1
|
Inácio MM, Moreira ALE, Cruz-Leite VRM, Mattos K, Silva LOS, Venturini J, Ruiz OH, Ribeiro-Dias F, Weber SS, Soares CMDA, Borges CL. Fungal Vaccine Development: State of the Art and Perspectives Using Immunoinformatics. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:633. [PMID: 37367569 DOI: 10.3390/jof9060633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections represent a serious global health problem, causing damage to health and the economy on the scale of millions. Although vaccines are the most effective therapeutic approach used to combat infectious agents, at the moment, no fungal vaccine has been approved for use in humans. However, the scientific community has been working hard to overcome this challenge. In this sense, we aim to describe here an update on the development of fungal vaccines and the progress of methodological and experimental immunotherapies against fungal infections. In addition, advances in immunoinformatic tools are described as an important aid by which to overcome the difficulty of achieving success in fungal vaccine development. In silico approaches are great options for the most important and difficult questions regarding the attainment of an efficient fungal vaccine. Here, we suggest how bioinformatic tools could contribute, considering the main challenges, to an effective fungal vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moisés Morais Inácio
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-170, Brazil
- Estácio de Goiás University Center, Goiânia 74063-010, Brazil
| | - André Luís Elias Moreira
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-170, Brazil
| | | | - Karine Mattos
- Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Lana O'Hara Souza Silva
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-170, Brazil
| | - James Venturini
- Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Orville Hernandez Ruiz
- MICROBA Research Group-Cellular and Molecular Biology Unit-CIB, School of Microbiology, University of Antioquia, Medellín 050010, Colombia
| | - Fátima Ribeiro-Dias
- Laboratório de Imunidade Natural (LIN), Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74001-970, Brazil
| | - Simone Schneider Weber
- Bioscience Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Food and Nutrition, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-170, Brazil
| | - Clayton Luiz Borges
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-170, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Unraveling the susceptibility of paracoccidioidomycosis: Insights towards the pathogen-immune interplay and immunogenetics. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2020; 86:104586. [PMID: 33039601 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2020.104586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a life-threatening systemic mycosis caused by Paracoccidioides spp. This disease comprises three clinical forms: symptomatic acute and chronic forms (PCM disease) and PCM infection, a latent form without clinical symptoms. PCM disease differs markedly according to severity, clinical manifestations, and host immune response. Fungal virulence factors and adhesion molecules are determinants for entry, latency, immune escape and invasion, and dissemination in the host. Neutrophils and macrophages play a paramount role in first-line defense against the fungus through the recognition of antigens by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), activating their microbicidal machinery. Furthermore, the clinical outcome of the PCM is strongly associated with the variability of cytokines and immunoglobulins produced by T and B cells. While the mechanisms that mediate susceptibility or resistance to infection are dictated by the immune system, some genetic factors may alter gene expression and its final products and, hence, modulate how the organism responds to infection and injury. This review outlines the main findings relative to this topic, addressing the complexity of the immune response triggered by Paracoccidioides spp. infection from preclinical investigations to studies in humans. Here, we focus on mechanisms of fungal pathogenesis, the patterns of innate and adaptive immunity, and the genetic and molecular basis related to immune response and susceptibility to the development of the PCM and its clinical forms. Immunogenetic features such as HLA system, cytokines/cytokines receptors genes and other immune-related genes, and miRNAs are likewise discussed. Finally, we point out the occurrence of PCM in patients with primary immunodeficiencies and call attention to the research gaps and challenges faced by the PCM field.
Collapse
|
3
|
Sato PK, Busser FD, Carvalho FMDC, Gomes Dos Santos A, Sadahiro A, Diogo CL, Kono ASG, Moretti ML, Luiz ODC, Shikanai-Yasuda MA. Polymorphism in the Promoter Region of the IL18 Gene and the Association With Severity on Paracoccidioidomycosis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:542210. [PMID: 33117339 PMCID: PMC7559583 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.542210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is an important endemic, systemic disease in Latin America caused by Paracoccidioides spp. This mycosis has been associated with high morbidity and sequels, and its clinical manifestations depend on the virulence of the infecting strain, the degree and type of immune response, infected tissues, and intrinsic characteristics of the host. The T helper(Th)1 and Th17/Th22 cells are related to resistance and control of infection, and a Th2/Th9 response is associated with disease susceptibility. In this study, we focused on interleukin(IL)-12p35 (IL12A), IL-18 (IL18), and IFN-γ receptor 1 (IFNGR1) genetic polymorphisms because their respective roles have been described in human PCM. Real-time PCR was employed to analyze IL12A-504 G/T (rs2243115), IL18-607 C/A (rs1946518), and IFNGR1-611 A/G (rs1327474) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP). One hundred forty-nine patients with the acute form (AF), multifocal chronic (MC), or unifocal chronic (UC) forms of PCM and 110 non-PCM individuals as a control group were included. In the unconditional logistic regression analysis adjusted by ethnicity and sex, we observed a high risk of the IL18-607 A-allele for both AF [p = 0.015; OR = 3.10 (95% CI: 1.24–7.77)] and MC groups [p = 0.023; OR = 2.61 (95% CI: 1.14–5.96)] when compared with UC. The IL18-607 A-allele associated risk for the AF and MC groups as well as the protective role of the C-allele in UC are possibly linked to higher levels of IL-18 at different periods of the course of the disease. Therefore, a novel role of IL18-607 C/A SNP is shown in the present study, highlighting its importance in the outcome of PCM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Keiko Sato
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Institute of Tropical Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Delatorre Busser
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Institute of Tropical Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Flávia Mendes da Cunha Carvalho
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexandra Gomes Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Aya Sadahiro
- Department of Parasitology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Federal University of Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Constancia Lima Diogo
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Institute of Tropical Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Luiza Moretti
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Hospital das Clínicas, State University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Olinda do Carmo Luiz
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Aparecida Shikanai-Yasuda
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Institute of Tropical Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mendes RP, Cavalcante RDS, Marques SA, Marques MEA, Venturini J, Sylvestre TF, Paniago AMM, Pereira AC, da Silva JDF, Fabro AT, Bosco SDMG, Bagagli E, Hahn RC, Levorato AD. Paracoccidioidomycosis: Current Perspectives from Brazil. Open Microbiol J 2017; 11:224-282. [PMID: 29204222 PMCID: PMC5695158 DOI: 10.2174/1874285801711010224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This review article summarizes and updates the knowledge on paracoccidioidomycosis. P lutzii and the cryptic species of P. brasiliensis and their geographical distribution in Latin America, explaining the difficulties observed in the serological diagnosis. OBJECTIVES Emphasis has been placed on some genetic factors as predisposing condition for paracoccidioidomycosis. Veterinary aspects were focused, showing the wide distribution of infection among animals. The cell-mediated immunity was better characterized, incorporating the recent findings. METHODS Serological methods for diagnosis were also compared for their parameters of accuracy, including the analysis of relapse. RESULTS Clinical forms have been better classified in order to include the pictures less frequently observesiod. CONCLUSION Itraconazole and the trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole combination was compared regarding efficacy, effectiveness and safety, demonstrating that azole should be the first choice in the treatment of paracoccidioidomycosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rinaldo Poncio Mendes
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo de Souza Cavalcante
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sílvio Alencar Marques
- Department of Dermatology, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - James Venturini
- Laboratory of Experimental Immunology, Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Fernanda Sylvestre
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anamaria Mello Miranda Paniago
- Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina – Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul – UFMS, Brazil
| | | | - Julhiany de Fátima da Silva
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Todorovic Fabro
- Unit of Experimental Research, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra de Moraes Gimenes Bosco
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology – Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Bagagli
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology – Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosane Christine Hahn
- Laboratory of Investigation and Mycology, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Faculty of Medicine Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Adriele Dandara Levorato
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Polymorphisms on IFNG, IL12B and IL12RB1 genes and paracoccidioidomycosis in the Brazilian population. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2016; 43:245-51. [PMID: 27223631 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2016.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a systemic chronic mycosis, endemic in Latin America, especially Brazil, and is the eighth leading cause of death among chronic and recurrent infectious diseases. PCM infection is characterized by the presence of Th1 immune response; the acute form, by a mixed Th2/Th9, while the chronic form is characterized by Th17/Th22 profiles. The occurrence and severity of human PCM may also be associated with genetic factors such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) on cytokines encoding genes. We investigated the association between these polymorphisms and the different clinical forms of PCM. We included 156 patients with PCM (40 with the acute form, 99 with the chronic multifocal and 17 with the chronic unifocal form) and assayed their DNA samples for IFNG +874 T/A SNP by PCR-ARMS (Amplification Refractory Mutational System), IL12B +1188 A/C SNP on 3' UTR and IL12RB1 641 A/G SNP on exon 7 by PCR-RFLP (Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism). We found similar genotypic and allelic frequencies of the investigated SNPs among the clinical forms of PCM. Considering male patients, the IL12RB1 641 AA genotype was more frequent in the chronic multifocal form while heterozygosis was in the chronic unifocal form of PCM (p=0.048). Although our data suggest that the AA genotype (IL12RB1) may be associated with the more disseminated chronic disease, more patients of the chronic unifocal PCM group need to be analyzed as well as the secretion patterns of IFN-γ combined with the IL-12Rβ1 expression for a better comprehension of this association.
Collapse
|
6
|
Bellissimo-Rodrigues F, Bollela VR, Da Fonseca BAL, Martinez R. Endemic paracoccidioidomycosis: relationship between clinical presentation and patients' demographic features. Med Mycol 2012; 51:313-8. [PMID: 22928923 DOI: 10.3109/13693786.2012.714529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a systemic fungal disease endemic to Latin America and characterized by two clinical presentations, i.e., patients develop either acute/subacute or chronic clinical manifestations. The differences in clinical presentations are mainly dependent on the host immune response, but may also be related to demographic characteristics of some patients. In this retrospective study, 1,219 PCM cases treated between 1970 and 2009 in a university medical center, located in southeastern Brazil, were analyzed according to their clinical and demographic features. The most affected anatomical sites were lungs (63.8%) and oral mucosa (50.0%), with increasing involvement of these sites in accord with the age of the patients. Generalized lymphadenopathy (28.1%) and skin lesions (29.6%) were more frequent on the first decades of life. Involvement of the larynx (16.1%), gut (7.5%), spleen (4.7%), central nervous system (3.4%), bones and joints (2.2%), and adrenal (2.1%) were also variable according to the age of the host. The acute/subacute form of the disease accounted for 26.4% of PCM cases and, on a multivariate analysis, was inversely associated with aging (OR = 0.8 per year, P < 0.001), and directly associated with female sex (OR = 7.2, P < 0.001), mixed black and white racial background (OR = 2.3, P < 0.001) or black skin color (OR = 4.6, P < 0.001). Based on these findings, we have shown that host immune response, as well as age, gender and ethnicity may influence the clinical presentation of PCM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Bellissimo-Rodrigues
- Social Medicine Department, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo University, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo State, Brazil
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
|
8
|
Sadahiro A, Roque ACM, Shikanai-Yasuda MA. Generic human leukocyte antigen class II (DRB1 and DQB1) alleles in patients with paracoccidioidomycosis. Med Mycol 2007; 45:35-40. [PMID: 17325942 DOI: 10.1080/13693780600999132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II alleles are involved in antigen processing and in the presentation of antigens to T lymphocytes. Few studies have investigated HLA genes in paracoccidioidomycosis. In the present investigation, we analyzed the distribution of the HLA class II alleles DRB1 and DQB1 in 45 healthy volunteers and in 80 patients with paracoccidioidomycosis. The patients presented with various clinical forms of the disease, and allele distribution was evaluated individually in each presentation type. In patients with the unifocal chronic form of the disease, a mild clinical presentation in which lesions are restricted or localized, the HLA allele most commonly seen was DRB1*11 (p<0.039). This suggests that the participation of HLA antigens may influence the outcome of the host-parasite interaction in paracoccidioidomycosis, regulating the immune response to Paracoccidioides brasiliensis antigens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aya Sadahiro
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Amazonas, Biological Sciences Institute, Manaus, Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Berbert ALCV, Faria GG, Gennari-Cardoso ML, Silva MMMD, Mineo JR, Loyola AM. Histological and serological evidence of experimental paracoccidioidomycosis in Calomys callosus (Rodentia: Cricetidae). Int J Exp Pathol 2006; 88:55-62. [PMID: 17244339 PMCID: PMC2517285 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2613.2006.00513.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The responses of animal experimental models related to the infectivity, virulence and pathogenicity of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis is constantly used to develop new perspectives of investigation. The rodent Calomys callosus, Rengger 1830 (Rodentia: Cricetidae) is an indigenous inhabitant of the savannah environment found in the central regions of Brazil. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the histopathological and serological features of C. callosus after inoculation with the Pb18 strain of P. brasiliensis. Furthermore, A/Sn and B10.A mice strains were also tested to compare the results obtained in C. callosus to these well-established experimental models of resistance and susceptibility respectively. In every instance, survival analysis was performed, and histopathological study of the lungs, liver and spleen was employed to investigate tissue involvement, degree of inflammation and fungal presence. Levels of antibodies to P. brasiliensis were measured by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay after 4 weeks and at the advanced stage of infection. The mortality rate was proportional to inoculation dose in all groups, but overall it was much superior in C. callosus than in the B10.A-susceptible mice. Macroscopical and microscopical pathological alterations were also more extensive and remarkable for C. callosus, once again proportional to inoculation dose, but more noticeable differences among the studied groups were found with 0.6x10(5) inoculum. In addition, the serological profile of C. callosus was similar to that found for B10.A-susceptible mice. Infection of C. callosus with 0.6x10(8) Pb18 inoculum resulted in more serious illness, and it decreased in severity in proportion to the inoculum dose. This difference was more pronounced in C. callosus, and the clinical, serological and pathological findings in this animal were more intense and precocious compared with the B10.A-susceptible mice. The present results suggest that C. callosus is a potentially alternative experimental animal model for paracoccidioidomycosis infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alceu L C V Berbert
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia (MG), Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Alves C, Vieira N, Meyer I, Alves CO, Toralles MBP, Oliveira MDFSP. Antígenos de histocompatibilidade humanos e dermatologia: da pesquisa para a prática clínica. An Bras Dermatol 2006. [DOI: 10.1590/s0365-05962006000100009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A participação do sistema de histocompatibilidade humano (HLA: human leukocyte antigens) na patogênese das doenças auto-imunes é bem conhecida. Situado no braço curto do cromossomo 6, o sistema HLA se destaca por seu polimorfismo e por sua capacidade de conferir susceptibilidade ou proteção a diferentes enfermidades. Em Dermatologia, esse sistema desempenha papel importante na patogenia e história natural de várias doenças. A força e o tipo de associação variam com a dermatose e, algumas vezes, com o grupo étnico-racial estudado. O surgimento de métodos moleculares para tipificação dos alelos HLA e as recentes atualizações de sua nomenclatura têm contribuído para o melhor entendimento desse sistema. Infelizmente, essas informações não têm sido veiculadas de maneira adequada na literatura clínica, o que dificulta o entendimento da associação do HLA com as doenças cutâneas. Nesta revisão, são discutidos alguns aspectos do sistema HLA, métodos de detecção, nomenclatura e sua associação com vitiligo, pênfigo, psoríase, lúpus eritematoso, escabiose, leishmaniose cutânea, hanseníase, paracoccidioidomicose e dermatite atópica.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Crésio Alves
- Universidade Federal da Bahia; Hospital Universitário Edgard Santos, Brasil
| | - Nara Vieira
- Escola Bahiana de Medicina e Saúde Pública, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dias MF, Pereira AC, Pereira A, Alves MS. The role of HLA antigens in the development of paracoccidioidomycosis. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2000; 14:166-71. [PMID: 11032058 DOI: 10.1046/j.1468-3083.2000.00070.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paracoccidioidomycosis is a systemic granulomatous disease that involves primarily the lungs and may disseminate to other organs and systems. It is caused by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, a fungus that exhibits reversible thermal dimorphism and whose natural habitat is presently unknown. There are two main clinical forms: the acute (subacute) juvenile form and the chronic adult form. The former runs a more rapid course and is more severe than the latter. This mycosis is found throughout Latin America. Brazil accounts for 80% of reported cases. Presumably P. brasiliensis thrives in humid and hot places, especially near forests or farms. The infection is endemic in certain areas, especially in Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela, where nearly 100% of the population show cutaneous paracoccidioidina positive skin tests, indicating previous contact with the fungus, although a small percentage show clinical manifestations of the disease. METHODS We compared the expression of HLA class I antigens in a healthy group (control) and in a group of patients with paracoccidioidomycosis (chronic adult form) using the Terasaki lymphocytotoxicity test modified by Amos for HLA antigen analysis. AIMS To discover indications of whether or not individual susceptibility to P. brasiliensis might depend on some specific immunological defect. RESULTS There is no evidence of association between a specific HLA antigen and paracoccidioidomycosis in the subjects studied. Further investigations are recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M F Dias
- Depto de Dermatologia, Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Balarin MA, Freire-Maia DV. [The association between glyoxalase I and paracoccidioidomycosis infection]. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 1993; 26:141-3. [PMID: 8146387 DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86821993000300002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
With the purpose to study the genetic susceptibility to paracoccidioidomycosis infection we searched for a possible association between glyoxalase I and the intradermic paracoccidioidin reaction. The phenotype GLO 1 was significantly more frequent among positive reactors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Balarin
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Medicina do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brasil
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
This review summarizes knowledge on various aspects of paracoccidioidomycosis. Mycelial propagules, chlamydospores, and arthroconidia exhibit thermal dimorphism; arthroconidia are infectious in animals and, by electron microscopy, appear well provided for survival. The mycelial-to-yeast-phase transformation requires a strict control of glucan synthesis probably mediated by membrane enzymes. Hormonal influences on the transformation of the fungus (mycelium or conidium to yeast phase) have been demonstrated. Estrogen-binding proteins have been detected in the fungal cytosol, and during the transformation novel proteins are produced as a result of estradiol incorporation. Clinical forms have been better defined on the basis of better experimental models. Emphasis has been placed on the lungs as the portal of entry and on the existence of silent pulmonary infections. A specific Paracoccidioides brasiliensis antigen, the 43-kDa glycoprotein (Gp43), has been identified, characterized, and cloned. This has led to improved reproducibility and specificity of serologic tests. The depression of cell-mediated immune responses has been associated with severe disease in humans and in the experimental host. T-cell subsets in patients' tissues were characterized by means of monoclonal antibodies, and a reduced CD4/CD8 ratio was demonstrated. This has been related to alterations in lymphokine and tumor necrosis factor production, production of antigen-antibody complexes, etc. Amphotericin B has provided effective therapy. Azole derivatives have also improved prognosis and facilitated therapy. Itraconazole is presently the drug of choice, yet incapacitating sequelae (mainly pulmonary fibrosis) still constitute major problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Brummer
- Department of Medicine, California Institute for Medical Research, Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, San Jose 95128
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
|