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Shankar J, Thakur R, Clemons KV, Stevens DA. Interplay of Cytokines and Chemokines in Aspergillosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:251. [PMID: 38667922 PMCID: PMC11051073 DOI: 10.3390/jof10040251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Aspergillosis is a fungal infection caused by various species of Aspergillus, most notably A. fumigatus. This fungus causes a spectrum of diseases, including allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, aspergilloma, chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, and invasive aspergillosis. The clinical manifestations and severity of aspergillosis can vary depending on individual immune status and the specific species of Aspergillus involved. The recognition of Aspergillus involves pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) such as glucan, galactomannan, mannose, and conidial surface proteins. These are recognized by the pathogen recognition receptors present on immune cells such as Toll-like receptors (TLR-1,2,3,4, etc.) and C-type lectins (Dectin-1 and Dectin-2). We discuss the roles of cytokines and pathogen recognition in aspergillosis from both the perspective of human and experimental infection. Several cytokines and chemokines have been implicated in the immune response to Aspergillus infection, including interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), CCR4, CCR17, and other interleukins. For example, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is characterized by Th2 and Th9 cell-type immunity and involves interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-10. In contrast, it has been observed that invasive aspergillosis involves Th1 and Th17 cell-type immunity via IFN-γ, IL-1, IL-6, and IL-17. These cytokines activate various immune cells and stimulate the production of other immune molecules, such as antimicrobial peptides and reactive oxygen species, which aid in the clearance of the fungal pathogen. Moreover, they help to initiate and coordinate the immune response, recruit immune cells to the site of infection, and promote clearance of the fungus. Insight into the host response from both human and animal studies may aid in understanding the immune response in aspergillosis, possibly leading to harnessing the power of cytokines or cytokine (receptor) antagonists and transforming them into precise immunotherapeutic strategies. This could advance personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jata Shankar
- Genomic Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan 173234, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Raman Thakur
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar 144001, Punjab, India;
| | - Karl V. Clemons
- California Institute for Medical Research, San Jose, CA 95128, USA; (K.V.C.); (D.A.S.)
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - David A. Stevens
- California Institute for Medical Research, San Jose, CA 95128, USA; (K.V.C.); (D.A.S.)
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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Kimura M, Kothari S, Gohir W, Camargo JF, Husain S. MicroRNAs in infectious diseases: potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Clin Microbiol Rev 2023; 36:e0001523. [PMID: 37909789 PMCID: PMC10732047 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00015-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are conserved, short, non-coding RNAs that play a crucial role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. They have been implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer and neurological, cardiovascular, and autoimmune diseases. Several recent studies have suggested that miRNAs are key players in regulating the differentiation, maturation, and activation of immune cells, thereby influencing the host immune response to infection. The resultant upregulation or downregulation of miRNAs from infection influences the protein expression of genes responsible for the immune response and can determine the risk of disease progression. Recently, miRNAs have been explored as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in various infectious diseases. This review summarizes our current understanding of the role of miRNAs during viral, fungal, bacterial, and parasitic infections from a clinical perspective, including critical functional mechanisms and implications for their potential use as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muneyoshi Kimura
- Transplant Infectious Diseases, Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sagar Kothari
- Transplant Infectious Diseases, Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wajiha Gohir
- Transplant Infectious Diseases, Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jose F. Camargo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Shahid Husain
- Transplant Infectious Diseases, Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Blackwood CB, Croston TL, Barnes MA, Lemons AR, Rush RE, Goldsmith T, McKinney WG, Anderson S, Weaver KL, Sulyok M, Park JH, Germolec D, Beezhold DH, Green B. Optimization of Aspergillus versicolor Culture and Aerosolization in a Murine Model of Inhalational Fungal Exposure. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1090. [PMID: 37998895 PMCID: PMC10672600 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus versicolor is ubiquitous in the environment and is particularly abundant in damp indoor spaces. Exposure to Aspergillus species, as well as other environmental fungi, has been linked to respiratory health outcomes, including asthma, allergy, and even local or disseminated infection. However, the pulmonary immunological mechanisms associated with repeated exposure to A. versicolor have remained relatively uncharacterized. Here, A. versicolor was cultured and desiccated on rice then placed in an acoustical generator system to achieve aerosolization. Mice were challenged with titrated doses of aerosolized conidia to examine deposition, lymphoproliferative properties, and immunotoxicological response to repeated inhalation exposures. The necessary dose to induce lymphoproliferation was identified, but not infection-like pathology. Further, it was determined that the dose was able to initiate localized immune responses. The data presented in this study demonstrate an optimized and reproducible method for delivering A. versicolor conidia to rodents via nose-only inhalation. Additionally, the feasibility of a long-term repeated exposure study was established. This experimental protocol can be used in future studies to investigate the physiological effects of repeated pulmonary exposure to fungal conidia utilizing a practical and relevant mode of delivery. In total, these data constitute an important foundation for subsequent research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine B. Blackwood
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (C.B.B.)
| | - Tara L. Croston
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (C.B.B.)
| | - Mark A. Barnes
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (C.B.B.)
| | - Angela R. Lemons
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (C.B.B.)
| | - Rachael E. Rush
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (C.B.B.)
| | - Travis Goldsmith
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (C.B.B.)
| | - Walter G. McKinney
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (C.B.B.)
| | - Stacey Anderson
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (C.B.B.)
| | - Kelly L. Weaver
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Michael Sulyok
- Department of Agrobiotechnology (IFA-Tulln), Institute of Bioanalytics and Agro-Metabolomics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, 1180 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ju-Hyeong Park
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA
| | - Dori Germolec
- Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Donald H. Beezhold
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (C.B.B.)
- Office of the Director, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA
| | - Brett Green
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (C.B.B.)
- Office of the Director, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA
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Shandilya UK, Sharma A, Naylor D, Canovas A, Mallard B, Karrow NA. Expression Profile of miRNA from High, Middle, and Low Stress-Responding Sheep during Bacterial Endotoxin Challenge. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030508. [PMID: 36766397 PMCID: PMC9913542 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Animals respond to stress by activating a wide array of physiological and behavioral responses that are collectively referred to as the stress response. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs that play key roles in the regulation of homeostasis. There are many reports demonstrating examples of stress-induced miRNA expression profiles. The aim of this study was to determine the circulatory miRNA profile of variable stress-responding lambs (n = 112) categorized based on their cortisol levels as high (HSR, 336.2 ± 27.9 nmol/L), middle (MSR, 147.3 ±9.5 nmol/L), and low (LSR, 32.1 ± 10.4 nmol/L) stress responders post-LPS challenge (400 ng/kg iv). Blood was collected from the jugular vein at 0 (T0) and 4 h (T4) post-LPS challenge, and miRNAs were isolated from four animals from each group. An array of 84 miRNAs and 6 individual miRNAs were evaluated using qPCR. Among 90 miRNAs, there were 48 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs (log fold change (FC) > 2 < log FC) in the HSR group, 46 in the MSR group, and 49 in the LSR group compared with T0 (control) samples. In the HSR group, three miRNAs, miR-485-5p, miR-1193-5p, and miR-3957-5p were significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated, while seven miRNAs, miR-376b-3p, miR-376c-3p, miR-411b-5p, miR-376a-3p, miR-376b-3p, miR-376c-3p, and miR-381-3p, were downregulated (p < 0.05) as compared to the LSR and MSR groups. Functional analysis of DE miRNAs revealed their roles in Ras and MAPK signaling, cytokine signaling, the adaptive immune system, and transcription pathways in the HSR phenotype, implicating a hyper-induced acute-phase response. In contrast, in the LSR group, enriched pathways included glucagon signaling metabolic regulation, the transportation of amino acids and ions, and the integration of energy metabolism. Taken together, these results indicate variation in the acute-phase response to an immune stress challenge, and these miRNAs are implicated in regulating responses within cortisol-based phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umesh K. Shandilya
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Ankita Sharma
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Danielle Naylor
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Angela Canovas
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Bonnie Mallard
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Niel A. Karrow
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Cervantes R, Dias M, Gomes B, Carolino E, Viegas C. Development of an Indexed Score to Identify the Most Suitable Sampling Method to Assess Occupational Exposure to Fungi. Atmosphere 2022; 13:1123. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13071123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The sampling approach is of utmost importance to obtain data regarding microbial viability and truly assess workers’ potential health effects. The purpose of this assessment is to create a score which will provide up-to-date information to identify the most suitable sampling method to assess occupational exposure to fungi. Data from a sampling campaign performed at Firefighters Headquarters (FFH) was analysed and a score was calculated from one (1) to three (3) for five (5) distinct sample parameters: (a) accuracy; (b) complexity of the field work; (c) cost; (d) complexity in laboratory work; and (e) time taken since the fieldwork until obtaining the fungal contamination characterization. The statistical analysis allowed us to conclude that settled dust and Andersen six-stage were the best sampling methods to perform the assessment of the occupational exposure to fungi at FFH, when considering the number of species. As for the final score, the results showed that surface swabs were the best sampling method. The results obtained for surface swabs highlights the low complexity of this processing combined with the fact that it is a low-cost sampling method. This study reinforces the need to use a wide array of sampling methods when assessing occupational exposure to fungal contamination to ensure an accurate risk characterization.
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Viegas C, Dias M, Viegas S. Electrostatic Dust Cloth: A Useful Passive Sampling Method When Assessing Exposure to Fungi Demonstrated in Studies Developed in Portugal (2018–2021). Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11030345. [PMID: 35335669 PMCID: PMC8955157 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11030345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrostatic dust cloths (EDC) have been widely used for microbiologic contamination assessment in different indoor and occupational environments. This paper reviews sixteen studies performed in Portugal between 2018 and 2021 for evaluating the exposure to microbiological agents and focusing on fungi using EDC as a passive sampling method. The findings suggest that EDC can be applied as a screening method for particulate matter-exposure assessment and as a complementary method to characterize microbial exposures in occupational environments. Overall, EDC should be included, side by side with other sampling methods, in sampling campaigns focused on exposure assessments due to the advantages such as the straightforward extraction protocol favoring the employment of different assays, which allows us to assess exposure to a wide range of microbial agents, and presents higher accuracy regarding the fungal diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.D.); (S.V.)
- Public Health Research Centre, NOVA National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1099-085 Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.D.); (S.V.)
- Public Health Research Centre, NOVA National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1099-085 Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.D.); (S.V.)
- Public Health Research Centre, NOVA National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1099-085 Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
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Dias M, Gomes B, Cervantes R, Pena P, Viegas S, Viegas C. Microbial Occupational Exposure Assessments in Sawmills—A Review. Atmosphere 2022; 13:266. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13020266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The composition of airborne microflora in sawmills may vary to a great degree depending on the kind of timber being processed and the technology of production being used. Cases of allergy alveolitis and asthma have been reported in woodworkers who were exposed to wood dust largely infected with microorganisms. The aim of this review article is to identify studies where the microbial occupational exposure assessment was performed in sawmills and the characteristics of the contamination found, as well as to identify which sampling methods and assays were applied. This study reports the search of available data published regarding microbial occupational exposure assessment in environmental samples from sawmills, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) methodology. The most used sampling method was air sampling, impaction being the most common method. Regarding analytical procedures for microbial characterization, morphological identification of fungi and bacteria was the most frequent approach. Screening for fungal susceptibility to azoles was performed in two studies and four studies applied molecular tools. Regarding microbial contamination, high fungal levels were frequent, as well as high bacteria levels. Fungal identification evidenced Penicillium as the most frequent genera followed by Aspergillus sp. Mycotoxins were not assessed in any of the analyzed studies. Microbial occupational exposure assessment in sawmills is crucial to allow this risk characterization and management.
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Gupta SK, Srivastava M, Osmanoglu Ö, Xu Z, Brakhage AA, Dandekar T. Aspergillus fumigatus versus Genus Aspergillus: Conservation, Adaptive Evolution and Specific Virulence Genes. Microorganisms 2021; 9:2014. [PMID: 34683335 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9102014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus is an important fungal genus containing economically important species, as well as pathogenic species of animals and plants. Using eighteen fungal species of the genus Aspergillus, we conducted a comprehensive investigation of conserved genes and their evolution. This also allows us to investigate the selection pressure driving the adaptive evolution in the pathogenic species A. fumigatus. Among single-copy orthologs (SCOs) for A. fumigatus and the closely related species A. fischeri, we identified 122 versus 50 positively selected genes (PSGs), respectively. Moreover, twenty conserved genes of unknown function were established to be positively selected and thus important for adaption. A. fumigatus PSGs interacting with human host proteins show over-representation of adaptive, symbiosis-related, immunomodulatory and virulence-related pathways, such as the TGF-β pathway, insulin receptor signaling, IL1 pathway and interfering with phagosomal GTPase signaling. Additionally, among the virulence factor coding genes, secretory and membrane protein-coding genes in multi-copy gene families, 212 genes underwent positive selection and also suggest increased adaptation, such as fungal immune evasion mechanisms (aspf2), siderophore biosynthesis (sidD), fumarylalanine production (sidE), stress tolerance (atfA) and thermotolerance (sodA). These genes presumably contribute to host adaptation strategies. Genes for the biosynthesis of gliotoxin are shared among all the close relatives of A. fumigatus as an ancient defense mechanism. Positive selection plays a crucial role in the adaptive evolution of A. fumigatus. The genome-wide profile of PSGs provides valuable targets for further research on the mechanisms of immune evasion, antimycotic targeting and understanding fundamental virulence processes.
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National Toxicology Program. Toxicity studies of Aspergillus fumigatus administered by inhalation to B6C3F1/N mice. Toxic Rep Ser 2021:NTP-TOX-100. [PMID: 34283822 DOI: 10.22427/NTP-TOX-100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a thermotolerant, soil-borne fungal species that is ubiquitous in the environment. Mold was nominated to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) by a private individual due to suspected adverse health effects associated with personal exposure in indoor and occupational settings. A. fumigatus is of particular concern in the biowaste industry as the species can contaminate self-heating compost piles. Because of this potential for personal and occupational exposure and the lack of available toxicity data, toxicity studies were conducted in which male and female B6C3F1/N mice were exposed to A. fumigatus conidia (spores) two times a week for 3 months. All in-life procedures, including inhalation exposure, test article preparation, and hematology analysis, were completed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH, Morgantown, WV). Battelle (Columbus, OH) conducted terminal necropsies, measured terminal body and organ weights, and evaluated gross lesions on-site at NIOSH. Tissue processing and histopathology were completed at Battelle. Grocott's methenamine silver (GMS) staining was performed at NIOSH. Genetic toxicology studies on mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes were conducted by Integrated Laboratory Systems, LLC (Research Triangle Park, NC). (Abstract Abridged).
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Esawy MM, Baioumy SA, Ismail NA, Shabana MA. Role of circulating microRNA-132 in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis: A case-control study. Immunobiology 2021; 226:152074. [PMID: 33735827 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2021.152074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is an allergic respiratory disease. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the roles of miRNA-21 and miRNA132 as biomarkers in the diagnosis of ABPA. A total of 30 controls, 30 allergic asthmatic patients, 30 severe asthma with fungal sensitization (SAFS) patients, and 30 ABPA patients were included. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to quantify the level of miRNAs expression. The expression level of miRNA-21 was significantly higher in allergic asthmatic, SAFS, and ABPA patients in comparison with controls (p < 0.001). However, no significant difference was detected in the expression level of miRNA-21 among the different patient groups (p > 0.05). The ABPA patients had significantly higher levels of miRNA-132 expression compared to controls, allergic asthmatic patients, and SAFS patients (p < 0.001), but there was a non-significant difference between controls and allergic asthmatic patients (p = 0.09). At a cut-off of 1.52, the sensitivity of miRNA-132 expression was 93.3% and the specificity was 100% different ABPA from healthy controls. At a cut-off of 6.5, miRNA-132 expression was found to reliably differentiate between ABPA and SAFS, with a sensitivity of 86.7% and a specificity of 80%. In ABPA patients, miRNA-132 expression positively correlation with the levels of serum IL-5 (r = 0.91, p < 0.001). miRNA-132 has a role in ABPA detection and distinguishing ABPA from allergic asthma and SAFS. These preliminary data from case-control study need further studies to confirm its finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa M Esawy
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Human Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt.
| | - Shereen A Baioumy
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Human Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt
| | - Nagwan A Ismail
- Chest Department, Faculty of Human Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt
| | - Marwa A Shabana
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Human Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt
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Viegas C, Caetano LA, Viegas S. Occupational exposure to Aspergillus section Fumigati: Tackling the knowledge gap in Portugal. Environ Res 2021; 194:110674. [PMID: 33440201 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Aspergillus section Fumigati is one of the sections of the Aspergillus genus most often associated with respiratory symptoms. The azole-resistant clinical isolates in this section have been widely described worldwide. More recently, the environmental origin of azole resistance has been correlated with the development of fungal diseases and therapeutic failure. This paper presents a review of several studies performed in Portuguese occupational environments focusing on occupational exposure to this section and give guidance to exposure assessors and industrial hygienists to ensure an accurate exposure assessment. Future studies should tackle the limitations concerning the assessment of occupational exposure to the Fumigati section, in order to allow the implementation of adequate risk management measures. In the light of the results of previous studies, the following approach is proposed to ensure an accurate exposure assessment: a) a combination of active and passive sampling methods appropriate to each occupational environment; b) the use, in parallel, of culture-based methods and molecular tools to overcome the limitations of each method; c) evaluation of the mycobiota azole resistance profile; and d) consider the possible simultaneous presence of mycotoxins produced by this section when assessing workers occupational exposure. In sum, preventing the development of fungal strains resistant to azoles will only be achieved with a holistic approach. An adequate "One Health approach" can contribute positively to concerted actions in different sectors, by reducing the use of fungicides through the introduction of crops and agricultural practices that prevent fungal colonization, and by promoting the rational use of antifungal drugs in human and animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal.
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
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Wang R, Peng L, Lv D, Shang F, Yan J, Li G, Li D, Ouyang J, Yang J. Leonurine Attenuates Myocardial Fibrosis Through Upregulation of miR-29a-3p in Mice Post-myocardial Infarction. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2021; 77:189-199. [PMID: 33235025 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Myocardial fibrosis (MF) is a pathological process that accelerates cardiac remodeling in myocardial infarction (MI), and miR-29 has become one of the foci of research into MF. As an alkaloid extracted from Herba leonuri, leonurine (LE) has been found to be an effective natural active ingredient for inhibiting fibrosis in many preclinical experiments. However, whether LE protects against MF after MI through modifying miR-29 remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of LE on MF, and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved. A mouse model of MI was established, followed by administration of LE for 4 weeks. We found that LE effectively improved cardiac function, and attenuated fibrosis and cardiac remodeling in mice post-MI. In vitro, LE simultaneously inhibited proliferation and migration of neonatal mouse cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) exposed to angiotensin II (Ang II), and the activation of collagen synthesis and myofibroblast generation was markedly suppressed by LE. Notably, we found that all mature miR-29 family members were downregulated in the myocardial tissues of mice post-MI, whereas LE significantly upregulated miR-29a-3p expression, and such upregulation was also detected in LE-treated CFs under Ang II stimulation. Knockdown of miR-29a-3p by a specific miRNA inhibitor upregulated the protein levels of TGF-β, collagen III, and collagen I in CFs, and completely reversed the antifibrotic effects of LE on CFs. Our study suggests that LE exerts cardioprotective effects against MF, possibly through the upregulation of miR-29a-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyu Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Linqian Peng
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dingyi Lv
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Feifei Shang
- Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianghong Yan
- Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guoxing Li
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Cardiology, the People's Hospital of Bishan District, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Ouyang
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China; and
| | - Jiadan Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Pitangui NS, de Lacorte Singulani J, Sardi JCO, de Souza PC, Rodríguez-Arellanes G, García-Pérez BE, Enguita FJ, Pavan FR, Taylor ML, Mendes-Giannini MJS, Fusco-Almeida AM. Differential miRNA Expression in Human Macrophage-Like Cells Infected with Histoplasma capsulatum Yeasts Cultured in Planktonic and Biofilm Forms. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:60. [PMID: 33477397 DOI: 10.3390/jof7010060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum affects healthy and immunocompromised individuals, sometimes causing a severe disease. This fungus has two morphotypes, the mycelial (infective) and the yeast (parasitic) phases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNAs involved in the regulation of several cellular processes, and their differential expression has been associated with many disease states. To investigate miRNA expression in host cells during H. capsulatum infection, we studied the changes in the miRNA profiles of differentiated human macrophages infected with yeasts from two fungal strains with different virulence, EH-315 (high virulence) and 60I (low virulence) grown in planktonic cultures, and EH-315 grown in biofilm form. MiRNA profiles were evaluated by means of reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction using a commercial human miRNome panel. The target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs and their corresponding signaling pathways were predicted using bioinformatics analyses. Here, we confirmed biofilm structures were present in the EH-315 culture whose conditions facilitated producing insoluble exopolysaccharide and intracellular polysaccharides. In infected macrophages, bioinformatics analyses revealed especially increased (hsa-miR-99b-3p) or decreased (hsa-miR-342-3p) miRNAs expression levels in response to infection with biofilms or both growth forms of H. capsulatum yeasts, respectively. The results of miRNAs suggested that infection by H. capsulatum can affect important biological pathways of the host cell, targeting two genes: one encoding a protein that is important in the cortical cytoskeleton; the other, a protein involved in the formation of stress granules. Expressed miRNAs in the host’s response could be proposed as new therapeutic and/or diagnostic tools for histoplasmosis.
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Viegas C, Dias M, Carolino E, Sabino R. Culture Media and Sampling Collection Method for Aspergillus spp. Assessment: Tackling the Gap between Recommendations and the Scientific Evidence. Atmosphere 2021; 12:23. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos12010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Culturing is still the most widely used method for determining fungal growth. Thus, is important to identify the most suitable culture media to assess Aspergillus spp. The aim of this study was to analyze data obtained from previous studies, aiming at identifying the most suitable culture media (malt extract agar (MEA) or dichloran-glycerol agar (DG18) to assess Aspergillus spp. isolation and growth. This study was conducted by using environmental samples (n = 1153). Most of the active sampling methods (air samples) were impacted directly onto both culture media. As for passive sampling methods, fungi were extracted from environmental matrices inoculated onto both media. Overall, total Aspergillus counts were higher in MEA (n = 617, 53.5%) than in DG18 (n = 536, 46.5%). Regarding Aspergillus sections, significant associations were detected with the media (χ2 (7) = 241.118, p < 0.001), the sampling approach (p < 0.001, 95% CI = (0.3 × 10−4), and the indoor environment (p < 0.001, 95% CI = (0.3 × 10−4)). As such, sampling approach and the culture media should be accurately selected when dealing with Aspergillus spp. exposure assessment.
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15
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Viegas C, Twarużek M, Dias M, Almeida B, Carolino E, Soszczyńska E, Ałtyn I, Viegas S, Caetano LA. Cytotoxic effect of filtering respiratory protective devices from the waste sorting industry: is in vitro toxicology useful for risk characterization? Environ Res 2020; 191:110134. [PMID: 32860779 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The use of Filtering Respiratory Protective Devices (FRPD) is mandatory in Portugal to protect workers from the waste industry of harmful exposures. Deleterious health effects of exposure to bioburden via inhalation and/or ingestion include respiratory symptoms and nephrotoxicity. Between January and February 2019, 118 FRPD samples were collected in one waste sorting industry and characterized regarding microbial contamination and cytotoxicity, defined as cell metabolic activity, through the MTT colorimetric assay (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5- diphenyltetrazolium bromide). Cytotoxic effect was classified according to percentage of extinction values with respect to the control group, as follows: absent (≥90); low (80%-90%, +); medium (60%-79%, ++); and high (below 60%, +++). For 113 samples the MTT assay revealed a cytotoxic effect in A549 cells, of which 81 presented high cytotoxicity. In SK cells, a cytotoxic effect was observed in 56 samples, of which five displayed a high cytotoxic effect. Several moderate (p < 0.05) to strong (p < 0.01) correlations were found between higher bacterial and fungal counts both in interior layers (fungi and bacteria) and in exhalation valves (fungi) of FRPD samples and reduced cell metabolic activity of SK cells. On the basis of the obtained results for the cytotoxic effect of FRPD samples on two different cells lines, it was determined that A549 cells exhibited a cytotoxic effect for a higher number of FRPD, whereas the SK cells model correlated better with the other assessed parameters, namely, bacterial and fungal counts and conditions of FRPD use. Although the results are not conclusive on the most appropriate cell line to assess FRPD cytotoxicity, they reinforce the importance of in vitro toxicology in exposure assessments to determine the cytotoxicity of mixtures of contaminants, for better risk characterization and selection of appropriate risk management measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal.
| | - Magdalena Twarużek
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Almeida
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ewelina Soszczyńska
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Iwona Ałtyn
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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16
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Viegas C, Dias M, Almeida B, Vicente E, Caetano LA, Carolino E, Alves C. Settleable Dust and Bioburden in Portuguese Dwellings. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8111799. [PMID: 33207843 PMCID: PMC7698071 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Monitoring campaigns in several buildings have shown that occupants exposed to contaminated indoor air generally exhibit diverse health symptoms. This study intends to assess settleable dust loading rates and bioburden in Portuguese dwellings by passive sampling onto quartz fiber filters and electrostatic dust cloths (EDCs), respectively. Settled dust collected by EDCs was analyzed by culture-based methods (including azole-resistance screening) and qPCR, targeting four different toxigenic Aspergillus sections (Flavi, Fumigati, Circumdati, and Nidulantes). Dust loading rates and bioburden showed higher variability in the summer season. In both seasons, Penicillium sp. was the one with the highest prevalence (59.1% winter; 58.1% summer), followed by Aspergillus sp. in winter (13.0%). Fungal contamination increased in the winter period, while bacterial counts decreased. Aspergillus sections Circumdati and Nidulantes, detected in voriconazole supplemented media, and Aspergillus sections Fumigati and Nidulantes, detected by molecular tools, were found in the winter samples. This study reinforces the importance of applying: (a) Passive sampling methods in campaigns in dwellings; (b) two different culture media (MEA and DG18) to assess fungi; (c) in parallel, molecular tools targeting the most suitable indicators of fungal contamination; and (d) azole resistance screening to unveil azole resistance detection in fungal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.D.); (B.A.); (L.A.C.); (E.C.)
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1600-560 Lisboa, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.D.); (B.A.); (L.A.C.); (E.C.)
| | - Beatriz Almeida
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.D.); (B.A.); (L.A.C.); (E.C.)
| | - Estela Vicente
- Department of Environment and Planning, Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (E.V.); (C.A.)
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.D.); (B.A.); (L.A.C.); (E.C.)
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.D.); (B.A.); (L.A.C.); (E.C.)
| | - Célia Alves
- Department of Environment and Planning, Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (E.V.); (C.A.)
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Viegas C, Dias M, Almeida B, Carolino E, Viegas S. Aspergillus spp. presence on mechanical protection gloves from the waste sorting industry. J Occup Environ Hyg 2020; 17:523-530. [PMID: 33206026 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2020.1834113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The organic material present on waste sorting units serve as a substrate for different microorganisms, increasing workers' exposure to Aspergillus spp. This study intends to assess the Aspergillus spp. contamination on Mechanical Protection Gloves (MPG) from different workstations and understand the role of MPG in workers' exposure to these genera. Sixty-seven used MPG were collected from different workstations and extracts were seeded on malt extract agar (MEA) supplemented with chloramphenicol (0.05%) and dichloran glycerol (DG18). The same extracts were used for the molecular detection of fungal species/strains, with reported toxigenic potential, namely Aspergillus sections (Circumdati, Flavi, Fumigati, and Nidulantes). Among Aspergillus spp., the sections with the highest prevalence on MEA were Nigri (88.29%) and Fumigati (8.63%), whereas on DG18 were Nigri (31.79%) and Circumdati (30.77%). Aspergillus section Circumdati was detected in 22 MPG samples by RT-PCR (32.84%), Fumigati in 59 samples (88.06%), Nidulantes in 61 samples (91.05%), and Flavi in 6 samples (8.96%). It was showed that, even with daily replacement, MPG presented Aspergillus spp. contamination. Thus, a more regular replacement of MPG and the adoption of complementary hygienic procedures by workers are critical to guarantee workers' protection in this occupational environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Almeida
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Lisbon, Portugal
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18
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Viegas C, Twarużek M, Dias M, Almeida B, Carolino E, Kosicki R, Soszczyńska E, Grajewski J, Caetano LA, Viegas S. Assessment of the microbial contamination of mechanical protection gloves used on waste sorting industry: A contribution for the risk characterization. Environ Res 2020; 189:109881. [PMID: 32979993 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In Portugal, mechanical protection gloves (MPG) are of mandatory use and during their use sweat is released and, consequently, the humidity of the material increases leading to conditions favorable to the growth of microorganisms. However, no studies have been conducted in MPG to assess the bioburden. This study intended to determine the bioburden present in MPG and their biological effects, and to discuss the possibility to use MPG as a passive method to assess occupational exposure to microbial contamination. Fungal burden was characterized through molecular tools for fungal toxigenic species, and antifungal resistance and mycotoxins profiles were determined. Cell viability was determined in swine kidney (SK) monolayer and hepatocellular carcinoma (Hep G2) cell lines. All MPG samples presented Gram-negative bacteria. The fungal contamination ranged from 0 CFU.m-2 in both MEA and DG18, to 5.09 × 106 and 2.75 × 106 and the most commonly fungi found was Aspergillus spp. (50.46%). Azole resistant Aspergillus sections were found in azole supplemented media. Aspergillus sections (Circumdati, Flavi, Fumigati and Versicolores) were detected by molecular tools in 66 out of 67 samples. The most reported mycotoxin was mycophenolic acid (89.6%). HepG2 cells appear to be more sensitive to MPG contamination, with high cytotoxicity (IC50 < 0.05 mm2/ml) observed for 18 out of 57 gloves. MPG can be used in passive sampling to assess occupational exposure to bioburden in waste sorting industries and contribute for risk characterization. Some contaminants of MPG had cytotoxic potential and affected the biology of hepatic cells more than renal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal.
| | - Magdalena Twarużek
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Almeida
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Ewelina Soszczyńska
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Jan Grajewski
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
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Viegas C, Almeida B, Dias M, Caetano L, Carolino E, Gomes A, Faria T, Martins V, Marta Almeida S. Assessment of Children’s Potential Exposure to Bioburden in Indoor Environments. Atmosphere 2020; 11:993. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos11090993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The exposure to particles and bioaerosols has been associated with the increase in health effects in children. The objective of this study was to assess the indoor exposure to bioburden in the indoor microenvironments more frequented by children. Air particulate matter (PM) and settled dust were sampled in 33 dwellings and four schools with a medium volume sampler and with a passive method using electrostatic dust collectors (EDC), respectively. Settled dust collected by EDC was analyzed by culture-based methods (including azole resistance profile) and using qPCR. Results showed that the PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations in classrooms (31.15 μg/m3 and 57.83 μg/m3, respectively) were higher than in homes (15.26 μg/m3 and 18.95 μg/m3, respectively) and highly exceeded the limit values established by the Portuguese legislation for indoor air quality. The fungal species most commonly found in bedrooms was Penicillium sp. (91.79%), whereas, in living rooms, it was Rhizopus sp. (37.95%). Aspergillus sections with toxigenic potential were found in bedrooms and living rooms and were able to grow on VOR. Although not correlated with PM, EDC provided information regarding the bioburden. Future studies, applying EDC coupled with PM assessment, should be implemented to allow for a long-term integrated sample of organic dust.
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20
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Croston TL, Lemons AR, Barnes MA, Goldsmith WT, Orandle MS, Nayak AP, Germolec DR, Green BJ, Beezhold DH. Inhalation of Stachybotrys chartarum Fragments Induces Pulmonary Arterial Remodeling. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2020; 62:563-576. [PMID: 31671270 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2019-0221oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Stachybotrys chartarum is a fungal contaminant within the built environment and a respiratory health concern in the United States. The objective of this study was to characterize the mechanisms influencing pulmonary immune responses to repeatedly inhaled S. chartarum. Groups of B6C3F1/N mice repeatedly inhaled viable trichothecene-producing S. chartarum conidia (strain A or strain B), heat-inactivated conidia, or high-efficiency particulate absolute-filtered air twice per week for 4 and 13 weeks. Strain A was found to produce higher amounts of respirable fragments than strain B. Lung tissue, serum, and BAL fluid were collected at 24 and 48 hours after final exposure and processed for histology, flow cytometry, and RNA and proteomic analyses. At 4 weeks after exposure, a T-helper cell type 2-mediated response was observed. After 13 weeks, a mixed T-cell response was observed after exposure to strain A compared with a T-helper cell type 2-mediated response after strain B exposure. After exposure, both strains induced pulmonary arterial remodeling at 13 weeks; however, strain A-exposed mice progressed more quickly than strain B-exposed mice. BAL fluid was composed primarily of eosinophils, neutrophils, and macrophages. Both the immune response and the observed pulmonary arterial remodeling were supported by specific cellular, molecular, and proteomic profiles. The immunopathological responses occurred earlier in mice exposed to high fragment-producing strain A. The rather striking induction of pulmonary remodeling by S. chartarum appears to be related to the presence of fungal fragments during exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Ajay P Nayak
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch.,Department of Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine and Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, and Jane and Leonard Korman Respiratory Institute, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and
| | - Dori R Germolec
- Toxicology Branch, National Toxicology Program Division, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Donald H Beezhold
- Office of the Director, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia
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21
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Straumfors A, Duale N, Foss OAH, Mollerup S. Circulating miRNAs as molecular markers of occupational grain dust exposure. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11317. [PMID: 32647120 PMCID: PMC7347934 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68296-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Dust from grain and feed production may cause adverse health effects in exposed workers. In this study we explored circulating miRNAs as potential biomarkers of occupational grain dust exposure. Twenty-two serum miRNAs were analyzed in 44 grain dust exposed workers and 22 controls. Exposed workers had significantly upregulated miR-18a-5p, miR-124-3p and miR-574-3p, and downregulated miR-19b-3p and miR-146a-5p, compared to controls. Putative target genes for the differentially expressed miRNAs were involved in a range of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes signaling pathways, and ‘Pathways in cancer’ and ‘Wnt signaling pathway’ were common for all the five miRNAs. MiRNA-diseases association analysis showed a link between the five identified miRNAs and several lung diseases terms. A positive correlation between miR-124-3p, miR-18a-5p, and miR-574-3p and IL-6 protein level was shown, while miR-19b-3p was inversely correlated with CC-16 and sCD40L protein levels. Receiver-operating characteristic analysis of the five miRNA showed that three miRNAs (miR-574-3p, miR-124-3p and miR-18a-5p) could distinguish the grain dust exposed group from the control group, with miR-574-3p as the strongest predictor of grain dust exposure. In conclusion, this study identified five signature miRNAs as potential novel biomarkers of grain dust exposure that may have potential as early disease markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Straumfors
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Gydas vei 8, PO Box 5330, 0304, Majorstuen, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Nur Duale
- Department of Molecular Biology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, PO Box 222, 0213, Skøyen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Oda A H Foss
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Gydas vei 8, PO Box 5330, 0304, Majorstuen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Steen Mollerup
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Gydas vei 8, PO Box 5330, 0304, Majorstuen, Oslo, Norway
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White J, Nielsen J, Madsen A. Potential Respiratory Deposition and Species Composition of Airborne Culturable, Viable, and Non-Viable Fungi during Occupancy in a Pig Farm. Atmosphere 2020; 11:639. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos11060639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Fungal species composition and site of deposition within the airways affects whether diseases develop and where they may arise. The aim of this study is to obtain knowledge regarding the potential deposition of airborne culturable, viable, and non-viable fungi in the airways of pig farm workers, and how this composition changes over multiple sampling days. Airborne fungi were sampled using impactors and subsequently analyzed using amplicon sequencing and matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) fingerprinting. The geometric mean aerodynamic diameter (Dg) of airborne particles with culturable airborne fungi were not affected by sampling days and ranged in size between 3.7 and 4.6 µm. Amplicon sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer region of the rRNA gene operon, in combination with DNA interchelating agents, revealed a large presence of non-viable fungi, but several pathogenic and toxic fungal species were detected in the viable portion. The diversity was found to be significantly associated with the sampling day but did not change significantly over multiple sampling rounds during the same day. The non-viable fraction contained genera typically associated with the pig gastrointestinal tract, such as Kazachstania and Vishniacozyma. In conclusion, the Dg of culturable fungi was between 3.7 and 4.6 µm, and the Dg of the viable and total fungi was 1.5 and 2.1 µm, respectively. The species composition changed over the multiple sampling days.
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23
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Caraballo L, Valenta R, Puerta L, Pomés A, Zakzuk J, Fernandez-Caldas E, Acevedo N, Sanchez-Borges M, Ansotegui I, Zhang L, van Hage M, Abel-Fernández E, Karla Arruda L, Vrtala S, Curin M, Gronlund H, Karsonova A, Kilimajer J, Riabova K, Trifonova D, Karaulov A. The allergenic activity and clinical impact of individual IgE-antibody binding molecules from indoor allergen sources. World Allergy Organ J 2020; 13:100118. [PMID: 32373267 PMCID: PMC7195550 DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2020.100118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A large number of allergens have been discovered but we know little about their potential to induce inflammation (allergenic activity) and symptoms. Nowadays, the clinical importance of allergens is determined by the frequency and intensity of their IgE antibody binding (allergenicity). This is a rather limited parameter considering the development of experimental allergology in the last 20 years and the criteria that support personalized medicine. Now it is known that some allergens, in addition to their IgE antibody binding properties, can induce inflammation through non IgE mediated pathways, which can increase their allergenic activity. There are several ways to evaluate the allergenic activity, among them the provocation tests, the demonstration of non-IgE mediated pathways of inflammation, case control studies of IgE-binding frequencies, and animal models of respiratory allergy. In this review we have explored the current status of basic and clinical research on allergenic activity of indoor allergens and confirm that, for most of them, this important property has not been investigated. However, during recent years important advances have been made in the field, and we conclude that for at least the following, allergenic activity has been demonstrated: Der p 1, Der p 2, Der p 5 and Blo t 5 from HDMs; Per a 10 from P. americana; Asp f 1, Asp f 2, Asp f 3, Asp f 4 and Asp f 6 from A. fumigatus; Mala s 8 and Mala s 13 from M. sympodialis; Alt a 1 from A. alternata; Pen c 13 from P. chrysogenum; Fel d 1 from cats; Can f 1, Can f 2, Can f 3, Can f 4 and Can f 5 from dogs; Mus m 1 from mice and Bos d 2 from cows. Defining the allergenic activity of other indoor IgE antibody binding molecules is necessary for a precision-medicine-oriented management of allergic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Caraballo
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
- Corresponding author. Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia.
| | - Rudolf Valenta
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- NRC Institute of Immunology FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Leonardo Puerta
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | - Anna Pomés
- Indoor Biotechnologies, Inc. Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Josefina Zakzuk
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | | | - Nathalie Acevedo
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | - Mario Sanchez-Borges
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Department, Centro Médico Docente La Trinidad, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Ignacio Ansotegui
- Department of Allergy & Immunology Hospital Quironsalud Bizkaia, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Luo Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Marianne van Hage
- Department of Medicine Solna, Division of Immunology and Allergy, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Abel-Fernández
- Inmunotek, Madrid, Spain and University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, USA
| | - L. Karla Arruda
- Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Susanne Vrtala
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mirela Curin
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hans Gronlund
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonina Karsonova
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Jonathan Kilimajer
- Inmunotek, Madrid, Spain and University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, USA
| | - Ksenja Riabova
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria Trifonova
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander Karaulov
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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Madsen AM, Frederiksen MW, Jacobsen MH, Tendal K. Towards a risk evaluation of workers' exposure to handborne and airborne microbial species as exemplified with waste collection workers. Environ Res 2020; 183:109177. [PMID: 32006769 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Bioaerosol exposure is associated with health problems. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether it is possible to assess the risks posed by waste collection workers' exposure through identification and characterization of bacterial and fungal species, to which the workers are exposed. Using MALDI-TOF MS, microorganisms in waste collection workers' exposure through air, hand, and contact with the steering wheel were identified. Fungi found in high concentrations from the workers' exposure were characterized for the total inflammatory potential (TIP), cytotoxicity, and biofilm-forming capacity. In total, 180 different bacterial and 37 different fungal species in the workers' exposure samples were identified. Some of them belong to Risk Group 2, e.g. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, Staphylococcus aureus, and Aspergillus fumigatus, some have been associated with occupational health problems e.g. Penicillium citrinum and P. glabrum and some are described as emerging pathogens e.g. Aureobasidium pullulans. The TIP of fungal species was dose-dependent. High TIP values were found for Penicillium italicum, P. brevicompactum, P. citrinum, and P. glabrum. Several species were cytotoxic, e.g. A. niger and P. expansum, while some, e.g. P. chrysogenum, did not affect the cell viability. Based on waste workers' average inhalation rate, they inhaled up to 2.3 × 104 cfu of A. niger, 7.4 × 104 cfu of P. expansum, and 4.0 × 106 cfu of P. italicum per work day. Some species e.g. A. niger and P. citrinum were able to form biofilm. In conclusion, the workers were exposed to several species of microorganisms of which some to varying degrees can be evaluated concerning risk. Thus, some microorganisms belong to Risk Group 2, and some are described as causing agents of occupational health problems, emerging pathogens, or intrinsically antibiotic resistant. For some other species very little is known. The TIP, cytotoxicity, and ability to form biofilm of the dominating fungi support and expand previous findings. These parameters depended on the species and the dose, thus highlighting the importance of species identification and exposure level in the risk assessment of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Mette Madsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Margit W Frederiksen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Hyldeqvist Jacobsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kira Tendal
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
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25
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Lemons AR, Croston TL, Goldsmith WT, Barnes MA, Jaderson MA, Park JH, McKinney W, Beezhold DH, Green BJ. Cultivation and aerosolization of Stachybotrys chartarum for modeling pulmonary inhalation exposure. Inhal Toxicol 2019; 31:446-456. [PMID: 31874574 DOI: 10.1080/08958378.2019.1705939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Stachybotrys chartarum is a hydrophilic fungal species commonly found as a contaminant in water-damaged building materials. Although several studies have suggested that S. chartarum exposure elicits a variety of adverse health effects, the ability to characterize the pulmonary immune responses to exposure is limited by delivery methods that do not replicate environmental exposure. This study aimed to develop a method of S. chartarum aerosolization to better model inhalation exposures. Materials and methods: An acoustical generator system (AGS) was previously developed and utilized to aerosolize and deliver fungal spores to mice housed in a multi-animal nose-only exposure chamber. In this study, methods for cultivating, heat-inactivating, and aerosolizing two macrocyclic trichothecene-producing strains of S. chartartum using the AGS are described. Results and discussion: In addition to conidia, acoustical generation of one strain of S. chartarum resulted in the aerosolization of fungal fragments (<2 µm aerodynamic diameter) derived from conidia, phialides, and hyphae that initially comprised 50% of the total fungal particle count but was reduced to less than 10% over the duration of aerosolization. Acoustical generation of heat-inactivated S. chartarum did not result in a similar level of fragmentation. Delivery of dry, unextracted S. chartarum using these aerosolization methods resulted in pulmonary inflammation and immune cell infiltration in mice inhaling viable, but not heat-inactivated S. chartarum. Conclusions: These methods of S. chartarum growth and aerosolization allow for the delivery of fungal bioaerosols to rodents that may better simulate natural exposure within water-damaged indoor environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela R Lemons
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Tara L Croston
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - W Travis Goldsmith
- Engineering and Control Technology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Mark A Barnes
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Mukhtar A Jaderson
- Field Studies Branch, Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Ju-Hyeong Park
- Field Studies Branch, Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Walter McKinney
- Engineering and Control Technology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Donald H Beezhold
- Office of the Director, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Brett J Green
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
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26
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Haines SR, Adams RI, Boor BE, Bruton TA, Downey J, Ferro AR, Gall E, Green BJ, Hegarty B, Horner E, Jacobs DE, Lemieux P, Misztal PK, Morrison G, Perzanowski M, Reponen T, Rush RE, Virgo T, Alkhayri C, Bope A, Cochran S, Cox J, Donohue A, May AA, Nastasi N, Nishioka M, Renninger N, Tian Y, Uebel-Niemeier C, Wilkinson D, Wu T, Zambrana J, Dannemiller KC. Ten questions concerning the implications of carpet on indoor chemistry and microbiology. Build Environ 2019; 170:1-16. [PMID: 32055099 PMCID: PMC7017391 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2019.106589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Carpet and rugs currently represent about half of the United States flooring market and offer many benefits as a flooring type. How carpets influence our exposure to both microorganisms and chemicals in indoor environments has important health implications but is not well understood. The goal of this manuscript is to consolidate what is known about how carpet impacts indoor chemistry and microbiology, as well as to identify the important research gaps that remain. After describing the current use of carpet indoors, questions focus on five specific areas: 1) indoor chemistry, 2) indoor microbiology, 3) resuspension and exposure, 4) current practices and future needs, and 5) sustainability. Overall, it is clear that carpet can influence our exposures to particles and volatile compounds in the indoor environment by acting as a direct source, as a reservoir of environmental contaminants, and as a surface supporting chemical and biological transformations. However, the health implications of these processes are not well known, nor how cleaning practices could be optimized to minimize potential negative impacts. Current standards and recommendations focus largely on carpets as a primary source of chemicals and on limiting moisture that would support microbial growth. Future research should consider enhancing knowledge related to the impact of carpet in the indoor environment and how we might improve the design and maintenance of this common material to reduce our exposure to harmful contaminants while retaining the benefits to consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R. Haines
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, and Environmental Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Rachel I. Adams
- Plant & Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Brandon E. Boor
- Lyles School of Civil Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | | | - John Downey
- Cleaning Industry Research Institute, Granville, OH, 43023, USA
| | - Andrea R. Ferro
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, 13699, USA
| | - Elliott Gall
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Portland State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Brett J. Green
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Bridget Hegarty
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Elliott Horner
- UL Environment and Sustainability, Marietta, GA, 30067, USA
| | - David E. Jacobs
- National Center for Healthy Housing, Columbia, MD, 21044, USA
| | - Paul Lemieux
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Pawel K. Misztal
- Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Glenn Morrison
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Matthew Perzanowski
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Tiina Reponen
- Division of Environmental and Industrial Hygiene, Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45220, USA
| | - Rachael E. Rush
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
| | - Troy Virgo
- Shaw Industries, Inc., Dalton, GA, 30722-2128, USA
| | - Celine Alkhayri
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Ashleigh Bope
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, and Environmental Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Samuel Cochran
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, and Environmental Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Jennie Cox
- Division of Environmental and Industrial Hygiene, Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45220, USA
| | - Allie Donohue
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Andrew A. May
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Nicholas Nastasi
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, and Environmental Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Marcia Nishioka
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Nicole Renninger
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Yilin Tian
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Christina Uebel-Niemeier
- Division of Environmental and Industrial Hygiene, Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45220, USA
| | | | - Tianren Wu
- Lyles School of Civil Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Jordan Zambrana
- Indoor Environments Division, Office of Air and Radiation, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, 20460, USA
| | - Karen C. Dannemiller
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, and Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
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27
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Pakshir K, Badali H, Nami S, Mirzaei H, Ebrahimzadeh V, Morovati H. Interactions between immune response to fungal infection and microRNAs: The pioneer tuners. Mycoses 2019; 63:4-20. [PMID: 31597205 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Due to their physiological and biological characteristics, numerous fungi are potentially emerging pathogens. Active dynamicity of fungal pathogens causes life-threatening infections annually impose high costs to the health systems. Although immune responses play crucial roles in controlling the fate of fungal infections, immunocompromised patients are at high risk with high mortality. Tuning the immune response against fungal infections might be an effective strategy for controlling and reducing the pathological damages. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known as the master regulators of immune response. These single-stranded tuners (18-23 bp non-coding RNAs) are endogenously expressed by all metazoan eukaryotes and have emerged as the master gene expression controllers of at least 30% human genes. In this review article, following the review of biology and physiology (biogenesis and mechanism of actions) of miRNAs and immune response against fungal infections, the interactions between them were scrutinised. In conclusion, miRNAs might be considered as one of the potential goals in immunotherapy for fungal infections. Undoubtedly, advanced studies in this field, further identifying of miRNA roles in governing the immune response, pave the way for inclusion of miRNA-related immunotherapeutic in the treatment of life-threatening fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyvan Pakshir
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hamid Badali
- Invasive Fungi Research Center, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Fungus Testing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Sanam Nami
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Veghar Ebrahimzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Morovati
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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28
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Mirkov I, Popov Aleksandrov A, Lazovic B, Glamoclija J, Kataranovski M. Usefulness of animal models of aspergillosis in studying immunity against Aspergillus infections. J Mycol Med 2019; 29:84-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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29
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Curcio JSD, Batista MP, Paccez JD, Novaes E, Soares CMDA. In silico characterization of microRNAs-like sequences in the genome of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Genet Mol Biol 2019; 42:95-107. [PMID: 30776047 PMCID: PMC6428129 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2018-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic cells have different mechanisms of post-transcriptional regulation.
Among these mechanisms, microRNAs promote regulation of targets by cleavage or
degradation of the mRNA. Fungi of the Paracoccidioides complex
are the etiological agents of the main systemic mycosis of Latin America. These
fungi present a plasticity to adapt and survive in different conditions, and the
presence of microRNAs-like molecules could be part of the mechanisms that
provide such plasticity. MicroRNAs produced by the host influence the
progression of this mycosis in the lungs besides regulating targets involved in
apoptosis in macrophage, activation of T and B cells and the production of
cytokines. Therefore, this work analyzed the presence of regions in the genome
of this fungus with a potential to encode microRNAs-like molecules. Here we show
by analysis of sequence similarity the presence of 18 regions, putatively coding
for microRNAs-like molecules in the Paracoccidioides
brasiliensis genome. We also described the conservation of dicer
and argonaut proteins and the cognate transcripts induced in the yeast parasitic
phase. This work represents a starting point for the analysis of the presence of
those molecules in the morphological stages of the fungus and their role in
fungal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana S de Curcio
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus II Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Patologia Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Mariana P Batista
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus II Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Juliano D Paccez
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus II Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Evandro Novaes
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus II Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
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30
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Herrera S, Husain S. Current State of the Diagnosis of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Lung Transplantation. Front Microbiol 2019; 9:3273. [PMID: 30687264 PMCID: PMC6333628 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.03273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As the number of lung transplants performed worldwide each year continues to grow, the success of this procedure is threatened by the incidence of non-CMV infections such as invasive aspergillosis. Despite tremendous efforts and the availability of numerous diagnostic tests (especially in hematological malignancies) the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis continues to be a challenge. Lung transplantation remains a unique clinical scenario, where additional host defenses are immunocompromized, making many of the available tests unsuitable. In this review we will navigate through the myriad of diagnostic tests currently available and how they apply to this unique patient population, as well as have a look into what the future holds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Herrera
- Transplant Infectious Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Shahid Husain
- Transplant Infectious Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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de Curcio JS, Paccez JD, Novaes E, Brock M, Soares CMDA. Cell Wall Synthesis, Development of Hyphae and Metabolic Pathways Are Processes Potentially Regulated by MicroRNAs Produced Between the Morphological Stages of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:3057. [PMID: 30619144 PMCID: PMC6297277 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.03057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are molecules involved in post-transcriptional gene regulation. In pathogenic fungi, microRNAs have been described at different morphological stages by regulating targets involved in processes such as morphogenesis and energy production. Members of the Paracoccidioides complex are the main etiological agents of a systemic mycosis in Latin America. Fungi of the Paracoccidioides complex present a wide range of plasticity to colonize different niches. In response to environmental changes these fungi undergo a morphological switch, remodel their cellular metabolism and modulate structural cell wall components. However, the underlying mechanisms regulating the gene expression is not well understood. By using high performance sequencing and bioinformatics analyses, this work characterizes microRNAs produced by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Here, we demonstrated that the transcript encoding proteins involved in microRNA biogenesis were differentially expressed in each morphological stage. In addition, 49 microRNAs were identified in cDNA libraries with 44 differentially regulated among the libraries. Sixteen microRNAs were differentially regulated in comparison to the mycelium in the mycelium-to-yeast transition phase. The yeast parasitic phase revealed a complete remodeling of the expression of these small RNAs. Analyses of targets of the induced microRNAs, from the different libraries, revealed that these molecules may potentially regulate in the cell wall, by repressing genes involved in the synthesis and degradation of glucans and chitin. Furthermore, mRNAs involved in cellular metabolism and development were predicted to be regulated by microRNAs. Therefore, this work describes a putative post transcriptional regulation, mediated by microRNAs in P. brasiliensis and its influence on the adaptive processes of thermal dimorphic fungus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana S. de Curcio
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Juliano D. Paccez
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Evandro Novaes
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Mathias Brock
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The review provides insight into recent findings on bedroom allergen exposures, primarily focusing on pet, pest, and fungal exposures. RECENT FINDINGS Large-scale studies and improved exposure assessment technologies, including measurement of airborne allergens and of multiple allergens simultaneously, have extended our understanding of indoor allergen exposures and their impact on allergic disease. Practical, streamlined methods for exposure reduction have shown promise in some settings, and potential protective effects of early-life exposures have been further elucidated through the investigation of specific bacterial taxa. Advances in molecular allergology have yielded novel data on sensitization profiles and cross-reactivity. The role of indoor allergen exposures in allergic disease is complex and remains incompletely understood. Advancing our knowledge of various co-exposures, including the environmental and host microbiome, that interact with allergens in early life will be crucial for the development of efficacious interventions to reduce the substantial economic and social burden of allergic diseases including asthma.
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Nayak AP, Croston TL, Lemons AR, Goldsmith WT, Marshall NB, Kashon ML, Germolec DR, Beezhold DH, Green BJ. Aspergillus fumigatus viability drives allergic responses to inhaled conidia. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2018; 121:200-210.e2. [PMID: 29660515 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2018.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aspergillus fumigatus-induced allergic airway disease has been shown to involve conidial germination in vivo, but the immunological mechanisms remain uncharacterized. OBJECTIVE A subchronic murine exposure model was used to examine the immunological mediators that are regulated in response to either culturable or nonculturable A fumigatus conidia. METHODS Female B6C3F1/N mice were repeatedly dosed via inhalation with 1 × 105 viable or heat-inactivated conidia (HIC), twice per week for 13 weeks (26 exposures). Control mice inhaled high-efficiency particulate arrestor-filtered air. The influence of A fumigatus conidial germination on the pulmonary immunopathological outcomes was evaluated by flow cytometry analysis of cellular infiltration in the airways, assessment of lung messenger RNA expression, quantitative proteomics, and histopathology of whole lung tissue. RESULTS Repeated inhalation of viable conidia, but not HIC, resulted in allergic inflammation marked by vascular remodeling, extensive eosinophilia, and accumulation of alternatively activated macrophages (AAMs) in the murine airways. More specifically, mice that inhaled viable conidia resulted in a mixed TH1 and TH2 (IL-13) cytokine response. Recruitment of eosinophils corresponded with increased Ccl11 transcripts. Furthermore, genes associated with M2 or alternatively activated macrophage polarization (eg, Arg1, Chil3, and Retnla) were significantly up-regulated in viable A fumigatus-exposed mice. In mice inhaling HIC, CD4+ T cells expressing IFN-γ (TH1) dominated the lymphocytic infiltration. Quantitative proteomics of the lung revealed metabolic reprogramming accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction and endoplasmic reticulum stress stimulated by oxidative stress from repetitive microbial insult. CONCLUSION Our studies demonstrate that A fumigatus conidial viability in vivo is critical to the immunopathological presentation of chronic fungal allergic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay P Nayak
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia.
| | - Tara L Croston
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Angela R Lemons
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - W T Goldsmith
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Nikki B Marshall
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Michael L Kashon
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Dori R Germolec
- Toxicology Branch, Division of National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Donald H Beezhold
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Brett J Green
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia
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Croston TL, Lemons AR, Beezhold DH, Green BJ. MicroRNA Regulation of Host Immune Responses following Fungal Exposure. Front Immunol 2018; 9:170. [PMID: 29467760 PMCID: PMC5808297 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal bioaerosols are ubiquitous in the environment and human exposure can result in a variety of health effects ranging from systemic, subcutaneous, and cutaneous infections to respiratory morbidity including allergy, asthma, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Recent research has focused on the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) following fungal exposure and is overlooked, yet important, group of regulators capable of influencing fungal immune responses through a variety of cellular mechanisms. These small non-coding ribose nucleic acids function to regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and have been shown to participate in multiple disease pathways including cancer, heart disease, apoptosis, as well as immune responses to microbial hazards and occupational allergens. Recent animal model studies have characterized miRNAs following the exposure to inflammatory stimuli. Studies focused on microbial exposure, including bacterial infections, as well as exposure to different allergens have shown miRNAs, such as miR-21, miR-146, miR-132, miR-155, and the let-7 family members, to be involved in immune and inflammatory responses. Interestingly, the few studies have assessed that the miRNA profiles following fungal exposure have identified the same critical miRNAs that have been characterized in other inflammatory-mediated and allergy-induced experimental models. Review of available in vitro, animal and human studies of exposures to Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, and Stachybotrys chartarum identified several miRNAs that were shared between responses to these species including miR-125 a/b (macrophage polarization/activation), miR-132 [toll-like receptor (TLR)2-mediated signaling], miR-146a (TLR mediated signaling, alternative macrophage activation), and miR-29a/b (natural killer cell function, C-leptin signaling, inhibition of Th1 immune response). Although these datasets provide preliminary insight into the role of miRNAs in fungal exposed models, interpretation of miRNA datasets can be challenging for researchers. To assist in navigating this rapidly evolving field, the aim of this review is to describe miRNAs in the framework of host recognition mechanisms and provide initial insight into the regulatory pathways in response to fungal exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara L Croston
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Angela R Lemons
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Donald H Beezhold
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Brett J Green
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, United States
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Dewi IMW, van de Veerdonk FL, Gresnigt MS. The Multifaceted Role of T-Helper Responses in Host Defense against Aspergillus fumigatus. J Fungi (Basel) 2017; 3:E55. [PMID: 29371571 PMCID: PMC5753157 DOI: 10.3390/jof3040055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitous opportunistic fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus rarely causes infections in immunocompetent individuals. A healthy functional innate immune system plays a crucial role in preventing Aspergillus-infection. This pivotal role for the innate immune system makes it a main research focus in studying the pathogenesis of aspergillosis. Although sometimes overshadowed by the innate immune response, the adaptive immune response, and in particular T-helper responses, also represents a key player in host defense against Aspergillus. Virtually all T-helper subsets have been described to play a role during aspergillosis, with the Th1 response being crucial for fungal clearance. However; morbidity and mortality of aspergillosis can also be partly attributed to detrimental immune responses resulting from adaptive immune activation. Th2 responses benefit fungal persistence; and are the foundation of allergic forms of aspergillosis. The Th17 response has two sides; although crucial for granulocyte recruitment, it can be involved in detrimental immunopathology. Regulatory T-cells, the endogenous regulators of inflammatory responses, play a key role in controlling detrimental inflammatory responses during aspergillosis. The current knowledge of the adaptive immune response against A. fumigatus is summarized in this review. A better understanding on how T-helper responses facilitate clearance of Aspergillus-infection and control inflammation can be the fundamental basis for understanding the pathogenesis of aspergillosis and for the development of novel host-directed therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Intan M W Dewi
- Department of Experimental Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran, Jl. Eijkman No. 38, Bandung 40161, Indonesia.
| | - Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Experimental Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Mark S Gresnigt
- Department of Experimental Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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