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Khalifa HO, Oreiby A, Abdelhamid MAA, Ki MR, Pack SP. Biomimetic Antifungal Materials: Countering the Challenge of Multidrug-Resistant Fungi. Biomimetics (Basel) 2024; 9:425. [PMID: 39056866 PMCID: PMC11274442 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics9070425] [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: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In light of rising public health threats like antifungal and antimicrobial resistance, alongside the slowdown in new antimicrobial development, biomimetics have shown promise as therapeutic agents. Multidrug-resistant fungi pose significant challenges as they quickly develop resistance, making traditional antifungals less effective. Developing new antifungals is also complicated by the need to target eukaryotic cells without harming the host. This review examines biomimetic antifungal materials that mimic natural biological mechanisms for targeted and efficient action. It covers a range of agents, including antifungal peptides, alginate-based antifungals, chitosan derivatives, nanoparticles, plant-derived polyphenols, and probiotic bacteria. These agents work through mechanisms such as disrupting cell membranes, generating reactive oxygen species, and inhibiting essential fungal processes. Despite their potential, challenges remain in terms of ensuring biocompatibility, optimizing delivery, and overcoming potential resistance. Production scalability and economic viability are also concerns. Future research should enhance the stability and efficacy of these materials, integrate multifunctional approaches, and develop sophisticated delivery systems. Interdisciplinary efforts are needed to understand interactions between these materials, fungal cells, and the host environment. Long-term health and environmental impacts, fungal resistance mechanisms, and standardized testing protocols require further study. In conclusion, while biomimetic antifungal materials represent a revolutionary approach to combating multidrug-resistant fungi, extensive research and development are needed to fully realize their potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazim O. Khalifa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 1555, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt
| | - Atef Oreiby
- Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt;
| | - Mohamed A. A. Abdelhamid
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong-ro 2511, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea; (M.A.A.A.); (M.-R.K.)
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Minia University, Minia 61519, Egypt
| | - Mi-Ran Ki
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong-ro 2511, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea; (M.A.A.A.); (M.-R.K.)
- Institute of Industrial Technology, Korea University, Sejong-ro 2511, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Pil Pack
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong-ro 2511, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea; (M.A.A.A.); (M.-R.K.)
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2
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Mulukutla A, Shreshtha R, Kumar Deb V, Chatterjee P, Jain U, Chauhan N. Recent advances in antimicrobial peptide-based therapy. Bioorg Chem 2024; 145:107151. [PMID: 38359706 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a group of polypeptide chains that have the property to target and kill a myriad of microbial organisms including viruses, bacteria, protists, etc. The first discovered AMP was named gramicidin, an extract of aerobic soil bacteria. Further studies discovered that these peptides are present not only in prokaryotes but in eukaryotes as well. They play a vital role in human innate immunity and wound repair. Consequently, they have maintained a high level of intrigue among scientists in the field of immunology, especially so with the rise of antibiotic-resistant pathogens decreasing the reliability of antibiotics in healthcare. While AMPs have promising potential to substitute for common antibiotics, their use as effective replacements is barred by certain limitations. First, they have the potential to be cytotoxic to human cells. Second, they are unstable in the blood due to action by various proteolytic agents and ions that cause their degradation. This review provides an overview of the mechanism of AMPs, their limitations, and developments in recent years that provide techniques to overcome those limitations. We also discuss the advantages and drawbacks of AMPs as a replacement for antibiotics as compared to other alternatives such as synthetically modified bacteriophages, traditional medicine, and probiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditya Mulukutla
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Romi Shreshtha
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Vishal Kumar Deb
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Pallabi Chatterjee
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Utkarsh Jain
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Nidhi Chauhan
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India.
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Kischkel B, Dos Santos JC, Lopes-Bezerra L, Taborda CP, Joosten LAB. Human interleukin-36γ plays a crucial role in cytokine induction during Sporothrix brasiliensis and S. schenckii infection in keratinocytes and PBMCs. Microb Pathog 2024; 188:106550. [PMID: 38262494 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Cytokines of the interleukin (IL)-1 superfamily including the different IL-36 isoforms, have been reported as mediators of acute and chronic inflammation in human skin diseases, such as psoriasis. Here, we demonstrated for the first time that Sporothrix schenckii and S. brasiliensis, the fungi that cause subcutaneous infection sporotrichosis, can induce the expression of IL-36α, IL-36γ and IL-36Ra in human keratinocytes and primary peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Specifically, IL-36γ was differentially expressed by keratinocytes stimulated with Sporothrix yeasts when compared to the commensal microorganism Staphylococcus epidermidis. The exposure of keratinocytes to 24 h or 7-days culture supernatant of PBMCs stimulated with Sporothrix induced higher IL-36γ production compared to direct stimulation of keratinocytes with the live fungus. We identified that IL-36γ mRNA expression in keratinocytes is increased in the presence of IL-17, TNF, IL-1β and IL-1α and these cytokines may act synergistically to maintain IL-36γ production. Lastly, using a cohort of 164 healthy individuals, we showed that individuals carrying variants of the IL36G gene (rs11690399 and rs11683399) exhibit increased IL-36γ production as well as increased innate cytokine production after Sporothrix exposure. Importantly, stimulation of PBMCs with recombinant IL-36γ increased the production of IL-1β and IL-6, while IL-36Ra were able to decrease the concentration of these cytokines. Our findings contribute to the understanding of the pathogenesis of sporotrichosis and suggest that IL-36γ may be involved in maintaining the cytokine loop that leads to tissue destruction by exacerbating the immune response in sporotrichosis. Of high interest, we present the IL-36 signalling pathway as a potential new therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Kischkel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center (Radboudumc), Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jéssica C Dos Santos
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center (Radboudumc), Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Leila Lopes-Bezerra
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos P Taborda
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Departamento de Dermatologia, LIM53, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leo A B Joosten
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center (Radboudumc), Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Genetics, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
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4
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Park J, Kim H, Kang DD, Park Y. Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Scorpion-Derived Css54 Peptide Against Candida albicans. J Microbiol 2024; 62:101-112. [PMID: 38589765 PMCID: PMC11021323 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-024-00113-4] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans) is one of the most common opportunistic fungi worldwide, which is associated with a high mortality rate. Despite treatment, C. albicans remains the leading cause of life-threatening invasive infections. Consequently, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are potential alternatives as antifungal agents with excellent antifungal activity. We previously reported that Css54, found in the venom of Centrurodies suffusus suffusus (C. s. suffusus) showed antibacterial activity against zoonotic bacteria. However, the antifungal activity of Css54 has not yet been elucidated. The objective of this study was to identify the antifungal activity of Css54 against C. albicans and analyze its mechanism. Css54 showed high antifungal activity against C. albicans. Css54 also inhibited biofilm formation in fluconazole-resistant fungi. The antifungal mechanism of action of Css54 was investigated using membrane-related assays, including the membrane depolarization assay and analysis of the membrane integrity of C. albicans after treatment with Css54. Css54 induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in C. albicans, which affected its antifungal activity. Our results indicate that Css54 causes membrane damage in C. albicans, highlighting its value as a potential therapeutic agent against C. albicans infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonggwan Park
- Department of Bioinformatics, Kongju National University, Kongju, 32588, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeongsun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, Republic of Korea
| | - Da Dam Kang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonkyung Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, Republic of Korea.
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5
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Memariani M, Memariani H. Antifungal properties of cathelicidin LL-37: current knowledge and future research directions. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2023; 40:34. [PMID: 38057654 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-023-03852-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The threat of fungal diseases is substantially underestimated worldwide, but they have serious consequences for humans, animals, and plants. Given the limited number of existing antifungal drugs together with the emergence of drug-resistant strains, many researchers have actively sought alternatives or adjuvants to antimycotics. The best way to tackle these issues is to unearth potential antifungal agents with new modes of action. Antimicrobial peptides are being hailed as a promising source of novel antimicrobials since they exhibit rapid and broad-spectrum microbicidal activities with a reduced likelihood of developing drug resistance. Recent years have witnessed an explosion in knowledge on microbicidal activity of LL-37, the sole human cathelicidin. Herein, we provide a summary of the current understanding about antifungal properties of LL-37, with particular emphasis on its molecular mechanisms. We further illustrate fruitful areas for future research. LL-37 is able to inhibit the growth of clinically and agronomically relevant fungi including Aspergillus, Candida, Colletotrichum, Fusarium, Malassezia, Pythium, and Trichophyton. Destruction of the cell wall integrity, membrane permeabilization, induction of oxidative stress, disruption of endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis, formation of autophagy-like structures, alterations in expression of numerous fungal genes, and inhibition of cell cycle progression are the key mechanisms underlying antifungal effects of LL-37. Burgeoning evidence also suggests that LL-37 may act as a potential anti-virulence peptide. It is hoped that this review will not only motivate researchers to conduct more detailed studies in this field, but also inspire further innovations in the design of LL-37-based drugs for the treatment of fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Memariani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Memariani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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6
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Munzen ME, Goncalves Garcia AD, Martinez LR. An update on the global treatment of invasive fungal infections. Future Microbiol 2023; 18:1095-1117. [PMID: 37750748 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2022-0269] [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] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are a serious problem affecting many people worldwide, creating critical economic and medical consequences. Fungi are ubiquitous and can cause invasive diseases in individuals mostly living in developing countries or with weakened immune systems, and antifungal drugs currently available have important limitations in tolerability and efficacy. In an effort to counteract the high morbidity and mortality rates associated with invasive fungal infections, various approaches are being utilized to discover and develop new antifungal agents. This review discusses the challenges posed by fungal infections, outlines different methods for developing antifungal drugs and reports on the status of drugs currently in clinical trials, which offer hope for combating this serious global problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa E Munzen
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida College of Dentistry, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | | | - Luis R Martinez
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida College of Dentistry, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
- Center for Immunology and Transplantation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
- Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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7
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Helmy NM, Parang K. Cyclic Peptides with Antifungal Properties Derived from Bacteria, Fungi, Plants, and Synthetic Sources. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:892. [PMID: 37375840 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections remain a significant concern for human health. The emergence of microbial resistance, the improper use of antimicrobial drugs, and the need for fewer toxic antifungal treatments in immunocompromised patients have sparked substantial interest in antifungal research. Cyclic peptides, classified as antifungal peptides, have been in development as potential antifungal agents since 1948. In recent years, there has been growing attention from the scientific community to explore cyclic peptides as a promising strategy for combating antifungal infections caused by pathogenic fungi. The identification of antifungal cyclic peptides from various sources has been possible due to the widespread interest in peptide research in recent decades. It is increasingly important to evaluate narrow- to broad-spectrum antifungal activity and the mode of action of synthetic and natural cyclic peptides for both synthesized and extracted peptides. This short review aims to highlight some of the antifungal cyclic peptides isolated from bacteria, fungi, and plants. This brief review is not intended to present an exhaustive catalog of all known antifungal cyclic peptides but rather seeks to showcase selected cyclic peptides with antifungal properties that have been isolated from bacteria, fungi, plants, and synthetic sources. The addition of commercially available cyclic antifungal peptides serves to corroborate the notion that cyclic peptides can serve as a valuable source for the development of antifungal drugs. Additionally, this review discusses the potential future of utilizing combinations of antifungal peptides from different sources. The review underscores the need for the further exploration of the novel antifungal therapeutic applications of these abundant and diverse cyclic peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naiera M Helmy
- Center for Targeted Drug Delivery, Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Centre, Giza 3751134, Egypt
| | - Keykavous Parang
- Center for Targeted Drug Delivery, Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
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8
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Zhang R, Yan H, Wang X, Cong H, Yu B, Shen Y. Screening of a short chain antimicrobial peptide-FWKFK and its application in wound healing. Biomater Sci 2023; 11:1867-1875. [PMID: 36691757 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm01992b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
As a kind of basic polypeptide with antibacterial properties, antimicrobial peptides play an important role in resisting the invasion of foreign microorganisms. Antimicrobial peptides have a wide range of antimicrobial activities against bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microorganisms. They are active against traditional antibiotic-resistant strains and do not easily cause bacterial resistance. In this study, we synthesized an antibacterial peptide library by a Fmoc solid phase synthesis method, and screened the peptide chain FWKFK by modified cell membrane chromatography. The minimum inhibitory concentration of FWKFK against E. coli and S. aureus was 200 μg mL-1 and 250 μg mL-1, respectively, and FWKFK also had inhibitory effects on P. aeruginosa, B. subtilis and S. epidermidis. Its biocompatibility and therapeutic effect on mouse wounds were then tested. The results showed that the survival rate of normal cells after FWKFK treatment was more than 95%, the hemolysis rate of red blood cells was as low as 6%, and it had a significant effect on wound healing in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runfeng Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Han Yan
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Xijie Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Hailin Cong
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China. .,School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China.,State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Bing Yu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Youqing Shen
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China. .,Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Center for Bionanoengineering, and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310027, China
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9
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Safeer A, Kleijburg F, Bahri S, Beriashvili D, Veldhuizen EJA, van Neer J, Tegelaar M, de Cock H, Wösten HAB, Baldus M. Probing Cell-Surface Interactions in Fungal Cell Walls by High-Resolution 1 H-Detected Solid-State NMR Spectroscopy. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202202616. [PMID: 36181715 PMCID: PMC10099940 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202202616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Solid-state NMR (ssNMR) spectroscopy facilitates the non-destructive characterization of structurally heterogeneous biomolecules in their native setting, for example, comprising proteins, lipids and polysaccharides. Here we demonstrate the utility of high and ultra-high field 1 H-detected fast MAS ssNMR spectroscopy, which exhibits increased sensitivity and spectral resolution, to further elucidate the atomic-level composition and structural arrangement of the cell wall of Schizophyllum commune, a mushroom-forming fungus from the Basidiomycota phylum. These advancements allowed us to reveal that Cu(II) ions and the antifungal peptide Cathelicidin-2 mainly bind to cell wall proteins at low concentrations while glucans are targeted at high metal ion concentrations. In addition, our data suggest the presence of polysaccharides containing N-acetyl galactosamine (GalNAc) and proteins, including the hydrophobin proteins SC3, shedding more light on the molecular make-up of cells wall as well as the positioning of the polypeptide layer. Obtaining such information may be of critical relevance for future research into fungi in material science and biomedical contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adil Safeer
- NMR Spectroscopy, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht (The, Netherlands
| | - Fleur Kleijburg
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht (The, Netherlands
| | - Salima Bahri
- NMR Spectroscopy, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht (The, Netherlands
| | - David Beriashvili
- NMR Spectroscopy, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht (The, Netherlands
| | - Edwin J A Veldhuizen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht (The, Netherlands
| | - Jacq van Neer
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht (The, Netherlands
| | - Martin Tegelaar
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht (The, Netherlands
| | - Hans de Cock
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht (The, Netherlands
| | - Han A B Wösten
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht (The, Netherlands
| | - Marc Baldus
- NMR Spectroscopy, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht (The, Netherlands
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10
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Fungicidal activity of human antimicrobial peptides and their synergistic interaction with common antifungals against multidrug-resistant Candida auris. Int Microbiol 2022; 26:165-177. [PMID: 36329309 DOI: 10.1007/s10123-022-00290-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Emergence of Candida auris, a multidrug-resistant yeast, demonstrates the urgent need for novel antifungal agents. Human antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are naturally occurring molecules with wide spectrum antimicrobial activity, particularly against a variety of fungi. Therefore, this study examined the antifungal activity of seven different human AMPs against C. auris following the CLSI guidelines. The antifungal activity was further assessed using time kill curve and cell viability assays. For combination interaction, effectiveness of these peptides with three antifungals, fluconazole, amphotericin B, and caspofungin was done following standard protocols. To elucidate the antifungal mechanism, the effects of peptides on membrane permeability were investigated using propidium iodide staining method and confocal imaging. Antifungal susceptibility results showed that all the examined peptides possessed fungicidal effect against C. auris at different levels, with human β-defensin-3 being the most potent antifungal with MIC values ranging from 3.125 to 12.5 µg/ml. Time kill curves further confirmed the killing effect of all the tested peptides. Viability assay showed a significant decrease in the percentage of viable cells exposed to different inhibitory and fungicidal concentrations of each peptide (p < 0.01). Furthermore, peptides showed mostly synergistic interaction when combined with conventional antifungal drugs, with caspofungin showing 100% synergy when combined with different AMPs. As antifungal mechanism, peptides disrupted the membrane permeability at concentrations that correlated with the inhibition of growth. Overall, the findings of this study point towards the application of the tested peptides as a monotherapy or as a combination therapy with antifungal drugs to treat multidrug-resistant C. auris infections.
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11
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Tu J, Liu N, Huang Y, Yang W, Sheng C. Small molecules for combating multidrug-resistant superbug Candida auris infections. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:4056-4074. [PMID: 36386475 PMCID: PMC9643296 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is emerging as a major global threat to human health. C. auris infections are associated with high mortality due to intrinsic multi-drug resistance. Currently, therapeutic options for the treatment of C. auris infections are rather limited. We aim to provide a comprehensive review of current strategies, drug candidates, and lead compounds in the discovery and development of novel therapeutic agents against C. auris. The drug resistance profiles and mechanisms are briefly summarized. The structures and activities of clinical candidates, drug combinations, antifungal chemosensitizers, repositioned drugs, new targets, and new types of compounds will be illustrated in detail, and perspectives for guiding future research will be provided. We hope that this review will be helpful to prompting the drug development process to combat this fungal pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yahui Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Wanzhen Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Chunquan Sheng
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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12
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Verburg K, van Neer J, Duca M, de Cock H. Novel Treatment Approach for Aspergilloses by Targeting Germination. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:758. [PMID: 35893126 PMCID: PMC9331470 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Germination of conidia is an essential process within the Aspergillus life cycle and plays a major role during the infection of hosts. Conidia are able to avoid detection by the majority of leukocytes when dormant. Germination can cause severe health problems, specifically in immunocompromised people. Aspergillosis is most often caused by Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) and affects neutropenic patients, as well as people with cystic fibrosis (CF). These patients are often unable to effectively detect and clear the conidia or hyphae and can develop chronic non-invasive and/or invasive infections or allergic inflammatory responses. Current treatments with (tri)azoles can be very effective to combat a variety of fungal infections. However, resistance against current azoles has emerged and has been increasing since 1998. As a consequence, patients infected with resistant A. fumigatus have a reported mortality rate of 88% to 100%. Especially with the growing number of patients that harbor azole-resistant Aspergilli, novel antifungals could provide an alternative. Aspergilloses differ in defining characteristics, but germination of conidia is one of the few common denominators. By specifically targeting conidial germination with novel antifungals, early intervention might be possible. In this review, we propose several morphotypes to disrupt conidial germination, as well as potential targets. Hopefully, new antifungals against such targets could contribute to disturbing the ability of Aspergilli to germinate and grow, resulting in a decreased fungal burden on patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Verburg
- Molecular Microbiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; (K.V.); (J.v.N.)
| | - Jacq van Neer
- Molecular Microbiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; (K.V.); (J.v.N.)
| | - Margherita Duca
- Department of Chemical Biology & Drug Discovery, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands;
| | - Hans de Cock
- Molecular Microbiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; (K.V.); (J.v.N.)
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van Os N, Javed A, Broere F, van Dijk A, Balhuizen MD, van Eijk M, Rooijakkers SHM, Bardoel BW, Heesterbeek DAC, Haagsman HP, Veldhuizen E. Novel insights in antimicrobial and immunomodulatory mechanisms of action of PepBiotics CR-163 and CR-172. J Glob Antimicrob Resist 2022; 30:406-413. [PMID: 35840108 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgar.2022.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Recently our group developed a novel group of antimicrobial peptides termed PepBiotics, of which peptides CR-163 and CR-172 showed optimized antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus without inducing antimicrobial resistance. In this study, the antibacterial mechanism of action and the immunomodulatory activity of these two PepBiotics was explored. METHODS RAW264.7 cells were used to determine the ability of PepBiotics to neutralize LPS-and LTA-induced activation of macrophages. Isothermal titration calorimetry and competition assays with dansyl-labeled polymyxin B determined binding characteristics to LPS and LTA. Combined bacterial killing with subsequent macrophage activation assays was performed to determine so-called silent killing'. Finally, flow cytometry of peptide-treated genetically engineered E. coli,expressing GFP and mCherry in the cytoplasm and periplasm, respectively further established the antimicrobial mechanism of PepBiotics. RESULTS Both CR-163 and CR-172 were shown to have broad-spectrum activity against ESKAPE pathogens and E. coli, using a membranolytic mechanism of action. PepBiotics could exothermically bind LPS/LTA and were able to replace polymyxin B. Finally, it was demonstrated that bacteria killed by PepBiotics were less prone to stimulate immune cells, contrary to gentamicin and heat-killed bacteria that still elicited a strong immune response CONCLUSIONS: These studies highlight the multifunctional nature of the two peptide antibiotics as both broad spectrum antimicrobial and immunomodulator. Their ability to kill bacteria and reduce unwanted subsequent immune activation is a major advantage and highlights their potential for future therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico van Os
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ali Javed
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Section Immunology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Broere
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Section Immunology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Albert van Dijk
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Melanie D Balhuizen
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martin van Eijk
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Suzan H M Rooijakkers
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bart W Bardoel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dani A C Heesterbeek
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Henk P Haagsman
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Edwin Veldhuizen
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Section Immunology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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14
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Domán M, Bányai K. COVID-19-Associated Fungal Infections: An Urgent Need for Alternative Therapeutic Approach? Front Microbiol 2022; 13:919501. [PMID: 35756020 PMCID: PMC9218862 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.919501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Secondary fungal infections may complicate the clinical course of patients affected by viral respiratory diseases, especially those admitted to intensive care unit. Hospitalized COVID-19 patients are at increased risk of fungal co-infections exacerbating the prognosis of disease due to misdiagnosis that often result in treatment failure and high mortality rate. COVID-19-associated fungal infections caused by predominantly Aspergillus and Candida species, and fungi of the order Mucorales have been reported from several countries to become significant challenge for healthcare system. Early diagnosis and adequate antifungal therapy is essential to improve clinical outcomes, however, drug resistance shows a rising trend highlighting the need for alternative therapeutic agents. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on COVID-19-associated mycoses, treatment strategies and the most recent advancements in antifungal drug development focusing on peptides with antifungal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Domán
- Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Bányai
- Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
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15
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Solaymani-Mohammadi S. Mucosal Defense Against Giardia at the Intestinal Epithelial Cell Interface. Front Immunol 2022; 13:817468. [PMID: 35250996 PMCID: PMC8891505 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.817468] [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] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Human giardiasis, caused by the protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis (syn. Giardia lamblia, Giardia intestinalis, Lamblia intestinalis), is one of the most commonly-identified parasitic diseases worldwide. Chronic G. duodenalis infections cause a malabsorption syndrome that may lead to failure to thrive and/or stunted growth, especially in children in developing countries. Understanding the parasite/epithelial cell crosstalk at the mucosal surfaces of the small intestine during human giardiasis may provide novel insights into the mechanisms underlying the parasite-induced immunopathology and epithelial tissue damage, leading to malnutrition. Efforts to identify new targets for intervening in the development of intestinal immunopathology and the progression to malnutrition are critical. Translating these findings into a clinical setting will require analysis of these pathways in cells and tissues from humans and clinical trials could be devised to determine whether interfering with unwanted mucosal immune responses developed during human giardiasis provide better therapeutic benefits and clinical outcomes for G. duodenalis infections in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahram Solaymani-Mohammadi
- Laboratory of Mucosal Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, United States
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16
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Li X, Zuo S, Wang B, Zhang K, Wang Y. Antimicrobial Mechanisms and Clinical Application Prospects of Antimicrobial Peptides. Molecules 2022; 27:2675. [PMID: 35566025 PMCID: PMC9104849 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides are a type of small-molecule peptide that widely exist in nature and are components of the innate immunity of almost all living things. They play an important role in resisting foreign invading microorganisms. Antimicrobial peptides have a wide range of antibacterial activities against bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microorganisms. They are active against traditional antibiotic-resistant strains and do not easily induce the development of drug resistance. Therefore, they have become a hot spot of medical research and are expected to become a new substitute for fighting microbial infection and represent a new method for treating drug-resistant bacteria. This review briefly introduces the source and structural characteristics of antimicrobial peptides and describes those that have been used against common clinical microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and especially coronaviruses), focusing on their antimicrobial mechanism of action and clinical application prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (X.L.); (B.W.)
| | - Siyao Zuo
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China;
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (X.L.); (B.W.)
| | - Kaiyu Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (X.L.); (B.W.)
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (X.L.); (B.W.)
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17
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Oh KK, Adnan M, Cho DH. Uncovering a Hub Signaling Pathway of Antimicrobial-Antifungal-Anticancer Peptides’ Axis on Short Cationic Peptides via Network Pharmacology Study. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042055. [PMID: 35216171 PMCID: PMC8875113 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Short cationic peptides (SCPs) with therapeutic efficacy of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), antifungal peptides (AFPs), and anticancer peptides (ACPs) are known as an enhancement of the host defense system. Here, we investigated the uppermost peptide(s), hub signaling pathway(s), and their associated target(s) through network pharmacology. Firstly, we selected SCPs with positive amino acid residues on N- and C- terminals under 500 Dalton via RStudio. Secondly, the overlapping targets between the bacteria-responsive targets (TTD and OMIM) and AMPs’ targets were visualized by VENNY 2.1. Thirdly, the overlapping targets between AFPs’ targets and fungal-responsive targets were exhibited by VENNY 2.1. Fourthly, the overlapping targets between cancer-related targets (TTD and OMIM) and fungal-responsive targets were displayed by VENNY 2.1. Finally, a molecular docking study (MDS) was carried out to discover the most potent peptides on a hub signaling pathway. A total of 1833 SCPs were identified, and AMPs’, AFPs’, and ACPs’ filtration suggested that 197 peptides (30 targets), 81 peptides (6 targets), and 59 peptides (4 targets) were connected, respectively. The AMPs―AFPs―ACPs’ axis indicated that 27 peptides (2 targets) were associated. Each hub signaling pathway for the enhancement of the host defense system was “Inactivation of Rap1 signaling pathway on AMPs”, “Activation of Notch signaling pathway on AMPs―AFPs’ axis”, and “Inactivation of HIF-1 signaling pathway on AMPs―AFPs―ACPs’ axis”. The most potent peptides were assessed via MDS; finally, HPIK on STAT3 and HVTK on NOS2 and on HIF-1 signaling pathway were the most stable complexes. Furthermore, the two peptides had better affinity scores than standard inhibitors (Stattic, 1400 W). Overall, the most potent SCPs for the human defense system were HPIK on STAT3 and HVTK on NOS2, which might inactivate the HIF-1 signaling pathway.
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18
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van Harten RM, Tjeerdsma-van Bokhoven JL, de Greeff A, Balhuizen MD, van Dijk A, Veldhuizen EJ, Haagsman HP, Scheenstra MR. d-enantiomers of CATH-2 enhance the response of macrophages against Streptococcus suis serotype 2. J Adv Res 2022; 36:101-112. [PMID: 35127168 PMCID: PMC8799869 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
D-CATH-2 has strong antimicrobial activities towards multiple S.suis strains. D-CATH-2 ameliorates macrophage function. DCATH-2 binds LTA. DCATH-2 has prophylactic effect against S. suis infection in vivo.
Introduction Due to the increase of antibiotic resistant bacterial strains, there is an urgent need for development of alternatives to antibiotics. Cathelicidins can be such an alternative to antibiotics having both a direct antimicrobial capacity as well as an immunomodulatory function. Previously, the full d-enantiomer of chicken cathelicidin-2 (d-CATH-2) has shown to prophylactically protect chickens against infection 7 days post hatch when administered in ovo three days before hatch. Objectives To further evaluate d-CATH-2 in mammals as a candidate for an alternative to antibiotics. In this study, the prophylactic capacity of d-CATH-2 and two truncated derivatives, d-C(1–21) and d-C(4–21), was determined in mammalian cells. Methods Antibacterial assays; immune cell differentiation and modulation; cytotoxicity, isothermal titration calorimetry; in vivo prophylactic capacity of peptides in an S. suis infection model. Results d-CATH-2 and its derivatives were shown to have a strong direct antibacterial capacity against four different S. suis serotype 2 strains (P1/7, S735, D282, and OV625) in bacterial medium and even stronger in cell culture medium. In addition, d-CATH-2 and its derivatives ameliorated the efficiency of mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) and skewed mouse bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDC) towards cells with a more macrophage-like phenotype. The peptides directly bind lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and inhibit LTA-induced activation of macrophages. In addition, S. suis killed by the peptide was unable to further activate mouse macrophages, which indicates that S. suis was eliminated by the previously reported silent killing mechanism. Administration of d-C(1–21) at 24 h or 7 days before infection resulted in a small prophylactic protection with reduced disease severity and reduced mortality of the treated mice. Conclusion d-enantiomers of CATH-2 show promise as anti-infectives against pathogenic S. suis for application in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel M. van Harten
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Astrid de Greeff
- Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Wageningen University & Research, Houtribweg 39, 8221 RA Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | - Melanie D. Balhuizen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Albert van Dijk
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Edwin J.A. Veldhuizen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Corresponding author.
| | - Henk P. Haagsman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Maaike R. Scheenstra
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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19
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Wei DX, Zhang XW. Biosynthesis, Bioactivity, Biosafety and Applications of Antimicrobial Peptides for Human Health. BIOSAFETY AND HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bsheal.2022.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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20
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OUP accepted manuscript. Med Mycol 2022; 60:6526320. [PMID: 35142862 PMCID: PMC8929677 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myac008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is an emerging, multi drug resistant fungal pathogen that has caused infectious outbreaks in over 45 countries since its first isolation over a decade ago, leading to in-hospital crude mortality rates as high as 72%. The fungus is also acclimated to disinfection procedures and persists for weeks in nosocomial ecosystems. Alarmingly, the outbreaks of C. auris infections in Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients have also been reported. The pathogenicity, drug resistance and global spread of C. auris have led to an urgent exploration of novel, candidate antifungal agents for C. auris therapeutics. This narrative review codifies the emerging data on the following new/emerging antifungal compounds and strategies: antimicrobial peptides, combinational therapy, immunotherapy, metals and nano particles, natural compounds, and repurposed drugs. Encouragingly, a vast majority of these exhibit excellent anti- C. auris properties, with promising drugs now in the pipeline in various stages of development. Nevertheless, further research on the modes of action, toxicity, and the dosage of the new formulations are warranted. Studies are needed with representation from all five C. auris clades, so as to produce data of grater relevance, and broader significance and validity.
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21
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Tian T, Xie W, Liu L, Fan S, Zhang H, Qin Z, Yang C. Industrial application of antimicrobial peptides based on their biological activity and structure-activity relationship. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2021:1-16. [PMID: 34955061 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2021.2019673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Last several years, a rapid increase in drug resistance to traditional antibiotics has driven the emergence and development of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). AMPs have also gained considerable attention from scientists due to their high potency in combatting infectious pathogens. A subset of analogues and their derivatives with specific targets have been successfully designed based on natural peptide patterns. In this review, scientific knowledge on the mechanisms of action related to biological activity and structure-activity relationship (SAR) of AMPs are summarized, and the biological applications in several important fields are critically discussed. SAR shows that the positive charge, secondary structure, special amino acid residues, hydrophobicity, and helicity of AMPs are closely related to their biological activities. The combination of nanotechnology, bioinformatics, and genetic engineering can accelerate to achieve the application of AMPs as effective, safe, economical, and nonresistant antimicrobial agents in medicine, the food and feed industries, and agriculture in coming years. Given the intense interest in AMPs, further investigations are needed in the future to evaluate the specific structure and function that make their use favorable in several industries. This review may provide a comprehensive reference for future studies on chemical modifications, mechanistic exploration, and applications of AMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Tian
- Center for Biological Science and Technology, Advanced Institute of Natural Sciences, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519087, China
| | - Wansheng Xie
- Hainan Center for Drug and Medical Device Evaluation and Service, Hainan Provincial Drug Administration, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Luxuan Liu
- Center for Biological Science and Technology, Advanced Institute of Natural Sciences, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519087, China
| | - Siting Fan
- Center for Biological Science and Technology, Advanced Institute of Natural Sciences, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519087, China
| | - Heqian Zhang
- Center for Biological Science and Technology, Advanced Institute of Natural Sciences, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519087, China
| | - Zhiwei Qin
- Center for Biological Science and Technology, Advanced Institute of Natural Sciences, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519087, China
| | - Chao Yang
- Center for Biological Science and Technology, Advanced Institute of Natural Sciences, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519087, China.,State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine/Macau Institute for Applied research in Medicine and Health, University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, China
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22
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Current scenario of the search for new antifungal agents to treat Candida auris infections: An integrative review. J Mycol Med 2021; 32:101232. [PMID: 34883404 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2021.101232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Candida auris emerges as an important causative agent of fungal infections, with worrisome mortality rates, mainly in immunocompromised individuals. This scenario is worsened by the limited availability of antifungal drugs and the increasing development of resistance to them. Due to the relevance of C. auris infections to public health, several studies aimed to discover new antifungal compounds capable of overcoming this fungus. Nonetheless, these information are decentralized, precluding the understandment of the current status of the search for new anti-C. auris compounds. Thus, this integrative review aimed to summarize information regarding anti-C. auris compounds reported in literature. After using predefined selection criteria, 71 articles were included in this review, and data from a total of 101 substances were extracted. Most of the studies tested synthetic substances, including several azoles. Moreover, drug repurposing emerges as a suitable strategy to discover new anti-C. auris agents. Few studies, however, assessed the mechanism of action and the in vivo antifungal activity of the compounds. Therefore, more studies must be performed to evaluate the usefulness of these substances as anti-C. auris therapies.
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Sultana A, Luo H, Ramakrishna S. Antimicrobial Peptides and Their Applications in Biomedical Sector. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:1094. [PMID: 34572676 PMCID: PMC8465024 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10091094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In a report by WHO (2014), it was stated that antimicrobial resistance is an arising challenge that needs to be resolved. This resistance is a critical issue in terms of disease or infection treatment and is usually caused due to mutation, gene transfer, long-term usage or inadequate use of antimicrobials, survival of microbes after consumption of antimicrobials, and the presence of antimicrobials in agricultural feeds. One of the solutions to this problem is antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which are ubiquitously present in the environment. These peptides are of concern due to their special mode of action against a wide spectrum of infections and health-related problems. The biomedical field has the highest need of AMPs as it possesses prominent desirable activity against HIV-1, skin cancer, breast cancer, in Behcet's disease treatment, as well as in reducing the release of inflammatory cells such as TNFα, IL-8, and IL-1β, enhancing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10 and GM-CSF, and in wound healing properties. This review has highlighted all the major functions and applications of AMPs in the biomedical field and concludes the future potential of AMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afreen Sultana
- Center for Nanotechnology & Sustainability, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117581, Singapore;
| | - Hongrong Luo
- Engineering Research Center in Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China;
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Center for Nanotechnology & Sustainability, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117581, Singapore;
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Immunomodulatory Properties of Host Defence Peptides in Skin Wound Healing. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11070952. [PMID: 34203393 PMCID: PMC8301823 DOI: 10.3390/biom11070952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous wound healing is a vital biological process that aids skin regeneration upon injury. Wound healing failure results from persistent inflammatory conditions observed in diabetes, or autoimmune diseases like psoriasis. Chronic wounds are incurable due to factors like poor oxygenation, aberrant function of peripheral sensory nervature, inadequate nutrients and blood tissue supply. The most significant hallmark of chronic wounds is heavily aberrant immune skin function. The immune response in humans relies on a large network of signalling molecules and their interactions. Research studies have reported on the dual role of host defence peptides (HDPs), which are also often called antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Their duality reflects their potential for acting as antibacterial peptides, and as immunodulators that assist in modulating several biological signalling pathways related to processes such as wound healing, autoimmune disease, and others. HDPs may differentially control gene regulation and alter the behaviour of epithelial and immune cells, resulting in modulation of immune responses. In this review, we shed light on the understanding and most recent advances related to molecular mechanisms and immune modulatory features of host defence peptides in human skin wound healing. Understanding their functional role in skin immunity may further inspire topical treatments for chronic wounds.
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25
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van Eijk M, van Dijk A, van der Ent CK, Arets HGM, Breukink E, van Os N, Adrichem R, van der Water S, Lino Gómez R, Kristensen M, Hessing M, Jekhmane S, Weingarth M, Veldhuizen RAW, Veldhuizen EJA, Haagsman HP. PepBiotics, novel cathelicidin-inspired antimicrobials to fight pulmonary bacterial infections. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2021; 1865:129951. [PMID: 34147544 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2021.129951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antimicrobial peptides are considered potential alternatives to antibiotics. Here we describe the antibacterial properties of a family of novel cathelicidin-related (CR-) peptides, which we named PepBiotics, against bacteria typically present in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. METHODS Broth dilution assays were used to determine antibacterial activity of PepBiotics under physiological conditions, as well as development of bacterial resistance against these peptides. Toxicity was tested in mice and cell cultures while molecular interactions of PepBiotics with bacterial membrane components was determined using CD, ITC and LPS/LTA induced macrophage studies. RESULTS A relatively small number of PepBiotics remained highly antibacterial against CF-related respiratory pathogens Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, at high ionic strength and low pH. Interestingly, these PepBiotics also prevented LPS/LTA induced activation of macrophages and was shown to be non-toxic to primary human nasal epithelial cells. Furthermore, both P. aeruginosa and S. aureus were unable to induce resistance against CR-163 and CR-172, two PepBiotics selected for their excellent antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. Toxicity studies in mice indicated that intratracheal administration of CR-163 was well tolerated in vivo. Finally, interaction of CR-163 with bacterial-type anionic membranes but not with mammalian-type (zwitterionic lipid) membranes was confirmed using ITC and 31P solid state NMR. CONCLUSIONS PepBiotics are a promising novel class of highly active antimicrobial peptides, of which CR-163 showed the most potential for treatment of clinically relevant (CF-) pathogens in physiological conditions. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE These observations emphasize the therapeutic potential of PepBiotics against CF-related bacterial respiratory infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin van Eijk
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Albert van Dijk
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelis K van der Ent
- Department of Paediatric Pulmonology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hubertus G M Arets
- Department of Paediatric Pulmonology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Eefjan Breukink
- Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nico van Os
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Roy Adrichem
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Sven van der Water
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Rita Lino Gómez
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Maartje Kristensen
- Department of Paediatric Pulmonology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Martin Hessing
- U-Protein Express B.V., Life Science Incubator, Utrecht Science Park, Yalelaan 62, 3584CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Shehrazade Jekhmane
- Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Department of Chemistry, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Markus Weingarth
- Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Department of Chemistry, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ruud A W Veldhuizen
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Edwin J A Veldhuizen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, the Netherlands; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Immunology, Utrecht University, the Netherlands.
| | - Henk P Haagsman
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
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Billamboz M, Fatima Z, Hameed S, Jawhara S. Promising Drug Candidates and New Strategies for Fighting against the Emerging Superbug Candida auris. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9030634. [PMID: 33803604 PMCID: PMC8003017 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9030634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections represent an expanding threat to public health. During the past decade, a paradigm shift of candidiasis from Candida albicans to non-albicans Candida species has fundamentally increased with the advent of Candida auris. C. auris was identified in 2009 and is now recognized as an emerging species of concern and underscores the urgent need for novel drug development strategies. In this review, we discuss the genomic epidemiology and the main virulence factors of C. auris. We also focus on the different new strategies and results obtained during the past decade in the field of antifungal design against this emerging C. auris pathogen yeast, based on a medicinal chemist point of view. Critical analyses of chemical features and physicochemical descriptors will be carried out along with the description of reported strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muriel Billamboz
- Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur Lille, Université Lille, U1167—RID-AGE—Facteurs de Risque et Déterminants Moléculaires des Maladies liées au Vieillissement, F-59000 Lille, France
- Junia, Health and Environment, Laboratory of Sustainable Chemistry and Health, F-59000 Lille, France
- Correspondence: (M.B.); (S.J.)
| | - Zeeshan Fatima
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Manesar, Gurugram 122413, India; (Z.F.); (S.H.)
| | - Saif Hameed
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Manesar, Gurugram 122413, India; (Z.F.); (S.H.)
| | - Samir Jawhara
- UMR 8576-UGSF-Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, INSERM U1285, University of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
- Correspondence: (M.B.); (S.J.)
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Dell'Olmo E, Gaglione R, Cesaro A, Cafaro V, Teertstra WR, de Cock H, Notomista E, Haagsman HP, Veldhuizen EJA, Arciello A. Host defence peptides identified in human apolipoprotein B as promising antifungal agents. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2021; 105:1953-1964. [PMID: 33576886 PMCID: PMC7907042 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-021-11114-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Abstract Therapeutic options to treat invasive fungal infections are still limited. This makes the development of novel antifungal agents highly desirable. Naturally occurring antifungal peptides represent valid candidates, since they are not harmful for human cells and are endowed with a wide range of activities and their mechanism of action is different from that of conventional antifungal drugs. Here, we characterized for the first time the antifungal properties of novel peptides identified in human apolipoprotein B. ApoB-derived peptides, here named r(P)ApoBLPro, r(P)ApoBLAla and r(P)ApoBSPro, were found to have significant fungicidal activity towards Candida albicans (C. albicans) cells. Peptides were also found to be able to slow down metabolic activity of Aspergillus niger (A. niger) spores. In addition, experiments were carried out to clarify the mechanism of fungicidal activity of ApoB-derived peptides. Peptides immediately interacted with C. albicans cell surfaces, as indicated by fluorescence live cell imaging analyses, and induced severe membrane damage, as indicated by propidium iodide uptake induced upon treatment of C. albicans cells with ApoB-derived peptides. ApoB-derived peptides were also tested on A. niger swollen spores, initial hyphae and branched mycelium. The effects of peptides were found to be more severe on swollen spores and initial hyphae compared to mycelium. Fluorescence live cell imaging analyses confirmed peptide internalization into swollen spores with a consequent accumulation into hyphae. Altogether, these findings open interesting perspectives to the application of ApoB-derived peptides as effective antifungal agents. Key points Human cryptides identified in ApoB are effective antifungal agents. ApoB-derived cryptides exert fungicidal effects towards C. albicans cells. ApoB-derived cryptides affect different stages of growth of A. niger.
Graphical abstract![]() Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00253-021-11114-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliana Dell'Olmo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Naples, Italy
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rosa Gaglione
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Naples, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Cesaro
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Cafaro
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Wieke R Teertstra
- Molecular Microbiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hans de Cock
- Molecular Microbiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Eugenio Notomista
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Henk P Haagsman
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Edwin J A Veldhuizen
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Section Molecular Host Defence, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Angela Arciello
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Naples, Italy.
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), Rome, Italy.
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Kovács R, Nagy F, Tóth Z, Forgács L, Tóth L, Váradi G, Tóth GK, Vadászi K, Borman AM, Majoros L, Galgóczy L. The Neosartorya fischeri Antifungal Protein 2 (NFAP2): A New Potential Weapon against Multidrug-Resistant Candida auris Biofilms. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020771. [PMID: 33466640 PMCID: PMC7828714 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is a potential multidrug-resistant pathogen able to persist on indwelling devices as a biofilm, which serve as a source of catheter-associated infections. Neosartorya fischeri antifungal protein 2 (NFAP2) is a cysteine-rich, cationic protein with potent anti-Candida activity. We studied the in vitro activity of NFAP2 alone and in combination with fluconazole, amphotericin B, anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin against C. auris biofilms. The nature of interactions was assessed utilizing the fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI), a Bliss independence model, and LIVE/DEAD viability assay. NFAP2 exerted synergy with all tested antifungals with FICIs ranging between 0.312-0.5, 0.155-0.5, 0.037-0.375, 0.064-0.375, and 0.064-0.375 for fluconazole, amphotericin B, anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin, respectively. These results were confirmed using a Bliss model, where NFAP2 produced 17.54 μM2%, 2.16 μM2%, 33.31 μM2%, 10.72 μM2%, and 111.19 μM2% cumulative synergy log volume in combination with fluconazole, amphotericin B, anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin, respectively. In addition, biofilms exposed to echinocandins (32 mg/L) showed significant cell death in the presence of NFAP2 (128 mg/L). Our study shows that NFAP2 displays strong potential as a novel antifungal compound in alternative therapies to combat C. auris biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renátó Kovács
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.N.); (Z.T.); (L.F.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Department of Metagenomics, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-52-255-425
| | - Fruzsina Nagy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.N.); (Z.T.); (L.F.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Doctoral School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Tóth
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.N.); (Z.T.); (L.F.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Doctoral School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Lajos Forgács
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.N.); (Z.T.); (L.F.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Doctoral School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Liliána Tóth
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary; (L.T.); (L.G.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Györgyi Váradi
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Dóm tér 8, 6720 Szeged, Hungary; (G.V.); (G.K.T.)
| | - Gábor K. Tóth
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Dóm tér 8, 6720 Szeged, Hungary; (G.V.); (G.K.T.)
- MTA-SZTE Biomimetic Systems Research Group, University of Szeged, Dóm tér 8, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Karina Vadászi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.N.); (Z.T.); (L.F.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
| | - Andrew M. Borman
- UK National Mycology Reference Laboratory, Public Health England, Science Quarter, Southmead Hospital, Bristol BS10 5NB, UK;
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology (MRC CMM), University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - László Majoros
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.N.); (Z.T.); (L.F.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
| | - László Galgóczy
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary; (L.T.); (L.G.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
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