged use of antifungal topical preparations may not be enough. The use of antifungal medications is considered the main treatment for fungal keratitis. It is recommended to start antifungal therapy after confirmation of the clinical diagnosis with a smear or positive cultures. Topical application of antifungal medications is a mainstay for the treatment of fungal keratitis; however, systemic, intra-stromal, or intra-cameral routes may be used. Therapeutic keratoplasty is the main surgical procedure approved for the management of fungal keratitis with good success rate. Intrastromal corneal injection of antifungal medications may result in steady-state drug levels within the corneal tissue and prevent intervals of decreased antifungal drug concentration below its therapeutic level. In cases of severe fungal keratitis with deep stromal infiltration not responding to treatment, intracameral injection of antifungal agents may be effective. Collagen cross-linking has been proposed to be beneficial for cases of fungal keratitis as a stand-alone therapy or as an adjunct to antifungal medications. Although collagen cross-linking has been extensively studied in the past few years, its protocol still needs many modifications to optimize UV fluence levels, irradiation time, and concentration of riboflavin to achieve 100% microbial killing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramy Awad
- Department of Ophthalmology, Alexandria General Ophthalmology Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Alaa Atef Ghaith
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Khaled Awad
- Department of Ophthalmology, Alexandria General Ophthalmology Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Marina Mamdouh Saad
- Department of Ophthalmology, Alexandria General Ophthalmology Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Ak Elmassry
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Tiwari A, Tiwari V, Palaria B, Aslam R, Kumar M, Kumar N. Network pharmacology, molecular docking-driven, Qbd-Engineered antifungal in-situ gel loaded with voriconazole nanostructured lipid carriers. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-20. [PMID: 37990482 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2280779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infections (FIs) affect majority of the population, but the current treatments face challenges in terms of their effectiveness. This study focused on specific fungal targets, including dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), acetohydroxy-acid synthase (AHAS), farnesyltransferase and endoglucanase. The docking studies were conducted with the drug voriconazole (VCZ), comparing it with Fluconazole (FCZ) and Amphotericin B (ATB) against 11 protein data bank (PDB) IDs (IDYR, 3NZB, 6DEQ, 1KS5, 7T0C, 1FY4, 5AJH, 7R79, 6TZ6 and 6IDY). Molecular dynamics (MD) analysis, including RMSD, RMSF, PCA and FEL, confirmed the stability of VCZ. The solubility of VCZ was a problem, so nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) were developed to improve ocular penetration. VCF5 was the optimized formulation by using 32 full factorial design. VCZF5-NLCs were the best in terms of nanoparticle size (126.6 nm), Zeta potential (33.5 mV), drug content (DC; 97.38 ± 0.210), encapsulation efficiency (EE; 88.01 ± 0.272) and extended drug release. The results of the ex-vivo corneal diffusion study indicate that VCZ-NLC-loaded in-situ gel (VCZ-NLC-IG3) exhibited DC of 88.25% and drug entrapment (DE) of 74.2%. The results of the zone of inhibition indicated that VCZ-NLC-IG3 had superior efficacy compared to ATB. Network pharmacology showed VCZ interacts with the genes which are responsible for fungus ergosterol biosynthesis, including lanosterol 14-alpha demethylase inhibitors (ERG11), ergosterol biosynthesis protein 5 (ERG5), dimethylallyltransferase 2 (DIT2), ketosynthase (KCN), methylsterol monooxygenase (MSMO1), lamin B receptor (LBR), squalene epoxidase (SQLE), 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A Reductase (MGCR), 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A Synthase (HMGCS) and 3-keto-steroid reductase (HSD17B7). In conclusion, the optimized VCZ-loaded NLCs present a promising approach to treat ocular FIs.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Academy, IFTM University, Moradabad, India
| | - Varsha Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Academy, IFTM University, Moradabad, India
| | - Binita Palaria
- Department of Pharmacy, Devsthali Vidyapeeth College of Pharmacy, Rudrapur, India
| | - Ramsha Aslam
- Department of Pharmacy, Devsthali Vidyapeeth College of Pharmacy, Rudrapur, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, C.T. University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Neeraj Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Bhupal Nobles' College of Pharmacy, Bhupal Nobles' University, Udaipur, India
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12
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Cabrera-Aguas M, Watson SL. Updates in Diagnostic Imaging for Infectious Keratitis: A Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3358. [PMID: 37958254 PMCID: PMC10647798 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13213358] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Infectious keratitis (IK) is among the top five leading causes of blindness globally. Early diagnosis is needed to guide appropriate therapy to avoid complications such as vision impairment and blindness. Slit lamp microscopy and culture of corneal scrapes are key to diagnosing IK. Slit lamp photography was transformed when digital cameras and smartphones were invented. The digital camera or smartphone camera sensor's resolution, the resolution of the slit lamp and the focal length of the smartphone camera system are key to a high-quality slit lamp image. Alternative diagnostic tools include imaging, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM). OCT's advantage is its ability to accurately determine the depth and extent of the corneal ulceration, infiltrates and haze, therefore characterizing the severity and progression of the infection. However, OCT is not a preferred choice in the diagnostic tool package for infectious keratitis. Rather, IVCM is a great aid in the diagnosis of fungal and Acanthamoeba keratitis with overall sensitivities of 66-74% and 80-100% and specificity of 78-100% and 84-100%, respectively. Recently, deep learning (DL) models have been shown to be promising aids for the diagnosis of IK via image recognition. Most of the studies that have developed DL models to diagnose the different types of IK have utilised slit lamp photographs. Some studies have used extremely efficient single convolutional neural network algorithms to train their models, and others used ensemble approaches with variable results. Limitations of DL models include the need for large image datasets to train the models, the difficulty in finding special features of the different types of IK, the imbalance of training models, the lack of image protocols and misclassification bias, which need to be overcome to apply these models into real-world settings. Newer artificial intelligence technology that generates synthetic data, such as generative adversarial networks, may assist in overcoming some of these limitations of CNN models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cabrera-Aguas
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia;
- Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | - Stephanie L Watson
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia;
- Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
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13
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Gunasekaran R, Chandrasekaran A, Rajarathinam K, Duncan S, Dhaliwal K, Lalitha P, Prajna NV, Mills B. Rapid Point-of-Care Identification of Aspergillus Species in Microbial Keratitis. JAMA Ophthalmol 2023; 141:966-973. [PMID: 37768674 PMCID: PMC10540059 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2023.4214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Importance Microbial keratitis (MK) is a common cause of unilateral visual impairment, blindness, and eye loss in low-income and middle-income countries. There is an urgent need to develop and implement rapid and simple point-of-care diagnostics for MK to increase the likelihood of good outcomes. Objective To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the Aspergillus-specific lateral-flow device (AspLFD) to identify Aspergillus species causing MK in corneal scrape and corneal swab samples of patients presenting with microbial keratitis. Design, Setting, and Participants This diagnostic study was conducted between May 2022 and January 2023 at the corneal clinic of Aravind Eye Hospital in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. All study participants were recruited during their first presentation to the clinic. Patients aged 15 years or older met the eligibility criteria if they were attending their first appointment, had a corneal ulcer that was suggestive of a bacterial or fungal infection, and were about to undergo diagnostic scrape and culture. Main Outcomes and Measures Sensitivity and specificity of the AspLFD with corneal samples collected from patients with MK. During routine diagnostic scraping, a minimally invasive corneal swab and an additional corneal scrape were collected and transferred to aliquots of sample buffer and analyzed by lateral-flow device (LFD) if the patient met the inclusion criteria. Photographs of devices were taken with a smartphone and analyzed using a ratiometric approach, which was developed for this study. The AspLFD results were compared with culture reports. Results The 198 participants who met the inclusion criteria had a mean (range) age of 51 (15-85) years and included 126 males (63.6%). Overall, 35 of 198 participants with corneal scrape (17.7%) and 17 of 40 participants with swab samples (42.5%) had positive culture results for Aspergillus species. Ratiometric analysis results for the scrape samples found that the AspLFD achieved high sensitivity (0.89; 95% CI, 0.74-0.95), high negative predictive value (0.97; 95% CI, 0.94-0.99), low negative likelihood ratio (0.12; 95% CI, 0.05-0.30), and an accuracy of 0.94 (95% CI, 0.90-0.97). Ratiometric analysis results for the swab samples showed that the AspLFD had high sensitivity (0.94; 95% CI, 0.73-1.00), high negative predictive value (0.95; 95% CI, 0.76-1.00), low negative likelihood ratio (0.07; 95% CI, 0.01-0.48), and an accuracy of 0.88 (95% CI, 0.73-0.96). Conclusions and Relevance Results of this diagnostic study suggest that AspLFD along with the ratiometric analysis of LFDs developed for this study has high diagnostic accuracy in identifying Aspergillus species from corneal scrapes and swabs. This technology is an important step toward the provision of point-of-care diagnostics for MK and could inform the clinical management strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rameshkumar Gunasekaran
- Department of Ocular Microbiology, Aravind Eye Hospital and Postgraduate Institute of Ophthalmology, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abinaya Chandrasekaran
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery Services, Aravind Eye Hospital and Postgraduate Institute of Ophthalmology, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Karpagam Rajarathinam
- Department of Ocular Microbiology, Aravind Eye Hospital and Postgraduate Institute of Ophthalmology, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sheelagh Duncan
- Translational Healthcare Technologies Group, Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Dhaliwal
- Translational Healthcare Technologies Group, Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Prajna Lalitha
- Department of Ocular Microbiology, Aravind Eye Hospital and Postgraduate Institute of Ophthalmology, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - N Venkatesh Prajna
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery Services, Aravind Eye Hospital and Postgraduate Institute of Ophthalmology, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Bethany Mills
- Translational Healthcare Technologies Group, Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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14
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Wang H, Yin X, Zhang Z, Wang Y, Zhang L, Guo J, Li M. Evaluation of 0.01% Hypochlorous Acid Eye Drops Combined with Conventional Treatment in the Management of Fungal Corneal Ulcers: Randomized Controlled Trial. Curr Eye Res 2023; 48:887-893. [PMID: 37493085 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2023.2226374] [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: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of hypochlorous acid (HOCI) eye drops in the treatment of fungal keratitis. METHODS A total of 96 patients (96 eyes) with fungal keratitis were randomly divided into two groups: group Ι (conventional treatment + topical HOCI eye drops); The group II (conventional treatment). According to its severity, those patients were divided into grade Ι or grade II. Use of fungal scraping and culture to identify the type of fungal infection, slit lamp examination, and corneal fluorescein staining to observe regression, and confocal corneal microscopy to assess fungal mycelial changes. The main outcome measures were the success rate, healing time, visual recovery, and complications. The Kaplan-Meier curve method was used to analysis of the survival function of days to cure between the two groups. RESULTS There were no statistical differences between the two groups in terms of general condition, medical history, and grading. Corneal scraping results showed that all patients had filamentous fungi. For grade Ι patients, all patients were cured, and the patients in Group I showed faster healing speed than that in Group II (t = -3.665, p < .01). For grade II patients, the recovery time (t = -4.121, p < .01) and the disappearance of hypopyon (t = -4.291, p < .01) were significantly faster in the combination group. In grade Ι and II patients, the final visual acuity and the incidence of complications such as corneal neovascularization, cataract, and hyphema showed no differences in both groups. The survival curve showed that the healing rate of ulcers in the combination treatment group was faster than that in the conventional treatment group (χ2 = 14.332, p = .001). CONCLUSION HOCI can accelerate the healing of fungal keratitis without obvious complications, indicating a promising future in the field of keratitis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaoyue Yin
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhaowei Zhang
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yining Wang
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jianxin Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Mingxin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
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15
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Salami A, Bettadapura S, Wang S. Gasdermin D kills bacteria. Microbiol Res 2023; 272:127383. [PMID: 37062105 PMCID: PMC10192060 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127383] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
The recognition of pathogen- or damage- associated molecular patterns (PAMPs/DAMPs) signals a series of coordinated responses as part of innate immunity or host cell defense during infection. The inflammasome is an assemblage of multiprotein complexes in the cytosol that activate inflammatory caspases and release pro-inflammatory mediators. This review examines the two-edged sword activity of gasdermin D (GSDMD). Since its discovery in 2015, GSDMD has played a crucial role in the programmed necrotic type of cell death called pyroptosis. Pyroptosis is an important response in host self-protection against danger signals and infection. Although excessive pyroptosis has a deleterious effect on the host, it proves to have a game-changing therapeutic application against pathogenic invasion when controlled. Here, we explore the mechanism utilized by GSDMD, the best studied member of the gasdermin protein family, in host immune defense against many bacteria. While the protein contributes to the clearance of some bacteria, we also discussed results from previous studies and research, that its presence might hinder effective immunity against other pathogens, thus aiding pathogenic invasion and spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abosede Salami
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, United States
| | - Sahana Bettadapura
- Biology Department, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, AR 72204, United States
| | - Shanzhi Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, United States.
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16
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Zemba M, Radu M, Istrate S, Dumitrescu OM, Ionescu MA, Vatafu A, Barac IR. Intrastromal Injections in the Management of Infectious Keratitis. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041091. [PMID: 37111577 PMCID: PMC10146496 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Infectious keratitis is a major global cause of vision loss and blindness. Prompt diagnosis and targeted antibiotic treatment are crucial for managing the condition. Topical antimicrobials are the most effective therapy for bacterial keratitis, but they can lead to unsatisfactory results due to ocular perforation, scarring, and melting. Intrastromal injection is a newer technique for delivering antimicrobials directly to the site of infection and has been successful in treating severe, treatment-resistant infectious keratitis, especially when surgery is not recommended. In cases where deep stromal disease is resistant to topical treatment, intrastromal antimicrobial injections may be necessary to achieve higher drug concentration at the infection site. However, the use of intrastromal antibiotics is limited, as topical antibacterial agents have better penetration than antifungal agents. Bacterial and fungal keratitis have been extensively researched for intrastromal medication injections, while there is limited evidence for viral keratitis. This review emphasizes the potential of intrastromal antimicrobial injections as an alternative for managing severe refractory infectious keratitis. The technique offers direct targeting of the infection site and faster resolution in some cases compared to topical therapy. However, further research is needed to determine the safest antimicrobials options, minimal effective doses, and concentrations for various pathogens. Intrastromal injections may serve as a non-surgical treatment option in high-risk cases, with benefits including direct drug delivery and reduced epithelial toxicity. Despite promising findings, more studies are required to confirm the safety and efficacy of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihail Zemba
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Ophthalmology, “Dr. Carol Davila” Central Military Emergency University Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Madalina Radu
- Department of Ophthalmology, “Dr. Carol Davila” Central Military Emergency University Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Sinziana Istrate
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Otilia-Maria Dumitrescu
- Department of Ophthalmology, “Dr. Carol Davila” Central Military Emergency University Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Alexandru Ionescu
- Department of Ophthalmology, “Dr. Carol Davila” Central Military Emergency University Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andrei Vatafu
- Department of Ophthalmology, “Dr. Carol Davila” Central Military Emergency University Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ileana Ramona Barac
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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17
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Schimansky S, El Haddad O. Pigmented Corneal Lesions After Cataract Surgery. JAMA Ophthalmol 2023; 141:289-290. [PMID: 36757687 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.6308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
An 81-year-old woman was referred for darkly pigmented corneal lesions affecting the corneal endothelium and stroma after uncomplicated right cataract surgery 2 years earlier. She was being treated with maintenance loteprednol, 0.5%, eye drops for persistent low-grade anterior uveitis. What would you do next?
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Schimansky
- Bristol Eye Hospital, University Hospitals Bristol, Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Omar El Haddad
- Bristol Eye Hospital, University Hospitals Bristol, Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Al Azaritah WA Ash Shatebi, Bab Sharqi, Alexandria Governorate, Egypt
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18
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Teng X, Xiong X, Sha X, Lei Y, Diao Y, Liu J, Tian Y, Liu L, Zhong J. Identification of hub genes and pathways of ferroptosis in Fusarium keratitis by bioinformatics methods. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1103471. [PMID: 36798084 PMCID: PMC9927021 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1103471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fungal keratitis is a common blinding eye disease, and Fusarium is one of the main species that cause fungal keratitis. As is well known, oxidative stress plays an important role in Fusarium keratitis and it is also a significant initiating factor of ferroptosis. But the relationship between Fusarium keratitis and ferroptosis is currently unclear. This study aimed to speculate and validate potential ferroptosis-related genes in Fusarium keratitis using bioinformatics analysis, which provided ideas for further research on its specific mechanism and new targets for its treatment. Methods The microarray expression profiling dataset (GSE58291) came from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained by the limma package of the R software. The DEGs were performed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Then, the DEGs were intersected with the genes in the ferroptosis database. The top 5 hub genes were obtained by the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and the cytoHubba plug-in of Cytoscape software. The hub genes were subjected to GSEA analysis. Then we analyzed the immune infiltration of the samples by CIBERSORT and ssGSEA algorithm. Finally, we validated the mRNA of hub genes by qPCR. Results A total of 1,368 DEGs were identified and 26 ferroptosis-related DEGs were obtained. At the same time, ferroptosis-related pathways were enriched by GO and KEGG using DEGs. HMOX1, CYBB, GPX2, ALOX5 and SRC were obtained by the PPI network analysis and the cytoHubba plug-in of Cytoscape software. The iron metabolism and immune response related pathways were enriched using GSEA. They included hematopoietic cell lineage, lysosome and FC gamma R mediated phagocytosis. T cells follicular helper, monocytes, macrophages and mast cells might play an important role in Fusarium keratitis using analysis of immune infiltration. Finally, qPCR confirmed that the expression of HMOX1, CYBB, ALOX5 mRNA in the DON group was significantly elevated, while the expression of GPX2 were significantly decreased. Conclusions Ferroptosis may play an important role in Fusarium keratitis. HMOX1, CYBB, ALOX5 and GPX2 may be key ferroptosis-related genes in the pathogenesis of Fusarium keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingbo Teng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuewei Xiong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Sha
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yahui Lei
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuyao Diao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiayan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lian Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Jingxiang Zhong, ; Lian Liu,
| | - Jingxiang Zhong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China,The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Dongguan, China,*Correspondence: Jingxiang Zhong, ; Lian Liu,
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19
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Gounder D, Thool A. Recalcitrant Fungal Corneal Ulcer. Cureus 2022; 14:e30866. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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20
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Hoffman JJ, Arunga S, Mohamed Ahmed AHA, Hu VH, Burton MJ. Management of Filamentous Fungal Keratitis: A Pragmatic Approach. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:1067. [PMID: 36294633 PMCID: PMC9605596 DOI: 10.3390/jof8101067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Filamentous fungal infections of the cornea known as filamentous fungal keratitis (FK) are challenging to treat. Topical natamycin 5% is usually first-line treatment following the results of several landmark clinical trials. However, even when treated intensively, infections may progress to corneal perforation. Current topical antifungals are not always effective and are often unavailable. Alternatives topical therapies to natamycin include voriconazole, chlorhexidine, amphotericin B and econazole. Surgical therapy, typically in the form of therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty, may be required for severe cases or following corneal perforation. Alternative treatment strategies such as intrastromal or intracameral injections of antifungals may be used. However, there is often no clear treatment strategy and the evidence to guide therapy is often lacking. This review describes the different treatment options and their evidence and provides a pragmatic approach to the management of fungal keratitis, particularly for clinicians working in tropical, low-resource settings where fungal keratitis is most prevalent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy J. Hoffman
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
- Sagarmatha Choudhary Eye Hospital, Lahan 56500, Nepal
| | - Simon Arunga
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara P.O. Box 1410, Uganda
| | - Abeer H. A. Mohamed Ahmed
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Victor H. Hu
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Matthew J. Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK
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21
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Cabrera‐Aguas M, Khoo P, Watson SL. Infectious keratitis: A review. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2022; 50:543-562. [PMID: 35610943 PMCID: PMC9542356 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.14113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Globally, infectious keratitis is the fifth leading cause of blindness. The main predisposing factors include contact lens wear, ocular injury and ocular surface disease. Staphylococcus species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Fusarium species, Candida species and Acanthamoeba species are the most common causal organisms. Culture of corneal scrapes is the preferred initial test to identify the culprit organism. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and in vivo confocal microscopy can complement the diagnosis. Empiric therapy is typically commenced with fluoroquinolones, or fortified antibiotics for bacterial keratitis; topical natamycin for fungal keratitis; and polyhexamethylene biguanide or chlorhexidine for acanthamoeba keratitis. Herpes simplex keratitis is mainly diagnosed clinically; however, PCR can also be used to confirm the initial diagnosis and in atypical cases. Antivirals and topical corticosteroids are indicated depending on the corneal layer infected. Vision impairment, blindness and even loss of the eye can occur with a delay in diagnosis and inappropriate antimicrobial therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cabrera‐Aguas
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Health The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Corneal Unit Sydney Eye Hospital Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Pauline Khoo
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Health The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Corneal Unit Sydney Eye Hospital Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Stephanie L. Watson
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Health The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Corneal Unit Sydney Eye Hospital Sydney New South Wales Australia
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22
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Polat HK, Kurt N, Aytekin E, Bozdağ Pehlivan S, Çalış S. Novel Drug Delivery Systems to Improve the Treatment of Keratitis. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2022; 38:376-395. [PMID: 35763406 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2021.0127] [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: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratitis is a disease characterized by inflammation of the cornea caused by different pathogens. It can cause serious visual morbidity if not treated quickly. Depending on the pathogen causing keratitis, eye drops containing antibacterial, antifungal, or antiviral agents such as besiloxacin, moxifloxacin, ofloxacin, voriconazol, econazole, fluconazole, and acyclovir are used, and these drops need to be applied frequently due to their low bioavailability. Studies are carried out on formulations with extended residence time in the cornea and increased permeability. These formulations include various new drug delivery systems such as inserts, nanoparticles, liposomes, niosomes, cubosomes, microemulsions, in situ gels, contact lenses, nanostructured lipid carriers, carbon quantum dots, and microneedles. Ex vivo and in vivo studies with these formulations have shown that the residence time of the active substances in the cornea is prolonged, and their ocular bioavailability is increased. In addition, in vivo studies have shown that these formulations successfully treat keratitis. However, it has been observed that fluoroquinolones are used in most of the studies; similar drug delivery systems are generally preferred for antifungal drugs, and studies for viral and acanthameba keratitis are limited. There is a need for new studies on different types of keratitis and different drug active substances. At the same time, proving the efficacy of drug delivery systems, which give promising results in in vivo animal models, with clinical studies is of great importance for progress in the treatment of keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heybet Kerem Polat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Erzincan, Turkey
| | - Nihat Kurt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Eren Aytekin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sibel Bozdağ Pehlivan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sema Çalış
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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23
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Trinh T, Emami S, Gould J, Mimouni M, Cohen E, Rootman DS, Slomovic AR, Chan CC. Clinical and microbiological analysis of fungal keratitis in Toronto, Canada: A 20-year study. Med Mycol 2022; 60:6617597. [PMID: 35749577 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myac047] [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: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal keratitis is a devastating and difficult-to-treat ocular infection with high morbidity. Understanding geographic microbiological and clinical trends helps to guide rapid and effective treatment. We therefore report the characteristics and outcomes of fungal keratitis in Toronto, Canada over a twenty-year period. An electronic search of microbiology records at University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada identified all patients with positive corneal fungal culture over a 20-year period seen at our tertiary referral cornea practice. Review of corresponding patient charts identified demographic and microbiological details, clinical course, treatment regimen, and final outcomes associated with each episode of culture-positive fungal keratitis. Forty-six patients with fifty-one discrete fungal keratitis episodes were included. Five patients experienced recurrent fungal keratitis. Candida species accounted for 60.8% of positive fungal cultures, followed by Filamentous species at 35.3%. Preferred initial anti-fungal treatment was topical amphotericin at 36.7% followed by topical voriconazole at 32.6%. Surgical intervention was required in 48.9% with therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty being the most common procedure (22.4%). Final visual acuity (VA) of < 20/200 was attributed to 58% of patients in this study. Risk factors for poor outcomes included poor VA, topical steroid use at presentation, Candida involvement, history of ocular surface disease, organic ocular trauma, or prior corneal transplantation. Candida is the most frequent keratomycotic pathogen in Toronto. Risk factors for poor visual outcome include prior corneal transplantation, ocular surface disease/trauma, or pre-existing topical steroid use. Early suspicion, diagnosis and treatment are paramount for best clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Trinh
- The University of Toronto, Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Toronto, Canada.,Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Seema Emami
- The University of Toronto, Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Michael Mimouni
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rambam Health Care Campus affiliated with the Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Eyal Cohen
- The University of Toronto, Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | - David S Rootman
- The University of Toronto, Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | - Allan R Slomovic
- The University of Toronto, Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | - Clara C Chan
- The University of Toronto, Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Toronto, Canada
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24
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Clinical Profile and Treatment Outcomes of Patients With Acremonium Species Positive Keratitis Managed in a Tertiary Eye Care Center. Eye Contact Lens 2022; 48:272-275. [PMID: 35703836 DOI: 10.1097/icl.0000000000000902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the clinical profile and treatment outcomes of patients with culture-positive Acremonium keratitis. METHODS This is a retrospective observational study. Medical records of all patients treated in a tertiary eye hospital for culture positive infective keratitis from March 2016 to February 2021 were screened, of which those positive for Acremonium species on fungal culture were reviewed. Demographic details, clinical presentation, clinical course, treatment given, total follow-up duration, time taken for ulcer to heal, scar size, and final visual acuity in the last follow-up were recorded. RESULTS Fifty three cases of fungal keratitis caused by Acremonium species were identified, 22 females and 31 males, with average age of 46.39±18.64 years. The mean duration of symptoms being 54.47±50 days. Only five patients had a history of trauma with vegetative matter. Clinical presentation of patients showed a large number of variations, with 2 patients presenting as peripheral ulcerative keratitis and 1 with epithelial plaque. The mean visual acuity of patients at presentation was 2.43±0.46 logMAR units. Thirty-three of 53 patients presented with perforated corneal ulcer and underwent penetrating keratoplasty; 20 patients were medically managed on topical voriconazole 1%, natamycin 5%, and oral voriconazole. The mean duration of healing of epithelial defect was 95±60.62 days (range 60-165 days). CONCLUSION Acremonium keratitis has a long and indolent course. A prolonged combination therapy of natamycin and voriconazole seems to be effective in the management. A delay in the diagnosis of Acremonium keratitis often leads to clinical worsening requiring keratoplasty.
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Lian H, Fang X, Li Q, Liu S, Wei Q, Hua X, Li W, Liao C, Yuan X. NLRP3 Inflammasome-Mediated Pyroptosis Pathway Contributes to the Pathogenesis of Candida albicans Keratitis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:845129. [PMID: 35463001 PMCID: PMC9020473 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.845129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Fungal keratitis is a sight-threatening corneal infection caused by fungal pathogens, and the pathogenic mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to determine whether NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis contributes to Candida albicans (C. albicans) keratitis and explore the underlying mechanism. Methods An in vivo mouse model of C. albicans keratitis and an in vitro culture model of human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) challenged with heat-killed C. albicans (HKCA) were established in this study. The degree of corneal infection was evaluated by clinical scoring. Gene expression was assessed using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis or immunofluorescence staining was performed to evaluate protein expression. TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining was performed to examine the pyroptotic cell death. A lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay was performed to assess cytotoxicity. Results Compared with the mock-infected group, we observed that the mRNA levels of NLRP3, caspase-1 (CASP1), interleukin (IL)−1β and gasdermin-D (GSDMD) in C. albicans-infected mice cornea was significantly increased. Our data also demonstrated that the protein expression of NLRP3 and the pyroptosis-related markers apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), cleaved CASP1, N-GSDMD, cleaved IL-1β and cleaved IL-18 as well as pyroptotic cell death were dramatically elevated in the mouse model of C. albicans keratitis. More importantly, NLRP3 knockdown markedly alleviated pyroptosis and consequently reduced corneal inflammatory reaction in C. albicans keratitis. In vitro, the presence of activated NLRP3 inflammasome and pyroptotic cell death were validated in HCECs exposed to HKCA. Furthermore, the potassium (K+) channel inhibitor glyburide decreased LDH release and suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in HCECs exposed to HKCA. Conclusion In conclusion, the current study revealed for the first time that NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis occur in C. albicans-infected mouse corneas and HCECs. Moreover, NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis signaling is involved in the disease severity of C. albicans keratitis. Therefore, This NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent pathway may be an attractive target for the treatment of fungal keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huifang Lian
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Baoding First Central Hospital, Baoding, China.,State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - XiaoLong Fang
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin, China.,State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,The School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qingyu Li
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiuhong Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Baoding First Central Hospital, Baoding, China
| | - Xia Hua
- Aier Eye Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenguang Li
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chunyang Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyong Yuan
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin, China.,The School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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Awad R, Hafezi F, Ghaith AA, Baddour MM, Awad K, Abdalla M, Sheta E, Sultan GM, Elmassry A. Comparison between three different high fluence UVA levels in corneal collagen cross-linking for treatment of experimentally induced fungal keratitis in rabbits. Eur J Ophthalmol 2022; 32:1907-1914. [PMID: 35384782 DOI: 10.1177/11206721221092224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of Photo-Activated Chromophore for Keratitis - Corneal Collagen Cross-linking (PACK-CXL) of three different total UVA fluence levels and topical voriconazole in treatment of fungal keratitis experimentally induced in rabbits. METHODS This is an interventional experimental study including both eyes of 16 rabbits (32 eyes). Fungal keratitis was induced by intrastromal injection of Fusarium Solani into the cornea. The rabbits were then divided into four groups (8 eyes for each) from which group A received Voriconazole eye drops and considered as control group. Group B, C, D received single PACK-CXL session with total fluence levels of 7.2, 10.0 and 15.0 J/cm2 for each respectively. Daily clinical examination was recorded and all corneas were removed for microbiology and histopathology on day ten. RESULTS The mean clinical signs score eyes treated with high fluence PACK-CXL showed evident clinical improvement from fourth to tenth day of treatment. This improvement was equivalent to that of Voriconazole treatment. The results showed better improvement with increasing the UVA total fluence levels but this difference was not statistically significant (P < 0.05). Similarly, the median CFU/ml declined on increasing UVA fluence but with no statistically significant values. Histopathological examination revealed better improvement of inflammatory signs on higher fluence levels compared to lower ones. CONCLUSIONS High intensity PACK-CXL (30 mW/cm2) was as effective as Voriconazole in the treatment of fungal keratitis in rabbits. Increasing the fluence of UVA was associated with slightly better clinical outcomes with no added risks. More clinical studies are needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramy Awad
- Department of Ophthalmology, Alexandria general ophthalmology hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Farhad Hafezi
- Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alaa Atef Ghaith
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, 54562Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Manal Mohammad Baddour
- Department of Microbiology and Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, 54562Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Khaled Awad
- Department of Ophthalmology, Alexandria general ophthalmology hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Eman Sheta
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, 54562Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Gehad Mahmoud Sultan
- Department of Microbiology and Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, 54562Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elmassry
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, 54562Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Das S, D’Souza S, Gorimanipalli B, Shetty R, Ghosh A, Deshpande V. Ocular Surface Infection Mediated Molecular Stress Responses: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063111. [PMID: 35328532 PMCID: PMC8952005 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection mediated ocular surface stress responses are activated as early defense mechanisms in response to host cell damage. Integrated stress responses initiate the host response to different types of infections and modulate the transcription of key genes and translation of proteins. The crosstalk between host and pathogen results in profound alterations in cellular and molecular homeostasis triggering specific stress responses in the infected tissues. The amplitude and variations of such responses are partly responsible for the disease severity and clinical sequelae. Understanding the etiology and pathogenesis of ocular infections is important for early diagnosis and effective treatment. This review considers the molecular status of infection mediated ocular surface stress responses which may shed light on the importance of the host stress-signaling pathways. In this review, we collated literature on the molecular studies of all ocular surface infections and summarize the results from such studies systematically. Identification of important mediators involved in the crosstalk between the stress response and activation of diverse signaling molecules in host ocular surface infection may provide novel molecular targets for maintaining the cellular homeostasis during infection. These targets can be then explored and validated for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samayitree Das
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore 560 099, India;
| | - Sharon D’Souza
- Cornea and Refractive Services, Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore 560 010, India; (S.D.); (B.G.); (R.S.)
| | - Bhavya Gorimanipalli
- Cornea and Refractive Services, Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore 560 010, India; (S.D.); (B.G.); (R.S.)
| | - Rohit Shetty
- Cornea and Refractive Services, Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore 560 010, India; (S.D.); (B.G.); (R.S.)
| | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore 560 099, India;
- Correspondence: (A.G.); (V.D.)
| | - Vrushali Deshpande
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore 560 099, India;
- Correspondence: (A.G.); (V.D.)
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Bakken IM, Jackson CJ, Utheim TP, Villani E, Hamrah P, Kheirkhah A, Nielsen E, Hau S, Lagali NS. The use of in vivo confocal microscopy in fungal keratitis - Progress and challenges. Ocul Surf 2022; 24:103-118. [PMID: 35278721 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2022.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis (FK) is a serious and sight-threatening corneal infection with global reach. The need for prompt diagnosis is paramount, as a delay in initiation of treatment could lead to irreversible vision loss. Current "gold standard" diagnostic methods, namely corneal smear and culture, have limitations due to diagnostic insensitivity and their time-consuming nature. PCR is a newer, complementary method used in the diagnosis of fungal keratitis, whose results are also sample-dependent. In vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) is a promising complementary diagnostic method of increasing importance as it allows non-invasive real-time direct visualization of potential fungal pathogens and manifesting infection directly in the patient's cornea. In numerous articles and case reports, FK diagnosis by IVCM has been evaluated, and different features, approaches, sensitivity/specificity, and limitations have been noted. Here, we provide an up-to-date, comprehensive review of the current literature and present the authors' combined recommendations for fungal identification in IVCM images, while also looking to the future of FK assessment by IVCM using artificial intelligence methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingvild M Bakken
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sørlandet Hospital Arendal, Arendal, Norway
| | - Catherine J Jackson
- Ifocus Eye Clinic, Haugesund, Norway; Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tor P Utheim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sørlandet Hospital Arendal, Arendal, Norway; Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Health and Nursing Science, The Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder, Grimstad, Norway
| | - Edoardo Villani
- Department of Clinical Science and Community Health, University of Milan, Italy; Eye Clinic San Giuseppe Hospital, IRCCS Multimedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ahmad Kheirkhah
- Department of Ophthalmology, Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Esben Nielsen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Scott Hau
- Department of External Disease, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Neil S Lagali
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sørlandet Hospital Arendal, Arendal, Norway; Division of Ophthalmology, Institute for Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
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Shivaji S, Jayasudha R, Prashanthi GS, Arunasri K, Das T. Fungi of the human eye: Culture to mycobiome. Exp Eye Res 2022; 217:108968. [PMID: 35120870 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.108968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The focus of the current review is multi-fold and compares the diversity and abundance of fungi on the ocular surface by the conventional culture-based method with the more sensitive, high throughput, culture-independent NGS method. The aim is to highlight the existence of a core ocular mycobiome and explore the transition of the ocular fungal microbiota from the normal eye to the diseased eye. PubMed, Google Scholar and Medline were used to search for publications and reviews related to cultivable fungi and the mycobiome of the normal and diseased eye. The conventional cultivable approach and the NGS approach confirm that the eye has its own mycobiome and several confounding factors (age, gender, ethnicity etc.) influence the mycobiome. Further, dysbiosis in the mycobiome appears to be associated with ocular diseases and thus impacts the health of the human eye. Considering that the mycobiome of the eye is influenced by several confounding factors and also varies with respect to the disease status of the eye there is a need to extensively explore the mycobiome under different physiological conditions, different ethnicities, geographical regions etc. Such studies would unravel the diversity and abundance of the mycobiomes and contribute to our understanding of ocular health. Research focused on ocular mycobiomes may eventually help to build a targeted and individualized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisinthy Shivaji
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L. V. Prasad Eye Institute, Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500034, India.
| | - Rajagopalaboopathi Jayasudha
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L. V. Prasad Eye Institute, Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500034, India.
| | - Gumpili Sai Prashanthi
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L. V. Prasad Eye Institute, Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500034, India.
| | - Kotakonda Arunasri
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L. V. Prasad Eye Institute, Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500034, India.
| | - Taraprasad Das
- Srimati Kanuri Santhamma Centre for Vitreo Retinal Diseases, L. V. Prasad Eye Institute, Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500034, India.
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Farah N, Chin VK, Chong PP, Lim WF, Lim CW, Basir R, Chang SK, Lee TY. Riboflavin as a promising antimicrobial agent? A multi-perspective review. CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2022; 3:100111. [PMID: 35199072 PMCID: PMC8848291 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2022.100111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Riboflavin demonstrates antioxidant and photosensitizing properties. Riboflavin is able to induce ROS and modulate immune response. Riboflavin possesses potent antimicrobial activity when used alone or combined with other anti-infectives. The riboflavin biosynthesis pathway serves as an ideal drug target against microbes. UVA combination with riboflavin exhibits remarkable antimicrobial effects.
Riboflavin, or more commonly known as vitamin B2, forms part of the component of vitamin B complex. Riboflavin consisting of two important cofactors, flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), which are involved in multiple oxidative-reduction processes and energy metabolism. Besides maintaining human health, different sources reported that riboflavin can inhibit or inactivate the growth of different pathogens including bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, highlighting the possible role of riboflavin as an antimicrobial agent. Moreover, riboflavin and flavins could produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) when exposed to light, inducing oxidative damage in cells and tissues, and thus are excellent natural photosensitizers. Several studies have illustrated the therapeutic efficacy of photoactivated riboflavin against nosocomial infections and multidrug resistant bacterial infections as well as microbial associated biofilm infections, revealing the potential role of riboflavin as a promising antimicrobial candidate, which could serve as one of the alternatives in fighting the global crisis of the emergence of antimicrobial resistance seen in different pathogenic microbes. Riboflavin could also be involved in modulating host immune responses, which might increase the pathogen clearance from host cells and increase host defense against microbial infections. Thus, the dual effects of riboflavin on both pathogens and host immunity, reflected by its potent bactericidal effect and alleviation of inflammation in host cells further imply that riboflavin could be a potential candidate for therapeutic intervention in resolving microbial infections. Hence, this review aimed to provide some insights on the promising role of riboflavin as an antimicrobial candidate and also a host immune-modulator from a multi-perspective view as well as to discuss the application and challenges on using riboflavin in photodynamic therapy against various pathogens and microbial biofilm-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuratiqah Farah
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Voon Kin Chin
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Pei Pei Chong
- School of Biosciences, Taylor's University, No 1, Jalan Taylor's, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wai Feng Lim
- Integrative Pharmacogenomics Institute (iPROMISE), Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chee Woei Lim
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rusliza Basir
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sui Kiat Chang
- Department of Horticulture, Key Laboratory of South China Agricultural Plant Molecular Analysis and Genetic Improvement, Key Laboratory of Post-Harvest Handling of Fruits, Ministry of Agriculture. South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Guangzhou, 510650 China
| | - Tze Yan Lee
- Perdana University School of Liberal Arts, Science and Technology (PUScLST), Suite 9.2, 9th Floor, Wisma Chase Perdana, Changkat Semantan, Damansara Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Corresponding author.
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Sharma N, Bagga B, Singhal D, Nagpal R, Kate A, Saluja G, Maharana PK. Fungal keratitis: A review of clinical presentations, treatment strategies and outcomes. Ocul Surf 2021; 24:22-30. [PMID: 34915188 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Infectious keratitis is a significant cause of corneal blindness worldwide. Although less prevalent in the developed world, cases of fungal keratitis account for almost half of all keratitis cases, occurring in the developing countries. These cases are one of the most refractory types of infectious keratitis and present various challenges to the treating physician such as delayed presentation, long waiting time for culture positivity, limited availability effective antifungal drugs, prolonged duration for response to therapy, a highly variable spectrum of anti-fungal drug sensitivity and a high recurrence rate following keratoplasty. The advent of rapid diagnostic tools, molecular methods, in vitro anti-fungal drug sensitivity testing, alternatives to natamycin, targeted drug delivery and most importantly the results of large randomized controlled trials have significantly improved our understanding and approach towards the diagnosis and management of cases with fungal keratitis. Overall, Aspergillus and Fusarium species are the most common causes ones of fungal keratitis. History of antecedent trauma is a significant predisposing factor. Corneal scrapings for microscopic evaluation and culture preparation, is the standard of care for establishing the diagnosis of fungal keratitis. Molecular identification of cultures offers accurate identification of fungal pathogens, especially the rare species. Natamycin is an approved first-line drug. Voriconazole is the best alternative, especially for non-fusarium cases. Management involves administration of drugs usually by a combination of various routes, the treatment regimen being individualized depending upon the response to therapy. Photodynamic therapy is a newer treatment modality, being tried for non-responsive cases, before resorting to a therapeutic graft.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata Sharma
- Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgery Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
| | - Bhupesh Bagga
- The Cornea Institute, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | | | - Ritu Nagpal
- Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgery Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Anahita Kate
- The Cornea Institute, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Vijaywada, India
| | - Gunjan Saluja
- Strabismus, Oculoplasty & Neuro-ophthalmology Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Prafulla K Maharana
- Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgery Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Fungal Keratitis: Diagnostic Characteristics of the Potassium Hydroxide Preparation With Calcofluor White in Northern California. Cornea 2021; 41:347-352. [PMID: 34743097 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000002907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The incidence of fungal keratitis demonstrates significant geographic and climatic variation. We report on the characteristics of the potassium hydroxide/calcofluor white (KOH-CFW) preparation observed at a tertiary center in Northern California, a region with a low incidence of fungal keratitis. METHODS Culture-proven cases of microbial keratitis during a 5-year period were retrospectively reviewed. The sensitivity, specificity, and posttest probabilities were determined for the KOH-CFW assay. These results were compared with documented clinical impression and values reported in the literature. RESULTS Three hundred three of 368 episodes of microbial keratitis during the study period documented the results of a fungal culture, KOH-CFW assay, and a clinical impression. Twenty-one (6.9%) of these cultures were positive for fungal organisms. The sensitivity and specificity of the KOH-CFW test were 29% and 93%, respectively. Clinicians' initial clinical impression based solely on patients' history and examination, without the aid of any histopathologic or biochemical test results, demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 33% and 89%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The observed sensitivity and specificity of the KOH-CFW preparation are significantly lower than many previously reported values. In regions with low incidence of fungal keratitis, the KOH-CFW preparation may have diagnostic performance similar to that of the clinical impression formed only on the basis of history and physical examination.
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Raj N, Vanathi M, Ahmed NH, Gupta N, Lomi N, Tandon R. Recent Perspectives in the Management of Fungal Keratitis. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7110907. [PMID: 34829196 PMCID: PMC8621027 DOI: 10.3390/jof7110907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycotic keratitis is common in warm, humid regions with a varying profile of pathogenic fungi according to geographical origin, socioeconomic status, and climatic condition. Clinical diagnosis can be challenging in difficult cases and those refractory to treatment. Fungal hyphae on microscopic examination and culture isolation have been the gold standard in the laboratory diagnosis of fungal keratitis. A culture isolate of the aetiological fungus is essential to perform antifungal susceptibility testing. As the culture isolation of fungi is time-consuming, causing delays in the initiation of treatment, newer investigative modalities such as in vivo confocal microscopy and molecular diagnostic methods have recently gained popularity. Molecular diagnostic techniques now help to obtain a rapid diagnosis of fungal keratitis. Genomic approaches are based on detecting amplicons of ribosomal RNA genes, with internal transcribed spacers being increasingly adopted. Metagenomic deep sequencing allows for rapid and accurate diagnosis without the need to wait for the fungus to grow. This is also helpful in identifying new emerging strains of fungi causing mycotic keratitis. A custom-tear proteomic approach will probably play an important diagnostic role in future in the management of mycotic keratitis. Positive repeat cultures are being suggested as an important gauge indicative of a poor prognosis. Positive repeat fungal cultures help to modify a treatment regimen by increasing its frequency, providing the addition of another topical and oral antifungal agent along with close follow-up for perforation and identifying need for early therapeutic keratoplasty. The role of collagen crosslinking in the treatment of fungal keratitis is not convincingly established. Rapid detection by multiplex PCR and antifungal susceptibility testing of the pathogenic fungi, adopted into a routine management protocol of fungal keratitis, will help to improve treatment outcome. Early therapy is essential in minimizing damage to the corneal tissue, thereby providing a better outcome. The role of conventional therapy with polyenes, systemic and targeted therapy of antifungal agents, newer azoles and echinocandins in fungal keratitis has been widely studied in recent times. Combination therapy can be more efficacious in comparison to monotherapy. Given the diversity of fungal aetiology, the emergence of new corneal pathogenic fungi with varying drug susceptibilities, increasing the drug resistance to antifungal agents in some genera and species, it is perhaps time to adopt recent molecular methods for precise identification and incorporate antifungal susceptibility testing as a routine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimmy Raj
- Cornea, Lens & Refractive Surgery Services—Dr R P Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute for Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India; (N.R.); (N.G.); (N.L.); (R.T.)
| | - Murugesan Vanathi
- Cornea, Lens & Refractive Surgery Services—Dr R P Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute for Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India; (N.R.); (N.G.); (N.L.); (R.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +91-11-26593010; Fax: +91-11-26588919
| | - Nishat Hussain Ahmed
- Ocular Microbiology Services—Dr R P Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute for Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India;
| | - Noopur Gupta
- Cornea, Lens & Refractive Surgery Services—Dr R P Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute for Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India; (N.R.); (N.G.); (N.L.); (R.T.)
| | - Neiwete Lomi
- Cornea, Lens & Refractive Surgery Services—Dr R P Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute for Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India; (N.R.); (N.G.); (N.L.); (R.T.)
| | - Radhika Tandon
- Cornea, Lens & Refractive Surgery Services—Dr R P Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute for Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India; (N.R.); (N.G.); (N.L.); (R.T.)
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Mayya V, Kamath Shevgoor S, Kulkarni U, Hazarika M, Barua PD, Acharya UR. Multi-Scale Convolutional Neural Network for Accurate Corneal Segmentation in Early Detection of Fungal Keratitis. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7100850. [PMID: 34682271 PMCID: PMC8540278 DOI: 10.3390/jof7100850] [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: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial keratitis is an infection of the cornea of the eye that is commonly caused by prolonged contact lens wear, corneal trauma, pre-existing systemic disorders and other ocular surface disorders. It can result in severe visual impairment if improperly managed. According to the latest World Vision Report, at least 4.2 million people worldwide suffer from corneal opacities caused by infectious agents such as fungi, bacteria, protozoa and viruses. In patients with fungal keratitis (FK), often overt symptoms are not evident, until an advanced stage. Furthermore, it has been reported that clear discrimination between bacterial keratitis and FK is a challenging process even for trained corneal experts and is often misdiagnosed in more than 30% of the cases. However, if diagnosed early, vision impairment can be prevented through early cost-effective interventions. In this work, we propose a multi-scale convolutional neural network (MS-CNN) for accurate segmentation of the corneal region to enable early FK diagnosis. The proposed approach consists of a deep neural pipeline for corneal region segmentation followed by a ResNeXt model to differentiate between FK and non-FK classes. The model trained on the segmented images in the region of interest, achieved a diagnostic accuracy of 88.96%. The features learnt by the model emphasize that it can correctly identify dominant corneal lesions for detecting FK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veena Mayya
- Healthcare Analytics and Language Engineering (HALE) Lab, Department of Information Technology, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, Mangalore 575025, India;
- Department of Information & Communication Technology, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal 576104, India
- Correspondence: (V.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Sowmya Kamath Shevgoor
- Healthcare Analytics and Language Engineering (HALE) Lab, Department of Information Technology, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, Mangalore 575025, India;
| | - Uma Kulkarni
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore 575018, India;
| | - Manali Hazarika
- Cornea and Anterior Segment Services, Department of Ophthalmology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal 576104, India
- Correspondence: (V.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Prabal Datta Barua
- School of Management & Enterprise, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia;
- Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - U. Rajendra Acharya
- School of Engineering, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Clementi 599489, Singapore;
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Science and Technology, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore S599494, Singapore
- Department of Biomedical Informatics and Medical Engineering, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
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Ahmadikia K, Aghaei Gharehbolagh S, Fallah B, Naeimi Eshkaleti M, Malekifar P, Rahsepar S, Getso MI, Sharma S, Mahmoudi S. Distribution, Prevalence, and Causative Agents of Fungal Keratitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (1990 to 2020). Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:698780. [PMID: 34513726 PMCID: PMC8428535 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.698780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study aims to provide an overview of the prevalence, distribution, and causative agents of fungal keratitis. Methods All the articles with data on the prevalence of fungal keratitis among various patient groups from January 1, 1990 to May 27, 2020 were retrieved through a systematic search in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Data were extracted, and the pooled estimated prevalence of fungal keratitis, yeast/mold infection, the spectrum and frequency of various causative agents, and the pooled estimated prevalence of mixed infections were calculated in general and in various countries (wherever possible) using meta-analysis. Results From 11,235 articles retrieved in the primary search step, 169 met the inclusion criteria. The 169 eligible articles were divided into six groups and analyzed separately. The pooled prevalence of fungal keratitis was variable with values ranging from 0.05% among postkeratoplasty patients to 43.01% among patients with a clinical suspicion of fungal keratitis. There was also a country-dependent variation in the prevalence (Paraguay: 50.1% (95% CI, 35.11, 65.00); Ireland: 1.1% (95% CI, 0.03, 6.04)). Except for postkeratoplasty cases (yeast: 51.80%), in all patient groups, molds were more common than yeasts. Although more than 50 distinct species of fungi have been found to cause fungal keratitis, Fusarium species followed by Aspergillus species were the most common causes of the disease. In general, 9.29% (95% CI, 6.52, 12.38) of fungal keratitis cases were mixed with bacterial agents. Conclusion The prevalence of fungal keratitis can vary dramatically depending on the patient groups and geographical origin; however, the dominant causative agents are generally similar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazem Ahmadikia
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sanaz Aghaei Gharehbolagh
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahareh Fallah
- Department of Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Naeimi Eshkaleti
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Students’ Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pooneh Malekifar
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Rahsepar
- Department of Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Muhammad I. Getso
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University Kano, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Savitri Sharma
- Jhaveri Microbiology Centre, L. V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Shahram Mahmoudi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Optimized molecular imprints in gamma-irradiated collagen shields of an antifungal drug: In vitro characterization, in-vivo bioavailability enhancement. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2021; 166:135-143. [PMID: 34166761 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this manuscript is to develop sustained release molecularly imprinted voriconazole (VOR) that were loaded into collagen shield (CS) for ocular treatment of fungal keratitis. Various molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) formulae were prepared by a precipitation polymerization technique. Different monomers and crosslinkers were tested to obtain better binding capacity. Two promising formulae; (F1: VOR: Acrylamide: ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA): benzoyl peroxide (BPO) in the molar ratio of 1:5:15:1.6 mM, respectively) and (F3: VOR: Acrylamide: methyl methacrylic acid (MMA): EGDMA: BPO in the molar ratio 1:2.5:2.5:15:1.6 mM, respectively) were selected according to their binding capacities (82.79% ± 0.86, and 94.90% ± 1.25 respectively), and their release profiles over 48 h in simulated tears fluid (STF) (41.64 ± 1.92, and 85.39 ± 1.64 respectively). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were carried out. The selected CS (F1 CS and F3 CS) showed sustained release profiles (57.38%± 0.72, and 98.51%±0.49 respectively) over 72 h in STF. Results of trans-corneal permeation and antifungal activity were enhanced for the optimized formula (F3 CS) compared to (F1 CS) and drug solution. Furthermore, in vivo pharmacokinetic studies were conducted showing significant increase in Cmax, delayed Tmax and promoted relative bioavailability. After ocular insertion of F3 CS in male albino rabbits, histopathological studies were attained to assure the safety of the formula. Finally, optimized VOR-MIP-CS could provide promising ocular drug delivery systems (DDS).
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Wang L, Zhu J, Zhang Y, Wu J, Guo H, Wu X. Thymic stromal lymphopoietin participates in the TLR2-and TLR4-dependent immune response triggered by Aspergillus fumigatus in human corneal cells. Exp Eye Res 2021; 209:108644. [PMID: 34081998 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis constitutes a serious vision-threatening disease. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) comprise key mediators of innate immunity triggered by Aspergillus fumigatus (AF) in the cornea, but the messenger between innate and adaptive immunity remained unknown. Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) represents a critical factor of adaptive immunity. Here we investigated the expression of TSLP in corneal epithelial and stromal cells challenged by AF and its relationship with TLRs. We stimulated corneal cells with TLR ligands zymosan or lipopolysaccharide (LPS), human recombinant TSLP, or AF hyphae for various periods, with or without prior TLR2, TLR4, or TSLP inhibition. TLR2, TLR4, TSLP, IL-8, and TNF-α release and expression were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent analysis, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, or western blot. Corneal cell stimulation with zymosan or LPS induced up-regulated TSLP expression. Enhanced TSLP expression was associated with AF treatment in human corneal cells; TLR2 or TLR4 inhibition impaired the AF-induced TSLP levels. Human recombinant TSLP augmented TLR2 and TLR4 expression; RNA interference of TSLP attenuated TLR, IL-8, and TNF-α expression stimulated by AF hyphae. These findings indicated that TSLP participates in the immune response of corneal cells triggered by AF, which is closely related to TLR function, and the innate immunity mediated by TLRs could be enhanced by TSLP. Innate immunity may therefore transmit inflammatory signals to adaptive immunity through activation of TSLP; in turn, adaptive immunity likely exerts certain regulatory effects on innate immunity via TSLP. That is, TSLP could interact with innate immunity mediated by TLR2 and TLR4 in human corneal cells challenged by AF and thus may serve as a messenger between the innate and adaptive immune responses in AF keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyi Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China.
| | - Jing Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China.
| | - Yuting Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China.
| | - Jiayin Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China.
| | - Hui Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China.
| | - Xinyi Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China.
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Serfözö A, Suffo S, Viestenz A, Seitz B, Daas L. [Central Sclerocorneoplasty à Chaud in Bacterial Superinfected Mycotic Keratitis Confirmed by Confocal Microscopy at the Base of Recurrent Herpetic Keratitis]. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2021; 239:1245-1247. [PMID: 34000745 DOI: 10.1055/a-1386-5229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Serfözö
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Homburg (Saar), Deutschland
| | - Shady Suffo
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Homburg (Saar), Deutschland
| | - Arne Viestenz
- Universitätsklinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Halle (Saale), Deutschland
| | - Berthold Seitz
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Homburg (Saar), Deutschland
| | - Loay Daas
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Homburg (Saar), Deutschland
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Khurana A, Chanda S, Bhagat P, Aggarwal S, Sharma M, Chauhan L. Clinical characteristics, predisposing factors, and treatment outcome of Curvularia keratitis. Indian J Ophthalmol 2021; 68:2088-2093. [PMID: 32971614 PMCID: PMC7728016 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_90_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To report clinical characteristics, predisposing factors, and treatment outcome of Curvularia keratitis. Methods Retrospective chart review of consecutive culture-proven Curvularia keratitis patients who presented to a tertiary eye care center in north India. Patients with mixed infections with Curvularia as one of the pathogens were also included. Standard case report form was developed to capture demographic information, clinical features, etiology, treatment, and outcome. Binary logistic regression was done to ascertain the effect of identified variables on final visual acuity. Results Medical records of 97 patients of Curvularia keratitis were reviewed. Median age of patients was 45.3 years. Seventy-nine (79.4%) patients presented during the months of September to November. History of corneal trauma was present in 69.1%. Trauma from sugarcane leaf was identified in 66.1% of cases with corneal trauma with vegetative matter. Presenting visual acuity was worse than 20/60 in 57.8% of patients. Hypopyon and pigmented plaque-like infiltrate was present in 16.5% and 28.8% of patients, respectively. Mixed infection was reported in 14.4% of cases. Median time of antifungal therapy was 24.5 days. Surgical intervention was required in 18.5% cases. Of all, 11.1% patients achieved final VA of more than 20/200 who were managed surgically as compared to 68 (86%) patients who were managed medically. Younger age, absence of comorbidities, and lesser infiltrate size were found associated with good final visual acuity. Conclusion Working males were most affected by Curvularia keratitis. Corneal trauma with sugarcane leave was the most common predisposing factor in the study area. Most of the cases presented with worse visual acuity but could be managed medically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashi Khurana
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Error, C. L. Gupta Eye Institute, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sanjay Chanda
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Error, C. L. Gupta Eye Institute, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Preeti Bhagat
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Error, C. L. Gupta Eye Institute, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Swati Aggarwal
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Error, C. L. Gupta Eye Institute, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mohit Sharma
- Department of Microbiology, C. L. Gupta Eye Institute, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Lokesh Chauhan
- Department of Clinical and Public Health Research, C. L. Gupta Eye Institute, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Rai M, Ingle AP, Ingle P, Gupta I, Mobin M, Bonifaz A, Alves M. Recent advances on mycotic keratitis caused by dematiaceous hyphomycetes. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 131:1652-1667. [PMID: 33462841 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Dematiaceous hyphomycetes (DH) are darkly pigmented fungi ubiquitously found all over the world as plant pathogens and saprophytes, and many of the members of this group have emerged as opportunistic pathogens. These fungi are responsible for a wide variety of infections including mycotic keratitis, which is considered as one of the major causes of corneal blindness, particularly in tropical and subtropical countries with an annual global burden of about 1 000 000 patients. The infection is more common in workers working in an outdoor environment. Moreover, trauma is found to be the most important predisposing cause of mycotic keratitis. Considerable delay in diagnosis and scarcity of effective pharmacological drugs are the major factors responsible for increased morbidity and visual impairment. Considering the crucial role of DH in mycotic keratitis, in the present review, we have focused on major DH with special emphasis on their pathogenicity, diagnosis and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rai
- Department of Biotechnology, Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University, Amravati, Maharashtra, India
| | - A P Ingle
- Department of Biotechnology, Engineering School of Lorena, University of Sao Paulo, Lorena, SP, Brazil
| | - P Ingle
- Department of Biotechnology, Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University, Amravati, Maharashtra, India
| | - I Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University, Amravati, Maharashtra, India
| | - M Mobin
- Research Laboratory, University Center UNINOVAFAPI, Teresina, Brazil
| | - A Bonifaz
- Department of Mycology & Dermatology Service, General Hospital of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - M Alves
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Zhao W, Yang H, Lyu L, Zhang J, Xu Q, Jiang N, Liu G, Wang L, Yan H, Che C. GSDMD, an executor of pyroptosis, is involved in IL-1β secretion in Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis. Exp Eye Res 2020; 202:108375. [PMID: 33279525 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The protein GSDMD is an important performer of pyroptosis and a universal substrate for the inflammatory caspase. However, the role and regulatory mechanism of GSDMD in Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis is remains unknown. Here we detected GSDMD protein in the cornea of normal and fungal-infected C57BL/6 mice. Human corneal epithelial cell (HCECs) were preincubated with a hydrochloride solution (IFNR inhibitor), ruxolitinib (JAK/STAT inhibitor), belnacasan (caspase-1 inhibitor) before infection with A. fumigatus conidia. Mice corneas were infected with Aspergillus fumigatus after pretreatment of GSDMD siRNA via subconjunctival injection. After, samples were harvested at specific time points and the expression of GSDMD and IL-1β was assessed by PCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence staining. Compared with the control group, we observed that the expression of GSDMD in fungal-infected mice cornea was significantly increased. After pretreatment with IFNR, JAK/STAT and caspase-1 inhibitors before fungal infection, the expression of GSDMD was significantly inhibited compared to the DMSO control in HCECs. Moreover, the GSDMD siRNA treatment have significantly weaken corneal inflammatory response, decreasing the proinflammatory factor IL-1β secretion and reducing neutrophils and macrophages recruitment in mice infected corneas. In summary, the data here provided evidences that GSDMD, an executor of pyroptosis, is involved in the early immune response of A. fumigatus keratitis. Additionally, the inhibition of GSDMD expression can affect the secretion of IL-1β and the recruitment of neutrophil and macrophages by blocking IFNR, JAK/STAT and caspase-1 signaling pathway. The protein GSDMD may emerge as a potential therapeutic target for A. fumigatus keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyi Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Leyu Lyu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qiang Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Guibo Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Limei Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Haijing Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chengye Che
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.
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Bamahfouz AY, Alsaidi AA, Alharbi IJ, Elsebaei EA, Aldosari AM, Farahat AG, Alhazmi RT. Indolent keratitis due to fungus of Malbranchea species. A case report. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2020; 60:606-609. [PMID: 33304572 PMCID: PMC7711076 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2020.11.065] [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: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Keratitis caused by saprophytic fungi is on the rise in rural areas, often caused by ocular trauma with wooden objects. Early detection of causative organisms and sustained, supervised management can prevent visual disabilities. Case presentation A middle-aged patient from a rural, semi-arid region who presented with pain, redness, and a foreign-body sensation in his left eye resulting from a corneal ulcer induced by trauma from a wooden stick. Due to a history of uncontrolled diabetes and progression of his corneal lesions, he was admitted to our institution for treatment of infectious keratitis. Microbiological examination of corneal scrapings revealed thin, septate hyaline hyphae without conidia or conidiophores, and the patient was diagnosed with a fungal keratitis caused by a Malbranchea species. Though the patient initially responded to treatment with topical natamycin, his condition worsened. He was subsequently successfully treated with topical amphotericin B (1 mg/mL) twice hourly and systemic antifungals. Four months after discharge, the patient returned with symptom recurrence. Conclusion We report the case of a patient with a Malbranchea species causing a rare and recurrent fungal keratitis with corneal infiltrates, subsequently cured by medical management with salvaging of his vision. In patients with a suspected fungal keratitis, early treatment is crucial and should be combined with tight glycemic control for as long as 6 months after presentation to avoid recurrence. Fungal keratitis can lead to visual disability if not treated adequately. Malbranchea species are rare pathogens resistant to many antifungal agents. Malbranchea keratitis treatment is difficult and can result in poor outcomes. Treating fungal keratitis is an indolent process often requiring months. Standard protocols are necessary for managing fungal keratitis.
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Hung N, Yeh LK, Ma DHK, Lin HC, Tan HY, Chen HC, Sun PL, Hsiao CH. Filamentous Fungal Keratitis in Taiwan: Based on Molecular Diagnosis. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:32. [PMID: 32855878 PMCID: PMC7422771 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.8.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To analyze the epidemiological pattern, demographics, risk factors, and treatment outcomes of filamentous fungal keratitis at a tertiary hospital in Taiwan. Methods We recruited 65 patients (65 eyes) with culture-proven filamentous fungal keratitis who received diagnosis and treatment at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital between 2015 and 2018. All isolates were examined through conventional morphological identification and subjected to molecular identification with internal transcribed spacer sequencing. Data on patient demographics, predisposing factors, and treatment outcomes were collected. Results In total, filamentous fungi belonged to 16 genera were identified. Fusarium spp. (29 cases [44.6%]) was the most commonly isolated organism overall, followed by Colletotrichum spp. and Purpureocillium linacinum (seven cases [10.8% for each]), and Aspergillus spp. (six cases [9.2%]). Some fungi that have not been regarded as human pathogens were also identified, such as Paracremonium and Phellinum. Among 52 (80%) patients with predisposing factors, 30 (46.2%) had trauma. The ulcers of 33 (50.8%) patients resolved with medical treatment only. Additionally, six patients (9.2%) had corneal perforation, and nine patients (13.9%) required therapeutic/destructive surgical interventions including therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty (seven patients) or evisceration (two patients). Only 16 patients (24.6%) had final visual acuity of 20/40 or better. Conclusions Through molecular diagnosis, a high diversity of fungal pathogens was revealed along with an increasing incidence of Colletotrichumspp. and Purpureocilliumspp. in Taiwan. The most common risk factor for filamentous fungal keratitis was trauma. The visual outcomes were guarded. Translational Relevance The molecular diagnosis provides insight into accurate identification, which affects the epidemiology and diversity of pathogens of filamentous fungal keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Hung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Lung-Kun Yeh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - David Hui-Kang Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Chiung Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yuan Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Chi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Lun Sun
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Dermatology and Research Laboratory of Medical Mycology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hsi Hsiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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Shenoy MS, Nayak RR, Pai V, Bhat KA. Mycotic keratitis due to Cylindrocarpon lichenicola: Successful salvage of the eye. Indian J Med Microbiol 2020; 38:472-474. [PMID: 33154267 DOI: 10.4103/ijmm.ijmm_20_399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
We hereby report a successfully salvaged eye due to mycotic keratitis by Cylindrocarpon lichenicola in a 60-year-old female from Kasaragod (Kerala). The patient came with a history of pain, photophobia and decreased vision of the right eye. The microbiological investigations of the corneal scraping revealed C. lichenicola. C. lichenicola is a soil saprophyte. Since the ulcer worsened paracentesis followed by therapeutic keratoplasty and adjunct therapy with natamycin drops, voriconazole drops and oral ketoconazole was given. We stress that evidence-based timely medical and surgical intervention helped in the restoration of the vision in an infected eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Suchitra Shenoy
- Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Rajesh R Nayak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Vijay Pai
- Department of Ophthalmology, K.S. Hegde Medical Academy, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - K Archana Bhat
- Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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Hatvani L, Homa M, Chenthamara K, Cai F, Kocsubé S, Atanasova L, Mlinaric-Missoni E, Manikandan P, Revathi R, Dóczi I, Bogáts G, Narendran V, Büchner R, Vágvölgyi C, Druzhinina IS, Kredics L. Agricultural systems as potential sources of emerging human mycoses caused by Trichoderma: a successful, common phylotype of Trichoderma longibrachiatum in the frontline. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2020; 366:5670621. [PMID: 31816013 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnz246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Trichoderma species are abundant in different agricultural habitats, but some representatives of this genus, mainly clade Longibrachiatum members are also emerging as causative agents of various human diseases with even fatal outcome. Strains of these species frequently show resistance to commonly used azole antifungals. Based on previous data it is hypothesized that Trichoderma isolates identified in human infections derive from environmental-including agricultural-origins. We examined Trichoderma longibrachiatum Rifai and Trichoderma bissettii Sandoval-Denis & Guarro strains recovered from four novel cases of human mycoses, along with isolates from previous case reports and different agricultural habitats, using multilocus phylogenetic analysis, BIOLOG Phenotype Microarrays and Etest. Strains attributed to T. bissettii were more abundant in both clinical and agricultural specimens compared to T. longibrachiatum. The majority of the isolates of both taxa could tolerate >256, >32 and >32 μg/ml fluconazole, itraconazole and posaconazole, respectively. None of the obtained results revealed characteristic differences between strains of clinical and agricultural origin, nor between the two taxa, supporting that agricultural environments may be significant sources of infections caused by these emerging human fungal pathogens. Furthermore, based on our findings we propose the re-classification of T. bissettii as T. longibrachiatum f. sp. bissettii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lóránt Hatvani
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52., Szeged, 6726, Hungary.,MTA-SZTE "Lendület" Mycobiome Research Group, Közép fasor 52., Szeged, 6726, Hungary
| | - Mónika Homa
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52., Szeged, 6726, Hungary.,MTA-SZTE "Lendület" Fungal Pathogenicity Mechanisms Research Group, Közép fasor 52., Szeged, 6726, Hungary
| | - Komal Chenthamara
- Microbiology and Applied Genomics Group, Research Area Biochemical Technology, Institute of Chemical, Environmental & Bioscience Engineering (ICEBE), Gumpendorferstrasse 1a/E166-5., TU Wien, Vienna, 1060, Austria
| | - Feng Cai
- Microbiology and Applied Genomics Group, Research Area Biochemical Technology, Institute of Chemical, Environmental & Bioscience Engineering (ICEBE), Gumpendorferstrasse 1a/E166-5., TU Wien, Vienna, 1060, Austria.,Fungal Genomics Group, Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab of Organic Solid Waste Utilization, Nanjing Agricultural University, Weigang No. 1., Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Sándor Kocsubé
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52., Szeged, 6726, Hungary
| | - Lea Atanasova
- Department of Food Sciences and Technology, Institute of Food Technology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Muthgasse 18., Vienna, 1190, Austria
| | - Emilija Mlinaric-Missoni
- Croatian National Institute of Public Health, Rockefellerova 2., Zagreb, 10000, Croatia (retired)
| | - Palanisamy Manikandan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Academic City, Majmaah, 11952, Saudi Arabia.,Greenlink Analytical and Research Laboratory India Private Ltd, Tex Park Road, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 014, India
| | - Rajaraman Revathi
- Aravind Eye Hospital and Postgraduate Institute of Ophthalmology, Avinashi Road, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 014, India
| | - Ilona Dóczi
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6., Szeged, 6725, Hungary
| | - Gábor Bogáts
- Second Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 8., Szeged, 6725, Hungary
| | - Venkatapathy Narendran
- Aravind Eye Hospital and Postgraduate Institute of Ophthalmology, Avinashi Road, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 014, India
| | - Rita Büchner
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52., Szeged, 6726, Hungary.,Doctoral School of Biology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52., Szeged, 6726, Hungary
| | - Csaba Vágvölgyi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52., Szeged, 6726, Hungary
| | - Irina S Druzhinina
- Microbiology and Applied Genomics Group, Research Area Biochemical Technology, Institute of Chemical, Environmental & Bioscience Engineering (ICEBE), Gumpendorferstrasse 1a/E166-5., TU Wien, Vienna, 1060, Austria.,Fungal Genomics Group, Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab of Organic Solid Waste Utilization, Nanjing Agricultural University, Weigang No. 1., Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - László Kredics
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52., Szeged, 6726, Hungary
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Rasoanirina BNV, Lassoued MA, Miladi K, Razafindrakoto Z, Chaâbane-Banaoues R, Ramanitrahasimbola D, Cornet M, Sfar S. Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system to improve transcorneal permeability of voriconazole: in-vivo studies. J Pharm Pharmacol 2020; 72:889-896. [PMID: 32294801 DOI: 10.1111/jphp.13265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigates the effectiveness of self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) in improving voriconazole transcorneal permeability. METHODS Voriconazole-SNEDDS was prepared with isopropyl myristate, PEG 400, Tween 80® and Span 80® and was subjected for physicochemical characterization after reconstitution with NaCl 0.9% (1/9; v/v). In-vitro antifungal activity was assessed and compared with the marketed formulation. In-vivo studies, namely ocular irritation test via modified Draize test and pharmacokinetic study, were investigated using rabbit as animal model. KEY FINDINGS Voriconazole-SNEDDS presented a droplet size of 21.353 ± 0.065 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.123 ± 0.003, a pH of 7.205 ± 0.006 and an osmolarity of 342.667 ± 2.517 mOsmol/l after reconstitution with NaCl 0.9%. Voriconazole-SNEDDS minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC90 ) was similar to the one of marketed formulation for Candida species while it was significantly lower (P < 0.001) for Aspergillus fumigatus. Draize test revealed that Voriconazole-SNEDDS was safe for ocular administration. Voriconazole maximum concentration (5.577 ± 0.852 µg/ml) from SNEDDS was higher than marketed formulation (Cmax = 4.307 ± 0.623 µg/ml), and the Tmax was delayed to 2 h. The area under the concentration-time curve value of Voriconazole-SNEDDS was improved by 2.419-fold. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that SNEDDS is a promising carrier for voriconazole ocular delivery and this encourages further clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamed Ali Lassoued
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical, Chemical and Pharmacological Drug Development LR12ES09, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Karim Miladi
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical, Chemical and Pharmacological Drug Development LR12ES09, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Zoarilala Razafindrakoto
- Laboratory of Applied Pharmacognosy, Institut Malgache de Recherches Appliquées, Fondation Albert et Suzanne RAKOTO-RATSIMAMANGA, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Raja Chaâbane-Banaoues
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology, LR12ES08 (LP3M), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - David Ramanitrahasimbola
- Laboratory of Applied Pharmacognosy, Institut Malgache de Recherches Appliquées, Fondation Albert et Suzanne RAKOTO-RATSIMAMANGA, Antananarivo, Madagascar.,Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Muriel Cornet
- CNRS, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, University of Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Souad Sfar
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical, Chemical and Pharmacological Drug Development LR12ES09, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
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Li C, Li C, Lin J, Zhao G, Xu Q, Jiang N, Wang Q, Peng X, Zhu G, Jiang J. The Role of Autophagy in the Innate Immune Response to Fungal Keratitis Caused by Aspergillus fumigatus Infection. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:25. [PMID: 32084267 PMCID: PMC7326573 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.2.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the role of autophagy in the innate immune response to fungal keratitis (FK) caused by Aspergillus fumigatus infection. Methods Corneal samples obtained from patients and mice with FK were visualized via transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Autophagy-related proteins LC3B-II, Beclin-1, LAMP-1, and p62 in A. fumigatus-infected corneas of C57BL/6 mice were tested by Western blot. After treatment with autophagy inhibitors 3-methyladenine (3-MA), chloroquine (CQ), or inducer rapamycin, autophagy-related proteins were detected by Western blot. Corneas were photographed with slit lamp microscopy and pathological changes were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Polymorphonuclear neutrophilic leukocytes (PMNs) were assessed by immunofluorescent staining and observed under TEM. The levels of CXCL-1, IL-1β, HMGB1, IL-18, TNF-α, and IL-10 were tested by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. The quantification of fungal loads was detected and photographed. Results The accumulation of autophagosomes in corneas of patients and mice with FK was observed with TEM. The expression of LC3B-II, Beclin-1, and LAMP-1 was elevated in corneas after fungal infection, whereas p62 was reduced. Treatment with 3-MA or CQ upregulated clinical scores, pathological changes, and the expression of CXCL-1, IL-1β, HMGB1, IL-18, and TNF-α except IL-10. The morphology of PMNs was changed and PMN recruitment was increased in mice corneas treated with 3-MA or CQ, whereas rapamycin reduced the inflammatory response to keratitis. These results were statistically significant. Conclusions A. fumigatus infection increases the expression of autophagy in corneas. Autophagy plays an anti-inflammatory role in the innate immune response to A. fumigatus keratitis.
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Dual effect of blue light on Fusariumsolani clinical corneal isolates in vitro. Lasers Med Sci 2020; 35:1299-1305. [PMID: 32112251 DOI: 10.1007/s10103-019-02911-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The purpose was to investigate the effect of daylight-intensity blue light on F. solani isolated from the cornea of patients with fungal keratitis. Spore suspensions of 5 F. solani strains (one standard strain and 4 clinical corneal isolates) were prepared in 6-well plates. Blue light groups were irradiated by a light-emitting diode (LED) device with a peak wavelength of 454 nm at 0.5 mW/cm2 for 0 to 48 h, while the controls were maintained in darkness. Hyphal morphology in the 6-well plates was recorded at 0, 12, 24, 36, 48 h. One hundred microliters of spore suspensions of each strain at these five time points was transferred to SGA plates and cultured for 36 h at 29 °C; the number of colonies formed was counted as a measure of conidia quality and viability. Blue light has dual effects on F. solani. The hyphal length of F. solani exposed to blue light was significantly shorter than that of the control (P < 0.01), indicating that fungal growth was inhibited. Meanwhile, instead of reducing the viability of spores, blue light significantly enhanced the conidia quality and viability after at least 24 h irradiation. Daylight-intensity blue light exposure will inhibit the hyphal growth of F. solani but promote conidiation, which would be more harmful to fungal keratitis. Eliminating the influence of blue light for these patients should be taken into account.
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Rasoanirina BNV, Lassoued MA, Kamoun A, Bahloul B, Miladi K, Sfar S. Voriconazole-loaded self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) to improve transcorneal permeability. Pharm Dev Technol 2020; 25:694-703. [PMID: 32064993 DOI: 10.1080/10837450.2020.1731532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop self- nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) to improve the transcorneal permeability of voriconazole. A 'mixture design around a reference mixture' approach was applied. This latter included four components, namely, isopropyl myristate, PEG 400, Tween® 80 and Span® 80 as oil, co-solvent, surfactant and co-surfactant, respectively. Droplet size was selected as response. The effect of mixture components on droplet size was analyzed by means of response trace method. Optimal formulation was subjected to stability studies and characterized for droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI), pH, osmolarity, viscosity and percentage of transmittance. Ex-vivo transcorneal permeation of the optimal and the marketed formulations was carried out on excised bovine cornea using Franz cell diffusion apparatus. Optimal voriconazole loaded-SNEDDS showed moderate emulsification efficiency and was characterized by a droplet size of 21.447 ± 0.081 nm, a PDI of 0.156 ± 0.004, a pH of 7.205 ± 0.006, an osmolarity of 310 mosmol/Kg and a viscosity of 8.818 ± 0.076 cP. Moreover, it presented an excellent stability and exhibited a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in apparent permeability coefficient (1.982 ± 0.187 × 10-6 cm/s) when compared to commercialized formulation (1.165 ± 0.106 × 10-6 cm/s). These results suggest that SNEDDS is a promising carrier for voriconazole ocular delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamed Ali Lassoued
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical, Chemical and Pharmacological Drug Development LR12ES09, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Amel Kamoun
- Laboratory for Advanced Materials, National School of Engineering, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Badr Bahloul
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical, Chemical and Pharmacological Drug Development LR12ES09, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Karim Miladi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical, Chemical and Pharmacological Drug Development LR12ES09, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Souad Sfar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical, Chemical and Pharmacological Drug Development LR12ES09, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
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50
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Guo Y, Karimi F, Fu Q, G Qiao G, Zhang H. Reduced administration frequency for the treatment of fungal keratitis: a sustained natamycin release from a micellar solution. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2020; 17:407-421. [PMID: 32009483 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2020.1719995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background: Natamycin is the only topical ophthalmic antifungal drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States, but has unsatisfactory factors such as high dosing frequency.Methods: We report the synthesis and preparation of self-assembled poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PEG-b-PGMA) micelles. These nanoparticles exhibit sustained delivery of a hydrophobic natamycin by topical administration on eye due to the hydrolysable properties of PGMA segments of micelle. Hydrolysis of glycidyl groups within a physiologically relevant environment provides an additional driving force for drug release by generation of hydrophilic hydroxyl groups to 'push' the encapsulated hydrophobic drug away from the resultant hydrophilic domains and into surrounding environment.Results: In vitro and in vivo results revealed that the self-assembled micelles and the encapsulated natamycin were not cytotoxic and the released drug have strong antifungal ability to Candida albicans. Importantly, sustained natamycin release from micelles leads to the reduced administration frequency of natamycin from 8 times per day to 3 times per day in rabbits suffering from fungal keratitis (FK).Conclusion: This study demonstrates a facile method that can greatly reduce dosing frequency of natamycin administration and thus improve long-term patient compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyuan Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Peoples Republic of China.,Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Fatemeh Karimi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Qiang Fu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,The Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater (CTWW), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Greg G Qiao
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Peoples Republic of China
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