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Matsuda T, Namisaki T, Shibamoto A, Asada S, Tomooka F, Kubo T, Koizumi A, Tanaka M, Iwai S, Inoue T, Tsuji Y, Fujinaga Y, Nishimura N, Sato S, Kitagawa K, Kaji K, Mitoro A, Asada K, Takaya H, Noguchi R, Akahane T, Yoshiji H. Clinical Significance of Marginal Zinc Deficiency as a Predictor of Covert Hepatic Encephalopathy in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:4184. [PMID: 40362419 PMCID: PMC12071699 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26094184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2025] [Revised: 04/26/2025] [Accepted: 04/26/2025] [Indexed: 05/15/2025] Open
Abstract
Covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) can worsen the quality of life and prognosis of patients with cirrhosis. We analyzed the risk factors of CHE and identified patients at high risk for overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) who would benefit from therapeutic interventions. We included 145 patients without a history of or treatment for overt HE. Patients were divided into the CHE and no-CHE groups (n = 91 and 54, respectively). CHE had a score above the age-based cutoff value of one of the neuropsychological tests, such as the Stroop and number connection tests. CHE prevalence was 62.8% (n = 91). Compared with the no-CHE group, the CHE group had significantly lower serum zinc and albumin levels. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified serum zinc levels at a cutoff value of 74 µg/dL. Subclinical zinc deficiency showed a diagnostic performance of 55.6% sensitivity and 81.5% specificity for CHE. Blood ammonia levels and liver functional reserves were not predictive of CHE. Compared with patients with zinc levels < 74 µg/dL (n = 102), those with ≥74 µg/dL (n = 43) had significantly lower CHE prevalence and better hepatic functional reserve. Subclinical zinc deficiency was associated with CHE occurrence in patients with cirrhosis without a history of or treatment for overt HE. Measurement of zinc levels facilitates early detection of CHE by neuropsychological testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Matsuda
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Tadashi Namisaki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Akihiko Shibamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Shohei Asada
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Fumimasa Tomooka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Takahiro Kubo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Aritoshi Koizumi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Misako Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Satoshi Iwai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Takashi Inoue
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan;
| | - Yuki Tsuji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Yukihisa Fujinaga
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Norihisa Nishimura
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Shinya Sato
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Koh Kitagawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Kosuke Kaji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Akira Mitoro
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Kiyoshi Asada
- Clinical Research Center, Nara Medical University, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan;
| | - Hiroaki Takaya
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Ryuichi Noguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Takemi Akahane
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Nara, Japan; (T.M.); (A.S.); (S.A.); (F.T.); (T.K.); (A.K.); (M.T.); (S.I.); (Y.T.); (Y.F.); (N.N.); (S.S.); (K.K.); (K.K.); (A.M.); (H.T.); (R.N.); (T.A.); (H.Y.)
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2
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Schille TB, Sprague JL, Naglik JR, Brunke S, Hube B. Commensalism and pathogenesis of Candida albicans at the mucosal interface. Nat Rev Microbiol 2025:10.1038/s41579-025-01174-x. [PMID: 40247134 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-025-01174-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2025] [Indexed: 04/19/2025]
Abstract
Fungi are important and often underestimated human pathogens. Infections with fungi mostly originate from the environment, from soil or airborne spores. By contrast, Candida albicans, one of the most common and clinically important fungal pathogens, permanently exists in the vast majority of healthy individuals as a member of the human mucosal microbiota. Only under certain circumstances will these commensals cause infections. However, although the pathogenic behaviour and disease manifestation of C. albicans have been at the centre of research for many years, its asymptomatic colonization of mucosal surfaces remains surprisingly understudied. In this Review, we discuss the interplay of the fungus, the host and the microbiome on the dualism of commensal and pathogenic life of C. albicans, and how commensal growth is controlled and permitted. We explore hypotheses that could explain how the mucosal environment shapes C. albicans adaptations to its commensal lifestyle, while still maintaining or even increasing its pathogenic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim B Schille
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Jakob L Sprague
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Julian R Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany.
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.
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3
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Michetti E, Mandava TA, Secli V, Pacello F, Battistoni A, Ammendola S. Modelling host-pathogen interactions: Galleria mellonella as a platform to study Pseudomonas aeruginosa response to host-imposed zinc starvation. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2025; 171:001524. [PMID: 39841126 PMCID: PMC11753293 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2025] [Indexed: 01/23/2025]
Abstract
Nutritional immunity, a key component of the vertebrate innate immune response, involves the modulation of zinc availability to limit the growth of pathogens. Pseudomonas aeruginosa counteracts host-imposed zinc starvation through metabolic adaptations, including reprogramming of gene expression and activating efficient metal uptake systems. To unravel how zinc shortage contributes to the complexity of bacterial adaptation to the host environment, it is critical to use model systems that mimic fundamental features of P. aeruginosa-related diseases in humans. Among available animal models, Galleria mellonella has recently emerged as a promising alternative to mammalian hosts. This study aims to evaluate whether G. mellonella can recapitulate the zinc-related nutritional immunity responses observed in mammalian infections. Our results show that, upon P. aeruginosa infection, the larvae upregulate several zinc transporters, suggesting an active redistribution of the metal in response to the pathogen. Additionally, P. aeruginosa colonizing the larvae induces Zn uptake regulator-controlled genes, consistent with bacterial adaptation to zinc starvation. Disruption of bacterial zinc uptake capability significantly reduces P. aeruginosa virulence, underscoring the importance of zinc acquisition in pathogenesis also within this model host. As a proof of concept, we also demonstrate that this in vivo model can serve as a viable preliminary screening tool to unveil novel players involved in P. aeruginosa response to zinc starvation, offering valuable insights into the host-pathogen battle for micronutrients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Michetti
- Department of Biology, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Valerio Secli
- Department of Biology, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Serena Ammendola
- Department of Biology, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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4
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Garg R, David MS, Yang S, Culotta VC. Metals at the Host-Fungal Pathogen Battleground. Annu Rev Microbiol 2024; 78:23-38. [PMID: 38781605 PMCID: PMC12044431 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-041222-023745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Fungal infections continue to represent a major threat to public health, particularly with the emergence of multidrug-resistant fungal pathogens. As part of the innate immune response, the host modulates the availability of metals as armament against pathogenic microbes, including fungi. The transition metals Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn are essential micronutrients for all life forms, but when present in excess, these same metals are potent toxins. The host exploits the double-edged sword of these metals, and will either withhold metal micronutrients from pathogenic fungi or attack them with toxic doses. In response to these attacks, fungal pathogens cleverly adapt by modulating metal transport, metal storage, and usage of metals as cofactors for enzymes. Here we review the current state of understanding on Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn at the host-fungal pathogen battleground and provide perspectives for future research, including a hope for new antifungals based on metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Garg
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA;
| | - Marika S David
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA;
| | - Shuyi Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA;
| | - Valeria C Culotta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA;
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Hu J, Jiang Y. Evolution, classification, and mechanisms of transport, activity regulation, and substrate specificity of ZIP metal transporters. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 59:245-266. [PMID: 39431645 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2024.2405476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 10/22/2024]
Abstract
The Zrt/Irt-like protein (ZIP) family consists of ubiquitously expressed divalent d-block metal transporters that play central roles in the uptake, secretion, excretion, and distribution of several essential and toxic metals in living organisms. The past few years has witnessed rapid progress in the molecular basis of these membrane transport proteins. In this critical review, we summarize the research progress at the molecular level of the ZIP family and discuss the future prospects. Furthermore, an evolutionary path for the unique ZIP fold and a new classification of the ZIP family are proposed based on the presented structural and sequence analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Yuhan Jiang
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Silva-Gomes R, Caldeira I, Fernandes R, Cunha C, Carvalho A. Metabolic regulation of the host-fungus interaction: from biological principles to therapeutic opportunities. J Leukoc Biol 2024; 116:469-486. [PMID: 38498599 DOI: 10.1093/jleuko/qiae045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections present a significant global public health concern, impacting over 1 billion individuals worldwide and resulting in more than 3 million deaths annually. Despite considerable progress in recent years, the management of fungal infections remains challenging. The limited development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches is largely attributed to our incomplete understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms involved in these diseases. Recent research has highlighted the pivotal role of cellular metabolism in regulating the interaction between fungi and their hosts. In response to fungal infection, immune cells undergo complex metabolic adjustments to meet the energy demands necessary for an effective immune response. A comprehensive understanding of the metabolic circuits governing antifungal immunity, combined with the integration of individual host traits, holds the potential to inform novel medical interventions for fungal infections. This review explores recent insights into the immunometabolic regulation of host-fungal interactions and the infection outcome and discusses how the metabolic repurposing of immune cell function could be exploited in innovative and personalized therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Silva-Gomes
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Inês Caldeira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Raquel Fernandes
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Cristina Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
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Zhou X, Hilk A, Solis NV, Pereira De Sa N, Hogan BM, Bierbaum TA, Del Poeta M, Filler SG, Burrack LS, Selmecki A. Erg251 has complex and pleiotropic effects on sterol composition, azole susceptibility, filamentation, and stress response phenotypes. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012389. [PMID: 39078851 PMCID: PMC11315318 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Ergosterol is essential for fungal cell membrane integrity and growth, and numerous antifungal drugs target ergosterol. Inactivation or modification of ergosterol biosynthetic genes can lead to changes in antifungal drug susceptibility, filamentation and stress response. Here, we found that the ergosterol biosynthesis gene ERG251 is a hotspot for point mutations during adaptation to antifungal drug stress within two distinct genetic backgrounds of Candida albicans. Heterozygous point mutations led to single allele dysfunction of ERG251 and resulted in azole tolerance in both genetic backgrounds. This is the first known example of point mutations causing azole tolerance in C. albicans. Importantly, single allele dysfunction of ERG251 in combination with recurrent chromosome aneuploidies resulted in bona fide azole resistance. Homozygous deletions of ERG251 caused increased fitness in low concentrations of fluconazole and decreased fitness in rich medium, especially at low initial cell density. Homozygous deletions of ERG251 resulted in accumulation of ergosterol intermediates consistent with the fitness defect in rich medium. Dysfunction of ERG251, together with FLC exposure, resulted in decreased accumulation of the toxic sterol (14-ɑ-methylergosta-8,24(28)-dien-3β,6α-diol) and increased accumulation of non-toxic alternative sterols. The altered sterol composition of the ERG251 mutants had pleiotropic effects on transcription, filamentation, and stress responses including cell membrane, osmotic and oxidative stress. Interestingly, while dysfunction of ERG251 resulted in azole tolerance, it also led to transcriptional upregulation of ZRT2, a membrane-bound Zinc transporter, in the presence of FLC, and overexpression of ZRT2 is sufficient to increase azole tolerance in wild-type C. albicans. Finally, in a murine model of systemic infection, homozygous deletion of ERG251 resulted in decreased virulence while the heterozygous deletion mutants maintain their pathogenicity. Overall, this study demonstrates that single allele dysfunction of ERG251 is a recurrent and effective mechanism of acquired azole tolerance. We propose that altered sterol composition resulting from ERG251 dysfunction mediates azole tolerance as well as pleiotropic effects on stress response, filamentation and virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhou
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Audrey Hilk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Norma V. Solis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Nivea Pereira De Sa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
| | - Bode M. Hogan
- Gustavus Adolphus College, Department of Biology, Saint Peter, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tessa A. Bierbaum
- Gustavus Adolphus College, Department of Biology, Saint Peter, Minnesota, USA
| | - Maurizio Del Poeta
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
- Veterans Administration Medical Center, Northport, New York, United States of America
| | - Scott G. Filler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Laura S. Burrack
- Gustavus Adolphus College, Department of Biology, Saint Peter, Minnesota, USA
| | - Anna Selmecki
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
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Zhou X, Hilk A, Solis NV, Hogan BM, Bierbaum TA, Filler SG, Burrack LS, Selmecki A. Erg251 has complex and pleiotropic effects on azole susceptibility, filamentation, and stress response phenotypes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.06.583770. [PMID: 38496635 PMCID: PMC10942443 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.06.583770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Ergosterol is essential for fungal cell membrane integrity and growth, and numerous antifungal drugs target ergosterol. Inactivation or modification of ergosterol biosynthetic genes can lead to changes in antifungal drug susceptibility, filamentation and stress response. Here, we found that the ergosterol biosynthesis gene ERG251 is a hotspot for point mutations during adaptation to antifungal drug stress within two distinct genetic backgrounds of Candida albicans. Heterozygous point mutations led to single allele dysfunction of ERG251 and resulted in azole tolerance in both genetic backgrounds. This is the first known example of point mutations causing azole tolerance in C. albicans. Importantly, single allele dysfunction of ERG251 in combination with recurrent chromosome aneuploidies resulted in bona fide azole resistance. Homozygous deletions of ERG251 caused increased fitness in low concentrations of fluconazole and decreased fitness in rich medium, especially at low initial cell density. Dysfunction of ERG251 resulted in transcriptional upregulation of the alternate sterol biosynthesis pathway and ZRT2, a Zinc transporter. Notably, we determined that overexpression of ZRT2 is sufficient to increase azole tolerance in C. albicans. Our combined transcriptional and phenotypic analyses revealed the pleiotropic effects of ERG251 on stress responses including cell wall, osmotic and oxidative stress. Interestingly, while loss of either allele of ERG251 resulted in similar antifungal drug responses, we observed functional divergence in filamentation regulation between the two alleles of ERG251 (ERG251-A and ERG251-B) with ERG251-A exhibiting a dominant role in the SC5314 genetic background. Finally, in a murine model of systemic infection, homozygous deletion of ERG251 resulted in decreased virulence while the heterozygous deletion mutants maintain their pathogenicity. Overall, this study provides extensive genetic, transcriptional and phenotypic analysis for the effects of ERG251 on drug susceptibility, fitness, filamentation and stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhou
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Audrey Hilk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Norma V. Solis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Bode M. Hogan
- Gustavus Adolphus College, Department of Biology, Saint Peter, MN, USA
| | - Tessa A. Bierbaum
- Gustavus Adolphus College, Department of Biology, Saint Peter, MN, USA
| | - Scott G. Filler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Laura S. Burrack
- Gustavus Adolphus College, Department of Biology, Saint Peter, MN, USA
| | - Anna Selmecki
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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9
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Sprague JL, Schille TB, Allert S, Trümper V, Lier A, Großmann P, Priest EL, Tsavou A, Panagiotou G, Naglik JR, Wilson D, Schäuble S, Kasper L, Hube B. Candida albicans translocation through the intestinal epithelial barrier is promoted by fungal zinc acquisition and limited by NFκB-mediated barrier protection. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012031. [PMID: 38427950 PMCID: PMC10907035 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans thrives on human mucosal surfaces as a harmless commensal, but frequently causes infections under certain predisposing conditions. Translocation across the intestinal barrier into the bloodstream by intestine-colonizing C. albicans cells serves as the main source of disseminated candidiasis. However, the host and microbial mechanisms behind this process remain unclear. In this study we identified fungal and host factors specifically involved in infection of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) using dual-RNA sequencing. Our data suggest that host-cell damage mediated by the peptide toxin candidalysin-encoding gene ECE1 facilitates fungal zinc acquisition. This in turn is crucial for the full virulence potential of C. albicans during infection. IECs in turn exhibit a filamentation- and damage-specific response to C. albicans infection, including NFκB, MAPK, and TNF signaling. NFκB activation by IECs limits candidalysin-mediated host-cell damage and mediates maintenance of the intestinal barrier and cell-cell junctions to further restrict fungal translocation. This is the first study to show that candidalysin-mediated damage is necessary for C. albicans nutrient acquisition during infection and to explain how IECs counteract damage and limit fungal translocation via NFκB-mediated maintenance of the intestinal barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob L. Sprague
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Tim B. Schille
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Stefanie Allert
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Verena Trümper
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Adrian Lier
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Peter Großmann
- Department of Microbiome Dynamics, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Emily L. Priest
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Antzela Tsavou
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gianni Panagiotou
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Department of Microbiome Dynamics, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Julian R. Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council, Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Sascha Schäuble
- Department of Microbiome Dynamics, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Lydia Kasper
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
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10
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Blancett LT, Evans HM, Candor K, Buesing WR, Figueroa JAL, Deepe Jr GS. Utilization of a Histoplasma capsulatum zinc reporter reveals the complexities of fungal sensing of metal deprivation. mSphere 2024; 9:e0070423. [PMID: 38259064 PMCID: PMC10900905 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00704-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum is a dimorphic fungal pathogen acquired via inhalation of soil-resident spores. Upon exposure to mammalian body temperatures, these fungal elements transform into yeasts that reside primarily within phagocytes. Macrophages (MΦ) provide a permissive environment for fungal replication until T cell-dependent immunity is engaged. MΦ activated by granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) induces metallothioneins (MTs) that bind zinc (Zn) and deprive yeast cells of labile Zn, thereby disabling fungal growth. Prior work demonstrated that the zinc transporter, ZRT2, was important for fungal survival in vivo. Hence, we constructed a yeast cell reporter strain that expresses green fluorescent protein (GFP) under control of the ZRT2 zinc-regulated promoter. This reporter accurately responds to a medium devoid of Zn. ZRT2 expression increased in GM-CSF, but not interferon-γ, stimulated MΦ. To examine the in vivo response, we infected mice with a reporter yeast strain and assessed ZRT2 expression at 0, 3, 7, and 14 days post-infection (dpi). ZRT2 expression minimally increased at 3 dpi and peaked at 7 dpi, corresponding with the onset of adaptive immunity. We discovered that the major MΦ populations that restrict Zn from the fungus are interstitial MΦ and exudate MΦ. Neutralizing GM-CSF blunted the control of infection but unexpectedly increased ZRT2 expression. This increase was dependent on another cytokine that activates MΦ to control H. capsulatum replication, M-CSF. These findings illustrate the reporter's ability to sense Zn in vitro and in vivo and correlate ZRT2 expression with GM-CSF and M-CSF activation of MΦ.IMPORTANCEPhagocytes use an arsenal of defenses to control the replication of Histoplasma yeasts, one of which is the limitation of trace metals. On the other hand, H. capsulatum combats metal restriction by upregulating metal importers such as the Zn importer ZRT2. This transporter contributes to H. capsulatum pathogenesis upon activation of adaptive immunity. We constructed a fluorescent ZRT2 transcriptional reporter to probe H. capsulatum Zn sensing during infection and exposed the role for M-CSF activation of macrophages when GM-CSF is absent. These data highlight the ways in which fungal pathogens sense metal deprivation in vivo and reveal the potential of metal-sensing reporters. The work adds a new dimension to study how intracellular pathogens sense and respond to the changing environments of the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan T. Blancett
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Heather M. Evans
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Kathleen Candor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - William R. Buesing
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Julio A. Landero Figueroa
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - George S. Deepe Jr
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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11
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Garstka K, Potoczniak G, Kozłowski H, Rowińska-Żyrek M. Aspergillus fumigatus ZrfC Zn(II) transporter scavengers zincophore-bound Zn(II). Dalton Trans 2024; 53:2848-2858. [PMID: 38231010 DOI: 10.1039/d3dt04083f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic pathogen that is able to invade and grow in the lungs of immunosuppressed patients and cause invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. The concentration of free Zn(II) in living tissues is much lower than that required for optimal fungal growth; thus, to obtain Zn(II) from the host, Aspergillus fumigatus uses highly specified Zn(II) transporters: ZrfA, ZrfB and ZrfC. The ZrfC transporter plays the main role in Zn(II) acquisition from the host in neutral and mildly alkaline environment via interacting with the secreted Aspf2 zincophore. Understanding the Aspf2-ZrfC interactions is therefore necessary for explaining the process of Zn(II) acquisition by Aspergillus fumigatus, and identifying Zn(II) binding sites in its transporter and describing the thermodynamics of such binding are the fundamental steps to achieve this goal. We focus on two probable ZrfC Zn(II) binding sites and show that the Ac-MNCHFHAGVEHCIGAGESESGSSQ-NH2 region binds Zn(II) with higher affinity than the Ac-TGCHSHGS-NH2 one and that this binding is much stronger than the binding of Zn(II) to the Aspf2 zincophore, allowing efficient Zn(II) transport from the Aspf2 zincophore to the ZrfC transporter. The same ZrfC fragments also able to bind Ni(II), another metal ion essential for fungi that could also compete with Zn(II) binding, with comparable affinity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Garstka
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Wrocław, F. Joliot-Curie 14, 50-383 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Gabriela Potoczniak
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Wrocław, F. Joliot-Curie 14, 50-383 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Henryk Kozłowski
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Wrocław, F. Joliot-Curie 14, 50-383 Wrocław, Poland.
- Institute of Health Sciences, University of Opole, Katowicka 68 St., 45-060 Opole, Poland
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12
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Santos TADO, Soares LW, Oliveira LN, Moraes D, Mendes MS, Soares CMDA, Bailão AM, Bailão MGS. Zinc Starvation Induces Cell Wall Remodeling and Activates the Antioxidant Defense System in Fonsecaea pedrosoi. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:118. [PMID: 38392790 PMCID: PMC10890210 DOI: 10.3390/jof10020118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The survival of pathogenic fungi in the host after invasion depends on their ability to obtain nutrients, which include the transition metal zinc. This essential micronutrient is required to maintain the structure and function of various proteins and, therefore, plays a critical role in various biological processes. The host's nutritional immunity limits the availability of zinc to pathogenic fungi mainly by the action of calprotectin, a component of neutrophil extracellular traps. Here we investigated the adaptive responses of Fonsecaea pedrosoi to zinc-limiting conditions. This black fungus is the main etiological agent of chromoblastomycosis, a chronic neglected tropical disease that affects subcutaneous tissues. Following exposure to a zinc-limited environment, F. pedrosoi induces a high-affinity zinc uptake machinery, composed of zinc transporters and the zincophore Pra1. A proteomic approach was used to define proteins regulated by zinc deprivation. Cell wall remodeling, changes in neutral lipids homeostasis, and activation of the antioxidant system were the main strategies for survival in the hostile environment. Furthermore, the downregulation of enzymes required for sulfate assimilation was evident. Together, the adaptive responses allow fungal growth and development and reveals molecules that may be related to fungal persistence in the host.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucas Weba Soares
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Lucas Nojosa Oliveira
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil
| | - Dayane Moraes
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil
| | - Millena Silva Mendes
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Melo Bailão
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil
| | - Mirelle Garcia Silva Bailão
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil
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13
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Roselletti E, Pericolini E, Nore A, Takacs P, Kozma B, Sala A, De Seta F, Comar M, Usher J, Brown GD, Wilson D. Zinc prevents vaginal candidiasis by inhibiting expression of an inflammatory fungal protein. Sci Transl Med 2023; 15:eadi3363. [PMID: 38055800 PMCID: PMC7616067 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adi3363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Candida causes an estimated half-billion cases of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) every year. VVC is most commonly caused by Candida albicans, which, in this setting, triggers nonprotective neutrophil infiltration, aggressive local inflammation, and symptomatic disease. Despite its prevalence, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underpinning the immunopathology of this fungal infection. In this study, we describe the molecular determinant of VVC immunopathology and a potentially straightforward way to prevent disease. In response to zinc limitation, C. albicans releases a trace mineral binding molecule called Pra1 (pH-regulated antigen). Here, we show that the PRA1 gene is strongly up-regulated during vaginal infections and that its expression positively correlated with proinflammatory cytokine concentrations in women. Genetic deletion of PRA1 prevented vaginal inflammation in mice, and application of a zinc solution down-regulated expression of the gene and also blocked immunopathology. We also show that treatment of women suffering from recurrent VVC with a zinc gel prevented reinfections. We have therefore identified a key mediator of symptomatic VVC, giving us an opportunity to develop a range of preventative measures for combatting this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Roselletti
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at The University of Exeter, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building Stocker Road, Exeter, UK, EX4 4QD
| | - Eva Pericolini
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy, 41125
| | - Alexandre Nore
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at The University of Exeter, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building Stocker Road, Exeter, UK, EX4 4QD
| | - Peter Takacs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary, 4032
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA, 23507
| | - Bence Kozma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary, 4032
| | - Arianna Sala
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy, 41125
| | - Francesco De Seta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS, Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy, 34137
| | - Manola Comar
- Unit of Advanced Microbiology Diagnosis and Translational Research, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy, 34137
| | - Jane Usher
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at The University of Exeter, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building Stocker Road, Exeter, UK, EX4 4QD
| | - Gordon D Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at The University of Exeter, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building Stocker Road, Exeter, UK, EX4 4QD
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at The University of Exeter, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building Stocker Road, Exeter, UK, EX4 4QD
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14
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Blancett LT, Evans HM, Candor K, Buesing WR, Landero Figueroa JA, Deepe GS. Utilization of a Histoplasma capsulatum zinc reporter reveals the complexities of fungal sensing of metal deprivation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.14.567133. [PMID: 38014056 PMCID: PMC10680740 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.14.567133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum is a dimorphic fungal pathogen acquired via inhalation of soil-resident spores. Upon exposure to mammalian body temperatures, these fungal elements transform into yeasts that reside primarily within phagocytes. Macrophages (MΦ) provide a permissive environment for fungal replication until T cell-dependent immunity is engaged. MΦ activated by granulocyte-MΦ colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) induce metallothioneins (MTs) that bind zinc (Zn) and deprive yeast cells of labile Zn, thereby disabling fungal growth. Prior work demonstrated that the high affinity zinc importer, ZRT2, was important for fungal survival in vivo. Hence, we constructed a yeast cell reporter strain that expresses green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of this importer. This reporter accurately responds to medium devoid of Zn. ZRT2 expression increased (∼5-fold) in GM-CSF, but not interferon-γ, stimulated MΦ. To examine the in vivo response, we infected mice with reporter yeasts and assessed ZRT2 expression at 0-, 3-, 7-, and 14-days post-infection (dpi). ZRT2 expression minimally increased at 3-dpi and peaked on 7-dpi, corresponding with onset of adaptive immunity. We discovered that the major phagocyte populations that restrict Zn to the fungus are interstitial MΦ and exudate MΦ. Neutralizing GM-CSF blunted control of infection but unexpectedly increased ZRT2 expression. This increase was dependent on another cytokine that activates MΦ to control H. capsulatum replication, M-CSF. These findings illustrate the reporter's ability to sense Zn in vitro and in vivo and correlate ZRT2 activity with GM-CSF and M-CSF activation of MΦ. Importance Phagocytes use an arsenal of defenses to control replication of Histoplasma yeasts, one of which is limitation of trace metals. On the other hand, H. capsulatum combats metal restriction by upregulating metal importers such as the Zn importer ZRT2. This transporter contributes to H. capsulatum pathogenesis upon activation of adaptive immunity. We constructed a fluorescent ZRT2 reporter to probe H. capsulatum Zn sensing during infection and exposed a role for M-CSF activation of macrophages when GM-CSF is absent. These data highlight the ways in which fungal pathogens sense metal deprivation in vivo and reveal the potential of metal-sensing reporters. The work adds a new dimension to studying how intracellular pathogens sense and respond to the changing environments of the host.
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15
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Alselami A, Drummond RA. How metals fuel fungal virulence, yet promote anti-fungal immunity. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm050393. [PMID: 37905492 PMCID: PMC10629672 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections represent a significant global health problem, and present several clinical challenges, including limited treatment options, increasing rates of antifungal drug resistance and compounding comorbidities in affected patients. Metals, such as copper, iron and zinc, are critical for various biological and cellular processes across phyla. In mammals, these metals are important determinants of immune responses, but pathogenic microbes, including fungi, also require access to these metals to fuel their own growth and drive expression of major virulence traits. Therefore, host immune cells have developed strategies to either restrict access to metals to induce starvation of invading pathogens or deploy toxic concentrations within phagosomes to cause metal poisoning. In this Review, we describe the mechanisms regulating fungal scavenging and detoxification of copper, iron and zinc and the importance of these mechanisms for virulence and infection. We also outline how these metals are involved in host immune responses and the consequences of metal deficiencies or overloads on how the host controls invasive fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alanoud Alselami
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Rebecca A. Drummond
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
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16
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Wang F, Wang Z, Tang J. The interactions of Candida albicans with gut bacteria: a new strategy to prevent and treat invasive intestinal candidiasis. Gut Pathog 2023; 15:30. [PMID: 37370138 DOI: 10.1186/s13099-023-00559-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gut microbiota plays an important role in human health, as it can affect host immunity and susceptibility to infectious diseases. Invasive intestinal candidiasis is strongly associated with gut microbiota homeostasis. However, the nature of the interaction between Candida albicans and gut bacteria remains unclear. OBJECTIVE This review aimed to determine the nature of interaction and the effects of gut bacteria on C. albicans so as to comprehend an approach to reducing intestinal invasive infection by C. albicans. METHODS This review examined 11 common gut bacteria's interactions with C. albicans, including Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp., Helicobacter pylori, Lactobacillus spp., Bacteroides spp., Clostridium difficile, and Streptococcus spp. RESULTS Most of the studied bacteria demonstrated both synergistic and antagonistic effects with C. albicans, and just a few bacteria such as P. aeruginosa, Salmonella spp., and Lactobacillus spp. demonstrated only antagonism against C. albicans. CONCLUSIONS Based on the nature of interactions reported so far by the literature between gut bacteria and C. albicans, it is expected to provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of invasive intestinal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Department of Trauma-Emergency & Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, 128 Ruili Road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Zetian Wang
- Department of Trauma-Emergency & Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, 128 Ruili Road, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Jianguo Tang
- Department of Trauma-Emergency & Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, 128 Ruili Road, Shanghai, 200240, China.
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17
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Bellotti D, Leveraro S, Remelli M. Metal-protein solution interactions investigated using model systems: Thermodynamic and spectroscopic methods. Methods Enzymol 2023; 687:279-341. [PMID: 37666636 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2023.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
The first-row D-block metal ions are essential for the physiology of living organisms, functioning as cofactors in metalloproteins or structural components for enzymes: almost half of all proteins require metals to perform the biological function. Understanding metal-protein interactions is crucial to unravel the mysteries behind molecular biology, understanding the effects of metal imbalance and toxicity or the diseases due to disorders in metal homeostasis. Metal-protein interactions are dynamic: they are noncovalent and affected by the environment to which the system is exposed. To reach a complete comprehension of the system, different conditions must be considered for the experimental investigation, in order to get information on the species distribution, the ligand coordination modes, complex stoichiometry and geometry. Thinking about the whole environment where a protein acts, investigations are often challenging, and simplifications are required to study in detail the mechanisms of metal interaction. This chapter is intended to help researchers addressing the problem of the complexity of metal-protein interactions, with particular emphasis on the use of peptides as model systems for the metal coordination site. The thermodynamic and spectroscopic methods most widely employed to investigate the interaction between metal ions and peptides in solution are here covered. These include solid-phase peptide synthesis, potentiometric titrations, calorimetry, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, UV-Vis spectrophotometry, circular dichroism (CD), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Additional experimental methods, which can be employed to study metal complexes with peptides, are also briefly mentioned. A case-study is finally reported providing a practical example of the investigation of metal-protein interaction by means of thermodynamic and spectroscopic methods applied to peptide model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Bellotti
- University of Ferrara, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, via L. Borsari, Ferrara, Italy; Faculty of Chemistry, University of Wrocław, F. Joliot-Curie, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Silvia Leveraro
- University of Ferrara, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, via L. Borsari, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maurizio Remelli
- University of Ferrara, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, via L. Borsari, Ferrara, Italy.
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18
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Wildeman AS, Patel NK, Cormack BP, Culotta VC. The role of manganese in morphogenesis and pathogenesis of the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011478. [PMID: 37363924 PMCID: PMC10328360 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Metals such as Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn are essential trace nutrients for all kingdoms of life, including microbial pathogens and their hosts. During infection, the mammalian host attempts to starve invading microbes of these micronutrients through responses collectively known as nutritional immunity. Nutritional immunity for Zn, Fe and Cu has been well documented for fungal infections; however Mn handling at the host-fungal pathogen interface remains largely unexplored. This work establishes the foundation of fungal resistance against Mn associated nutritional immunity through the characterization of NRAMP divalent metal transporters in the opportunistic fungal pathogen, Candida albicans. Here, we identify C. albicans Smf12 and Smf13 as two NRAMP transporters required for cellular Mn accumulation. Single or combined smf12Δ/Δ and smf13Δ/Δ mutations result in a 10-80 fold reduction in cellular Mn with an additive effect of double mutations and no losses in cellular Cu, Fe or Zn. As a result of low cellular Mn, the mutants exhibit impaired activity of mitochondrial Mn-superoxide dismutase 2 (Sod2) and cytosolic Mn-Sod3 but no defects in cytosolic Cu/Zn-Sod1 activity. Mn is also required for activity of Golgi mannosyltransferases, and smf12Δ/Δ and smf13Δ/Δ mutants show a dramatic loss in cell surface phosphomannan and in glycosylation of proteins, including an intracellular acid phosphatase and a cell wall Cu-only Sod5 that is key for oxidative stress resistance. Importantly, smf12Δ/Δ and smf13Δ/Δ mutants are defective in formation of hyphal filaments, a deficiency rescuable by supplemental Mn. In a disseminated mouse model for candidiasis where kidney is the primary target tissue, we find a marked loss in total kidney Mn during fungal invasion, implying host restriction of Mn. In this model, smf12Δ/Δ and smf13Δ/Δ C. albicans mutants displayed a significant loss in virulence. These studies establish a role for Mn in Candida pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asia S Wildeman
- The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Naisargi K Patel
- The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Brendan P Cormack
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Valeria C Culotta
- The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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19
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Global Molecular Response of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis to Zinc Deprivation: Analyses at Transcript, Protein and MicroRNA Levels. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9030281. [PMID: 36983449 PMCID: PMC10056003 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Zinc is one of the main micronutrients for all organisms. One of the defense mechanisms used by the host includes the sequestration of metals used in fungal metabolism, such as iron and zinc. There are several mechanisms that maintain the balance in the intracellular zinc supply. MicroRNAs are effector molecules of responses between the pathogen and host, favoring or preventing infection in many microorganisms. Fungi of the Paracoccidioides genus are thermodimorphic and the etiological agents of paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM). In the current pandemic scenario world mycosis studies continue to be highly important since a significant number of patients with COVID-19 developed systemic mycoses, co-infections that complicated their clinical condition. The objective was to identify transcriptomic and proteomic adaptations in Paracoccidioides brasiliensis during zinc deprivation. Nineteen microRNAs were identified, three of which were differentially regulated. Target genes regulated by those microRNAs are elements of zinc homeostasis such as ZRT1, ZRT3 and COT1 transporters. Transcription factors that have zinc in their structure are also targets of those miRNAs. Transcriptional and proteomic data suggest that P. brasiliensis undergoes metabolic remodeling to survive zinc deprivation and that miRNAs may be part of the regulatory process.
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Zhang Y, Jiang Y, Gao K, Sui D, Yu P, Su M, Wei GW, Hu J. Structural insights into the elevator-type transport mechanism of a bacterial ZIP metal transporter. Nat Commun 2023; 14:385. [PMID: 36693843 PMCID: PMC9873690 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36048-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The Zrt-/Irt-like protein (ZIP) family consists of ubiquitously expressed divalent metal transporters critically involved in maintaining systemic and cellular homeostasis of zinc, iron, and manganese. Here, we present a study on a prokaryotic ZIP from Bordetella bronchiseptica (BbZIP) by combining structural biology, evolutionary covariance, computational modeling, and a variety of biochemical assays to tackle the issue of the transport mechanism which has not been established for the ZIP family. The apo state structure in an inward-facing conformation revealed a disassembled transport site, altered inter-helical interactions, and importantly, a rigid body movement of a 4-transmembrane helix (TM) bundle relative to the other TMs. The computationally generated and biochemically validated outward-facing conformation model revealed a slide of the 4-TM bundle, which carries the transport site(s), by approximately 8 Å toward the extracellular side against the static TMs which mediate dimerization. These findings allow us to conclude that BbZIP is an elevator-type transporter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Yuhan Jiang
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Kaifu Gao
- Department of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Dexin Sui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Peixuan Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Min Su
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Guo-Wei Wei
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Jian Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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21
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Hexyl-Aminolevulinate Ethosomes: a Novel Antibiofilm Agent Targeting Zinc Homeostasis in Candida albicans. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0243822. [PMID: 36301105 PMCID: PMC9769717 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02438-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Substantial drug resistance afforded by Candida albicans biofilms results in ineffective treatment with conventional drugs and persistent infection. Our previous study showed that hexyl-aminolevulinate ethosomes (HAL-ES) act against C. albicans biofilms and weaken their drug resistance and pathogenicity; however, the mechanism involved remains unclear. Here, we systematically evaluated the effects and mechanisms of HAL-ES on biofilm formation and drug resistance. We found that, in addition to mediating antifungal photodynamic therapy, HAL-ES inhibited the early, developmental, and mature stages of biofilm formation compared with fluconazole, HAL, or ES. Notably, adhesion and hyphal formation were significantly inhibited by postdrug effects even after brief exposure (2 h) to HAL-ES. Its therapeutic effect in vivo also has been demonstrated in cutaneous candidiasis. RNA sequencing and quantitative PCR showed that HAL-ES inhibited ribosome biogenesis by disrupting zinc homeostasis in C. albicans, thereby reducing the translation process during protein synthesis. Furthermore, HAL-ES downregulated the expression of multidrug resistance genes and increased fluconazole susceptibility in C. albicans. Our findings provide a novel and efficient method for the treatment of biofilm resistance in C. albicans infection as well as a basis for the application of HAL-ES. We also describe a new strategy for the treatment of biofilm-related infections via zinc restriction. IMPORTANCE Candida albicans is the most prevalent fungal species of the human microbiota. The medical impact of C. albicans on its human host depends on its ability to form biofilms. The intrinsic resistance conferred by biofilms to conventional antifungal drugs makes biofilm-based infections a significant clinical challenge. In this study, we demonstrate the attenuating effect of HAL-ES on C. albicans biofilm formation and drug resistance. Furthermore, we propose that HAL-ES inhibits protein translation by disrupting zinc homeostasis in C. albicans. This study not only provides a novel and effective therapeutic strategy against C. albicans biofilm but also proposes a new strategy to resolve C. albicans biofilm infection by disrupting zinc homeostasis.
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22
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Lopes JP, Lionakis MS. Pathogenesis and virulence of Candida albicans. Virulence 2022; 13:89-121. [PMID: 34964702 PMCID: PMC9728475 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.2019950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal yeast fungus of the human oral, gastrointestinal, and genital mucosal surfaces, and skin. Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis, iatrogenic immunosuppression, and/or medical interventions that impair the integrity of the mucocutaneous barrier and/or perturb protective host defense mechanisms enable C. albicans to become an opportunistic pathogen and cause debilitating mucocutaneous disease and/or life-threatening systemic infections. In this review, we synthesize our current knowledge of the tissue-specific determinants of C. albicans pathogenicity and host immune defense mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Pedro Lopes
- From the Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michail S. Lionakis
- From the Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Bethesda, MD, USA
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23
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Takács T, Németh MT, Bohner F, Vágvölgyi C, Jankovics F, Wilson D, Gácser A. Characterization and functional analysis of zinc trafficking in the human fungal pathogen Candida parapsilosis. Open Biol 2022; 12:220077. [PMID: 35857903 PMCID: PMC9277298 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.220077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The zinc restriction and zinc toxicity are part of host defence, called nutritional immunity. The crucial role of zinc homeostasis in microbial survival within a host is established, but little is known about these processes in the opportunistic human fungal pathogen Candida parapsilosis. Our in silico predictions suggested the presence of at least six potential zinc transporters (ZnTs) in C. parapsilosis-orthologues of ZRC1, ZRT3 and ZRT101-but an orthologue of PRA1 zincophore was not found. In addition, we detected a species-specific gene expansion of the novel ZnT ZRT2, as we identified three orthologue genes in the genome of C. parapsilosis. Based on predictions, we created homozygous mutant strains of the potential ZnTs and characterized them. Despite the apparent gene expansion of ZRT2 in C. parapsilosis, only CpZRT21 was essential for growth in a zinc-depleted acidic environment, in addition we found that CpZrc1 is essential for zinc detoxification and also protects the fungi against the elimination of murine macrophages. Significantly, we demonstrated that C. parapsilosis forms zincosomes in a Zrc1-independent manner and zinc detoxification is mediated by the vacuolar importer CpZrc1. Our study defines the functions of C. parapsilosis ZnTs, including a species-specific survival and zinc detoxification system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Takács
- HCEMM-USZ Fungal Pathogens Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Mihály Tibor Németh
- HCEMM-USZ Fungal Pathogens Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Flóra Bohner
- HCEMM-USZ Fungal Pathogens Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Csaba Vágvölgyi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Jankovics
- Department of Medical Biology, Szent-Györgyi Albert Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Attila Gácser
- HCEMM-USZ Fungal Pathogens Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,MTA-SZTE ‘Lendület’ Mycobiome Research Group, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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24
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Murina F, Lubrano C, Cappelli E, Campo M, Taraborrelli S. The role of female intimate hygiene practices in the management of vulvovaginal candidiasis: A randomized, controlled open-label trial. Health Care Women Int 2022; 44:689-700. [PMID: 35759680 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2022.2061972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
In this multicenter, observational, controlled open-label trial, researchers randomized 200 women with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) to: Group 1, 6-days clotrimazole 2% vaginal cream once-daily plus 15-days concomitant acid pH thymol and zinc-containing cleansing wash (SaugellaActi3) twice-daily; Group 2, 6-days clotrimazole treatment alone. In both groups, pruritus and burning VAS scores improved from baseline at Days 6, 10 and 15. On Day 10 and Day 15, the pruritus score was significantly lower in Group 1 versus Group 2 (P <0.005 at both timepoints), suggesting acid pH thymol and zinc-containing cleansing wash ameliorates VVC-associated pruritus as part of a female hygiene regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Murina
- Lower Genital Tract Disease Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, V. Buzzi Hospital-University of the Study of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Lubrano
- Lower Genital Tract Disease Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, V. Buzzi Hospital-University of the Study of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Maria Campo
- Gynaecology and Obstetrics Hospital Unit, Giovanni Paolo II Hospital, Ragusa, Italy
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25
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Murata K, Namisaki T, Fujimoto Y, Takeda S, Enomoto M, Takaya H, Tsuji Y, Shibamoto A, Suzuki J, Kubo T, Iwai S, Tomooka F, Tanaka M, Kaneko M, Asada S, Koizumi A, Yorioka N, Matsuda T, Ozutsumi T, Ishida K, Ogawa H, Takagi H, Fujinaga Y, Furukawa M, Sawada Y, Nishimura N, Kitagawa K, Sato S, Kaji K, Inoue T, Asada K, Kawaratani H, Moriya K, Akahane T, Mitoro A, Yoshiji H. Clinical Significance of Serum Zinc Levels on the Development of Sarcopenia in Cirrhotic Patients. CANCER DIAGNOSIS & PROGNOSIS 2022; 2:184-193. [PMID: 35399181 PMCID: PMC8962814 DOI: 10.21873/cdp.10093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Sarcopenia increases the mortality in patients with cirrhosis. Approximately 60% of zinc is accumulated in skeletal muscle. We aimed to determine the role of subclinical zinc deficiency on sarcopenia development in patients with cirrhosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS We enrolled 151 patients with cirrhosis and divided them into the group with normal serum zinc levels (Group N: 80-130 μg/dl; n=38) and group with subclinical zinc deficiency (Group D: <80 μg/dl; n=113). The risk factors for sarcopenia were then investigated. RESULTS Group D had more sarcopenia cases than Group N (31.0% vs. 13.2%). In group D, HGS exhibited a weakly positive but significant correlation with serum zinc levels (R=0.287, p=0.00212), serum zinc levels negatively correlated with both ammonia and myostatin levels (R=-0.254, p=0.0078; R=-0.33, p<0.01), and low zinc levels were independently associated with sarcopenia development. CONCLUSION Patients with cirrhosis showing subclinical zinc deficiency have a significantly higher risk of developing sarcopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Murata
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Tadashi Namisaki
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Yuki Fujimoto
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Soichi Takeda
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Masahide Enomoto
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Takaya
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Yuki Tsuji
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Akihiko Shibamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Junya Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Takahiro Kubo
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Satoshi Iwai
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Fumimasa Tomooka
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Misako Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Miki Kaneko
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Shohei Asada
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Aritoshi Koizumi
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Yorioka
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Takuya Matsuda
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ozutsumi
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Koji Ishida
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ogawa
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Hirotetsu Takagi
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Yukihisa Fujinaga
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Masanori Furukawa
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Sawada
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Norihisa Nishimura
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Koh Kitagawa
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Shinya Sato
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Kosuke Kaji
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Takashi Inoue
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, Nara Medical University Hospital, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Asada
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, Nara Medical University Hospital, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Hideto Kawaratani
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Kei Moriya
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Takemi Akahane
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Akira Mitoro
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Department of Gastroenterology of Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
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26
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The putative role of zinc homeostasis in grain formation by Madurella mycetomatis during mycetoma infection. FUNGAL BIOL REV 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbr.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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27
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A large transposable element mediates metal resistance in the fungus Paecilomyces variotii. Curr Biol 2022; 32:937-950.e5. [PMID: 35063120 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.12.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The horizontal transfer of large gene clusters by mobile elements is a key driver of prokaryotic adaptation in response to environmental stresses. Eukaryotic microbes face similar stresses; however, a parallel role for mobile elements has not been established. A stress faced by many microorganisms is toxic metal ions in their environment. In fungi, identified mechanisms for protection against metals generally rely on genes that are dispersed within an organism's genome. Here, we discover a large (∼85 kb) region that confers tolerance to five metal/metalloid ions (arsenate, cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc) in the genomes of some, but not all, strains of a fungus, Paecilomyces variotii. We name this region HEPHAESTUS (Hφ) and present evidence that it is mobile within the P. variotii genome with features characteristic of a transposable element. HEPHAESTUS contains the greatest complement of host-beneficial genes carried by a transposable element in eukaryotes, suggesting that eukaryotic transposable elements might play a role analogous to bacteria in the horizontal transfer of large regions of host-beneficial DNA. Genes within HEPHAESTUS responsible for individual metal tolerances include those encoding a P-type ATPase transporter-PcaA-required for cadmium and lead tolerance, a transporter-ZrcA-providing tolerance to zinc, and a multicopper oxidase-McoA-conferring tolerance to copper. In addition, a subregion of Hφ confers tolerance to arsenate. The genome sequences of other fungi in the Eurotiales contain further examples of HEPHAESTUS, suggesting that it is responsible for independently assembling tolerance to a diverse array of ions, including chromium, mercury, and sodium.
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28
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Zn2+ and Cu2+ Binding to the Extramembrane Loop of Zrt2, a Zinc Transporter of Candida albicans. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12010121. [PMID: 35053269 PMCID: PMC8773511 DOI: 10.3390/biom12010121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Zrt2 is a zinc transporter of the ZIP family. It is predicted to be located in the plasma membrane and it is essential for Candida albicans zinc uptake and growth at acidic pH. Zrt2 from C. albicans is composed of 370 amino acids and contains eight putative transmembrane domains and an extra-membrane disordered loop, corresponding to the amino acid sequence 126–215. This protein region contains at least three possible metal binding motifs: HxHxHxxD (144–153), HxxHxxEHxD (181–193) and the Glu- and Asp- rich sequence DDEEEDxE (161–168). The corresponding model peptides, protected at their termini (Ac-GPHTHSHFGD-NH2, Ac-DDEEEDLE-NH2 and Ac-PSHFAHAQEHQDP-NH2), have been investigated in order to elucidate the thermodynamic and coordination properties of their Zn2+ and Cu2+ complexes, with the further aim to identify the most effective metal binding site among the three fragments. Furthermore, we extended the investigation to the peptides Ac-GPHTHAHFGD-NH2 and Ac-PAHFAHAQEHQDP-NH2, where serine residues have been substituted by alanines in order to check if the presence of a serine residue may favor the displacement of amidic protons by Cu2+. In the native Zrt2 protein, the Ac-GPHTHSHFGD-NH2 region of the Zrt2 loop has the highest metal binding affinity, showing that three alternated histidines separated by only one residue (-HxHxH-) bind Zn2+ and Cu2+ more strongly than the region in which three histidines are separated by two and three His residues (-HxxHxxxH- in Ac-PSHFAHAQEHQDP-NH2). All studied Zrt2 loop fragments have lower affinity towards Zn2+ than the zinc(II) binding site on the Zrt1 transporter; also, all three Zrt2 regions bind Zn2+ and Cu2+ with comparable affinity below pH 5 and, therefore, may equally contribute to the metal acquisition under the most acidic conditions in which the Zrt2 transporter is expressed.
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29
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Ball B, Woroszchuk E, Sukumaran A, West H, Afaq A, Carruthers-Lay D, Muselius B, Gee L, Langille M, Pladwig S, Kazi S, Hendriks A, Geddes-McAlister J. Proteome and secretome profiling of zinc availability in Cryptococcus neoformans identifies Wos2 as a subtle influencer of fungal virulence determinants. BMC Microbiol 2021; 21:341. [PMID: 34903172 PMCID: PMC8667453 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-021-02410-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fungal infections impact over 25% of the global population. For the opportunistic fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans, infection leads to cryptococcosis. In the presence of the host, disease is enabled by elaboration of sophisticated virulence determinants, including polysaccharide capsule, melanin, thermotolerance, and extracellular enzymes. Conversely, the host protects itself from fungal invasion by regulating and sequestering transition metals (e.g., iron, zinc, copper) important for microbial growth and survival. RESULTS Here, we explore the intricate relationship between zinc availability and fungal virulence via mass spectrometry-based quantitative proteomics. We observe a core proteome along with a distinct zinc-regulated protein-level signature demonstrating a shift away from transport and ion binding under zinc-replete conditions towards transcription and metal acquisition under zinc-limited conditions. In addition, we revealed a novel connection among zinc availability, thermotolerance, as well as capsule and melanin production through the detection of a Wos2 ortholog in the secretome under replete conditions. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we provide new biological insight into cellular remodeling at the protein level of C. neoformans under regulated zinc conditions and uncover a novel connection between zinc homeostasis and fungal virulence determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Ball
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - E Woroszchuk
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - A Sukumaran
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - H West
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - A Afaq
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - D Carruthers-Lay
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - B Muselius
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - L Gee
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - M Langille
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - S Pladwig
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - S Kazi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - A Hendriks
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - J Geddes-McAlister
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada.
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30
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Wilson D. The role of zinc in the pathogenicity of human fungal pathogens. ADVANCES IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2021; 117:35-61. [PMID: 34742366 DOI: 10.1016/bs.aambs.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Fungal pathogens now account for an unprecedented burden on human health. Like all microorganisms, these fungi must successfully forage for essential micronutrients such as zinc in order to proliferate. However, pathogenic microbes face an additional hurdle in securing zinc from their environment: the action of host nutritional immunity which strictly manipulates microbial access to this essential, but also potentially toxic trace metal. This review introduces the relevant pathogenic species and goes on to cover the molecular mechanisms of zinc uptake by human fungal pathogens. Fungi scavenge zinc from their environment via two basic mechanisms: via a family of cellular zinc importers-the ZIP transporters; and via a unique secreted zinc binding protein-the zincophore. However the genetic requirement of these systems for fungal virulence is highly species-specific. As well as zinc scarcity, potential intoxification with this heavy metal can occur and, unlike bacteria, fungi deal with environmental insult this via intraorganellar compartmentalization. Zinc availability also modulates the morphogenic behavior of a subset of pathogenic yeast species. This chapter will cover these different aspects of zinc availability on the physiology of human fungal pathogens with emphasis on the major pathogenic species Candida albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom.
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Alamir OF, Oladele RO, Ibe C. Nutritional immunity: targeting fungal zinc homeostasis. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07805. [PMID: 34466697 PMCID: PMC8384899 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Transition metals, such as Zn2+, are essential dietary constituents of all biological life, including mammalian hosts and the pathogens that infect them. Therefore, to thrive and cause infection, pathogens must successfully assimilate these elements from the host milieu. Consequently, mammalian immunity has evolved to actively restrict and/or pool metals to toxic concentrations in an effort to attenuate microbial pathogenicity - a process termed nutritional immunity. Despite host-induced Zn2+ nutritional immunity, pathogens such as Candida albicans, are still capable of causing disease and thus must be equipped with robust Zn2+ sensory, uptake and detoxification machinery. This review will discuss the strategies employed by mammalian hosts to limit Zn2+ during infection, and the subsequent fungal interventions that counteract Zn2+ nutritional immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omran F Alamir
- Department of Natural Sciences, College of Health Sciences, The Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, Al Asimah, Kuwait
| | - Rita O Oladele
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - C Ibe
- Department of Microbiology, Abia State University, PMB 2000, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria
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Wei R, Li X, Wang X, Zhang N, Wang Y, Zhang X, Gong P, Li J. Trypanosoma evansi evades host innate immunity by releasing extracellular vesicles to activate TLR2-AKT signaling pathway. Virulence 2021; 12:2017-2036. [PMID: 34348595 PMCID: PMC8344757 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.1959495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Surra, one of the most important animal diseases with economic consequences in Asia and South America, is caused by Trypanosoma evansi. However, the mechanism of immune evasion by T. evansi has not been extensively studied. In the present study, T. evansi extracellular vesicles (TeEVs) were characterized and the role of TeEVs in T. evansi infection were examined. The results showed that T. evansi and TeEVs could activate TLR2-AKT pathway to inhibit the secretions of IL-12p40, IL-6, and TNF-α in mouse BMDMs. TLR2−/- mice and mice with a blocked AKT pathway were more resistant to T. evansi infection than wild type (WT) mice, with a significantly lower infection rate, longer survival time and less parasite load, as well as an increased secretion level of IL-12p40 and IFN-γ. Kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 (KMP-11) of TeEVs could activate AKT pathway and inhibit the productions of IL-12p40, TNF-α, and IL-6 in vitro. TeEVs and KMP-11 could inhibit the productions of IL-12p40 and IFN-γ, promote T. evansi proliferation and shorten the survival time of infected mice in vivo. In conclusion, T. evansi could escape host immune response through inhibiting the productions of inflammatory cytokines via secreting TeEVs to activate TLR2-AKT pathway. KMP-11 in TeEVs was involved in promoting T. evansi infection. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by Trypanosoma evansi (T. evansi) activate the TLR2-AKT signaling pathway to inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines, thereby escaping the host’s immune response. Kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 (KMP-11) in EVs is related to the promotion of T.evansi infection via AKT pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Wei
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaocen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuru Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xichen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Pengtao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianhua Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education; College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Johns LE, Goldman GH, Ries LN, Brown NA. Nutrient sensing and acquisition in fungi: mechanisms promoting pathogenesis in plant and human hosts. FUNGAL BIOL REV 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbr.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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34
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d'Enfert C, Kaune AK, Alaban LR, Chakraborty S, Cole N, Delavy M, Kosmala D, Marsaux B, Fróis-Martins R, Morelli M, Rosati D, Valentine M, Xie Z, Emritloll Y, Warn PA, Bequet F, Bougnoux ME, Bornes S, Gresnigt MS, Hube B, Jacobsen ID, Legrand M, Leibundgut-Landmann S, Manichanh C, Munro CA, Netea MG, Queiroz K, Roget K, Thomas V, Thoral C, Van den Abbeele P, Walker AW, Brown AJP. The impact of the Fungus-Host-Microbiota interplay upon Candida albicans infections: current knowledge and new perspectives. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2021; 45:fuaa060. [PMID: 33232448 PMCID: PMC8100220 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuaa060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a major fungal pathogen of humans. It exists as a commensal in the oral cavity, gut or genital tract of most individuals, constrained by the local microbiota, epithelial barriers and immune defences. Their perturbation can lead to fungal outgrowth and the development of mucosal infections such as oropharyngeal or vulvovaginal candidiasis, and patients with compromised immunity are susceptible to life-threatening systemic infections. The importance of the interplay between fungus, host and microbiota in driving the transition from C. albicans commensalism to pathogenicity is widely appreciated. However, the complexity of these interactions, and the significant impact of fungal, host and microbiota variability upon disease severity and outcome, are less well understood. Therefore, we summarise the features of the fungus that promote infection, and how genetic variation between clinical isolates influences pathogenicity. We discuss antifungal immunity, how this differs between mucosae, and how individual variation influences a person's susceptibility to infection. Also, we describe factors that influence the composition of gut, oral and vaginal microbiotas, and how these affect fungal colonisation and antifungal immunity. We argue that a detailed understanding of these variables, which underlie fungal-host-microbiota interactions, will present opportunities for directed antifungal therapies that benefit vulnerable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe d'Enfert
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Ann-Kristin Kaune
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Ashgrove Road West, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Leovigildo-Rey Alaban
- BIOASTER Microbiology Technology Institute, 40 avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
- Université de Paris, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Sayoni Chakraborty
- Microbial Immunology Research Group, Emmy Noether Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, and the Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Neugasse 25, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Nathaniel Cole
- Gut Microbiology Group, Rowett Institute, University of Aberdeen, Ashgrove Road West, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Margot Delavy
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
- Université de Paris, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Daria Kosmala
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
- Université de Paris, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Benoît Marsaux
- ProDigest BV, Technologiepark 94, B-9052 Gent, Belgium
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET), Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ricardo Fróis-Martins
- Immunology Section, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, Zürich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Moran Morelli
- Mimetas, Biopartner Building 2, J.H. Oortweg 19, 2333 CH Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Diletta Rosati
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marisa Valentine
- Microbial Immunology Research Group, Emmy Noether Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, and the Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Zixuan Xie
- Gut Microbiome Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119–129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yoan Emritloll
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Peter A Warn
- Magic Bullet Consulting, Biddlecombe House, Ugbrook, Chudleigh Devon, TQ130AD, UK
| | - Frédéric Bequet
- BIOASTER Microbiology Technology Institute, 40 avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
| | - Marie-Elisabeth Bougnoux
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Stephanie Bornes
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMRF0545, 20 Côte de Reyne, 15000 Aurillac, France
| | - Mark S Gresnigt
- Microbial Immunology Research Group, Emmy Noether Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, and the Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Microbial Immunology Research Group, Emmy Noether Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, and the Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Ilse D Jacobsen
- Microbial Immunology Research Group, Emmy Noether Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, and the Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Mélanie Legrand
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Salomé Leibundgut-Landmann
- Immunology Section, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, Zürich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Chaysavanh Manichanh
- Gut Microbiome Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119–129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carol A Munro
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Ashgrove Road West, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Karla Queiroz
- Mimetas, Biopartner Building 2, J.H. Oortweg 19, 2333 CH Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Karine Roget
- NEXBIOME Therapeutics, 22 allée Alan Turing, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Vincent Thomas
- BIOASTER Microbiology Technology Institute, 40 avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
| | - Claudia Thoral
- NEXBIOME Therapeutics, 22 allée Alan Turing, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Alan W Walker
- Gut Microbiology Group, Rowett Institute, University of Aberdeen, Ashgrove Road West, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Alistair J P Brown
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, Department of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
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Cation Transporters of Candida albicans-New Targets to Fight Candidiasis? Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11040584. [PMID: 33923411 PMCID: PMC8073359 DOI: 10.3390/biom11040584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Candidiasis is the wide-spread fungal infection caused by numerous strains of yeast, with the prevalence of Candida albicans. The current treatment of candidiasis is becoming rather ineffective and costly owing to the emergence of resistant strains; hence, the exploration of new possible drug targets is necessary. The most promising route is the development of novel antibiotics targeting this pathogen. In this review, we summarize such candidates found in C. albicans and those involved in the transport of (metal) cations, as the latter are essential for numerous processes within the cell; hence, disruption of their fluxes can be fatal for C. albicans.
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Hunsaker EW, Yu CHA, Franz KJ. Copper Availability Influences the Transcriptomic Response of Candida albicans to Fluconazole Stress. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2021; 11:6162163. [PMID: 33693623 PMCID: PMC8049437 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkab065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The ability of pathogens to maintain homeostatic levels of essential biometals is known to be important for survival and virulence in a host, which itself regulates metal availability as part of its response to infection. Given this importance of metal homeostasis, we sought to address how the availability of copper in particular impacts the response of the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans to treatment with the antifungal drug fluconazole. The present study reports whole transcriptome analysis via time-course RNA-seq of C. albicans cells exposed to fluconazole with and without 10 µM supplemental CuSO4 added to the growth medium. The results show widespread impacts of small changes in Cu availability on the transcriptional response of C. albicans to fluconazole. Of the 2359 genes that were differentially expressed under conditions of cotreatment, 50% were found to be driven uniquely by exposure to both Cu and fluconazole. The breadth of metabolic processes that were affected by cotreatment illuminates a fundamental intersectionality between Cu metabolism and fungal response to drug stress. More generally, these results show that seemingly minor fluctuations in Cu availability are sufficient to shift cells’ transcriptional response to drug stress. Ultimately, the findings may inform the development of new strategies that capitalize on drug-induced vulnerabilities in metal homeostasis pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth W Hunsaker
- Department of Chemistry, French Family Science Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | | | - Katherine J Franz
- Department of Chemistry, French Family Science Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
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Robinson JR, Isikhuemhen OS, Anike FN. Fungal-Metal Interactions: A Review of Toxicity and Homeostasis. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:225. [PMID: 33803838 PMCID: PMC8003315 DOI: 10.3390/jof7030225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metal nanoparticles used as antifungals have increased the occurrence of fungal-metal interactions. However, there is a lack of knowledge about how these interactions cause genomic and physiological changes, which can produce fungal superbugs. Despite interest in these interactions, there is limited understanding of resistance mechanisms in most fungi studied until now. We highlight the current knowledge of fungal homeostasis of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, and silver to comprehensively examine associated mechanisms of resistance. Such mechanisms have been widely studied in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, but limited reports exist in filamentous fungi, though they are frequently the subject of nanoparticle biosynthesis and targets of antifungal metals. In most cases, microarray analyses uncovered resistance mechanisms as a response to metal exposure. In yeast, metal resistance is mainly due to the down-regulation of metal ion importers, utilization of metallothionein and metallothionein-like structures, and ion sequestration to the vacuole. In contrast, metal resistance in filamentous fungi heavily relies upon cellular ion export. However, there are instances of resistance that utilized vacuole sequestration, ion metallothionein, and chelator binding, deleting a metal ion importer, and ion storage in hyphal cell walls. In general, resistance to zinc, copper, iron, and manganese is extensively reported in yeast and partially known in filamentous fungi; and silver resistance lacks comprehensive understanding in both.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Omoanghe S. Isikhuemhen
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Design, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, 1601 East Market Street, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA; (J.R.R.); (F.N.A.)
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Valand N, Girija UV. Candida Pathogenicity and Interplay with the Immune System. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1313:241-272. [PMID: 34661898 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-67452-6_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Candida species are opportunistic fungal pathogens that are part of the normal skin and mucosal microflora. Overgrowth of Candida can cause infections such as thrush or life-threatening invasive candidiasis in immunocompromised patients. Though Candida albicans is highly prevalent, several non-albicans species are also isolated from nosocomial infections. Candida sp. are over presented in the gut of people with Crohn's disease and certain types of neurological disorders, with hyphal form and biofilms being the most virulent states. In addition, Candida uses several secreted and cell surface molecules such as pH related antigen 1, High affinity glucose transporter, Phosphoglycerate mutase 1 and lipases to establish pathogenicity. A strong innate immune response is elicited against Candida via dendritic cells, neutrophils and macrophages. All three complement pathways are also activated. Production of proinflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-12 signal differentiation of CD4+ cells into Th1 and Th2 cells, whereas IL-6, IL-17 and IL-23 induce Th17 cells. Importance of T-lymphocytes is reflected in depleted T-cell count patients being more prone to Candidiasis. Anti- Candida antibodies also play a role against candidiasis using various mechanisms such as targeting virulent enzymes and exhibiting direct candidacidal activity. However, the significance of antibody response during infection remains controversial. Furthermore, some of the Candida strains have evolved molecular strategies to evade the sophisticated host attack by proteolysis of components of immune system and interfering with immune signalling pathways. Emergence of several non-albicans species that are resistant to current antifungal agents makes treatment more difficult. Therefore, deeper insight into interactions between Candida and the host immune system is required for discovery of novel therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Valand
- Leicester School of Allied Health and Life sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
| | - Umakhanth Venkatraman Girija
- Leicester School of Allied Health and Life sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK.
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Assunção LDP, Moraes D, Soares LW, Silva-Bailão MG, de Siqueira JG, Baeza LC, Báo SN, Soares CMDA, Bailão AM. Insights Into Histoplasma capsulatum Behavior on Zinc Deprivation. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:573097. [PMID: 33330123 PMCID: PMC7734293 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.573097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum is a thermodimorphic fungus that causes histoplasmosis, a mycosis of global incidence. The disease is prevalent in temperate and tropical regions such as North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. It is known that during infection macrophages restrict Zn availability to H. capsulatum as a microbicidal mechanism. In this way the present work aimed to study the response of H. capsulatum to zinc deprivation. In silico analyses showed that H. capsulatum has eight genes related to zinc homeostasis ranging from transcription factors to CDF and ZIP family transporters. The transcriptional levels of ZAP1, ZRT1, and ZRT2 were induced under zinc-limiting conditions. The decrease in Zn availability increases fungicidal macrophage activity. Proteomics analysis during zinc deprivation at 24 and 48 h showed 265 proteins differentially expressed at 24 h and 68 at 48 h. Proteins related to energy production pathways, oxidative stress, and cell wall remodeling were regulated. The data also suggested that low metal availability increases the chitin and glycan content in fungal cell wall that results in smoother cell surface. Metal restriction also induces oxidative stress triggered, at least in part, by reduction in pyridoxin synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro do Prado Assunção
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goias (UFG), Goiania, Brazil
| | - Dayane Moraes
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goias (UFG), Goiania, Brazil
| | - Lucas Weba Soares
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goias (UFG), Goiania, Brazil
| | - Mirelle Garcia Silva-Bailão
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goias (UFG), Goiania, Brazil
| | - Janaina Gomes de Siqueira
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goias (UFG), Goiania, Brazil
| | - Lilian Cristiane Baeza
- Laboratory of Experimental Microbiology, State University of Western Paraná (Unioeste), Cascavel, Brazil
| | - Sônia Nair Báo
- Microscopy and Microanalysis Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Brasília University (UnB), Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goias (UFG), Goiania, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Melo Bailão
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goias (UFG), Goiania, Brazil
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Soares LW, Bailão AM, Soares CMDA, Bailão MGS. Zinc at the Host-Fungus Interface: How to Uptake the Metal? J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6040305. [PMID: 33233335 PMCID: PMC7711662 DOI: 10.3390/jof6040305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc is an essential nutrient for all living organisms. However, firm regulation must be maintained since micronutrients also can be toxic in high concentrations. This notion is reinforced when we look at mechanisms deployed by our immune system, such as the use of chelators or membrane transporters that capture zinc, when threatened with pathogens, like fungi. Pathogenic fungi, on the other hand, also make use of a variety of transporters and specialized zinc captors to survive these changes. In this review, we sought to explain the mechanisms, grounded in experimental analysis and described to date, utilized by pathogenic fungi to maintain optimal zinc levels.
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41
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Hunsaker EW, Franz KJ. Candida albicans reprioritizes metal handling during fluconazole stress. Metallomics 2020; 11:2020-2032. [PMID: 31709426 DOI: 10.1039/c9mt00228f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Maintenance of metal homeostasis is critical to cell survival due to the multitude of cellular processes that depend on one or more metal cofactors. Here, we show that the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans extensively remodels its metal homeostasis networks to respond to treatment with the antifungal drug fluconazole. Disruption of the ergosterol biosynthetic pathway by fluconazole requires C. albicans adaptation, including increased Cu import and storage, increased retention of Fe, Mn, and Zn, altered utilization of Cu- and Mn-dependent enzymes, mobilization of Fe stores, and increased production of the heme prosthetic group utilized by the enzyme target of fluconazole. The findings offer a new perspective for thinking about fungal response to drug stress that pushes cells out of their metal homeostatic zones, leading them to enact metal-associated adaptation mechanisms to restore homeostasis to survive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth W Hunsaker
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, French Family Science Center, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA.
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42
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Riedelberger M, Penninger P, Tscherner M, Hadriga B, Brunnhofer C, Jenull S, Stoiber A, Bourgeois C, Petryshyn A, Glaser W, Limbeck A, Lynes MA, Schabbauer G, Weiss G, Kuchler K. Type I Interferons Ameliorate Zinc Intoxication of Candida glabrata by Macrophages and Promote Fungal Immune Evasion. iScience 2020; 23:101121. [PMID: 32428860 PMCID: PMC7232100 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Host and fungal pathogens compete for metal ion acquisition during infectious processes, but molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we show that type I interferons (IFNs-I) dysregulate zinc homeostasis in macrophages, which employ metallothionein-mediated zinc intoxication of pathogens as fungicidal response. However, Candida glabrata can escape immune surveillance by sequestering zinc into vacuoles. Interestingly, zinc-loading is inhibited by IFNs-I, because a Janus kinase 1 (JAK1)-dependent suppression of zinc homeostasis affects zinc distribution in macrophages as well as generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addition, systemic fungal infections elicit IFN-I responses that suppress splenic zinc homeostasis, thereby altering macrophage zinc pools that otherwise exert fungicidal actions. Thus, IFN-I signaling inadvertently increases fungal fitness both in vitro and in vivo during fungal infections. Our data reveal an as yet unrecognized role for zinc intoxication in antifungal immunity and suggest that interfering with host zinc homeostasis may offer therapeutic options to treat invasive fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Riedelberger
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp Penninger
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Tscherner
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernhard Hadriga
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Carina Brunnhofer
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sabrina Jenull
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anton Stoiber
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christelle Bourgeois
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andriy Petryshyn
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Walter Glaser
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Limbeck
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael A Lynes
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, CT, USA
| | - Gernot Schabbauer
- Institute for Vascular Biology and Thrombosis Research, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Arginine Metabolism in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Multiple Sclerosis, Vienna, Austria
| | - Guenter Weiss
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Infectious Diseases, Immunology, Rheumatology, and Pneumology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Karl Kuchler
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria.
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43
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Wehmeier S, Morrison E, Plato A, Raab A, Feldmann J, Bedekovic T, Wilson D, Brand AC. Multi trace element profiling in pathogenic and non-pathogenic fungi. Fungal Biol 2020; 124:516-524. [PMID: 32389315 PMCID: PMC7232024 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2020.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Maintaining appropriate levels of trace elements during infection of a host is essential for microbial pathogenicity. Here we compared the uptake of 10 trace elements from 3 commonly-used laboratory media by 3 pathogens, Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans and Aspergillus fumigatus, and a model yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The trace element composition of the yeasts, C. albicans, C. neoformans and S. cerevisiae, grown in rich (YPD) medium, differed primarily in P, S, Fe, Zn and Co. Speciation analysis of the intracellular fraction, which indicates the size of the organic ligands with which trace elements are complexed, showed that the ligands for S were similar in the three fungi but there were significant differences in binding partners for Fe and Zn between C. neoformans and S.cerevisiae. The profile for Cu varied across the 3 yeast species. In a comparison of C. albicans and A. fumigatus hyphae, the former showed higher Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn, while A. fumigatus contained higher P, S Ca and Mo. Washing C. albicans cells with the cell-impermeable chelator, EGTA, depleted 50–90 % of cellular Ca, suggesting that a large proportion of this cation is stored in the cell wall. Treatment with the cell wall stressor, Calcofluor White (CFW), alone had little effect on the elemental profile whilst combined Ca + CFW stress resulted in high cellular Cu and very high Ca. Together our data enhance our understanding of trace element uptake by pathogenic fungi and provide evidence for the cell wall as an important storage organelle for Ca.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Wehmeier
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Emma Morrison
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Anthony Plato
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Andrea Raab
- TESLA, School of Natural and Computing Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Meston Walk, Aberdeen AB24 3UE, UK
| | - Jörg Feldmann
- TESLA, School of Natural and Computing Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Meston Walk, Aberdeen AB24 3UE, UK
| | - Tina Bedekovic
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK; Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Alexandra C Brand
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK; Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK.
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44
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Eide DJ. Transcription factors and transporters in zinc homeostasis: lessons learned from fungi. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 55:88-110. [PMID: 32192376 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2020.1742092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Zinc is an essential nutrient for all organisms because this metal serves as a critical structural or catalytic cofactor for many proteins. These zinc-dependent proteins are abundant in the cytosol as well as within organelles of eukaryotic cells such as the nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi, and storage compartments such as the fungal vacuole. Therefore, cells need zinc transporters so that they can efficiently take up the metal and move it around within cells. In addition, because zinc levels in the environment can vary drastically, the activity of many of these transporters and other components of zinc homeostasis is regulated at the level of transcription by zinc-responsive transcription factors. Mechanisms of post-transcriptional control are also important for zinc homeostasis. In this review, the focus will be on our current knowledge of zinc transporters and their regulation by zinc-responsive transcription factors and other mechanisms in fungi because these organisms have served as useful paradigms of zinc homeostasis in all organisms. With this foundation, extension to other organisms will be made where warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Eide
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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45
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Bird AJ, Wilson S. Zinc homeostasis in the secretory pathway in yeast. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2020; 55:145-150. [PMID: 32114317 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2020.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
It is estimated that up to 10% of proteins in eukaryotes require zinc for their function. Although the majority of these proteins are located in the nucleus and cytosol, a small subset is secreted from cells or is located within an intracellular compartment. As many of these compartmentalized metalloproteins fold to their native state and bind their zinc cofactor inside an organelle, cells require mechanisms to maintain supply of zinc to these compartments even under conditions of zinc deficiency. At the same time, intracellular compartments can also be the site for storing zinc ions, which then can be mobilized when needed. In this review, we highlight insight that has been obtained from yeast models about how zinc homeostasis is maintained in the secretory pathway and vacuole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Bird
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA; Department of Human Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA; Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Stevin Wilson
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
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46
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Veerapandian R, Vediyappan G. Gymnemic Acids Inhibit Adhesive Nanofibrillar Mediated Streptococcus gordonii-Candida albicans Mono-Species and Dual-Species Biofilms. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2328. [PMID: 31681200 PMCID: PMC6797559 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Dental caries and periodontitis are the most common oral disease of all age groups, affecting billions of people worldwide. These oral diseases are mostly associated with microbial biofilms in the oral cavity. Streptococcus gordonii, an early tooth colonizing bacterium and Candida albicans, an opportunistic pathogenic fungus, are the two abundant oral microbes that form mixed biofilms with augmented virulence, affecting oral health negatively. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of the pathogen interactions and identifying non-toxic compounds that block the growth of biofilms are important steps in the development of effective therapeutic approaches. In this in vitro study we report the inhibition of mono-species or dual-species biofilms of S. gordonii and C. albicans, and decreased levels of biofilm extracellular DNA (eDNA), when biofilms were grown in the presence of gymnemic acids (GAs), a non-toxic small molecule inhibitor of fungal hyphae. Scanning electron microscopic images of biofilms on saliva-coated hydroxyapatite (sHA) surfaces revealed attachment of S. gordonii cells to C. albicans hyphae and to sHA surfaces via nanofibrils only in the untreated control, but not in the GAs-treated biofilms. Interestingly, C. albicans produced fibrillar adhesive structures from hyphae when grown with S. gordonii as a mixed biofilm; addition of GAs abrogated the nanofibrils and reduced the growth of both hyphae and the biofilm. To our knowledge, this is the first report that C. albicans produces adhesive fibrils from hyphae in response to S. gordonii mixed biofilm growth. Semi-quantitative PCR of selected genes related to biofilms from both microbes showed differential expression in control vs. treated biofilms. Further, GAs inhibited the activity of recombinant S. gordonii glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH). Taken together, our results suggest that S. gordonii stimulates the expression of adhesive materials in C. albicans by direct interaction and/or signaling, and the adhesive material expression can be inhibited by GAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raja Veerapandian
- Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
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47
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Cabot C, Martos S, Llugany M, Gallego B, Tolrà R, Poschenrieder C. A Role for Zinc in Plant Defense Against Pathogens and Herbivores. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2019; 10:1171. [PMID: 31649687 PMCID: PMC6794951 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2019.01171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Pests and diseases pose a threat to food security, which is nowadays aggravated by climate change and globalization. In this context, agricultural policies demand innovative approaches to more effectively manage resources and overcome the ecological issues raised by intensive farming. Optimization of plant mineral nutrition is a sustainable approach to ameliorate crop health and yield. Zinc is a micronutrient essential for all living organisms with a key role in growth, development, and defense. Competition for Zn affects the outcome of the host-attacker interaction in both plant and animal systems. In this review, we provide a clear framework of the different strategies involving low and high Zn concentrations launched by plants to fight their enemies. After briefly introducing the most relevant macro- and micronutrients for plant defense, the functions of Zn in plant protection are summarized with special emphasis on superoxide dismutases (SODs) and zinc finger proteins. Following, we cover recent meaningful studies identifying Zn-related passive and active mechanisms for plant protection. Finally, Zn-based strategies evolved by pathogens and pests to counteract plant defenses are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Cabot
- Departament of Biology, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Palma, Spain
| | - Soledad Martos
- Plant Physiology Laboratory, Bioscience Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Llugany
- Plant Physiology Laboratory, Bioscience Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Berta Gallego
- Plant Physiology Laboratory, Bioscience Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Tolrà
- Plant Physiology Laboratory, Bioscience Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Charlotte Poschenrieder
- Plant Physiology Laboratory, Bioscience Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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48
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Simm C, May RC. Zinc and Iron Homeostasis: Target-Based Drug Screening as New Route for Antifungal Drug Development. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2019; 9:181. [PMID: 31192169 PMCID: PMC6548825 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2019.00181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of fungal diseases is on the rise and the number of fatalities is still unacceptably high. While advances into antifungal drug development have been made there remains an urgent need to develop novel antifungal agents targeting as-yet unexploited pathways, such as metal ion homeostasis. Here we report such an approach by developing a metal sensor screen in the opportunistic human fungal pathogen Candida albicans. Using this reporter strain, we screened a library of 1,200 compounds and discovered several active compounds not previously described as chemical entities with antifungal properties. Two of these, artemisinin and pyrvinium pamoate, have been further characterized and their interference with metal homeostasis and potential as novel antifungal compounds validated. Lastly, we demonstrate that the same strain can be used to report on intracellular conditions within host phagocytes, paving the way toward the development of novel screening platforms that could identify compounds with the potential to perturb ion homeostasis of the pathogen specifically within host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Simm
- School of Biosciences, Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Robin C May
- School of Biosciences, Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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49
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Wilson D, Deepe GS. The intersection of host and fungus through the zinc lens. Curr Opin Microbiol 2019; 52:35-40. [PMID: 31132743 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2019.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we summarize data regarding the influence of zinc on host defenses to human pathogenic fungi and how the fungus acquires zinc to sustain biological functions. Mammals have evolved several extracellular and intracellular mechanisms to withhold zinc from the fungus. Specific immune cells release zinc binding proteins such as calprotectin to capture the metal and deny it to the fungus. Intracellularly, several zinc binding proteins such as metallothioneins starve the fungus of zinc. The net result in both situations is depriving the fungus of a crucial micronutrient. To combat this struggle, fungi have developed means to capture zinc and store it. The mechanisms of transport for various fungi are discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - George S Deepe
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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50
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Candida albicans Interactions with Mucosal Surfaces during Health and Disease. Pathogens 2019; 8:pathogens8020053. [PMID: 31013590 PMCID: PMC6631630 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8020053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Flexible adaptation to the host environment is a critical trait that underpins the success of numerous microbes. The polymorphic fungus Candida albicans has evolved to persist in the numerous challenging niches of the human body. The interaction of C. albicans with a mucosal surface is an essential prerequisite for fungal colonisation and epitomises the complex interface between microbe and host. C. albicans exhibits numerous adaptations to a healthy host that permit commensal colonisation of mucosal surfaces without provoking an overt immune response that may lead to clearance. Conversely, fungal adaptation to impaired immune fitness at mucosal surfaces enables pathogenic infiltration into underlying tissues, often with devastating consequences. This review will summarise our current understanding of the complex interactions that occur between C. albicans and the mucosal surfaces of the human body.
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