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Li X, Feng R, Luo P, Zhang Y, Lu L. Synergistic effects of putative Ca 2+-binding sites of calmodulin in fungal development, temperature stress and virulence of Aspergillus fumigatus. Virulence 2024; 15:2290757. [PMID: 38085844 PMCID: PMC10761034 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2290757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In pathogenic fungi, calcium-calmodulin-dependent serine-threonine-specific phosphatase calcineurin is involved in morphogenesis and virulence. Therefore, calcineurin and its tightly related protein complexes are attractive antifungal drug targets. However, there is limited knowledge available on the relationship between in vivo Ca2+-binding sites of calmodulin (CaM) and its functions in regulating stress responses, morphogenesis, and pathogenesis. In the current study, we demonstrated that calmodulin is required for hyphal growth, conidiation, and virulence in the human fungal pathogen, Aspergillus fumigatus. Site-directed mutations of calmodulin revealed that a single Ca2+-binding site mutation had no significant effect on A. fumigatus hyphal development, but multiple Ca2+-binding site mutations exhibited synergistic effects, especially when cultured at 42 °C, indicating that calmodulin function in response to temperature stress depends on its Ca2+-binding sites. Western blotting implied that mutations in Ca2+-binding sites caused highly degraded calmodulin fragments, suggesting that the loss of Ca2+-binding sites results in reduced protein stability. Moreover, normal intracellular calcium homeostasis and the nuclear translocation of the transcriptional factor CrzA are dependent on Ca2+-binding sites of AfCaM, demonstrating that Ca2+-binding sites of calmodulin are required for calcium signalling and its major transcription factor CrzA. Importantly, in situ mutations for four Ca2+-binding sites of calmodulin resulted in an almost complete loss of virulence in the Galleria mellonella wax moth model. This study shed more light on the functional characterization of putative calcium-binding sites of calmodulin in the morphogenesis and virulence of A. fumigatus, which enhances our understanding of calmodulin biological functions in cells of opportunistic fungal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyue Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruoyun Feng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Pan Luo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanwei Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
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2
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Cacciotti A, Beccaccioli M, Reverberi M. The CRZ1 transcription factor in plant fungi: regulation mechanism and impact on pathogenesis. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:647. [PMID: 38727981 PMCID: PMC11087348 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09593-4] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Calcium (Ca2+) is a universal signaling molecule that is tightly regulated, and a fleeting elevation in cytosolic concentration triggers a signal cascade within the cell, which is crucial for several processes such as growth, tolerance to stress conditions, and virulence in fungi. The link between calcium and calcium-dependent gene regulation in cells relies on the transcription factor Calcineurin-Responsive Zinc finger 1 (CRZ1). The direct regulation of approximately 300 genes in different stress pathways makes it a hot topic in host-pathogen interactions. Notably, CRZ1 can modulate several pathways and orchestrate cellular responses to different types of environmental insults such as osmotic stress, oxidative stress, and membrane disruptors. It is our belief that CRZ1 provides the means for tightly modulating and synchronizing several pathways allowing pathogenic fungi to install into the apoplast and eventually penetrate plant cells (i.e., ROS, antimicrobials, and quick pH variation). This review discusses the structure, function, regulation of CRZ1 in fungal physiology and its role in plant pathogen virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cacciotti
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M Beccaccioli
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - M Reverberi
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Hoenigl M, Arastehfar A, Arendrup MC, Brüggemann R, Carvalho A, Chiller T, Chen S, Egger M, Feys S, Gangneux JP, Gold JAW, Groll AH, Heylen J, Jenks JD, Krause R, Lagrou K, Lamoth F, Prattes J, Sedik S, Wauters J, Wiederhold NP, Thompson GR. Novel antifungals and treatment approaches to tackle resistance and improve outcomes of invasive fungal disease. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024:e0007423. [PMID: 38602408 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00074-23] [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: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYFungal infections are on the rise, driven by a growing population at risk and climate change. Currently available antifungals include only five classes, and their utility and efficacy in antifungal treatment are limited by one or more of innate or acquired resistance in some fungi, poor penetration into "sequestered" sites, and agent-specific side effect which require frequent patient reassessment and monitoring. Agents with novel mechanisms, favorable pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles including good oral bioavailability, and fungicidal mechanism(s) are urgently needed. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of novel antifungal agents, with both improved known mechanisms of actions and new antifungal classes, currently in clinical development for treating invasive yeast, mold (filamentous fungi), Pneumocystis jirovecii infections, and dimorphic fungi (endemic mycoses). We further focus on inhaled antifungals and the role of immunotherapy in tackling fungal infections, and the specific PK/pharmacodynamic profiles, tissue distributions as well as drug-drug interactions of novel antifungals. Finally, we review antifungal resistance mechanisms, the role of use of antifungal pesticides in agriculture as drivers of drug resistance, and detail detection methods for antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hoenigl
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BiotechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Amir Arastehfar
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maiken Cavling Arendrup
- Unit of Mycology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Roger Brüggemann
- Department of Pharmacy and Radboudumc Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboudumc-CWZ Center of Expertise in Mycology, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Tom Chiller
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sharon Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, NSW South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthias Egger
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Simon Feys
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jean-Pierre Gangneux
- Centre National de Référence des Mycoses et Antifongiques LA-AspC Aspergilloses chroniques, European Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM EC), Centre hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Jeremy A W Gold
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Andreas H Groll
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Infectious Disease Research Program, Center for Bone Marrow Transplantation, University Children's Hospital, Muenster, Germany
| | - Jannes Heylen
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeffrey D Jenks
- Department of Public Health, Durham County, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robert Krause
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BiotechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Katrien Lagrou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and National Reference Center for Mycosis, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Lamoth
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Institute of Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Service, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Juergen Prattes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BiotechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Sarah Sedik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Joost Wauters
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nathan P Wiederhold
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - George R Thompson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases University of California-Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, USA
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Puumala E, Fallah S, Robbins N, Cowen LE. Advancements and challenges in antifungal therapeutic development. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0014223. [PMID: 38294218 PMCID: PMC10938895 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00142-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Over recent decades, the global burden of fungal disease has expanded dramatically. It is estimated that fungal disease kills approximately 1.5 million individuals annually; however, the true worldwide burden of fungal infection is thought to be higher due to existing gaps in diagnostics and clinical understanding of mycotic disease. The development of resistance to antifungals across diverse pathogenic fungal genera is an increasingly common and devastating phenomenon due to the dearth of available antifungal classes. These factors necessitate a coordinated response by researchers, clinicians, public health agencies, and the pharmaceutical industry to develop new antifungal strategies, as the burden of fungal disease continues to grow. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the new antifungal therapeutics currently in clinical trials, highlighting their spectra of activity and progress toward clinical implementation. We also profile up-and-coming intracellular proteins and pathways primed for the development of novel antifungals targeting their activity. Ultimately, we aim to emphasize the importance of increased investment into antifungal therapeutics in the current continually evolving landscape of infectious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Puumala
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sara Fallah
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leah E. Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Fernández-Ruiz M. Pharmacological management of invasive mold infections in solid organ transplant recipients. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:239-254. [PMID: 38436619 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2326507] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients face an increased susceptibility to invasive fungal infection (IFI) due to filamentous fungi. Post-transplant invasive aspergillosis (IA) and mucormycosis are related to exceedingly high mortality rates and graft loss risk, and its management involve a unique range of clinical challenges. AREAS COVERED First, the current treatment recommendations for IA and mucormycosis among SOT recipients are critically reviewed, including the supporting evidence. Next, we discussed particular concerns in this patient population, such as drug-drug interactions (DDIs) between triazoles and post-transplant immunosuppression or treatment-related toxicity. The role for immunomodulatory and host-targeted therapies is also considered, as well as the theoretical impact of the intrinsic antifungal activity of calcineurin inhibitors. Finally, a personal opinion is made on future directions in the pharmacological approach to post-transplant IFI. EXPERT OPINION Despite relevant advances in the treatment of mold IFIs in the SOT setting, such as the incorporation of isavuconazole (with lower incidence of DDIs and better tolerability than voriconazole), there remains a large room for improvement in areas such as the position of combination therapy or the optimal strategy for the reduction of baseline immunosuppression. Importantly, future studies should define the specific contribution of newer antifungal agents and classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Fernández-Ruiz
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario "12 de Octubre", Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital "12 de Octubre" (imas12), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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6
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Pavesic MW, Gale AN, Nickels TJ, Harrington AA, Bussey M, Cunningham KW. Calcineurin-dependent contributions to fitness in the opportunistic pathogen Candida glabrata. mSphere 2024; 9:e0055423. [PMID: 38171022 PMCID: PMC10826367 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00554-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The protein phosphatase calcineurin is vital for the virulence of the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida glabrata. The host-induced stresses that activate calcineurin signaling are unknown, as are the targets of calcineurin relevant to virulence. To potentially shed light on these processes, millions of transposon insertion mutants throughout the genome of C. glabrata were profiled en masse for fitness defects in the presence of FK506, a specific inhibitor of calcineurin. Eighty-seven specific gene deficiencies depended on calcineurin signaling for full viability in vitro both in wild-type and pdr1∆ null strains lacking pleiotropic drug resistance. Three genes involved in cell wall biosynthesis (FKS1, DCW1, FLC1) possess co-essential paralogs whose expression depended on calcineurin and Crz1 in response to micafungin, a clinical antifungal that interferes with cell wall biogenesis. Interestingly, 80% of the FK506-sensitive mutants were deficient in different aspects of vesicular trafficking, such as endocytosis, exocytosis, sorting, and biogenesis of secretory proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In response to the experimental antifungal manogepix that blocks GPI-anchor biosynthesis in the ER, calcineurin signaling increased and strongly prevented cell death independent of Crz1, one of its major targets. Comparisons between manogepix, micafungin, and the ER-stressing tunicamycin reveal a correlation between the degree of calcineurin signaling and the degree of cell survival. These findings suggest that calcineurin plays major roles in mitigating stresses of vesicular trafficking. Such stresses may arise during host infection and in response to antifungal therapies.IMPORTANCECalcineurin plays critical roles in the virulence of most pathogenic fungi. This study sheds light on those roles in the opportunistic pathogen Candida glabrata using a genome-wide analysis in vitro. The findings could lead to antifungal developments that also avoid immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew W. Pavesic
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrew N. Gale
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Timothy J. Nickels
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Maya Bussey
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kyle W. Cunningham
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Adejor J, Tumukunde E, Li G, Lin H, Xie R, Wang S. Impact of Lysine Succinylation on the Biology of Fungi. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:1020-1046. [PMID: 38392183 PMCID: PMC10888112 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46020065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications (PTMs) play a crucial role in protein functionality and the control of various cellular processes and secondary metabolites (SMs) in fungi. Lysine succinylation (Ksuc) is an emerging protein PTM characterized by the addition of a succinyl group to a lysine residue, which induces substantial alteration in the chemical and structural properties of the affected protein. This chemical alteration is reversible, dynamic in nature, and evolutionarily conserved. Recent investigations of numerous proteins that undergo significant succinylation have underscored the potential significance of Ksuc in various biological processes, encompassing normal physiological functions and the development of certain pathological processes and metabolites. This review aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying Ksuc and its diverse functions in fungi. Both conventional investigation techniques and predictive tools for identifying Ksuc sites were also considered. A more profound comprehension of Ksuc and its impact on the biology of fungi have the potential to unveil new insights into post-translational modification and may pave the way for innovative approaches that can be applied across various clinical contexts in the management of mycotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Adejor
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Elisabeth Tumukunde
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Guoqi Li
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Hong Lin
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Rui Xie
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Shihua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology of Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
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8
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Thakur R, Shishodia SK, Sharma A, Chauhan A, Kaur S, Shankar J. Accelerating the understanding of Aspergillus terreus: Epidemiology, physiology, immunology and advances. CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2024; 6:100220. [PMID: 38303967 PMCID: PMC10831165 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2024.100220] [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] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus species encompass a variety of infections, ranging from invasive aspergillosis to allergic conditions, contingent upon the immune status of the host. In this spectrum, Aspergillus terreus stands out due to its emergence as a notable pathogen and its intrinsic resistance to amphotericin-B. The significance of Aspergillus-associated infections has witnessed a marked increase in the past few decades, particularly with the increasing number of immunocompromised individuals. The exploration of epidemiology, morphological transitions, immunopathology, and novel treatment approaches such as new antifungal drugs (PC945, olorofim) and combinational therapy using antifungal drugs and phytochemicals (Phytochemicals: quercetin, shikonin, artemisinin), also using immunotherapies to modulate immune response has resulted in better outcomes. Furthermore, in the context COVID-19 era and its aftermath, fungal infections have emerged as a substantial challenge for both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals. This is attributed to the use of immune-suppressing therapies during COVID-19 infections and the increase in transplant cases. Consequently, this review aims to provide an updated overview encompassing the epidemiology, germination events, immunopathology, and novel drug treatment strategies against Aspergillus terreus-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raman Thakur
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | | | - Ananya Sharma
- Genomic Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Arjun Chauhan
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Applied Sciences and Humanities, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sumanpreet Kaur
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Jata Shankar
- Genomic Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
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Lim SJ, Muhd Noor ND, Sabri S, Mohamad Ali MS, Salleh AB, Oslan SN. Bibliometric analysis and thematic review of Candida pathogenesis: Fundamental omics to applications as potential antifungal drugs and vaccines. Med Mycol 2024; 62:myad126. [PMID: 38061839 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad126] [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: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Invasive candidiasis caused by the pathogenic Candida yeast species has resulted in elevating global mortality. The pathogenicity of Candida spp. is not only originated from its primary invasive yeast-to-hyphal transition; virulence factors (transcription factors, adhesins, invasins, and enzymes), biofilm, antifungal drug resistance, stress tolerance, and metabolic adaptation have also contributed to a greater clinical burden. However, the current research theme in fungal pathogenicity could hardly be delineated with the increasing research output. Therefore, our study analysed the research trends in Candida pathogenesis over the past 37 years via a bibliometric approach against the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Based on the 3993 unique documents retrieved, significant international collaborations among researchers were observed, especially between Germany (Bernhard Hube) and the UK (Julian Naglik), whose focuses are on Candida proteinases, adhesins, and candidalysin. The prominent researchers (Neils Gow, Alistair Brown, and Frank Odds) at the University of Exeter and the University of Aberdeen (second top performing affiliation) UK contribute significantly to the mechanisms of Candida adaptation, tolerance, and stress response. However, the science mapping of co-citation analysis performed herein could not identify a hub representative of subsequent work since the clusters were semi-redundant. The co-word analysis that was otherwise adopted, revealed three research clusters; the cluster-based thematic analyses indicated the severeness of Candida biofilm and antifungal resistance as well as the elevating trend on molecular mechanism elucidation for drug screening and repurposing. Importantly, the in vivo pathogen adaptation and interactions with hosts are crucial for potential vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Jie Lim
- Enzyme Technology and X-ray Crystallography Laboratory, VacBio 5, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Noor Dina Muhd Noor
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Suriana Sabri
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Shukuri Mohamad Ali
- Enzyme Technology and X-ray Crystallography Laboratory, VacBio 5, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abu Bakar Salleh
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Siti Nurbaya Oslan
- Enzyme Technology and X-ray Crystallography Laboratory, VacBio 5, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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Lefranc M, Accoceberry I, Fitton-Ouhabi V, Biteau N, Noël T. Rapamycin and caspofungin show synergistic antifungal effects in caspofungin-susceptible and caspofungin-resistant Candida strains in vitro. J Antimicrob Chemother 2024; 79:151-156. [PMID: 37991226 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkad359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Caspofungin is an echinocandin antifungal agent that inhibits synthesis of glucan required for the fungal cell wall. Resistance is mediated by mutation of Fks1 glucan synthase, among which S645P is the most common resistance-associated polymorphism. Rapamycin is a macrolide that inhibits the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) protein kinase activity. This study investigated the interaction between rapamycin and caspofungin in inhibiting the growth of WT Candida albicans and Fks1 S645P mutant clinical isolate, and WT Candida lusitaniae and genetically engineered isogenic strain with Fks1 S645P mutation at equivalent position. METHODS Interactions between caspofungin and rapamycin were evaluated using the microdilution chequerboard method in liquid medium. The results were analysed using the Loewe additivity model (FIC index, FICI) and the Bliss independence model (response surface, RS, analysis). RESULTS Synergy between rapamycin and caspofungin was shown for C. albicans and C. lusitaniae strains by RS analysis of the chequerboard tests. Synergy was observed in strains susceptible and resistant to caspofungin. Weak subinhibitory concentrations of rapamycin were sufficient to restore caspofungin susceptibility. CONCLUSIONS We report here, for the first time, synergy between caspofungin and rapamycin in Candida species. Synergy was shown for strains susceptible and resistant to caspofungin. This study highlights the possible implication of the TOR pathway in sensing antifungal-mediated cell wall stress and in modulating the cellular response to echinocandins in Candida yeasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Lefranc
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, UMR 5234, 33000 Bordeaux, France
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, UMR 5234, CHU Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Isabelle Accoceberry
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, UMR 5234, 33000 Bordeaux, France
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, UMR 5234, CHU Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Valérie Fitton-Ouhabi
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, UMR 5234, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Nicolas Biteau
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, UMR 5234, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Thierry Noël
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, UMR 5234, 33000 Bordeaux, France
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11
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Alabi PE, Gautier C, Murphy TP, Gu X, Lepas M, Aimanianda V, Sello JK, Ene IV. Small molecules restore azole activity against drug-tolerant and drug-resistant Candida isolates. mBio 2023; 14:e0047923. [PMID: 37326546 PMCID: PMC10470600 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00479-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Each year, fungi cause more than 1.5 billion infections worldwide and have a devastating impact on human health, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or patients in intensive care units. The limited antifungal arsenal and emerging multidrug-resistant species necessitate the development of new therapies. One strategy for combating drug-resistant pathogens is the administration of molecules that restore fungal susceptibility to approved drugs. Accordingly, we carried out a screen to identify small molecules that could restore the susceptibility of pathogenic Candida species to azole antifungals. This screening effort led to the discovery of novel 1,4-benzodiazepines that restore fluconazole susceptibility in resistant isolates of Candida albicans, as evidenced by 100-1,000-fold potentiation of fluconazole activity. This potentiation effect was also observed in azole-tolerant strains of C. albicans and in other pathogenic Candida species. The 1,4-benzodiazepines selectively potentiated different azoles, but not other approved antifungals. A remarkable feature of the potentiation was that the combination of the compounds with fluconazole was fungicidal, whereas fluconazole alone is fungistatic. Interestingly, the potentiators were not toxic to C. albicans in the absence of fluconazole, but inhibited virulence-associated filamentation of the fungus. We found that the combination of the potentiators and fluconazole significantly enhanced host survival in a Galleria mellonella model of systemic fungal infection. Taken together, these observations validate a strategy wherein small molecules can restore the activity of highly used anti-infectives that have lost potency. IMPORTANCE In the last decade, we have been witnessing a higher incidence of fungal infections, due to an expansion of the fungal species capable of causing disease (e.g., Candida auris), as well as increased antifungal drug resistance. Among human fungal pathogens, Candida species are a leading cause of invasive infections and are associated with high mortality rates. Infections by these pathogens are commonly treated with azole antifungals, yet the expansion of drug-resistant isolates has reduced their clinical utility. In this work, we describe the discovery and characterization of small molecules that potentiate fluconazole and restore the susceptibility of azole-resistant and azole-tolerant Candida isolates. Interestingly, the potentiating 1,4-benzodiazepines were not toxic to fungal cells but inhibited their virulence-associated filamentous growth. Furthermore, combinations of the potentiators and fluconazole decreased fungal burdens and enhanced host survival in a Galleria mellonella model of systemic fungal infections. Accordingly, we propose the use of novel antifungal potentiators as a powerful strategy for addressing the growing resistance of fungi to clinically approved drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip E. Alabi
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Cécile Gautier
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Fungal Heterogeneity Group, Paris, France
| | - Thomas P. Murphy
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Xilin Gu
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mathieu Lepas
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR2000, Molecular Mycology Unit, Paris, France
| | - Vishukumar Aimanianda
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR2000, Molecular Mycology Unit, Paris, France
| | - Jason K. Sello
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Iuliana V. Ene
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Fungal Heterogeneity Group, Paris, France
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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12
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Kumar R, Srivastava V. Application of anti-fungal vaccines as a tool against emerging anti-fungal resistance. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2023; 4:1241539. [PMID: 37746132 PMCID: PMC10512234 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2023.1241539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
After viruses and bacteria, fungal infections remain a serious threat to the survival and well-being of society. The continuous emergence of resistance against commonly used anti-fungal drugs is a serious concern. The eukaryotic nature of fungal cells makes the identification of novel anti-fungal agents slow and difficult. Increasing global temperature and a humid environment conducive to fungal growth may lead to a fungal endemic or a pandemic. The continuous increase in the population of immunocompromised individuals and falling immunity forced pharmaceutical companies to look for alternative strategies for better managing the global fungal burden. Prevention of infectious diseases by vaccines can be the right choice. Recent success and safe application of mRNA-based vaccines can play a crucial role in our quest to overcome anti-fungal resistance. Expressing fungal cell surface proteins in human subjects using mRNA technology may be sufficient to raise immune response to protect against future fungal infection. The success of mRNA-based anti-fungal vaccines will heavily depend on the identification of fungal surface proteins which are highly immunogenic and have no or least side effects in human subjects. The present review discusses why it is essential to look for anti-fungal vaccines and how vaccines, in general, and mRNA-based vaccines, in particular, can be the right choice in tackling the problem of rising anti-fungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravinder Kumar
- Department of Pathology, Collage of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Vartika Srivastava
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
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13
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Cho O, Takada S, Odaka T, Futamura S, Kurakado S, Sugita T. Tacrolimus (FK506) Exhibits Fungicidal Effects against Candida parapsilosis Sensu Stricto via Inducing Apoptosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:778. [PMID: 37504766 PMCID: PMC10381508 DOI: 10.3390/jof9070778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tacrolimus (FK506), an immunosuppressant and calcineurin inhibitor, has fungicidal effects. However, its fungicidal effect is thought to be limited to basidiomycetes, such as Cryptococcus and Malassezia, and not to ascomycetes. FK506 had no fungicidal effect on Candida albicans, C. auris, C. glabrata, C. guilliermondii, C. kefyr, C. krusei, and C. tropicalis (>8 µg/mL); however, C. parapsilosis was susceptible to it at low concentrations of 0.125-0.5 µg/mL. C. metapsilosis and C. orthopsils, previously classified as C. parapsilosis, are molecularly and phylogenetically closely related to C. parapsilosis, but neither species was sensitive to FK506. FK506 increased the mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production and cytoplasmic and mitochondrial calcium concentration and activated metacaspases, nuclear condensation, and DNA fragmentation, suggesting that it induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in C. parapsilosis. Elucidating why FK506 exhibits fungicidal activity only against C. parapsilosis will provide new information for developing novel antifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otomi Cho
- Department of Microbiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Noshio, Kiyose 204-8588, Japan
| | - Shintaro Takada
- Department of Microbiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Noshio, Kiyose 204-8588, Japan
| | - Takahiro Odaka
- Department of Microbiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Noshio, Kiyose 204-8588, Japan
| | - Satoshi Futamura
- Department of Microbiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Noshio, Kiyose 204-8588, Japan
| | - Sanae Kurakado
- Department of Microbiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Noshio, Kiyose 204-8588, Japan
| | - Takashi Sugita
- Department of Microbiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Noshio, Kiyose 204-8588, Japan
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14
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Yadav
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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15
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Shenoy M, Poojari S, Rengasamy M, Vedmurthy M, Barua S, Dhoot D, Barkate H. Management of Dermatophytosis: Real-World Indian Perspective. Indian Dermatol Online J 2023; 14:347-356. [PMID: 37266073 PMCID: PMC10231727 DOI: 10.4103/idoj.idoj_643_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In spite of the availability of multiple consensus statements on dermatophytosis management, different treatment approaches have been experienced in India and require more scrutiny to further update guidelines and improve patient care. Aim To determine the different approaches in dermatophytosis diagnosis and management among dermatologists in India. Materials and Methods A web-based questionnaire was created and validated by five panelists with experience of >15 years in dermatophytosis and then circulated to about 2,000 dermatologists in India in September 2021 for a real-world management scenario. Results Out of 2,000 dermatologists, 459 responded. About half of the dermatologists (51%) routinely conduct potassium hydroxide mount (KOH) at the initiation of therapy. Similarly, about 53% of dermatologists initiate the management of dermatophytosis with combination therapy in all types of dermatophytosis for 4-6 weeks depending upon severity. Different types of combinations are being practiced, such as either two systemic and one topical, two topicals and one systemic, but the combination of one systemic and one topical (69%) is the most commonly practiced. Itraconazole (100 mg twice a day) and luliconazole are the most commonly prescribed antifungal medications. In case of non-response to routine dose of systemic anti-fungals, about 72% of dermatologists up dose them. Most of them continue these drugs for additional 1-2 weeks after clearance of the disease. Additionally, keratolytics and moisturizers are commonly prescribed. Additionally, 62% advise liver function tests (LFTs) at the initiation of therapy, whereas 72% advise monitoring adverse effects due to systemic antifungal drugs during treatment. Conclusion Combination therapy stood out as the need of the hour in the current menace of dermatophytosis with timely monitoring of laboratory tests for adverse events due to the use of systemic antifungals for a longer duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjunath Shenoy
- Department of Dermatology, Yenepoya Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Shital Poojari
- Department of Dermatology, K J Somaiya Medical College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Madhu Rengasamy
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Leprosy, Madras Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Maya Vedmurthy
- Consultant Dermatologist, Apollo Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Shyamanta Barua
- Department of Dermatology, Assam Medical College and Hospital, Dibrugarh, Assam, India
| | - Dhiraj Dhoot
- Department of Global Medical Affairs, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Hanmant Barkate
- Department of Global Medical Affairs, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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16
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de Andrade IB, Corrêa-Junior D, Alves V, Figueiredo-Carvalho MHG, Santos MV, Almeida MA, Valdez AF, Nimrichter L, Almeida-Paes R, Frases S. Cyclosporine Affects the Main Virulence Factors of Cryptococcus neoformans In Vitro. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9040487. [PMID: 37108941 PMCID: PMC10140927 DOI: 10.3390/jof9040487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of cyclosporine on the morphology, cell wall structure, and secretion characteristics of Cryptococcus neoformans. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of cyclosporine was found to be 2 µM (2.4 µg/mL) for the H99 strain. Yeast cells treated with cyclosporine at half the MIC showed altered morphology, including irregular shapes and elongated projections, without an effect on cell metabolism. Cyclosporine treatment resulted in an 18-fold increase in chitin and an 8-fold increase in lipid bodies, demonstrating changes in the fungal cell wall structure. Cyclosporine also reduced cell body and polysaccharide capsule diameters, with a significant reduction in urease secretion in C. neoformans cultures. Additionally, the study showed that cyclosporine increased the viscosity of secreted polysaccharides and reduced the electronegativity and conductance of cells. The findings suggest that cyclosporine has significant effects on C. neoformans morphology, cell wall structure, and secretion, which could have implications for the development of new antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iara Bastos de Andrade
- Laboratório de Biofísica de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Dario Corrêa-Junior
- Laboratório de Biofísica de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Vinicius Alves
- Laboratório de Biofísica de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | | | - Marcos Vinicius Santos
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Marcos Abreu Almeida
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Alessandro Fernandes Valdez
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Nimrichter
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Rede Micologia RJ, FAPERJ, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Almeida-Paes
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Rede Micologia RJ, FAPERJ, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Susana Frases
- Laboratório de Biofísica de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Rede Micologia RJ, FAPERJ, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
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17
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Santos AL, Beckham JL, Liu D, Li G, van Venrooy A, Oliver A, Tegos GP, Tour JM. Visible-Light-Activated Molecular Machines Kill Fungi by Necrosis Following Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Calcium Overload. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2205781. [PMID: 36715588 PMCID: PMC10074111 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202205781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are a growing public health threat. As fungi become increasingly resistant to existing drugs, new antifungals are urgently needed. Here, it is reported that 405-nm-visible-light-activated synthetic molecular machines (MMs) eliminate planktonic and biofilm fungal populations more effectively than conventional antifungals without resistance development. Mechanism-of-action studies show that MMs bind to fungal mitochondrial phospholipids. Upon visible light activation, rapid unidirectional drilling of MMs at ≈3 million cycles per second (MHz) results in mitochondrial dysfunction, calcium overload, and ultimately necrosis. Besides their direct antifungal effect, MMs synergize with conventional antifungals by impairing the activity of energy-dependent efflux pumps. Finally, MMs potentiate standard antifungals both in vivo and in an ex vivo porcine model of onychomycosis, reducing the fungal burden associated with infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana L. Santos
- Department of ChemistryRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
- IdISBA – Fundación de Investigación Sanitaria de las Islas BalearesPalma07120Spain
| | | | - Dongdong Liu
- Department of ChemistryRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
| | - Gang Li
- Department of ChemistryRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
| | | | - Antonio Oliver
- IdISBA – Fundación de Investigación Sanitaria de las Islas BalearesPalma07120Spain
- Servicio de MicrobiologiaHospital Universitari Son EspasesPalma07120Spain
| | - George P. Tegos
- Office of ResearchReading HospitalTower Health, 420 S. Fifth AvenueWest ReadingPA19611USA
| | - James M. Tour
- Department of ChemistryRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
- Smalley‐Curl InstituteRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
- Department of Materials Science and NanoEngineeringRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
- NanoCarbon Center and the Welch Institute for Advanced MaterialsRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
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18
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Druseikis M, Mottola A, Berman J. The Metabolism of Susceptibility: Clearing the FoG Between Tolerance and Resistance in Candida albicans. CURRENT CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2023; 10:36-46. [DOI: 10.1007/s40588-023-00189-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
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19
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Itani A, Masuo S, Yamamoto R, Serizawa T, Fukasawa Y, Takaya N, Toyota M, Betsuyaku S, Takeshita N. Local calcium signal transmission in mycelial network exhibits decentralized stress responses. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad012. [PMID: 36896124 PMCID: PMC9991499 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Many fungi live as mycelia, which are networks of hyphae. Mycelial networks are suited for the widespread distribution of nutrients and water. The logistical capabilities are critical for the extension of fungal survival areas, nutrient cycling in ecosystems, mycorrhizal symbioses, and virulence. In addition, signal transduction in mycelial networks is predicted to be vital for mycelial function and robustness. A lot of cell biological studies have elucidated protein and membrane trafficking and signal transduction in fungal hyphae; however, there are no reports visualizing signal transduction in mycelia. This paper, by using the fluorescent Ca2+ biosensor, visualized for the first time how calcium signaling is conducted inside the mycelial network in response to localized stimuli in the model fungus Aspergillus nidulans. The wavy propagation of the calcium signal inside the mycelium or the signal blinking in the hyphae varies depending on the type of stress and proximity to the stress. The signals, however, only extended around 1,500 μm, suggesting that the mycelium has a localized response. The mycelium showed growth delay only in the stressed areas. Local stress caused arrest and resumption of mycelial growth through reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and membrane trafficking. To elucidate the downstream of calcium signaling, calmodulin, and calmodulin-dependent protein kinases, the principal intracellular Ca2+ receptors were immunoprecipitated and their downstream targets were identified by mass spectrometry analyses. Our data provide evidence that the mycelial network, which lacks a brain or nervous system, exhibits decentralized response through locally activated calcium signaling in response to local stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayaka Itani
- Microbiology Research Center for Sustainability (MiCS), Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8572, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Masuo
- Microbiology Research Center for Sustainability (MiCS), Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8572, Japan
| | - Riho Yamamoto
- Microbiology Research Center for Sustainability (MiCS), Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8572, Japan
| | - Tomoko Serizawa
- Microbiology Research Center for Sustainability (MiCS), Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8572, Japan
| | - Yu Fukasawa
- Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 232-3 Yomogida, Naruko, Osaki, Miyagi, 989-6711, Japan
| | - Naoki Takaya
- Microbiology Research Center for Sustainability (MiCS), Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8572, Japan
| | - Masatsugu Toyota
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saitama University, 255 Shimo-Okubo, Sakura-ku, Saitama, 338-8570, Japan.,Suntory Rising Stars Encouragement Program in Life Sciences (SunRiSE), Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Botany, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 430 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Shigeyuki Betsuyaku
- Department of Plant Life Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ryukoku University, 1-5 Yokotani, Seta Oe-cho, Otsu, Shiga, 520-2194Japan
| | - Norio Takeshita
- Microbiology Research Center for Sustainability (MiCS), Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8572, Japan
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20
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Kurakado S, Matsumoto Y, Yamada T, Shimizu K, Wakasa S, Sugita T. Tacrolimus inhibits stress responses and hyphal formation via the calcineurin signaling pathway in Trichosporon asahii. Microbiol Immunol 2023; 67:49-57. [PMID: 36398783 DOI: 10.1111/1348-0421.13039] [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: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenic fungus Trichosporon asahii causes fatal deep-seated mycosis in immunocompromised patients. Calcineurin, which is widely conserved in eukaryotes, regulates cell growth and various stress responses in fungi. Tacrolimus (FK506), a calcineurin inhibitor, induces sensitivity to compounds that cause stress on the cell membrane and cell wall integrity. In this study, we demonstrated that FK506 affects stress responses and hyphal formation in T. asahii. In silico structural analysis revealed that amino acid residues in the binding site of the calcineurin-FKBP12 complex that interact with FK506 are conserved in T. asahii. The growth of T. asahii was delayed by FK506 in the presence of SDS or Congo red but not in the presence of calcium chloride. FK506 also inhibited hyphal formation in T. asahii. A mutant deficient of the cnb gene, which encodes the regulatory subunit B of calcineurin, exhibited stress sensitivities on exposure to SDS and Congo red and reduced the hyphal forming ability of T. asahii. In the cnb-deficient mutant, FK506 did not increase the stress sensitivity or reduce hyphal forming ability. These results suggest that FK506 affects stress responses and hyphal formation in T. asahii via the calcineurin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanae Kurakado
- Department of Microbiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Matsumoto
- Department of Microbiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Yamada
- Teikyo University Institute of Medical Mycology, Tokyo, Japan.,Asia International Institute of Infectious Disease Control, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiminori Shimizu
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan.,Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shogo Wakasa
- Department of Microbiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Sugita
- Department of Microbiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo, Japan
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21
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Brauer VS, Pessoni AM, Freitas MS, Cavalcanti-Neto MP, Ries LNA, Almeida F. Chitin Biosynthesis in Aspergillus Species. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9010089. [PMID: 36675910 PMCID: PMC9865612 DOI: 10.3390/jof9010089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The fungal cell wall (FCW) is a dynamic structure responsible for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis, and is essential for modulating the interaction of the fungus with its environment. It is composed of proteins, lipids, pigments and polysaccharides, including chitin. Chitin synthesis is catalyzed by chitin synthases (CS), and up to eight CS-encoding genes can be found in Aspergillus species. This review discusses in detail the chitin synthesis and regulation in Aspergillus species, and how manipulation of chitin synthesis pathways can modulate fungal growth, enzyme production, virulence and susceptibility to antifungal agents. More specifically, the metabolic steps involved in chitin biosynthesis are described with an emphasis on how the initiation of chitin biosynthesis remains unknown. A description of the classification, localization and transport of CS was also made. Chitin biosynthesis is shown to underlie a complex regulatory network, with extensive cross-talks existing between the different signaling pathways. Furthermore, pathways and recently identified regulators of chitin biosynthesis during the caspofungin paradoxical effect (CPE) are described. The effect of a chitin on the mammalian immune system is also discussed. Lastly, interference with chitin biosynthesis may also be beneficial for biotechnological applications. Even after more than 30 years of research, chitin biosynthesis remains a topic of current interest in mycology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica S. Brauer
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01000-000, Brazil
| | - André M. Pessoni
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01000-000, Brazil
| | - Mateus S. Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01000-000, Brazil
| | - Marinaldo P. Cavalcanti-Neto
- Integrated Laboratory of Morphofunctional Sciences, Institute of Biodiversity and Sustainability (NUPEM), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 27965-045, Brazil
| | - Laure N. A. Ries
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
- Correspondence: (L.N.A.R.); (F.A.)
| | - Fausto Almeida
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01000-000, Brazil
- Correspondence: (L.N.A.R.); (F.A.)
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Calcineurin Inhibitor CN585 Exhibits Off-Target Effects in the Human Fungal Pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8121281. [PMID: 36547614 PMCID: PMC9788591 DOI: 10.3390/jof8121281] [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: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcineurin (CN) is an attractive antifungal target as it is critical for growth, stress response, drug resistance, and virulence in fungal pathogens. The immunosuppressive drugs, tacrolimus (FK506) and cyclosporin A (CsA), are fungistatic and specifically inhibit CN through binding to their respective immunophilins, FK506-binding protein (FKBP12), and cyclophilin (CypA). We are focused on CN structure-based approaches for the development of non-immunosuppressive FK506 analogs as antifungal therapeutics. Here, we examined the effect of the novel CN inhibitor, CN585, on the growth of the human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus, the most common cause of invasive aspergillosis. Unexpectedly, in contrast to FK506, CN585 exhibited off-target effect on A. fumigatus wild-type and the azole- and echinocandin-resistant strains. Unlike with FK506 and CsA, the A. fumigatus CN, FKBP12, CypA mutants (ΔcnaA, Δfkbp12, ΔcypA) and various FK506-resistant mutants were all sensitive to CN585. Furthermore, in contrast to FK506 the cytosolic to nuclear translocation of the CN-dependent transcription factor (CrzA-GFP) was not inhibited by CN585. Molecular docking of CN585 onto human and A. fumigatus CN complexes revealed differential potential binding sites between human CN versus A. fumigatus CN. Our results indicate CN585 may be a non-specific inhibitor of CN with a yet undefined antifungal mechanism of activity.
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Zhai P, Ma Y, Du W, Lu L. The metal chaperone protein MtmA plays important roles in antifungal drug susceptibility in Aspergillus fumigatus. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1062282. [DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1062282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug-resistant fungal infections are emerging as an important clinical problem. In general, antifungal resistance results from increased target expression or mutations within the target protein sequence. However, the molecular mechanisms of non-drug target mutations of antifungal resistance in fungal pathogens remain to be explored. Previous studies indicated that the metal chaperone protein Mtm1 is required for mitochondrial Sod2 activation and responses to oxidative stress in yeast and in the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus, but there is no report of MtmA-related antifungal resistance. In this study, we found that repressed expression of MtmA (only 10% expression) using a conditional promoter resulted in significantly enhanced itraconazole resistance, which was not the result of highly expressed drug targets Erg11A and Erg11B. Furthermore, we demonstrated that repressed expression of MtmA results in upregulation of a series of multidrug resistance-associated transport genes, which may cause multidrug resistance. Further mechanistic studies revealed that inhibition of MtmA expression led to abnormal activation of the calcium signaling system and prompted persistent nucleation of the calcium signaling transcription factor CrzA. Our findings suggest that the metal chaperone protein MtmA is able to negatively regulate fungal resistance via affecting calcium signaling pathway.
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Gupta S, Kumar A, Tamuli R. CRZ1 transcription factor is involved in cell survival, stress tolerance, and virulence in fungi. J Biosci 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12038-022-00294-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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25
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Fungal calcineurin complex as an antifungal target: From past to present to future. FUNGAL BIOL REV 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbr.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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26
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Yang Y, Xie P, Li Y, Bi Y, Prusky DB. Updating Insights into the Regulatory Mechanisms of Calcineurin-Activated Transcription Factor Crz1 in Pathogenic Fungi. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8101082. [PMID: 36294647 PMCID: PMC9604740 DOI: 10.3390/jof8101082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Ca2+, as a second messenger in cells, enables organisms to adapt to different environmental stresses by rapidly sensing and responding to external stimuli. In recent years, the Ca2+ mediated calcium signaling pathway has been studied systematically in various mammals and fungi, indicating that the pathway is conserved among organisms. The pathway consists mainly of complex Ca2+ channel proteins, calcium pumps, Ca2+ transporters and many related proteins. Crz1, a transcription factor downstream of the calcium signaling pathway, participates in regulating cell survival, ion homeostasis, infection structure development, cell wall integrity and virulence. This review briefly summarizes the Ca2+ mediated calcium signaling pathway and regulatory roles in plant pathogenic fungi. Based on discussing the structure and localization of transcription factor Crz1, we focus on the regulatory role of Crz1 on growth and development, stress response, pathogenicity of pathogenic fungi and its regulatory mechanisms. Furthermore, we explore the cross-talk between Crz1 and other signaling pathways. Combined with the important role and pathogenic mechanism of Crz1 in fungi, the new strategies in which Crz1 may be used as a target to explore disease control in practice are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Yang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Pengdong Xie
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yongcai Li
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Yang Bi
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Dov B. Prusky
- Department of Postharvest Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
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Regulation of Hsp80 involved in the acquisition of induced thermotolerance, and NCA-2 involved in calcium stress tolerance by the calcineurin-CRZ-1 signaling pathway in Neurospora crassa. Mycol Prog 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11557-022-01833-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Whitney L, Armstrong‐James D, Lyster HS, Reed AK, Dunning J, Nwankwo L, Cheong J. Antifungal stewardship in solid‐organ transplantation: What is needed? Transpl Infect Dis 2022; 24:e13894. [DOI: 10.1111/tid.13894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Haifa S. Lyster
- Department of Heart and Lung Transplantation The Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, Harefield Hospital Harefield Middlesex UK
| | - Anna K. Reed
- Department of Lung Transplantation Royal Brompton and Harefield National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust London UK
| | - John Dunning
- Department of Lung Transplantation Royal Brompton and Harefield National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust London UK
| | - Lisa Nwankwo
- Department of Pharmacy Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Foundation Trust London UK
| | - Jamie Cheong
- Department of Pharmacy Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Foundation Trust London UK
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Key molecules of Mucorales for COVID-19-associated mucormycosis: a narrative review. JOURNAL OF BIO-X RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/jbr.0000000000000131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Response and regulatory mechanisms of heat resistance in pathogenic fungi. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:5415-5431. [PMID: 35941254 PMCID: PMC9360699 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-12119-2] [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: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Both the increasing environmental temperature in nature and the defensive body temperature response to pathogenic fungi during mammalian infection cause heat stress during the fungal existence, reproduction, and pathogenic infection. To adapt and respond to the changing environment, fungi initiate a series of actions through a perfect thermal response system, conservative signaling pathways, corresponding transcriptional regulatory system, corresponding physiological and biochemical processes, and phenotypic changes. However, until now, accurate response and regulatory mechanisms have remained a challenge. Additionally, at present, the latest research progress on the heat resistance mechanism of pathogenic fungi has not been summarized. In this review, recent research investigating temperature sensing, transcriptional regulation, and physiological, biochemical, and morphological responses of fungi in response to heat stress is discussed. Moreover, the specificity thermal adaptation mechanism of pathogenic fungi in vivo is highlighted. These data will provide valuable knowledge to further understand the fungal heat adaptation and response mechanism, especially in pathogenic heat-resistant fungi. Key points • Mechanisms of fungal perception of heat pressure are reviewed. • The regulatory mechanism of fungal resistance to heat stress is discussed. • The thermal adaptation mechanism of pathogenic fungi in the human body is highlighted.
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Hoy MJ, Park E, Lee H, Lim WY, Cole DC, DeBouver ND, Bobay BG, Pierce PG, Fox D, Ciofani M, Juvvadi PR, Steinbach W, Hong J, Heitman J. Structure-Guided Synthesis of FK506 and FK520 Analogs with Increased Selectivity Exhibit In Vivo Therapeutic Efficacy against Cryptococcus. mBio 2022; 13:e0104922. [PMID: 35604094 PMCID: PMC9239059 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01049-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcineurin is an essential virulence factor that is conserved across human fungal pathogens, including Cryptococcus neoformans, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Candida albicans. Although an excellent target for antifungal drug development, the serine-threonine phosphatase activity of calcineurin is conserved in mammals, and inhibition of this activity results in immunosuppression. FK506 (tacrolimus) is a naturally produced macrocyclic compound that inhibits calcineurin by binding to the immunophilin FKBP12. Previously, our fungal calcineurin-FK506-FKBP12 structure-based approaches identified a nonconserved region of FKBP12 that can be exploited for fungus-specific targeting. These studies led to the design of an FK506 analog, APX879, modified at the C-22 position, which was less immunosuppressive yet maintained antifungal activity. We now report high-resolution protein crystal structures of fungal FKBP12 and a human truncated calcineurin-FKBP12 bound to a natural FK506 analog, FK520 (ascomycin). Based on information from these structures and the success of APX879, we synthesized and screened a novel panel of C-22-modified compounds derived from both FK506 and FK520. One compound, JH-FK-05, demonstrates broad-spectrum antifungal activity in vitro and is nonimmunosuppressive in vivo. In murine models of pulmonary and disseminated C. neoformans infection, JH-FK-05 treatment significantly reduced fungal burden and extended animal survival alone and in combination with fluconazole. Furthermore, molecular dynamic simulations performed with JH-FK-05 binding to fungal and human FKBP12 identified additional residues outside the C-22 and C-21 positions that could be modified to generate novel FK506 analogs with improved antifungal activity. IMPORTANCE Due to rising rates of antifungal drug resistance and a limited armamentarium of antifungal treatments, there is a paramount need for novel antifungal drugs to treat systemic fungal infections. Calcineurin has been established as an essential and conserved virulence factor in several fungi, making it an attractive antifungal target. However, due to the immunosuppressive action of calcineurin inhibitors, they have not been successfully utilized clinically for antifungal treatment in humans. Recent availability of crystal structures of fungal calcineurin-bound inhibitor complexes has enabled the structure-guided design of FK506 analogs and led to a breakthrough in the development of a compound with increased fungal specificity. The development of a calcineurin inhibitor with reduced immunosuppressive activity and maintained therapeutic antifungal activity would add a significant tool to the treatment options for these invasive fungal infections with exceedingly high rates of mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Hoy
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eunchong Park
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hyunji Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Won Young Lim
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - D. Christopher Cole
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nicholas D. DeBouver
- UCB Biosciences, Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA
- Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease (SSGCID), Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Phillip G. Pierce
- UCB Biosciences, Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA
- Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease (SSGCID), Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - David Fox
- UCB Biosciences, Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA
- Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease (SSGCID), Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Maria Ciofani
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Praveen R. Juvvadi
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - William Steinbach
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jiyong Hong
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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32
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Sharma C, Kadosh D. Post-transcriptional control of antifungal resistance in human fungal pathogens. Crit Rev Microbiol 2022:1-16. [DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2022.2080527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cheshta Sharma
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - David Kadosh
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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A Velvet Transcription Factor Specifically Activates Mating through a Novel Mating-Responsive Protein in the Human Fungal Pathogen Cryptococcus deneoformans. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0265321. [PMID: 35471092 PMCID: PMC9241590 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02653-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual reproduction facilitates infection by the production of both a lineage advantage and infectious sexual spores in the ubiquitous human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus deneoformans. However, the regulatory determinants specific for initiating mating remain poorly understood. Here, we identified a velvet family regulator, Cva1, that strongly promotes sexual reproduction in C. deneoformans. This regulation was determined to be specific, based on a comprehensive phenotypic analysis of cva1Δ under 26 distinct in vitro and in vivo growth conditions. We further revealed that Cva1 plays a critical role in the initiation of early mating events, including sexual cell-cell fusion, but is not important for the late sexual development stages or meiosis. Thus, Cva1 specifically contributes to mating activation. Importantly, a novel mating-responsive protein, Cfs1, serves as the key target of Cva1 during mating, since its absence nearly blocks cell-cell fusion in C. deneoformans and its sister species C. neoformans. Together, our findings provide insight into how C. deneoformans ensures the regulatory specificity of mating. IMPORTANCE The human fungal pathogen C. deneoformans is a model organism for studying fungal sexual reproduction, which is considered to be important to infection. However, the specific regulatory determinants for activation of sexual reproduction remain poorly understood. In this study, by combining transcriptomic and comprehensive phenotypic analysis, we identified a velvet family regulator Cva1 that specifically and critically elicits early mating events, including sexual cell-cell fusion. Significantly, Cva1 induces mating through the novel mating-responsive protein Cfs1, which is essential for cell-cell fusion in C. deneoformans and its sister species C. neoformans. Considering that Cva1 and Cfs1 are highly conserved in species belonging to Cryptococcaeceae, they may play conserved and specific roles in the initiation of sexual reproduction in this important fungal clade, which includes multiple human fungal pathogens.
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34
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Sun CQ, Peng J, Yang LB, Jiao ZL, Zhou LX, Tao RY, Zhu LJ, Tian ZQ, Huang MJ, Guo G. A Cecropin-4 Derived Peptide C18 Inhibits Candida albicans by Disturbing Mitochondrial Function. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:872322. [PMID: 35531288 PMCID: PMC9075107 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.872322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Global burden of fungal infections and related health risk has accelerated at an incredible pace, and multidrug resistance emergency aggravates the need for the development of new effective strategies. Candida albicans is clinically the most ubiquitous pathogenic fungus that leads to high incidence and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), in this context, represent promising alternatives having potential to be exploited for improving human health. In our previous studies, a Cecropin-4-derived peptide named C18 was found to possess a broader antibacterial spectrum after modification and exhibit significant antifungal activity against C. albicans. In this study, C18 shows antifungal activity against C. albicans or non-albicans Candida species with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) at 4∼32 μg/ml, and clinical isolates of fluconazole (FLZ)-resistance C. tropicalis were highly susceptible to C18 with MIC value of 8 or 16 μg/ml. Additionally, C18 is superior to FLZ for killing planktonic C. albicans from inhibitory and killing kinetic curves. Moreover, C18 could attenuate the virulence of C. albicans, which includes damaging the cell structure, retarding hyphae transition, and inhibiting biofilm formation. Intriguingly, in the Galleria mellonella model with C. albicans infection, C18 could improve the survival rate of G. mellonella larvae to 70% and reduce C. albicans load from 5.01 × 107 to 5.62 × 104 CFU. For mechanistic action of C18, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and cytosolic Ca2 + increased in the presence of C18, which is closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Meanwhile, mitochondrial membrane potential (△Ψm) loss and ATP depletion of C. albicans occurred with the treatment of C18. We hypothesized that C18 might inhibit C. albicans via triggering mitochondrial dysfunction driven by ROS generation and Ca2 + accumulation. Our observation provides a basis for future research to explore the antifungal strategies and presents C18 as an attractive therapeutic candidate to be developed to treat candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Qin Sun
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Center of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jian Peng
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Guizhou Medical University, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, China
| | - Long-Bing Yang
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Zheng-Long Jiao
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Luo-Xiong Zhou
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Guizhou Medical University, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, China
| | - Ru-Yu Tao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Kaili, China
| | - Li-Juan Zhu
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Zhu-Qing Tian
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Ming-Jiao Huang
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Guo Guo
- The Key and Characteristic Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Guizhou Medical University, Ministry of Education, Guiyang, China
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- *Correspondence: Guo Guo,
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Wal P, Saraswat N, Vig H. A detailed insight on the molecular and cellular mechanism of action of the antifungal drugs used in the treatment of superficial fungal infections. CURRENT DRUG THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.2174/1574885517666220328141054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Dermatomycosis, a type of fungal infection that can infect human skin, hair, and nails; day by day the growth of fungal infections ranging from superficial to systemic infection is alarming. Common causative agents included are Candida, Cryptococcus, Aspergillus, and Pneumocystis species.
Objective:
The effective treatment of the fungal infection includes the use of proper antifungal drug therapy. Antifungal drugs are classified into various classes. This paper focuses on understanding and interpreting the detailed molecular and cellular mechanism of action of various classes of an anti-fungal drug along with their important characteristics along with the safety and efficacy data of individual drugs of the particular class.
Methods:
The data selection for carrying out the respective study has been done by studying the combination of review articles and research papers from different databases like Research Gate, PubMed, MDPI, Elsevier, Science Direct, and Med Crave ranging from the year 1972 to 2019 by using the keywords like “anti-fungal agents”, “dermatophytes”, “cutaneous candidiasis”, “superficial fungal infections”, “oral candidiasis”, “amphotericin”, “echinocandins”, “azoles”, “polyenes” “ketoconazole”, “terbinafine”, “griseofulvin”, “azoles”.
Result:
Based on interpretation, we have concluded that the different classes of antifungal drugs follow the different mechanisms of action and target the fungal cell membrane, and are efficient in reducing fungal disease by their respective mechanism.
Conclusion:
The prevention and cure of fungal infections can be done by oral or topical antifungal drugs that aim to destroy the fungal cell membrane. These drugs show action by their respective pathways that are either preventing the formation of ergosterol or squalene or act by inhibiting β-1,3-glucan synthase enzyme. All the drugs are effective in treating fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranay Wal
- Dean & Professor, Institute of Pharmacy, Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology, Kanpur, India
| | - Nikita Saraswat
- Assistant Professor, Institute of Pharmacy, Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology, Kanpur, India
| | - Himangi Vig
- Research Scholar, Institute of Pharmacy, Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology, Kanpur, India
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CRISPR-Cas9 approach confirms Calcineurin-responsive zinc finger 1 (Crz1) transcription factor as a promising therapeutic target in echinocandin-resistant Candida glabrata. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265777. [PMID: 35303047 PMCID: PMC8932611 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections, which kill more than 1.6 million patients each year worldwide, are difficult to treat due to the limited number of antifungal drugs (azoles, echinocandins, and polyenes) and the emergence of antifungal resistance. The transcription factor Crz1, a key regulator of cellular stress responses and virulence, is an attractive therapeutic target because this protein is absent in human cells. Here, we used a CRISPR-Cas9 approach to generate isogenic crz1Δ strains in two clinical isolates of caspofungin-resistant C. glabrata to analyze the role of this transcription factor in susceptibility to echinocandins, stress tolerance, biofilm formation, and pathogenicity in both non-vertebrate (Galleria mellonella) and vertebrate (mice) models of candidiasis. In these clinical isolates, CRZ1 disruption restores the susceptibility to echinocandins in both in vitro and in vivo models, and affects their oxidative stress response, biofilm formation, cell size, and pathogenicity. These results strongly suggest that Crz1 inhibitors may play an important role in the development of novel therapeutic agents against fungal infections considering the emergence of antifungal resistance and the low number of available antifungal drugs.
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Rossato L, Venturini TP, de Azevedo MI, Santurio JM, Alves SH. In vitro activity of immunosuppressive agents against Cryptococcus neoformans. ENFERMEDADES INFECCIOSAS Y MICROBIOLOGIA CLINICA (ENGLISH ED.) 2022; 40:86-88. [PMID: 35120653 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimce.2020.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infections caused by Cryptococcus neoformans are a major cause of fungal mortality in HIV-infected/AIDS patients and in those receiving organ transplants. We evaluated the in vitro activity of tacrolimus and cyclosporine in combination with amphotericin B and fluconazole against C. neoformans. METHODS MICs were determined against a total of 30 clinical isolates of C. neoformans by the microdilution method following the CLSI M27-A3 guidelines and by the checkerboard method. RESULTS Tacrolimus and cyclosporine A showed in vitro activity against cryptococcal isolates. The combination of amphotericin B with cyclosporine A or tacrolimus was synergistic against 90% and 30% of isolates, respectively. Synergism was also observed with the combination of fluconazole with cyclosporine A or tacrolimus, against 70% and 20% of isolates, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The synergistic interactions between the calcineurin inhibitors and antifungal drugs against C. neoformans isolates, could potentially have a role in devising novel therapeutic strategies for this opportunistic mycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana Rossato
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
| | - Tarcieli P Venturini
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Maria Isabel de Azevedo
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Janio M Santurio
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmacology, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Sydney H Alves
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
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38
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Murphy SE, Bicanic T. Drug Resistance and Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Invasive Candidiasis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:759408. [PMID: 34970504 PMCID: PMC8713075 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.759408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida species are the leading cause of invasive fungal infections worldwide and are associated with acute mortality rates of ~50%. Mortality rates are further augmented in the context of host immunosuppression and infection with drug-resistant Candida species. In this review, we outline antifungal drugs already in clinical use for invasive candidiasis and candidaemia, their targets and mechanisms of resistance in clinically relevant Candida species, encompassing not only classical resistance, but also heteroresistance and tolerance. We describe novel antifungal agents and targets in pre-clinical and clinical development, including their spectrum of activity, antifungal target, clinical trial data and potential in treatment of drug-resistant Candida. Lastly, we discuss the use of combination therapy between conventional and repurposed agents as a potential strategy to combat the threat of emerging resistance in Candida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Murphy
- Institute of Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tihana Bicanic
- Institute of Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Clinical Academic Group in Infection and Immunity, St. George's University Hospital National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Das S, Goswami AM, Saha T. An insight into the role of protein kinases as virulent factors, regulating pathogenic attributes in Candida albicans. Microb Pathog 2022; 164:105418. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2022.105418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Leveraging Fungal and Human Calcineurin-Inhibitor Structures, Biophysical Data, and Dynamics To Design Selective and Nonimmunosuppressive FK506 Analogs. mBio 2021; 12:e0300021. [PMID: 34809463 PMCID: PMC8609367 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03000-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcineurin is a critical enzyme in fungal pathogenesis and antifungal drug tolerance and, therefore, an attractive antifungal target. Current clinically accessible calcineurin inhibitors, such as FK506, are immunosuppressive to humans, so exploiting calcineurin inhibition as an antifungal strategy necessitates fungal specificity in order to avoid inhibiting the human pathway. Harnessing fungal calcineurin-inhibitor crystal structures, we recently developed a less immunosuppressive FK506 analog, APX879, with broad-spectrum antifungal activity and demonstrable efficacy in a murine model of invasive fungal infection. Our overarching goal is to better understand, at a molecular level, the interaction determinants of the human and fungal FK506-binding proteins (FKBP12) required for calcineurin inhibition in order to guide the design of fungus-selective, nonimmunosuppressive FK506 analogs. To this end, we characterized high-resolution structures of the Mucor circinelloides FKBP12 bound to FK506 and of the Aspergillus fumigatus, M. circinelloides, and human FKBP12 proteins bound to the FK506 analog APX879, which exhibits enhanced selectivity for fungal pathogens. Combining structural, genetic, and biophysical methodologies with molecular dynamics simulations, we identify critical variations in these structurally similar FKBP12-ligand complexes. The work presented here, aimed at the rational design of more effective calcineurin inhibitors, indeed suggests that modifications to the APX879 scaffold centered around the C15, C16, C18, C36, and C37 positions provide the potential to significantly enhance fungal selectivity. IMPORTANCE Invasive fungal infections are a leading cause of death in the immunocompromised patient population. The rise in drug resistance to current antifungals highlights the urgent need to develop more efficacious and highly selective agents. Numerous investigations of major fungal pathogens have confirmed the critical role of the calcineurin pathway for fungal virulence, making it an attractive target for antifungal development. Although FK506 inhibits calcineurin, it is immunosuppressive in humans and cannot be used as an antifungal. By combining structural, genetic, biophysical, and in silico methodologies, we pinpoint regions of the FK506 scaffold and a less immunosuppressive analog, APX879, centered around the C15 to C18 and C36 to C37 positions that could be altered with selective extensions and/or deletions to enhance fungal selectivity. This work represents a significant advancement toward realizing calcineurin as a viable target for antifungal drug discovery.
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Ceballos-Garzon A, Monteoliva L, Gil C, Alvarez-Moreno C, Vega-Vela NE, Engelthaler DM, Bowers J, Le Pape P, Parra-Giraldo CM. Genotypic, proteomic, and phenotypic approaches to decipher the response to caspofungin and calcineurin inhibitors in clinical isolates of echinocandin-resistant Candida glabrata. J Antimicrob Chemother 2021; 77:585-597. [PMID: 34893830 PMCID: PMC8865013 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkab454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Echinocandin resistance represents a great concern, as these drugs are recommended as first-line therapy for invasive candidiasis. Echinocandin resistance is conferred by mutations in FKS genes. Nevertheless, pathways are crucial for enabling tolerance, evolution, and maintenance of resistance. Therefore, understanding the biological processes and proteins involved in the response to caspofungin may provide clues indicating new therapeutic targets. Objectives We determined the resistance mechanism and assessed the proteome response to caspofungin exposure. We then evaluated the phenotypic impact of calcineurin inhibition by FK506 and cephalosporine A (CsA) on caspofungin-resistant Candida glabrata isolates. Methods Twenty-five genes associated with caspofungin resistance were analysed by NGS, followed by studies of the quantitative proteomic response to caspofungin exposure. Then, susceptibility testing of caspofungin in presence of FK506 and CsA was performed. The effects of calcineurin inhibitor/caspofungin combinations on heat stress (40°C), oxidative stress (0.2 and 0.4 mM menadione) and on biofilm formation (polyurethane catheter) were analysed. Finally, a Galleria mellonella model using blastospores (1 × 109 cfu/mL) was developed to evaluate the impact of the combinations on larval survival. Results F659-del was found in the FKS2 gene of resistant strains. Proteomics data showed some up-regulated proteins are involved in cell-wall biosynthesis, response to stress and pathogenesis, some of them being members of calmodulin–calcineurin pathway. Therefore, the impact of calmodulin inhibition was explored. Calmodulin inhibition restored caspofungin susceptibility, decreased capacity to respond to stress conditions, and reduced biofilm formation and in vivo pathogenicity. Conclusions Our findings confirm that calmodulin-calcineurin-Crz1 could provide a relevant target in life-threatening invasive candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres Ceballos-Garzon
- Unidad de Proteómica y Micosis Humanas, Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Mycology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Nantes, Nantes Atlantique Universities, Nantes, France
| | - Lucia Monteoliva
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Concha Gil
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Unidad de Proteómica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Alvarez-Moreno
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
- Clínica Universitaria Colombia, Clinica Colsanitas, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Nelson E Vega-Vela
- Unidad de Proteómica y Micosis Humanas, Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia
| | | | - Jolene Bowers
- Translational Genomics Research Institute, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Patrice Le Pape
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Mycology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Nantes, Nantes Atlantique Universities, Nantes, France
| | - Claudia M Parra-Giraldo
- Unidad de Proteómica y Micosis Humanas, Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia
- Corresponding author. E-mail:
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Choi JW, Lee KT, Kim S, Lee YR, Kim HJ, Seo KJ, Lee MH, Yeon SK, Jang BK, Park SJ, Kim HJ, Park JH, Kim D, Lee DG, Cheong E, Lee JS, Bahn YS, Park KD. Optimization and Evaluation of Novel Antifungal Agents for the Treatment of Fungal Infection. J Med Chem 2021; 64:15912-15935. [PMID: 34662122 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Due to the increased morbidity and mortality by fungal infections and the emergence of severe antifungal resistance, there is an urgent need for new antifungal agents. Here, we screened for antifungal activity in our in-house library through the minimum inhibitory concentration test and derived two hit compounds with moderate antifungal activities. The hit compounds' antifungal activities and drug-like properties were optimized by substituting various aryl ring, alkyl chain, and methyl groups. Among the optimized compounds, 22h was the most promising candidate with good drug-like properties and exhibited potent fast-acting fungicidal antifungal effects against various fungal pathogens and synergistic antifungal activities with some known antifungal drugs. Additionally, 22h was further confirmed to disturb fungal cell wall integrity by activating multiple cell wall integrity pathways. Furthermore, 22h exerted significant antifungal efficacy in both the subcutaneous infection mouse model and ex vivo human nail infection model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Won Choi
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Tae Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Siwon Kim
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Med Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Ye Rim Lee
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Ji Kim
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Jin Seo
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung Ha Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Seul Ki Yeon
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Ko Jang
- AmtixBio Co., Ltd., Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do 12925, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Jun Park
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Med Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Jeong Kim
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Hyun Park
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Med Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Dahee Kim
- AmtixBio Co., Ltd., Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do 12925, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Gi Lee
- AmtixBio Co., Ltd., Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do 12925, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunji Cheong
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Seung Lee
- AmtixBio Co., Ltd., Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do 12925, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sun Bahn
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Duk Park
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Med Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
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Savarirajan D, Ramesh VM, Muthaiyan A. In vitro antidermatophytic activity of bioactive compounds from selected medicinal plants. J Anal Sci Technol 2021; 12:53. [PMID: 34745684 PMCID: PMC8563824 DOI: 10.1186/s40543-021-00304-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are among the most difficult diseases to manage in humans. Eukaryotic fungal pathogens share many similarities with their host cells, which impairs the development of antifungal compounds. Therefore, it is desirable to harness the pharmaceutical potential of medicinal plants for antifungal drug discovery. In this study, the antifungal activity of sixteen plant extracts was investigated against selected dermatophytic fungi. Of the sixteen plants, the cladode (leaf) of Asparagus racemosus, and seed extract of Cassia occidentalis showed antifungal activity against Microsporum gypseum, Microsporum nanum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton terrestre. The plant antifungal compounds were located by direct bioassay against Cladosporium herbarum. IR and NMR spectrometry analyses of these compounds identified the presence of saponin (in A. racemosus) and hydroxy anthraquinone (in C. occidentalis) in these antifungal compounds. The antidermatophytic activity of plant anthraquinone and saponins with reports of little or no hemolytic activity, makes these compounds ideal for alternative antifungal therapy and warrants further in-depth investigation in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Savarirajan
- Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, University of Madras, Chennai, 600025 India.,College of Science, Engineering and Technology, Grand Canyon University, 3300 W. Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85017 USA
| | - V M Ramesh
- Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, University of Madras, Chennai, 600025 India.,College of Science, Engineering and Technology, Grand Canyon University, 3300 W. Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85017 USA
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Fungal Lysine Deacetylases in Virulence, Resistance, and Production of Small Bioactive Compounds. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12101470. [PMID: 34680865 PMCID: PMC8535771 DOI: 10.3390/genes12101470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The growing number of immunocompromised patients begs for efficient therapy strategies against invasive fungal infections. As conventional antifungal treatment is increasingly hampered by resistance to commonly used antifungals, development of novel therapy regimens is required. On the other hand, numerous fungal species are industrially exploited as cell factories of enzymes and chemicals or as producers of medically relevant pharmaceuticals. Consequently, there is immense interest in tapping the almost inexhaustible fungal portfolio of natural products for potential medical and industrial applications. Both the pathogenicity and production of those small metabolites are significantly dependent on the acetylation status of distinct regulatory proteins. Thus, classical lysine deacetylases (KDACs) are crucial virulence determinants and important regulators of natural products of fungi. In this review, we present an overview of the members of classical KDACs and their complexes in filamentous fungi. Further, we discuss the impact of the genetic manipulation of KDACs on the pathogenicity and production of bioactive molecules. Special consideration is given to inhibitors of these enzymes and their role as potential new antifungals and emerging tools for the discovery of novel pharmaceutical drugs and antibiotics in fungal producer strains.
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Orrego PR, Serrano-Rodríguez M, Cortez M, Araya JE. In Silico Characterization of Calcineurin from Pathogenic Obligate Intracellular Trypanosomatids: Potential New Biological Roles. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11091322. [PMID: 34572535 PMCID: PMC8470620 DOI: 10.3390/biom11091322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcineurin (CaN) is present in all eukaryotic cells, including intracellular trypanosomatid parasites such as Trypanosoma cruzi (Tc) and Leishmania spp. (Lspp). In this study, we performed an in silico analysis of the CaN subunits, comparing them with the human (Hs) and looking their structure, post-translational mechanisms, subcellular distribution, interactors, and secretion potential. The differences in the structure of the domains suggest the existence of regulatory mechanisms and differential activity between these protozoa. Regulatory subunits are partially conserved, showing differences in their Ca2+-binding domains and myristoylation potential compared with human CaN. The subcellular distribution reveals that the catalytic subunits TcCaNA1, TcCaNA2, LsppCaNA1, LsppCaNA1_var, and LsppCaNA2 associate preferentially with the plasma membrane compared with the cytoplasmic location of HsCaNAα. For regulatory subunits, HsCaNB-1 and LsppCaNB associate preferentially with the nucleus and cytoplasm, and TcCaNB with chloroplast and cytoplasm. Calpain cleavage sites on CaNA suggest differential processing. CaNA and CaNB of these trypanosomatids have the potential to be secreted and could play a role in remote communication. Therefore, this background can be used to develop new drugs for protozoan pathogens that cause neglected disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricio R. Orrego
- Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile
- Correspondence: (P.R.O.); (J.E.A.); Tel.: +56-55-2637664 (J.E.A.)
| | - Mayela Serrano-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile;
| | - Mauro Cortez
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil;
| | - Jorge E. Araya
- Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile;
- Center for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, CeBIB, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile
- Correspondence: (P.R.O.); (J.E.A.); Tel.: +56-55-2637664 (J.E.A.)
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Riciluca KCT, Oliveira UC, Mendonça RZ, Bozelli Junior JC, Schreier S, da Silva Junior PI. Rondonin: antimicrobial properties and mechanism of action. FEBS Open Bio 2021; 11:2541-2559. [PMID: 34254458 PMCID: PMC8409319 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases are among the major causes of death in the human population. A wide variety of organisms produce antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as part of their first line of defense. A peptide from Acanthoscurria rondoniae plasma, rondonin—with antifungal activity, a molecular mass of 1236 Da and primary sequence IIIQYEGHKH—was previously studied (UniProt accession number B3EWP8). It showed identity with the C terminus of subunit ‘D’ of the hemocyanin of the Aphonopelma hentzi spider. This result led us to propose a new pathway of the immune system of arachnids that suggests a new function to hemocyanin: production of antimicrobial peptides. Rondonin does not interact with model membranes and was able to bind to yeast nucleic acids but not bacteria. It was not cytotoxic against mammalian cells. The antifungal activity of rondonin is pH‐dependent and peaks at pH ˜ 4–5. The peptide presents synergism with gomesin (spider hemocyte antimicrobial peptide—UniProtKB—P82358) against human yeast pathogens, suggesting a new potential alternative treatment option. Antiviral activity was detected against RNA viruses, measles, H1N1, and encephalomyocarditis. This is the first report of an arthropod hemocyanin fragment with activity against human viruses. Currently, it is vital to invest in the search for natural and synthetic antimicrobial compounds that, above all, present alternative mechanisms of action to first‐choice antimicrobials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie C T Riciluca
- Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling - CeTICS/CEPID, Laboratory for Applied Toxinology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil.,Post-Graduation Program Interunits in Biotechnology, USP/IPT/IBU, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ursula C Oliveira
- Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling - CeTICS/CEPID, Laboratory for Applied Toxinology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - José C Bozelli Junior
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Shirley Schreier
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro I da Silva Junior
- Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling - CeTICS/CEPID, Laboratory for Applied Toxinology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil.,Post-Graduation Program Interunits in Biotechnology, USP/IPT/IBU, São Paulo, Brazil
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Cellular Calcium Levels Influenced by NCA-2 Impact Circadian Period Determination in Neurospora. mBio 2021; 12:e0149321. [PMID: 34182778 PMCID: PMC8262947 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01493-21] [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] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular calcium signaling has been implicated in the control of a variety of circadian processes in animals and plants, but its role in microbial clocks has remained largely cryptic. To examine the role of intracellular Ca2+ in the Neurospora clock, we screened mutants with knockouts of calcium transporter genes and identified a gene encoding a calcium exporter, nca-2, uniquely as having significant period effects. The loss of NCA-2 results in an increase in the cytosolic calcium level, and this leads to hyper-phosphorylation of core clock components, FRQ and WC-1, and a short period, as measured by both the core oscillator and the overt clock. Genetic analyses showed that mutations in certain frq phospho-sites and in Ca2+-calmodulin-dependent kinase 2 (camk-2) are epistatic to nca-2 in controlling the pace of the oscillator. These data are consistent with a model in which elevated intracellular Ca2+ leads to the increased activity of CAMK-2, leading to enhanced FRQ phosphorylation, accelerated closure of the circadian feedback loop, and a shortened circadian period length. At a mechanistic level, some CAMKs undergo more auto-phosphorylations in the Δnca-2 mutant, consistent with high calcium levels in the Δnca-2 mutant influencing the enzymatic activities of CAMKs. NCA-2 interacts with multiple proteins, including CSP-6, a protein known to be required for circadian output. Most importantly, the expression of nca-2 is circadian clock-controlled at both the transcriptional and translational levels, and this in combination with the period effects seen in strains lacking NCA-2 firmly places calcium signaling within the larger circadian system, where it acts as both an input to and an output from the core clock.
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Ceballos Garzon A, Amado D, Robert E, Parra Giraldo CM, Le Pape P. Impact of calmodulin inhibition by fluphenazine on susceptibility, biofilm formation and pathogenicity of caspofungin-resistant Candida glabrata. J Antimicrob Chemother 2021; 75:1187-1193. [PMID: 32011702 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkz565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent decades, Candida glabrata has emerged as a frequent cause of life-threatening fungal infection. In C. glabrata, echinocandin resistance is associated with mutations in FKS1/FKS2 (β-1,3-glucan synthase). The calmodulin/calcineurin pathway is implicated in response to antifungal stress and calcineurin gene disruption specifically reverses Fks2-mediated resistance of clinical isolates. OBJECTIVES We evaluated the impact of calmodulin inhibition by fluphenazine in two caspofungin-resistant C. glabrata isolates. METHODS C. glabrata isolates were identified by ITS1/ITS4 (where ITS stands for internal transcribed spacer) sequencing and the echinocandin target FKS1/FKS2 genes were sequenced. Susceptibility testing of caspofungin in the presence of fluphenazine was performed by a modified CLSI microbroth dilution method. The effect of the fluphenazine/caspofungin combination on heat stress (37°C or 40°C), oxidative stress (0.2 and 0.4 mM menadione) and biofilm formation (polyurethane catheter) was analysed. A Galleria mellonella model using blastospores (1 × 109 cfu/mL) was developed to evaluate the impact of this combination on larval survival. RESULTS F659del was found in the FKS2 gene of both resistant strains. In these clinical isolates, fluphenazine increased susceptibility to caspofungin and reduced their thermotolerance. Furthermore, the fluphenazine/caspofungin combination significantly impaired biofilm formation in an in vitro polyurethane catheter model. All these features participated in the increasing survival of infected G. mellonella after combination treatment in comparison with caspofungin alone. CONCLUSIONS In a repurposing strategy, our findings confirm that calmodulin could provide a relevant target in life-threatening fungal infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Ceballos Garzon
- Unidad de Proteómica y Micosis Humanas, Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C., Colombia.,Department of Parasitology and Medical Mycology, University of Nantes, Nantes Atlantique Universities, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nantes, France
| | - Daniela Amado
- Unidad de Proteómica y Micosis Humanas, Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Estelle Robert
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Mycology, University of Nantes, Nantes Atlantique Universities, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nantes, France
| | - Claudia M Parra Giraldo
- Unidad de Proteómica y Micosis Humanas, Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Patrice Le Pape
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Mycology, University of Nantes, Nantes Atlantique Universities, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nantes, France
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Abstract
Invasive fungal diseases continue to cause substantial mortality in the enlarging immunocompromised population. It is fortunate that the field has moved past amphotericin B deoxycholate as the only available antifungal drug but despite new classes of antifungal agents both primary and secondary drug resistance in molds and yeasts abound. From the rise of multiple-drug-resistant Candida auris to the agrochemical selection of environmental azole-resistant Aspergillus fumigatus, it is and will be critical to understand antifungal drug resistance and both prevent and treat it with new strategies and agents.
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Şen Kaya S, Kiraz N, Bariş A, Turan D, Öz Y, Dağ İ, Aygün G. Effects of calcineurin inhibitors, cyclosporine A and tacrolimus (FK506), on the activity of antifungal drugs against Candida spp. J Med Microbiol 2021; 70. [PMID: 33915075 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001354] [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] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. The simultaneous use of antifungals with immunosuppressive agents has become a necessity for patients taking immunosuppressive therapy. However, antifungal drugs are problematic because of their limited target.Hypothesis. Scientists have been searching for new antifungals and some compounds with at least additive effects on antifungals. Calcineurin inhibitors used as immunosuppressive agents also attract attention due to their antifungal property.Aim. To evaluate the activity of two calcineurin inhibitors alone and in combination with amphotericin B (AMB), caspofungin (CAS), itraconazole (ITR), voriconazole (VOR) and fluconazole (FLU).Methodology. MICs of AMB, CAS, ITR, VOR, FLU and cyclosporine A (CsA) and tacrolimus (TAC) as calcineurin inhibitors were evaluated by the broth microdilution method against Candida albicans (n=13), C. krusei (n=7) and C. glabrata (n=10). Checkerboard and time-kill methods were performed to investigate the activity of combining calcineurin inhibitors with antifungal drugs.Results. The lowest MIC values were detected with VOR for all Candida isolates tested. Although we did not detect any inhibition for CsA or TAC alone at concentrations tested in this study, the combinations of CAS with CsA showed the highest synergistic activity (36.7%) by the checkerboard method, and CAS with CsA and ITR with TAC combinations exhibited apparent synergistic interaction by the time-kill method. However, the combinations of both CsA and TAC with AMB resulted in antagonistic interactions, especially against C. krusei isolate in time-kill testing.Conclusion. Synergistic interactions in the combinations of TAC or CsA with antifungal drugs, except for AMB, in many concentrations was found to be promising in terms of the treatment of patients with fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sümeyye Şen Kaya
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nuri Kiraz
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Namık Kemal University, Tekirdag, Turkey
| | - Ayşe Bariş
- Department of Microbiology, Şişli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Deniz Turan
- Department of Microbiology, Haydarpasa Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yasemin Öz
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - İlknur Dağ
- Vocational Health Services High School, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey.,Central Research Laboratory Application and Research Center, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Gökhan Aygün
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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