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Deng R, Wang X, Li R. Dermatophyte infection: from fungal pathogenicity to host immune responses. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1285887. [PMID: 38022599 PMCID: PMC10652793 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1285887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Dermatophytosis is a common superficial infection caused by dermatophytes, a group of pathogenic keratinophilic fungi. Apart from invasion against skin barrier, host immune responses to dermatophytes could also lead to pathologic inflammation and tissue damage to some extent. Therefore, it is of great help to understand the pathogenesis of dermatophytes, including fungal virulence factors and anti-pathogen immune responses. This review aims to summarize the recent advances in host-fungal interactions, focusing on the mechanisms of anti-fungal immunity and the relationship between immune deficiency and chronic dermatophytosis, in order to facilitate novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to improve the outcomes of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixin Deng
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Research Center for Medical Mycology, Peking University, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune Diseases, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis on Dermatoses, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaowen Wang
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Research Center for Medical Mycology, Peking University, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune Diseases, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis on Dermatoses, Beijing, China
| | - Ruoyu Li
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Research Center for Medical Mycology, Peking University, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune Diseases, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis on Dermatoses, Beijing, China
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Hui C, Yu Q, Liu B, Zhu M, Long Y, Shen D. Microbial contamination risk of landfilled waste with different ages. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 170:297-307. [PMID: 37738757 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Landfills are reservoirs of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and pathogens, and humans are exposed to these pollutants during extensive excavation of old landfills. However, the microbial contamination risk of landfilled waste with different ages has not been assessed. In this study, human bacterial pathogens (HBPs), ARGs, and virulence factors (VFs) were systematically determined using metagenomic analysis. Results showed that the abundance of HBPs, ARGs, and VFs increased with landfill age, the percentage of HBPs in refuse with deposit age of 10-12 years (Y10) was 23.75 ± 0.49%, which was higher than that in fresh refuse (Y0, 17.99 ± 0.14%) and refuse with deposit age of 5-6 years (Y5, 19.14 ± 0.15%), indicating that old refuse had higher microbial contamination risk than fresh refuse. Multidrug, macrolide, lincosamide, streptogramine, and tetracycline resistance genes were the primary ARGs, whereas lipooligosaccharides, type IV pili, and polar flagella were the dominant VFs in refuse. The HBPs showed a significant positive correlation with ARGs and VFs. Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Escherichia coli possibly possess both multiple ARGs and VFs and could be listed as high-risk HBPs in refuse. Mobile genetic elements, especially transposons, showed positive correlations with most ARGs and VFs, and they were identified as the primary factors accounting for the variations in ARGs and VFs. These findings will help understand the spread of ARGs and VFs in landfills and evaluate the potential risk of microbiological contamination in refuse of different landfill ages, thus providing guidance for preventing disease infection during landfill excavations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cai Hui
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling, Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Non-ferrous Metal Waste Recycling, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Qiang Yu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling, Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Non-ferrous Metal Waste Recycling, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Bing Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Min Zhu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling, Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Non-ferrous Metal Waste Recycling, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Yuyang Long
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling, Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Non-ferrous Metal Waste Recycling, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Dongsheng Shen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling, Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Non-ferrous Metal Waste Recycling, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310012, China.
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Cousin I, Misery L, de Vries P, Lebonvallet N. Emergence of New Concepts in Skin Physiopathology through the Use of in vitro Human Skin Explants Models. Dermatology 2023; 239:849-859. [PMID: 37717565 DOI: 10.1159/000533261] [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: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This review summarizes uses and new applications for dermatological research of in vitro culture models of human skin explants (HSEs). In the last decade, many innovations have appeared in the literature and an exponential number of studies have been recorded in various fields of application such as process culture engineering, stem cell extractions methodology, or cell-to-cell interaction studies under physiological and pathological conditions, wound-healing, and inflammation. Most studies also concerned pharmacology, cosmetology, and photobiology. However, these topics will not be considered in our review. SUMMARY A better understanding of the mechanisms driving intercellular relationships, at work in the maintenance of 3D tissue architectures has led to the improvement of cell culture techniques. Many papers have focused on the physiological ways that govern in vitro tissue maintenance of HSEs. The analysis of the necessary mechanical stress, intercellular and cell-matrix interactions, allows the maintenance and prolonged use of HSEs in culture for up to 15 days, regardless of the great variability of study protocols from one laboratory to another and in accordance with the objectives set. Because of their close similarities to fresh skin, HSEs are increasingly used to study skin barrier repair and wound healing physiology. Easy to use in co-culture, this model allows a better understanding of the connections and interactions between the peripheral nervous system, the skin and the immune system. The development of the concept of an integrated neuro-immuno-cutaneous system at work in skin physiology and pathology highlighted by this article represents one of the new technical challenges in the field of in vitro culture of HSE. This review of the literature also reveals the importance of using such models in pathology. As sources of stem cells, HSEs are the basis for the development of new tissue engineering models such as organoids or optical clearing tissues technology. This study identifies the main advances and cross-cutting issues in the use of HSE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ianis Cousin
- Laboratoire Interactions épithéliums Neurones, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Brest, France
- Service de chirurgie pédiatrique CHRU de Brest, Brest, France
| | - Laurent Misery
- Laboratoire Interactions épithéliums Neurones, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Brest, France
- Service de dermatologie CHRU de Brest, Brest, France
| | - Philine de Vries
- Laboratoire Interactions épithéliums Neurones, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Brest, France
- Service de chirurgie pédiatrique CHRU de Brest, Brest, France
| | - Nicolas Lebonvallet
- Laboratoire Interactions épithéliums Neurones, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Brest, France
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Rocha CHL, Rocha FMG, Bitencourt TA, Martins MP, Sanches PR, Rossi A, Martinez-Rossi NM. Synergism between the Antidepressant Sertraline and Caspofungin as an Approach to Minimise the Virulence and Resistance in the Dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080815. [PMID: 36012803 PMCID: PMC9409809 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Trichophyton rubrum is responsible for several superficial human mycoses. Novel strategies aimed at controlling this pathogen are being investigated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of the antidepressant sertraline (SRT), either alone or in combination with caspofungin (CASP). We calculated the minimum inhibitory concentrations of SRT and CASP against T. rubrum. Interactions between SRT and CASP were evaluated using a broth microdilution chequerboard. We assessed the differential expression of T. rubrum cultivated in the presence of SRT or combinations of SRT and CASP. We used MTT and violet crystal assays to compare the effect of SRT alone on T. rubrum biofilms with that of the synergistic combination of SRT and CASP. A human nail infection assay was performed. SRT alone, or in combination with CASP, exhibited antifungal activity against T. rubrum. SRT targets genes involved in the biosyntheses of cell wall and ergosterol. Furthermore, the metabolic activity of the T. rubrum biofilm and its biomass were affected by SRT and the combination of SRT and CASP. SRT alone, or in combination, shows potential as an approach to minimise resistance and reduce virulence.
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The bZIP Ap1 transcription factor is a negative regulator of virulence attributes of the anthropophilic dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum. CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2022; 3:100132. [PMID: 35909615 PMCID: PMC9325736 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2022.100132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The ap1 gene negatively regulates virulence traits in Trichophyton rubrum. Ap1 regulates T. rubrum growth in keratin, playing a vital role in nail infection. Ap1 may contribute to the chronicity of onychomycosis.
Trichophyton rubrum is a fungus that causes chronic skin and nail infections in healthy individuals and immunocompromised patients. During infection, T. rubrum invades host cutaneous tissues by adapting to the acidic pH and the innate immune response of the host. Several genes are upregulated during the growth of T. rubrum in substrates found in human tissue, including the ap1 gene, which codes for the transcription factor Ap1. Here, we generated a null mutant strain by deleting the T. rubrum ap1 gene and performed a functional analysis of this gene. Our results showed that the Δap1mutant increased its growth in nail fragments and co-cultures with keratinocytes compared to the wild type. Furthermore, the mutant displayed hyperpigmentation, thickening of the conidia cell wall, increased conidia susceptibility to calcofluor-white compared to the wild type, and loss of control of the keratinolytic activity. Although the ap1 gene was upregulated during exposure to the antifungal drugs amphotericin B, nystatin, and terbinafine, its deletion did not alter the fungal susceptibility to these drugs, revealing the role of the ap1 gene in the physiological response to the stress caused by these drugs, but not in their resistance. Moreover, ap1 was also involved in the oxidative stress response caused by menadione, but not paraquat or hydrogen peroxide. These findings indicate that the ap1 gene plays a role in the negative control of virulence-related attributes and may contribute to the chronicity of nail infection caused by T. rubrum.
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Cruz AHS, Santos RS, Martins MP, Peres NTA, Trevisan GL, Mendes NS, Martinez-Rossi NM, Rossi A. Relevance of Nutrient-Sensing in the Pathogenesis of Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton interdigitale. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2022; 3:858968. [PMID: 37746184 PMCID: PMC10512404 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2022.858968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
The growth and development of organisms depend on nutrient availability. Dermatophytes must sense nutrient levels and adapt to the host environment to colonize human and animal keratinized tissues. Owing to the clinical importance of the Trichophyton genus, this study compared the expression profile of genes involved in metabolism, cell cycle control, and proteases in two Trichophyton species, Trichophyton rubrum, and Trichophyton interdigitale, in response to nutrients and environmental pH. In addition, we evaluated the activity of enzymes in the tricarboxylic acid, glyoxylate, and methylcitrate cycles. Moreover, the effects of interruption of the transcription factor pacC on T. interdigitale in the same conditions as for the wild-type strain were determined. Our analyses revealed specific responses in each species to the nutritional and pH variation. An improved adaptation of T. interdigitale to keratin was observed, compared with that of T. rubrum. T. rubrum growth in buffered keratin media indicated pH 8.0 as an optimal pH condition for metabolic activity, which differed from that for T. interdigitale. Tricarboxylic acid components in T. rubrum showed increased enzymatic activity and transcript accumulation. In T. interdigitale, a higher activity of enzymes in glyoxylate and methylcitrate cycles was observed, with no direct correlation to the transcriptional profile. T. interdigitale fungal metabolism suggests the requirement of anaplerotic pathways in the late cultivation period. The identified differences between T. rubrum and T. interdigitale may represent determinants for adaptation to the host and the incidence of infection with each species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline H. S. Cruz
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo S. Santos
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Maíra P. Martins
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Nalu T. A. Peres
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Glauce L. Trevisan
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Niege S. Mendes
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Nilce M. Martinez-Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Antonio Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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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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State-of-the-Art Dermatophyte Infections: Epidemiology Aspects, Pathophysiology, and Resistance Mechanisms. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7080629. [PMID: 34436168 PMCID: PMC8401872 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The burden of fungal infections is not widely appreciated. Although these infections are responsible for over one million deaths annually, it is estimated that one billion people are affected by severe fungal diseases. Mycoses of nails and skin, primarily caused by fungi known as dermatophytes, are the most common fungal infections. Trichophyton rubrum appears to be the most common causative agent of dermatophytosis, followed by Trichophyton interdigitale. An estimated 25% of the world’s population suffers from dermatomycosis. Although these infections are not lethal, they compromise the quality of life of infected patients. The outcome of antidermatophytic treatments is impaired by various conditions, such as resistance and tolerance of certain dermatophyte strains. The adage “know your enemy” must be the focus of fungal research. There is an urgent need to increase awareness about the significance of these infections with precise epidemiological data and to improve knowledge regarding fungal biology and pathogenesis, with an emphasis on adaptive mechanisms to tackle adverse conditions from host counteractions. This review outlines the current knowledge about dermatophyte infections, with a focus on signaling pathways required for fungal infection establishment and a broad perspective on cellular and molecular factors involved in antifungal resistance and tolerance.
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Bitencourt TA, Neves-da-Rocha J, Martins MP, Sanches PR, Lang EAS, Bortolossi JC, Rossi A, Martinez-Rossi NM. StuA-Regulated Processes in the Dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum: Transcription Profile, Cell-Cell Adhesion, and Immunomodulation. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:643659. [PMID: 34169004 PMCID: PMC8218993 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.643659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections represent a significant concern worldwide, contributing to human morbidity and mortality. Dermatophyte infections are among the most significant mycoses, and Trichophyton rubrum appears to be the principal causative agent. Thus, an understanding of its pathophysiology is urgently required. Several lines of evidence have demonstrated that the APSES family of transcription factors (Asm1p, Phd1p, Sok2p, Efg1p, and StuA) is an important point of vulnerability in fungal pathogens and a potential therapeutic target. These transcription factors are unique to fungi, contributing to cell differentiation and adaptation to environmental cues and virulence. It has recently been demonstrated that StuA plays a pleiotropic role in dermatophyte pathophysiology. It was suggested that it functions as a mediator of crosstalk between different pathways that ultimately contribute to adaptive responses and fungal-host interactions. The complex regulation of StuA and its interaction pathways are yet to be unveiled. Thus, this study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of StuA-regulated processes in T. rubrum by assessing global gene expression following growth on keratin or glucose sources. The data showed the involvement of StuA in biological processes related to central carbon metabolism and glycerol catabolism, reactive oxygen species metabolism, and cell wall construction. Changes in carbohydrate metabolism may be responsible for the significant alteration in cell wall pattern and consequently in cell-cell interaction and adhesion. Loss of StuA led to impaired biofilm production and promoted proinflammatory cytokine secretion in a human keratinocyte cell line. We also observed the StuA-dependent regulation of catalase genes. Altogether, these data demonstrate the multitude of regulatory targets of StuA with a critical role in central metabolism that may ultimately trigger a cascade of secondary effects with substantial impact on fungal physiology and virulence traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamires A Bitencourt
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - João Neves-da-Rocha
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Maira P Martins
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Pablo R Sanches
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Elza A S Lang
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Julio C Bortolossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Antonio Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Nilce M Martinez-Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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10
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Boero E, Mnich ME, Manetti AGO, Soldaini E, Grimaldi L, Bagnoli F. Human Three-Dimensional Models for Studying Skin Pathogens. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2021; 430:3-27. [PMID: 32601967 DOI: 10.1007/82_2020_219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Skin is the most exposed surface of the human body, separating the microbe-rich external environment, from the sterile inner part. When skin is breached or its homeostasis is perturbed, bacterial, fungal and viral pathogens can cause local infections or use the skin as an entry site to spread to other organs. In the last decades, it has become clear that skin provides niches for permanent microbial colonization, and it actively interacts with microorganisms. This crosstalk promotes skin homeostasis and immune maturation, preventing expansion of harmful organisms. Skin commensals, however, are often found to be skin most prevalent and dangerous pathogens. Despite the medical interest, mechanisms of colonization and invasion for most skin pathogens are poorly understood. This limitation is due to the lack of reliable skin models. Indeed, animal models do not adequately mimic neither the anatomy nor the immune response of human skin. Human 3D skin models overcome these limitations and can provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis. Herein, we address the strengths and weaknesses of different types of human skin models and we review the main findings obtained using these models to study skin pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Luca Grimaldi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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11
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Ge LY, Liu J, Zheng HL, Mei H, Liang GZ, Liu WD. Comprehensive genome and transcriptome analysis of the dermatophyte Trichophyton schoenleinii reveals the candidate pathogenic genes. Mycoses 2021; 64:624-633. [PMID: 33586267 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichophyton schoenleinii is an anthropophilic dermatophyte that causes tinea favosa. Nowadays, it remains an important pathogen in some regions of the world, mainly epidemic in Africa and West Asia. Despite the medical importance of T. schoenleinii infections, a high-quality reference genome for T. schoenleinii is still unavailable, neither its transcriptomic profile. OBJECTIVES The aim of the current study was to improve understanding of the underlying pathogenic mechanism of T. schoenleinii, and to define the candidate pathogenic genes of T. schoenleinii. METHODS Comprehensive genomic analysis of T. schoenleinii was carried out by Illumina and PacBio sequencing platforms. Transcriptome profiles of T. schoenleinii cultured in vitro in two media containing either keratin or soy protein were determined using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) technology. RESULTS Here, we present the first draft genome sequence of T. schoenleinii strain T2s, which consists of 11 scaffolds containing 7474 predicted genes. Transcriptome analysis showed that genes involved in keratin hydrolysis have higher expression in T. schoenleinii grown in keratin medium, including genes encoding proteases, cysteine dioxygenase and acetamidase. Other genes with higher expression include genes encoding the components of the pH-responsive signal transduction pathways and transcription factors, many of which may play a role in pathogenicity. CONCLUSION In summary, this study provides new insights into the pathogenic mechanism of T. schoenleinii and highlights candidate genes for further development of novel targets in disease diagnosis and treatment of tinea favosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Yu Ge
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China.,Department of Dermatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hai-Lin Zheng
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Huan Mei
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Guan-Zhao Liang
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei-Da Liu
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China.,Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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12
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Pereira FDO. A review of recent research on antifungal agents against dermatophyte biofilms. Med Mycol 2021; 59:313-326. [PMID: 33418566 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myaa114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dermatophytoses are inflammatory cutaneous mycoses caused by dermatophyte fungi of the genera Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton that affect both immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals. With therapeutic failure, dermatophytoses can become chronic and recurrent. This is partly due to their ability to develop biofilms, microbial communities involved in a polymeric matrix attached to biotic or abiotic surfaces, contributing to fungal resistance. This review presents evidence accumulated in recent years on antidermatophyte biofilm activity. The following databases were used: Web of Science, Medline/PubMed (via the National Library of Medicine), Embase, and Scopus. Original articles published between 2011 and 2020, emphasizing the antifungal activity of conventional and new drugs against dermatophyte biofilms were eligible. A total of 11 articles met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed - the studies used in vitro and ex vivo (fragments of nails and hair) experimental models. The articles focused on reports of antibiofilm activity for conventional antifungals, natural drugs, and new therapeutic tools. The strains reported on were T. mentagrophytes, T. rubrum, T. tonsurans, M. canis, and M. gypseum. Between the studies, the wide variability of experimental conditions in vitro and ex vivo was observed. The data suggest the need for methodological standardization (at some minimum). This review systematically presents current studies involving agents that present antibiofilm activity against dermatophytes; and an overview of the ideal in vitro and ex vivo experimental conditions to guarantee biofilm formation that may assist future research. LAY ABSTRACT This review presents the current studies on the antibiofilm activities of drugs against dermatophytes and ideal experimental conditions, which might guarantee in vitro and ex vivo biofilm formation. It can be useful to examine the efficacy of new antimicrobial drugs against dermatophytes.
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13
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Active neutrophil responses counteract Candida albicans burn wound infection of ex vivo human skin explants. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21818. [PMID: 33311597 PMCID: PMC7732850 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78387-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Burn wounds are highly susceptible sites for colonization and infection by bacteria and fungi. Large wound surface, impaired local immunity, and broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy support growth of opportunistic fungi such as Candida albicans, which may lead to invasive candidiasis. Currently, it remains unknown whether depressed host defenses or fungal virulence drive the progression of burn wound candidiasis. Here we established an ex vivo burn wound model, where wounds were inflicted by applying preheated soldering iron to human skin explants, resulting in highly reproducible deep second-degree burn wounds. Eschar removal by debridement allowed for deeper C. albicans penetration into the burned tissue associated with prominent filamentation. Active migration of resident tissue neutrophils towards the damaged tissue and release of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β accompanied the burn. The neutrophil recruitment was further increased upon supplementation of the model with fresh immune cells. Wound area and depth decreased over time, indicating healing of the damaged tissue. Importantly, prominent neutrophil presence at the infected site correlated to the limited penetration of C. albicans into the burned tissue. Altogether, we established a reproducible burn wound model of candidiasis using ex vivo human skin explants, where immune responses actively control the progression of infection and promote tissue healing.
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14
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Comprehensive analysis of the dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum transcriptional profile reveals dynamic metabolic modulation. Biochem J 2020; 477:873-885. [PMID: 32022226 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20190868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The environmental challenges imposed onto fungal pathogens require a dynamic metabolic modulation, which relies on activation or repression of critical factors and is essential for the establishment and perpetuation of host infection. Wherefore, to overcome the different host microenvironments, pathogens not only depend on virulence factors but also on metabolic flexibility, which ensures their dynamic response to stress conditions in the host. Here, we evaluate Trichophyton rubrum interaction with keratin from a metabolic perspective. We present information about gene modulation of the dermatophyte during early infection stage after shifting from glucose- to keratin-containing culture media, in relation to its use of glucose as the carbon source. Analyzing T. rubrum transcriptome using high-throughput RNA-sequencing technology, we identified the modulation of essential genes related to nitrogen, fatty acid, ergosterol, and carbohydrate metabolisms, among a myriad of other genes necessary for the growth of T. rubrum in keratinized tissues. Our results provide reliable and critical strategies for adaptation to keratin and confirm that the urea-degrading activity associated with the reduction in disulfide bonds and proteolytic activity facilitated keratin degradation. The global modulation orchestrates the responses that support virulence and the proper adaptation to keratin compared with glucose as the carbon source. The gene expression profiling of the host-pathogen interaction highlights candidate genes involved in fungal adaptation and survival and elucidates the machinery required for the establishment of the initial stages of infection.
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15
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Lopes L, Bitencourt TA, Lang EAS, Sanches PR, Peres NTA, Rossi A, Martinez-Rossi NM. Genes coding for LysM domains in the dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum: A transcription analysis. Med Mycol 2020; 58:372-379. [PMID: 31226713 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myz068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The filamentous fungus Trichophyton rubrum is a pathogen that causes superficial mycoses in humans, predominantly in keratinized tissues. The occurrence of dermatophytoses has increased in the last decades, mainly in immunocompromised patients, warranting research on the mechanisms involved in dermatophyte virulence. The genomes of dermatophytes are known to be enriched in genes coding for proteins containing the LysM domain, a carbohydrate-binding module, indicating the possible involvement of these genes in virulence. Although the LysM domains have already been described in other fungi, their biological functions in dermatophytes are unknown. Here we assessed the transcription of genes encoding proteins containing the LysM domains in T. rubrum grown on different substrates using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Some of these genes showed changes in transcription levels when T. rubrum was grown on keratin. In silico analyses suggest that some of these proteins share features, namely, they are anchored in the plasma membrane and contain the catalytic domain chitinase II and signal peptide domains. Here we show a detailed study of genes encoding the proteins with LysM-containing domains in T. rubrum, aiming to contribute to the understanding of their functions in dermatophytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lúcia Lopes
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Tamires A Bitencourt
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Elza A S Lang
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Pablo R Sanches
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Nalu T A Peres
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Antonio Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Nilce M Martinez-Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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16
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Moniz T, Costa Lima SA, Reis S. Human skin models: From healthy to disease-mimetic systems; characteristics and applications. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:4314-4329. [PMID: 32608012 PMCID: PMC7484561 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin drug delivery is an emerging route in drug development, leading to an urgent need to understand the behaviour of active pharmaceutical ingredients within the skin. Given, As one of the body's first natural defences, the barrier properties of skin provide an obstacle to the successful outcome of any skin drug therapy. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying this barrier, reductionist strategies have designed several models with different levels of complexity, using non-biological and biological components. Besides the detail of information and resemblance to human skin in vivo, offered by each in vitro model, the technical and economic efforts involved must also be considered when selecting the most suitable model. This review provides an outline of the commonly used skin models, including healthy and diseased conditions, in-house developed and commercialized models, their advantages and limitations, and an overview of the new trends in skin-engineered models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tânia Moniz
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de FarmáciaUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
| | - Sofia A. Costa Lima
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de FarmáciaUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
| | - Salette Reis
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de FarmáciaUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal
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17
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Lang EAS, Bitencourt TA, Peres NTA, Lopes L, Silva LG, Cazzaniga RA, Rossi A, Martinez-Rossi NM. The stuA gene controls development, adaptation, stress tolerance, and virulence of the dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum. Microbiol Res 2020; 241:126592. [PMID: 33002720 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2020.126592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The APSES family, comprising of the transcriptional regulators Asm1p, Phd1p, Sok2p, Efg1p, and StuA, is found exclusively in fungi and has been reported to control several cellular processes in these organisms. However, its function in dermatophytes has not yet been completely understood. Here, we generated two null mutant strains by deleting the stuA gene in the dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum, the most common clinical isolate obtained from human skin and nail mycoses. The functional characterization of the knocked-out strains revealed the involvement of stuA in germination, morphogenesis of conidia and hyphae, pigmentation, stress responses, and virulence. Although the mutant strains could grow under several nutritional conditions, growth on the keratin medium, human nails, and skin was impaired. The co-culture of stuA mutants with human keratinocytes revealed enhanced development. Moreover, a stuA mutant grown on the keratin substrate showed a marked decrease in the transcript numbers of the hydrophobin encoding gene (hypA), suggesting the involvement of stuA in the molecular mechanisms underlying mechanosensing during the fungi-host interaction. In addition, bioinformatics analyses revealed the potential involvement of StuA in different biological processes such as oxidation-reduction, phosphorylation, proteolysis, transcription/translation regulation, and carbohydrate metabolism. Cumulatively, the present study suggested that StuA is a crosstalk mediator of many pathways and is an integral component of the infection process, implying that it could be a potential target for antifungal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elza A S Lang
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tamires A Bitencourt
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nalu T A Peres
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lucia Lopes
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Larissa G Silva
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo A Cazzaniga
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nilce M Martinez-Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
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18
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Castelo-Branco DDSCM, Aguiar LD, Araújo GDS, Lopes RGP, Sales JDA, Pereira-Neto WA, Pinheiro ADQ, Paixão GC, Cordeiro RDA, Sidrim JJC, Brilhante RSN, Rocha MFG. In vitro and ex vivo biofilms of dermatophytes: a new panorama for the study of antifungal drugs. BIOFOULING 2020; 36:783-791. [PMID: 32842796 DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2020.1811856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study describes an ex vivo model that creates an environment for dermatophyte biofilm growth, with features that resemble those of in vivo conditions, designing a new panorama for the study of antifungal susceptibility. Regarding planktonic susceptibility, MIC ranges were 0.125-1 µg ml-1 for griseofulvin and 0.000097-0.25 µg ml-1 for itraconazole and terbinafine. sMIC50 ranges were 2->512 µg ml-1 for griseofulvin and 0.25->64 µg ml-1 for itraconazole and terbinafine. CLSM images demonstrated a reduction in the amount of cells within the biofilm, but hyphae and conidia were still observed and biofilm biomass was maintained. SEM analysis demonstrated a retraction in the biofilm matrix, but fungal structures and water channels were preserved. These results show that ex vivo biofilms are more tolerant to antifungal drugs than in vitro biofilms, suggesting that environmental and nutritional conditions created by this ex vivo model favor biofilm growth and robustness, and hence drug tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lara de Aguiar
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Géssica Dos Santos Araújo
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Raissa Geovanna Pereira Lopes
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Jamile de Alencar Sales
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Waldemiro Aquino Pereira-Neto
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Adriana de Queiroz Pinheiro
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Germana Costa Paixão
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Rossana de Aguiar Cordeiro
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - José Júlio Costa Sidrim
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Raimunda Sâmia Nogueira Brilhante
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Marcos Fábio Gadelha Rocha
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
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19
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Bitencourt TA, Lang EAS, Sanches PR, Peres NTA, Oliveira VM, Fachin AL, Rossi A, Martinez-Rossi NM. HacA Governs Virulence Traits and Adaptive Stress Responses in Trichophyton rubrum. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:193. [PMID: 32153523 PMCID: PMC7044415 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of fungi to sense environmental stressors and appropriately respond is linked to secretory system functions. The dermatophyte infection process depends on an orchestrated signaling regulation that triggers the transcription of genes responsible for adherence and penetration of the pathogen into host-tissue. A high secretion system is activated to support the host-pathogen interaction and assures maintenance of the dermatophyte infection. The gateway of secretion machinery is the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which is the primary site for protein folding and transport. Current studies have shown that ER stress that affects adaptive responses is primarily regulated by UPR and supports fungal pathogenicity; this has been assessed for yeasts and Aspergillus fumigatus, in regard to how these fungi cope with host environmental stressors. Fungal UPR consists of a transmembrane kinase sensor (Ire1/IreA) and a downstream target Hac1/HacA. The active form of Hac is achieved via non-spliceosomal intron removal promoted by endonuclease activity of Ire1/IreA. Here, we assessed features of HacA and its involvement in virulence and susceptibility in Trichophyton rubrum. Our results showed that exposure to antifungals and ER-stressing agents initiated the activation of HacA from T. rubrum. Interestingly, the activation occurs when a 20 nt fragment is removed from part of the exon-2 and part of intron-2, which in turn promotes the arisen of the DNA binding site motif and a dimer interface domain. Further, we found changes in the cell wall and cellular membrane composition in the ΔhacA mutant as well as an increase in susceptibility toward azole and cell wall disturbing agents. Moreover, the ΔhacA mutant presented significant defects in important virulence traits like thermotolerance and growth on keratin substrates. For instance, the development of the ΔhacA mutant was impaired in co-culture with keratinocytes or human nail fragments. Changes in the pro-inflammatory cytokine release were verified for the ΔhacA mutant during the co-culture assay, which might be related to differences in pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) in the cell wall. Together, these results suggested that HacA is an integral part of T. rubrum physiology and virulence, implying that it is an important molecular target for antidermatophytic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamires A. Bitencourt
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elza A. S. Lang
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pablo R. Sanches
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nalu T. A. Peres
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Vanderci M. Oliveira
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia Fachin
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Antonio Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nilce M. Martinez-Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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20
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Alternative Splicing in Heat Shock Protein Transcripts as a Mechanism of Cell Adaptation in Trichophyton rubrum. Cells 2019; 8:cells8101206. [PMID: 31590387 PMCID: PMC6830096 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are involved in critical processes like host tissue invasion, resistance, and pathogenicity in dermatophytes. RNA-Seq analysis of Trichophyton rubrum exposed to undecanoic acid (UDA) revealed intron retention events in HSP transcripts. Because HSPs are modulated in response to various stimuli and as alternative splicing (AS) can result in a broad diversity in the proteome of eukaryotic cells, our objective was to confirm the aforementioned retention events, investigating their consequences and extent. Furthermore, we aimed to determine: (1) the expression profile of HSP genes in an infection-like scenario and (2) the importance of Hsp90 for the keratinolytic potential of T. rubrum. RT and qPCR analyses comparing the exposure to UDA and terbinafine (TRB) confirmed the presence of two mRNA isoforms of the hsp7-like gene, with distinct expression patterns in response to UDA and TRB. The HSP expression profile revealed two upregulated, three downregulated, and four unmodulated transcripts; Hsp90 inhibition by 17-AAG resulted in a significant decrease in keratinolytic potential at 37 °C. Altogether, these results broaden the current knowledge on the importance of HSP-mediated pathways for cell adaptation and other aspects of dermatophyte biology, indicating that HSP network proteins can be potential targets for antifungal therapy.
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21
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Faway É, Lambert de Rouvroit C, Poumay Y. In vitro models of dermatophyte infection to investigate epidermal barrier alterations. Exp Dermatol 2019; 27:915-922. [PMID: 29957851 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infections of the skin, known as dermatophytoses, are initiated at the epidermal barrier and lead to dysfunctions of the stratum corneum and cornified skin appendages. Dermatophytosis affects a significant part of the human population and, despite the availability of effective treatments, its prevalence is still increasing. Numerous dermatophyte species are able to induce lesions in both animals and humans, with different clinical pictures and host inflammatory responses. The understanding of the infectious process and of tissue responses has been impeded by discrepancies between observations in vivo or in research models. Indeed, cells cultured as monolayers do not undergo the keratinization process required to study the adherence and invasion of dermatophytes. Animal models lack relevance to study human dermatophytosis because of species-specific differences in the development of lesions and inflammatory responses. This review focuses on the recent development of cultured human skin equivalents, which partly overcomes those limitations and allows improved understanding of the pathogenesis of dermatophytosis in human being, especially the impacts of infection on epidermal barrier integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Émilie Faway
- URPhyM-NARILIS, University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | | | - Yves Poumay
- URPhyM-NARILIS, University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
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22
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Corzo-León DE, Munro CA, MacCallum DM. An ex vivo Human Skin Model to Study Superficial Fungal Infections. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1172. [PMID: 31231322 PMCID: PMC6560176 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human skin fungal infections (SFIs) affect 25% of the world's population. Most of these infections are superficial. The main limitation of current animal models of human superficial SFIs is that clinical presentation is different between the different species and animal models do not accurately reflect the human skin environment. An ex vivo human skin model was therefore developed and standardised to accurately model SFIs. In this manuscript, we report our protocol for setting up ex vivo human skin infections and report results from a primary superficial skin infection with Trichophyton rubrum, an anthropophilic fungus. The protocol includes a detailed description of the methodology to prepare the skin explants, establish infection, avoid contamination, and obtain high quality samples for further downstream analyses. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), histology and fluorescent microscopy were applied to evaluate skin cell viability and fungal morphology. Furthermore, we describe a broad range of assays, such as RNA extraction and qRT-PCR for human gene expression, and protein extraction from tissue and supernatants for proteomic analysis by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Non-infected skin was viable after 14 days of incubation, expressed genes and contained proteins associated with proliferative, immune and differentiation functions. The macroscopic damage caused by T. rubrum had a similar appearance to the one expected in clinical settings. Finally, using this model, the host response to T. rubrum infection can be evaluated at different levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Donna M. MacCallum
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Aberdeen, Institute of Medical Sciences, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
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23
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Bitencourt TA, Macedo C, Franco ME, Rocha MC, Moreli IS, Cantelli BAM, Sanches PR, Beleboni RO, Malavazi I, Passos GA, Marins M, Fachin AL. Trans-chalcone activity against Trichophyton rubrum relies on an interplay between signaling pathways related to cell wall integrity and fatty acid metabolism. BMC Genomics 2019; 20:411. [PMID: 31117938 PMCID: PMC6532161 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-019-5792-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Trichophyton rubrum is the main etiological agent of skin and nail infections worldwide. Because of its keratinolytic activity and anthropophilic nature, infection models based on the addition of protein substrates have been employed to assess transcriptional profiles and to elucidate aspects related to host-pathogen interactions. Chalcones are widespread compounds with pronounced activity against dermatophytes. The toxicity of trans-chalcone towards T. rubrum is not fully understood but seems to rely on diverse cellular targets. Within this context, a better understanding of the mode of action of trans-chalcone may help identify new strategies of antifungal therapy and reveal new chemotherapeutic targets. This work aimed to assess the transcriptional profile of T. rubrum grown on different protein sources (keratin or elastin) to mimic natural infection sites and exposed to trans-chalcone in order to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the antifungal activity of trans-chalcone. Results Overall, the use of different protein sources caused only slight differences in the transcriptional profile of T. rubrum. The main differences were the modulation of proteases and lipases in gene categories when T. rubrum was grown on keratin and elastin, respectively. In addition, some genes encoding heat shock proteins were up-regulated during the growth of T. rubrum on keratin. The transcriptional profile of T. rubrum exposed to trans-chalcone included four main categories: fatty acid and lipid metabolism, overall stress response, cell wall integrity pathway, and alternative energy metabolism. Consistently, T. rubrum Mapk was strongly activated during the first hours of trans-chalcone exposure. Noteworthy, trans-chalcone inhibited genes involved in keratin degradation. The results also showed effects of trans-chalcone on fatty acid synthesis and metabolic pathways involved in acetyl-CoA supply. Conclusion Our results suggest that the mode of action of trans-chalcone is related to pronounced changes in fungal metabolism, including an imbalance between fatty acid synthesis and degradation that interferes with cell membrane and cell wall integrity. In addition, this compound exerts activity against important virulence factors. Taken together, trans-chalcone acts on targets related to dermatophyte physiology and the infection process. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-019-5792-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamires Aparecida Bitencourt
- Unidade de Biotecnologia, Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, Av: Costábile Romano 2201, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14096-900, Brazil.,Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Claudia Macedo
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Matheus Eloy Franco
- Unidade de Biotecnologia, Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, Av: Costábile Romano 2201, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14096-900, Brazil.,Instituto Federal do Sul de Minas - Campus Machado, Machado, Brazil
| | - Marina Campos Rocha
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS), Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Igor Sawasaki Moreli
- Unidade de Biotecnologia, Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, Av: Costábile Romano 2201, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14096-900, Brazil
| | - Bruna Aline Micheloto Cantelli
- Unidade de Biotecnologia, Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, Av: Costábile Romano 2201, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14096-900, Brazil
| | - Pablo Rodrigo Sanches
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Rene Oliveira Beleboni
- Unidade de Biotecnologia, Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, Av: Costábile Romano 2201, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14096-900, Brazil
| | - Iran Malavazi
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS), Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Geraldo Aleixo Passos
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Mozart Marins
- Unidade de Biotecnologia, Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, Av: Costábile Romano 2201, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14096-900, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia Fachin
- Unidade de Biotecnologia, Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, Av: Costábile Romano 2201, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14096-900, Brazil.
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Gnat S, Nowakiewicz A, Łagowski D, Zięba P. Host- and pathogen-dependent susceptibility and predisposition to dermatophytosis. J Med Microbiol 2019; 68:823-836. [PMID: 31050630 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Dermatophytes are a highly specialized group of keratinophilic and keratinolytic filamentous fungi causing a ringworm disease called dermatophytosis or superficial mycoses. Although dermatophyte infections do not threaten the host's life, they lower its quality in humans by causing discomfort related to cosmetic problems and through their epidemiological significance, whereas in farm animals they are responsible for economic losses and constitute a source of the spread of spores. Evidence from countless observational studies that have been conducted over the last 90 years indicates that dermatophytes infect humans of every age, race, gender and socioeconomic status with strikingly high rates, as well as both farmed and wild animals in various health conditions and with various epidemiological statuses. However, the prevalence of superficial fungal infections is highly variable, since it depends on several parameters associated with the infected individual and the dermatophyte, their mutual interactions, and epidemiological and geographical factors. The curious disparity in dermatophyte infection patterns has prompted many investigators to search for a link between the host, the host's predispositions and susceptibility to the disease, and the dermatophyte species and virulence. Thus, the question arises as to whether, in addition to the generally recognized factors predisposing hosts to diseases, there are some other predispositions to dermatophyte infections in a species-specific host. In this review, we describe recent findings about the mechanism of dermatophyte infections, focusing on the adaptation of the fungi to the host and conditions predisposing each side to the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Gnat
- 1 University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Biological Bases of Animal Diseases, Sub-Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Akademicka 12, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Aneta Nowakiewicz
- 1 University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Biological Bases of Animal Diseases, Sub-Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Akademicka 12, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Dominik Łagowski
- 1 University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Biological Bases of Animal Diseases, Sub-Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Akademicka 12, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Przemysław Zięba
- 2 State Veterinary Laboratory, Droga Męczenników Majdanka 50, 20-325 Lublin, Poland
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Brilhante RSN, Aguiar LD, Sales JA, Araújo GDS, Pereira VS, Pereira-Neto WDA, Pinheiro ADQ, Paixão GC, Cordeiro RDA, Sidrim JJC, Bersano PRDO, Rocha MFG, Castelo-Branco DDSCM. Ex vivo biofilm-forming ability of dermatophytes using dog and cat hair: an ethically viable approach for an infection model. BIOFOULING 2019; 35:392-400. [PMID: 31155952 DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2019.1599361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to establish an ex vivo model for dermatophyte biofilm growth, using hair from dogs and cats. Strains of Microsporum canis, M. gypseum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and T. tonsurans were assessed for in vitro and ex vivo biofilm production. All T. mentagrophytes and T. tonsurans isolates and 8/12 M. canis and 1/7 M. gypseum isolates formed biofilms in vitro, while all tested isolates presented biofilm growth on ex vivo models. T. mentagrophytes and M. canis formed more homogeneous and better-structured biofilms with greater biomass production on cat hair but T. tonsurans formed more biofilm on dog hair. Confocal and scanning electron microscopy demonstrated fungal hyphae colonizing and perforating the hair shaft, abundant fungal conidia, biofilm extracellular matrix and biofilm water channels. The present study demonstrated an ex vivo model for the performance of studies on biofilm formation by dermatophytes, using dog and cat hair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raimunda Sâmia Nogueira Brilhante
- a Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center , Federal University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Lara de Aguiar
- b School of Veterinary Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Sciences , State University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Jamille Alencar Sales
- b School of Veterinary Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Sciences , State University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Géssica Dos Santos Araújo
- b School of Veterinary Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Sciences , State University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Vandbergue Santos Pereira
- a Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center , Federal University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Waldemiro de Aquino Pereira-Neto
- a Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center , Federal University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Adriana de Queiroz Pinheiro
- b School of Veterinary Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Sciences , State University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Germana Costa Paixão
- a Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center , Federal University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Rossana de Aguiar Cordeiro
- a Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center , Federal University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - José Júlio Costa Sidrim
- a Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center , Federal University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Paulo Ricardo de Oliveira Bersano
- b School of Veterinary Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Sciences , State University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Marcos Fábio Gadelha Rocha
- a Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center , Federal University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
- b School of Veterinary Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Sciences , State University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
| | - Débora de Souza Collares Maia Castelo-Branco
- a Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Specialized Medical Mycology Center , Federal University of Ceará , Fortaleza , Ceará , Brazil
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26
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Bitencourt TA, Oliveira FB, Sanches PR, Rossi A, Martinez-Rossi NM. The prp4 kinase gene and related spliceosome factor genes in Trichophyton rubrum respond to nutrients and antifungals. J Med Microbiol 2019; 68:591-599. [PMID: 30900975 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Trichophyton rubrum is a dermatophyte that causes most human superficial mycoses worldwide. The spliceosome, a large ribonucleoprotein complex responsible for pre-mRNA processing, may confer adaptive advantages to deal with different stresses. Here, we assessed the structural aspects of the Prp4 kinase protein and other pre-mRNA-splicing factors (Prps) in T. rubrum grown in different protein sources and exposed to antifungal drugs. METHODOLOGY Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR (RT-PCR) assessed the modulation of prp1, prp31, prp8 and prp4 kinase genes after exposure of T. rubrum to sub-lethal doses of amphotericin B, caspofungin and acriflavine, or after T. rubrum growth on keratin sources for 48 and 72 h. We also performed the in silico analysis of the domain organization of Prps orthologues from filamentous fungi and yeasts. RESULTS The prp4 gene was modulated in a time-dependent manner. Transcription levels were mostly up-regulated when T. rubrum was grown on keratin for 72 h, while exposure to amphotericin B promoted prp4 gene down-regulation at the same time point. We also observed co-expression of prp1 and prp31, and their down-regulation after amphotericin B exposure. In silico analysis revealed a conserved domain organization for most Prps orthologues with slight differences, which were mostly related to structural elements such as repetition domains in Prp1 and complexity in motif assembly for the Prp4 kinase. These differences were mainly observed in dermatophyte species and may alter protein interactions and substrate affinity. CONCLUSION Our results improve the understanding of spliceosome proteins in fungi as well as their roles in adaptation to different environmental situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamires A Bitencourt
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe B Oliveira
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pablo R Sanches
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nilce M Martinez-Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Faway É, Cambier L, Mignon B, Poumay Y, Lambert de Rouvroit C. Modeling dermatophytosis in reconstructed human epidermis: A new tool to study infection mechanisms and to test antifungal agents. Med Mycol 2018; 55:485-494. [PMID: 27760830 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myw111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Dermatophytosis is a superficial fungal infection of keratinized structures that exhibits an increasing prevalence in humans and is thus requesting novel prophylactic strategies and therapies. However, precise mechanisms used by dermatophytes to adhere at the surface of the human epidermis and invade its stratum corneum are still incompletely identified, as well as the responses provided by the underlying living keratinocytes during the infection. We hereby report development of an in vitro model of human dermatophytosis through infection of reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) by arthroconidia of the anthropophilic Trichophyton rubrum species or of the zoophilic Microsporum canis and Arthroderma benhamiae species. By modulating density of arthroconidia in the inoculum and duration of exposure to such pathogens, fungal infection limited to the stratum corneum was obtained, mimicking severe but typical in vivo situation. Fungal elements in infected RHE were monitored over time by histochemical analysis using periodic-acid Schiff-staining or quantified by qPCR-detection of fungal genes inside RHE lysates. This model brings improvements to available ones, dedicated to better understand how dermatophytes and epidermis interact, as well as to evaluate preventive and therapeutic agents. Indeed, miconazole topically added to RHE was demonstrated to inhibit fungal infection in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Émilie Faway
- URPHYM-NARILIS, University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Ludivine Cambier
- FARAH, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Bernard Mignon
- FARAH, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Yves Poumay
- URPHYM-NARILIS, University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
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Abstract
The growth and development of most fungi take place on a two-dimensional surface or within a three-dimensional matrix. The fungal sense of touch is therefore critical for fungi in the interpretation of their environment and often signals the switch to a new developmental state. Contact sensing, or thigmo-based responses, include thigmo differentiation, such as the induction of invasion structures by plant pathogens in response to topography; thigmonasty, where contact with a motile prey rapidly triggers its capture; and thigmotropism, where the direction of hyphal growth is guided by physical features in the environment. Like plants and some bacteria, fungi grow as walled cells. Despite the well-demonstrated importance of thigmo responses in numerous stages of fungal growth and development, it is not known how fungal cells sense contact through the relatively rigid structure of the cell wall. However, while sensing mechanisms at the molecular level are not entirely understood, the downstream signaling pathways that are activated by contact sensing are being elucidated. In the majority of cases, the response to contact is complemented by chemical cues and both are required, either sequentially or simultaneously, to elicit normal developmental responses. The importance of a sense of touch in the lifestyles and development of diverse fungi is highlighted in this review, and the candidate molecular mechanisms that may be involved in fungal contact sensing are discussed.
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Boral H, Metin B, Döğen A, Seyedmousavi S, Ilkit M. Overview of selected virulence attributes in Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Trichophyton rubrum, and Exophiala dermatitidis. Fungal Genet Biol 2017; 111:92-107. [PMID: 29102684 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of fungal diseases has been increasing since 1980, and is associated with excessive morbidity and mortality, particularly among immunosuppressed patients. Of the known 625 pathogenic fungal species, infections caused by the genera Aspergillus, Candida, Cryptococcus, and Trichophyton are responsible for more than 300 million estimated episodes of acute or chronic infections worldwide. In addition, a rather neglected group of opportunistic fungi known as black yeasts and their filamentous relatives cause a wide variety of recalcitrant infections in both immunocompetent and immunosuppressed hosts. This article provides an overview of selected virulence factors that are known to suppress host immunity and enhance the infectivity of these fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazal Boral
- Division of Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Çukurova, Adana, Turkey
| | - Banu Metin
- Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aylin Döğen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Mersin, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Seyedmojtaba Seyedmousavi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Invasive Fungi Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Center of Excellence for Infection Biology and Antimicrobial Pharmacology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Macit Ilkit
- Division of Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Çukurova, Adana, Turkey.
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Brilhante RSN, Correia EEM, Guedes GMDM, Pereira VS, Oliveira JSD, Bandeira SP, Alencar LPD, Andrade ARCD, Castelo-Branco DDSCM, Cordeiro RDA, Pinheiro ADQ, Chaves LJQ, Pereira Neto WDA, Sidrim JJC, Rocha MFG. Quantitative and structural analyses of the in vitro and ex vivo biofilm-forming ability of dermatophytes. J Med Microbiol 2017; 66:1045-1052. [PMID: 28708048 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro and ex vivo biofilm-forming ability of dermatophytes on a nail fragment. METHODOLOGY Initially, four isolates of Trichophyton rubrum, six of Trichophyton tonsurans, three of Trichophyton mentagrophytes, ten of Microsporum canis and three of Microsporum gypseum were tested for production biomass by crystal violet assay. Then, one strain per species presenting the best biofilm production was chosen for further studies by optical microscopy (Congo red staining), confocal laser scanning (LIVE/DEAD staining) and scanning electron (secondary electron) microscopy. RESULTS Biomass quantification by crystal violet assay, optical microscope images of Congo red staining, confocal microscope and scanning electron microscope images revealed that all species studied are able to form biofilms both in vitro and ex vivo, with variable density and architecture. M. gypseum, T. rubrum and T. tonsurans produced robust biofilms, with abundant matrix and biomass, while M. canis produced the weakest biofilms compared to other species. CONCLUSION This study sheds light on biofilms of different dermatophyte species, which will contribute to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of dermatophytosis. Further studies of this type are necessary to investigate the processes involved in the formation and composition of dermatophyte biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raimunda Sâmia Nogueira Brilhante
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Edmilson Emanuel Monteiro Correia
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Glaucia Morgana de Melo Guedes
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Vandbergue Santos Pereira
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Jonathas Sales de Oliveira
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Silviane Praciano Bandeira
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Lucas Pereira de Alencar
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Ana Raquel Colares de Andrade
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Débora de Souza Collares Maia Castelo-Branco
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Rossana de Aguiar Cordeiro
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Adriana de Queiroz Pinheiro
- School of Veterinary, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Science, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Lúcio Jackson Queiroz Chaves
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Waldemiro de Aquino Pereira Neto
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - José Júlio Costa Sidrim
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
| | - Marcos Fábio Gadelha Rocha
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Microbiology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil.,School of Veterinary, Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Science, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
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Martinez-Rossi NM, Peres NTA, Rossi A. Pathogenesis of Dermatophytosis: Sensing the Host Tissue. Mycopathologia 2016; 182:215-227. [DOI: 10.1007/s11046-016-0057-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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