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Butassi E, Blanc AR, Svetaz LA. Phytolacca tetramera berries extracts and its main constituents as potentiators of antifungal drugs against Candida spp. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 130:155569. [PMID: 38795695 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive antifungal drug use has enhanced fungal resistance, resulting in persistent mycoses. Combining antifungal plant extracts/compounds with these drugs offers good alternatives to increase the activity of both partners, minimize side effects, and overcome drug resistance. In our previous study, Phytolacca tetramera berries extracts demonstrated activity against Candida spp., correlating with the amount of the main constituent phytolaccoside B and its genin, phytolaccagenin. The extracts and phytolaccagenin altered the fungal plasma membrane by binding to ergosterol, whereas phytolaccoside B increased chitin synthase activity. However, the presence of triterpenoid saponins in Phytolacca spp. has been linked to acute toxicity in humans. PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate combinations of P. tetramera berries extracts, phytolaccoside B and phytolaccagenin, together with commercial antifungals [amphotericin B, fluconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, and caspofungin] against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata, to find synergistic effects with multi-target actions, in which the doses of both partners are reduced, and therefore their toxicity. Additionally, we intended to explore their anti-virulence capacity, thereby hindering the development of drug-resistant strains. METHODS The effects of these combinations were evaluated using both the checkerboard and isobologram methods. Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index and Dose Reduction Index were calculated to interpret the combination results. To confirm the multi-target effect, studies on mechanisms of action of synergistic mixtures were performed using ergosterol-binding and quantification assays. The ability to inhibit Candida virulence factors, including biofilm formation and eradication from inert surfaces, was also evaluated. Quantification of active markers was performed using a validated UHPLC-ESI-MS method. RESULTS Eight synergistic combinations of P. tetramera extracts or phytolaccagenin (but not phytolaccoside B) with itraconazole or posaconazole were obtained against C. albicans, including a resistant strain. These mixtures acted by binding to ergosterol, decreasing its whole content, and inhibiting Candida biofilm formation in 96-well microplates and feeding tubes in vitro, but were unable to eradicate preformed biofilms. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the synergistic and anti-virulence effects of P. tetramera berries extracts and phytolaccagenin with antifungal drugs against Candida spp., providing novel treatment avenues for fungal infections with reduced doses of both natural products and commercial antifungals, thereby mitigating potential human toxicity concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Butassi
- Área Farmacognosia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario 2000, Argentina
| | - Alan Roy Blanc
- Área Farmacognosia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario 2000, Argentina
| | - Laura Andrea Svetaz
- Área Farmacognosia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario 2000, Argentina.
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Stoia D, De Sio L, Petronella F, Focsan M. Recent advances towards point-of-care devices for fungal detection: Emphasizing the role of plasmonic nanomaterials in current and future technologies. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 255:116243. [PMID: 38547645 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2024.116243] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Fungal infections are a significant global health problem, particularly affecting individuals with weakened immune systems. Moreover, as uncontrolled antibiotic and immunosuppressant use increases continuously, fungal infections have seen a dramatic increase, with some strains developing antibiotic resistance. Traditional approaches to identifying fungal strains often rely on morphological characteristics, thus owning limitations, such as struggles in identifying several strains or distinguishing between fungal strains with similar morphologies. This review explores the multifaceted impact of fungi infections on individuals, healthcare providers, and society, highlighting the often-underestimated economic burden and healthcare implications of these infections. In light of the serious constraints of traditional fungal identification methods, this review discusses the potential of plasmonic nanoparticle-based biosensors for fungal infection identification. These biosensors can enable rapid and precise fungal pathogen detection by exploiting several readout approaches, including various spectroscopic techniques, colorimetric and electrochemical assays, as well as lateral-flow immunoassay methods. Moreover, we report the remarkable impact of plasmonic Lab on a Chip technology and microfluidic devices, as they recently emerged as a class of advanced biosensors. Finally, we provide an overview of smartphone-based Point-of-Care devices and the associated technologies developed for detecting and identifying fungal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Stoia
- Biomolecular Physics Department, Faculty of Physics, Babes-Bolyai University, 1 M. Kogalniceanu Street, 400084, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Nanobiophotonics and Laser Microspectroscopy Centre, Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, 42 Treboniu Laurian Street, 400271, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Luciano De Sio
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Corso della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
| | - Francesca Petronella
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Crystallography CNR-IC, Area della Ricerca Roma 1 Strada Provinciale 35d, n. 9, 00010, Montelibretti (RM), Italy.
| | - Monica Focsan
- Biomolecular Physics Department, Faculty of Physics, Babes-Bolyai University, 1 M. Kogalniceanu Street, 400084, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Nanobiophotonics and Laser Microspectroscopy Centre, Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, 42 Treboniu Laurian Street, 400271, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
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de Azevedo MIG, Souza PFN, Monteiro Júnior JE, Grangeiro TB. Chitosan and Chitooligosaccharides: Antifungal Potential and Structural Insights. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202400044. [PMID: 38591818 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202400044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Chitosan is a cationic polysaccharide derived from chitin deacetylation. This polysaccharide and its oligosaccharides have many biological activities and can be used in several fields due to their favorable characteristics, such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, and nontoxicity. This review aims to explore the antifungal potential of chitosan and chitooligosaccharides along with the conditions used for the activity and mechanisms of action they use to kill fungal cells. The sources, chemical properties, and applications of chitosan and chitooligosaccharides are discussed in this review. It also addresses the threat fungi pose to human health and crop production and how these saccharides have proven to be effective against these microorganisms. The cellular processes triggered by chitosan and chitooligosaccharides in fungal cells, and prospects for their use as potential antifungal agents are also examined.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pedro Filho Noronha Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
- Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, 60430-275, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Human Pathogenic Fungi, São Paulo, Brazil
- Visiting Researcher at the Cearense Foundation to Support Scientific and Technological Development, Foratelza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - José Edvar Monteiro Júnior
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Department of Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Thalles Barbosa Grangeiro
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Department of Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
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Khoury DM, Ghaoui N, El Tayar E, Dagher R, El Hawa M, Rubeiz N, Abbas O, Kurban M. Topical statins as antifungals: a review. Int J Dermatol 2024; 63:747-753. [PMID: 38344878 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.17068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Cutaneous fungal infections affect millions around the world. However, severe, multi-resistant fungal infections are increasingly being reported over the past years. As a result of the high rate of resistance which urged for drug repurposing, statins were studied and found to have multiple pleiotropic effects, especially when combined with other already-existing drugs. An example of this is the synergism found between several typical antifungals and statins, such as antifungals Imidazole and Triazole with a wide range of statins shown in this review. The main mechanisms in which they exert an antifungal effect are ergosterol inhibition, protein prenylation, mitochondrial disruption, and morphogenesis/mating inhibition. This article discusses multiple in vitro studies that have proven the antifungal effect of systemic statins against many fungal species, whether used alone or in combination with other typical antifungals. However, as a result of the high rate of drug-drug interactions and the well-known side effects of systemic statins, topical statins have become of increasing interest. Furthermore, patients with dyslipidemia treated with systemic statins who have a new topical fungal infection could benefit from the antifungal effect of their statin. However, it is still not indicated to initiate systemic statins in patients with topical mycotic infections if they do not have another indication for statin use, which raises the interest in using topical statins for fungal infections. This article also tackles the different formulations that have been studied to enhance topical statins' efficacy, as well as the effect of different topical statins on distinct dermatologic fungal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana M Khoury
- Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nohra Ghaoui
- Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Ruby Dagher
- American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mariana El Hawa
- Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nelly Rubeiz
- Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ossama Abbas
- Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mazen Kurban
- Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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Khichi A, Jakhar R, Dahiya S, Arya J, Dangi M, Chhillar AK. In silico and in vitro evaluation of designed fluconazole analogues as lanosterol 14α-demethylase inhibitors. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:4553-4566. [PMID: 37293950 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2220808] [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: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The drugs fighting against aggressive fungal infections are in limited number, therefore, extensive research is obligatory to develop new therapeutic strategies. Fluconazole (FLZ) is a clinically approved drug, but resistant drug against most fungal pathogens, thus it is vital to identify more compounds that can better check the fungal growth. Analogue-based drug designing is a quick and economical way since it has inherent drug-like properties of marketed drugs. This study aims to generate and evaluate analogues of FLZ with better potency against fungal-borne infections. A total of 3307 analogues of FLZ were developed from six scaffold structures. Only 390 compounds passed Lipinski's rule, of which 247 analogues exhibited lower docking scores than FLZ with 5FSA. These inhibitors were further subjected to pharmacokinetics property evaluation and cytotoxicity test and it was found that only 46 analogues were suitable for further evaluation. Based on the molecular docking score of the best two analogues, 6f (-12.7 kcal/mol) and 8f (-12.8 kcal/mol) were selected for molecular dynamics and in-vitro studies. Antifungal activities of both compounds against 4 strains of Candida albicans were evaluated by disc diffusion assay and micro broth dilution assay and Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for 6f and 8f were observed as 256 µg/ml against 4719, 4918 and 5480 strains but the MIC was extended to 512 µg/ml for strain 3719. Both analogues exhibited low antifungal activities as compared to FLZ (8-16 µg/ml). The interaction of 6f with Mycostatin was also performed using a chequerboard assay that was found additive.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alka Khichi
- Centre for Bioinformatics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | - Ritu Jakhar
- Centre for Bioinformatics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | - Sweety Dahiya
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | - Jasmine Arya
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | - Mehak Dangi
- Centre for Bioinformatics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
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Younes AH, Mustafa YF. Plant-Derived Coumarins: A Narrative Review of Their Structural and Biomedical Diversity. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202400344. [PMID: 38587035 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202400344] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Plant-derived coumarin (PDC) is a naturally occurring heterocyclic backbone that belongs to the benzopyrone family. PDC and its based products are characterized by low toxicity and high distribution in a variety of herbal treatments that have numerous therapeutic potentials. These include anticoagulants, antibacterials, anti-inflammatory agents, anticancer agents, antioxidants, and others. So, it may be appropriate to investigate the qualities and potential bioactivities of PDCs. This article provides an overview of the biomedical potentials, availability, and clinical use possibilities of PDCs, with a focus on their important modes of action, using information on various pharmacological qualities discovered. The data used in this study came from published research between 2015 and 2023. We reviewed a selection of databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, during that period. In conclusion, because of their abundance in medicinal plants, the clinical biochemistry attributes of PDCs are currently of interest. In a variety of medical specialties, PDCs serve a useful role as therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areej Hazem Younes
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul, Mosul, Iraq
| | - Yasser Fakri Mustafa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul, Mosul, Iraq
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Biersack B. The Antifungal Potential of Niclosamide and Structurally Related Salicylanilides. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5977. [PMID: 38892165 PMCID: PMC11172841 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Human mycoses cover a diverse field of fungal diseases from skin disorders to systemic invasive infections and pose an increasing global health problem based on ineffective treatment options, the hampered development of new efficient drugs, and the emergence of resistant fungal strains. Niclosamide is currently applied for the treatment of worm infections. Its mechanisms of action, which include the suppression of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (also known as mitochondrial uncoupling), among others, has led to a repurposing of this promising anthelmintic drug for the therapy of further human diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and microbial infections. Given the urgent need to develop new drugs against fungal infections, the considerable antifungal properties of niclosamide are highlighted in this review. Its chemical and pharmacological properties relevant for drug development are also briefly mentioned, and the described mitochondria-targeting mechanisms of action add to the current arsenal of approved antifungal drugs. In addition, the activities of further salicylanilide-based niclosamide analogs against fungal pathogens, including agents applied in veterinary medicine for many years, are described and discussed for their feasibility as new antifungals for humans. Preliminary structure-activity relationships are determined and discussed. Various salicylanilide derivatives with antifungal activities showed increased oral bioavailabilities when compared with niclosamide. The simple synthesis of salicylanilide-based drugs also vouchsafes a broad and cost-effective availability for poorer patient groups. Pertinent literature is covered until 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Biersack
- Organic Chemistry Laboratory, University Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
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Chowdhury MG, Kalmegh V, Kapoor S, Kamble V, Shard A. Imidazopyrimidine: from a relatively exotic scaffold to an evolving structural motif in drug discovery. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:1488-1507. [PMID: 38784469 PMCID: PMC11110759 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00718a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Nitrogen-fused heterocycles are of immense importance in modern drug discovery and development. Among them, imidazopyrimidine is a highly versatile scaffold with vast pharmacological utility. These compounds demonstrate a broad spectrum of pharmacological actions, including antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer. Their adaptable structure allows for extensive structural modifications, which can be utilized for optimizing pharmacological effects via structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies. Additionally, imidazopyrimidine derivatives are particularly noteworthy for their ability to target specific molecular entities, such as protein kinases, which are crucial components of various cellular signaling pathways associated with multiple diseases. Despite the evident importance of imidazopyrimidines in drug discovery, there is a notable lack of a comprehensive review that outlines their role in this field. This review highlights the ongoing interest and investment in exploring the therapeutic potential of imidazopyrimidine compounds, underscoring their pivotal role in shaping the future of drug discovery and clinical medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moumita Ghosh Chowdhury
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat-382355 India
| | - Vaishnavi Kalmegh
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat-382355 India
| | - Saumya Kapoor
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat-382355 India
| | - Vaishnavi Kamble
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat-382355 India
| | - Amit Shard
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat-382355 India
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Gonçalves AAM, Ribeiro AJ, Resende CAA, Couto CAP, Gandra IB, Dos Santos Barcelos IC, da Silva JO, Machado JM, Silva KA, Silva LS, Dos Santos M, da Silva Lopes L, de Faria MT, Pereira SP, Xavier SR, Aragão MM, Candida-Puma MA, de Oliveira ICM, Souza AA, Nogueira LM, da Paz MC, Coelho EAF, Giunchetti RC, de Freitas SM, Chávez-Fumagalli MA, Nagem RAP, Galdino AS. Recombinant multiepitope proteins expressed in Escherichia coli cells and their potential for immunodiagnosis. Microb Cell Fact 2024; 23:145. [PMID: 38778337 PMCID: PMC11110257 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-024-02418-w] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Recombinant multiepitope proteins (RMPs) are a promising alternative for application in diagnostic tests and, given their wide application in the most diverse diseases, this review article aims to survey the use of these antigens for diagnosis, as well as discuss the main points surrounding these antigens. RMPs usually consisting of linear, immunodominant, and phylogenetically conserved epitopes, has been applied in the experimental diagnosis of various human and animal diseases, such as leishmaniasis, brucellosis, cysticercosis, Chagas disease, hepatitis, leptospirosis, leprosy, filariasis, schistosomiasis, dengue, and COVID-19. The synthetic genes for these epitopes are joined to code a single RMP, either with spacers or fused, with different biochemical properties. The epitopes' high density within the RMPs contributes to a high degree of sensitivity and specificity. The RMPs can also sidestep the need for multiple peptide synthesis or multiple recombinant proteins, reducing costs and enhancing the standardization conditions for immunoassays. Methods such as bioinformatics and circular dichroism have been widely applied in the development of new RMPs, helping to guide their construction and better understand their structure. Several RMPs have been expressed, mainly using the Escherichia coli expression system, highlighting the importance of these cells in the biotechnological field. In fact, technological advances in this area, offering a wide range of different strains to be used, make these cells the most widely used expression platform. RMPs have been experimentally used to diagnose a broad range of illnesses in the laboratory, suggesting they could also be useful for accurate diagnoses commercially. On this point, the RMP method offers a tempting substitute for the production of promising antigens used to assemble commercial diagnostic kits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Alice Maia Gonçalves
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Anna Julia Ribeiro
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Carlos Ananias Aparecido Resende
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Carolina Alves Petit Couto
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Isadora Braga Gandra
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Isabelle Caroline Dos Santos Barcelos
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Jonatas Oliveira da Silva
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Juliana Martins Machado
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Kamila Alves Silva
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Líria Souza Silva
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Michelli Dos Santos
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Lucas da Silva Lopes
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Mariana Teixeira de Faria
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Paula Pereira
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Sandra Rodrigues Xavier
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Matheus Motta Aragão
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Mayron Antonio Candida-Puma
- Computational Biology and Chemistry Research Group, Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad Católica de Santa María, Arequipa, 04000, Peru
| | | | - Amanda Araujo Souza
- Biophysics Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Lais Moreira Nogueira
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Mariana Campos da Paz
- Bioactives and Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Antônio Ferraz Coelho
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Rodolfo Cordeiro Giunchetti
- Laboratory of Biology of Cell Interactions, National Institute of Science and Technology on Tropical Diseases (INCT-DT), Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Sonia Maria de Freitas
- Biophysics Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Miguel Angel Chávez-Fumagalli
- Computational Biology and Chemistry Research Group, Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad Católica de Santa María, Arequipa, 04000, Peru
| | - Ronaldo Alves Pinto Nagem
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Alexsandro Sobreira Galdino
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, National Institute of Science and Technology on Industrial Biotechnology (INCT-BI), Federal University of São João Del-Rei, Midwest Campus, Divinópolis, 35501-296, Brazil.
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Nimhan G, Narwade M, Jadon RS, Gajbhiye K. Nanofiber-based Delivery of Luliconazole: Fabrication, Characterization, and Therapeutic Performance Assessment. AAPS PharmSciTech 2024; 25:94. [PMID: 38710898 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-024-02815-9] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
This study introduces and assesses the potential of a Luliconazole-loaded nanofiber (LUL-NF) patch, fabricated through electrospinning, for enhancing topical drug delivery. The primary objectives involve evaluating the nanofiber structure, characterizing physical properties, determining drug loading and release kinetics, assessing antifungal efficacy, and establishing the long-term stability of the NF patch. LUL-NF patches were fabricated via electrospinning and observed by SEM at approximately 200 nm dimensions. The comprehensive analysis included physical properties (thickness, folding endurance, swelling ratio, weight, moisture content, and drug loading) and UV analysis for drug quantification. In vitro studies explored sustained drug release kinetics, while microbiological assays evaluated antifungal efficacy against Candida albicans and Aspergillus Niger. Stability studies confirmed long-term viability. Comparative analysis with the pure drug, placebo NF patch, LUL-NF patch, and Lulifod gel was conducted using agar diffusion, revealing enhanced performance of the LUL-NF patch. SEM analysis revealed well-defined LUL-NF patches (0.80 mm thickness) with exceptional folding endurance (> 200 folds) and a favorable swelling ratio (12.66 ± 0.73%). The patches exhibited low moisture uptake (3.4 ± 0.09%) and a moisture content of 11.78 ± 0.54%. Drug loading in 1 cm2 section was 1.904 ± 0.086 mg, showing uniform distribution and sustained release kinetics in vitro. The LUL-NF patch demonstrated potent antifungal activity. Stability studies affirmed long-term stability, and comparative analysis highlighted increased inhibition compared to a pure drug, LUL-NF patch, and a commercial gel. The electrospun LUL-NF patch enhances topical drug delivery, promising extended therapy through single-release, one-time application, and innovative drug delivery strategies, supported by thorough analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gauri Nimhan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Erandwane, Pune, 411038, India
| | - Mahaveer Narwade
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Erandwane, Pune, 411038, India
| | | | - Kavita Gajbhiye
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Erandwane, Pune, 411038, India.
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11
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Argüelles JC, Sánchez-Fresneda R, Argüelles A, Solano F. Natural Substances as Valuable Alternative for Improving Conventional Antifungal Chemotherapy: Lights and Shadows. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:334. [PMID: 38786689 PMCID: PMC11122340 DOI: 10.3390/jof10050334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungi are eukaryotic organisms with relatively few pathogenic members dangerous for humans, usually acting as opportunistic infections. In the last decades, several life-threatening fungal infections have risen mostly associated with the worldwide extension of chronic diseases and immunosuppression. The available antifungal therapies cannot combat this challenge because the arsenal of compounds is scarce and displays low selective action, significant adverse effects, and increasing resistance. A growing isolation of outbreaks triggered by fungal species formerly considered innocuous is being recorded. From ancient times, natural substances harvested from plants have been applied to folk medicine and some of them recently emerged as promising antifungals. The most used are briefly revised herein. Combinations of chemotherapeutic drugs with natural products to obtain more efficient and gentle treatments are also revised. Nevertheless, considerable research work is still necessary before their clinical use can be generally accepted. Many natural products have a highly complex chemical composition, with the active principles still partially unknown. Here, we survey the field underlying lights and shadows of both groups. More studies involving clinical strains are necessary, but we illustrate this matter by discussing the potential clinical applications of combined carnosic acid plus propolis formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Argüelles
- Área de Microbiología, Facultad Biología, University Murcia, Campus Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (J.C.A.); (R.S.-F.); (A.A.)
| | - Ruth Sánchez-Fresneda
- Área de Microbiología, Facultad Biología, University Murcia, Campus Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (J.C.A.); (R.S.-F.); (A.A.)
| | - Alejandra Argüelles
- Área de Microbiología, Facultad Biología, University Murcia, Campus Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (J.C.A.); (R.S.-F.); (A.A.)
| | - Francisco Solano
- Departamento Bioquímica, Biología Molecular B & Inmunología, Facultad Medicina, University Murcia, Campus El Palmar, 30112 Murcia, Spain
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12
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Moraes GS, Tozetto NM, Pedroso TAA, de Mattos MA, Urban AM, Paludo KS, Dos Santos FA, Neppelenbroek KH, Urban VM. Anti-Candida activity and in vitro toxicity screening of antifungals complexed with β-cyclodextrin. J Appl Toxicol 2024; 44:747-755. [PMID: 38198744 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4575] [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: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of resistant fungal species and the toxicity of currently available antifungal drugs are relevant issues that require special consideration. Cyclodextrins inclusion complexes could optimize the antimicrobial activity of such drugs and create a controlled release system with few side effects. This study aimed to assess the in vitro toxicity and antifungal effectiveness of nystatin (Nys) and chlorhexidine (Chx) complexed or not with β-cyclodextrin (βCD). First, a drug toxicity screening was performed through the Artemia salina bioassay. Then, the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against Candida albicans were determined with the broth microdilution test. After MICs determination, the cytotoxicity of the drugs was evaluated through the methyl-thiazolyl-tetrazolium (MTT) and neutral red (NR) assays and through cell morphology analysis. The PROBIT analysis was used to determine the median lethal concentration (LC50), and the cell viability values were submitted to one-way analysis of variance(ANOVA)/Tukey (α = 0.05). Overall, the βCD-complexed antifungals were less toxic against A. salina than their raw forms, suggesting that inclusion complexes can reduce the toxicity of drugs. The MICs obtained were as follows: Nys 0.5 mg/L; Nys:βCD 4 mg/L; Chx 4 mg/L; and Chx:βCD 8 mg/L. Chx showed significant cytotoxicity (MTT: 12.9 ± 9.6%; NR: 10.6 ± 12.5%) and promoted important morphological changes. Cells exposed to the other drugs showed viability above 70% with no cellular damage. These results suggest that antifungals complexed with βCD might be a biocompatible option for the treatment of Candida-related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Katia Sabrina Paludo
- Department of Structural, Molecular, and Genetic Biology, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, Brazil
| | | | - Karin Hermana Neppelenbroek
- Department of Prosthodontics and Periodontics, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru, Brazil
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13
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Grayton QE, Conlon IL, Broberg CA, Schoenfisch MH. Impact of Nitric Oxide-Release Kinetics on Antifungal Activity. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:308. [PMID: 38786663 PMCID: PMC11121837 DOI: 10.3390/jof10050308] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic fungi are an increasing health threat due to the rise in drug resistance. The limited number of antifungals currently available and growing incidence of multi-drug-resistant fungi has caused rising healthcare costs and a decreased quality of life for patients with fungal infections. Nitric oxide (NO) has previously been shown to act as an antimicrobial agent, albeit with a limited understanding of the effects of the NO-release kinetics against pathogenic fungi. Herein, the antifungal effects of four nitric oxide-releasing small molecules were studied against the pathogenic fungi Candida albicans, Candida auris, Cryptococcus neoformans, and Aspergillus fumigatus, to demonstrate the broad-spectrum antifungal activity of NO. A bolus dose of NO was found to eradicate fungi after 24 h, where nitric oxide donors with shorter half-lives achieved antifungal activity at lower concentrations and thus had wider selectivity indexes. Each NO donor was found to cause a severe surface destruction of fungi, and all NO donors exhibited compatibility with currently prescribed antifungals against several different fungi species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quincy E. Grayton
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (Q.E.G.); (C.A.B.)
| | - Ivie L. Conlon
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (Q.E.G.); (C.A.B.)
| | - Christopher A. Broberg
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (Q.E.G.); (C.A.B.)
| | - Mark H. Schoenfisch
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (Q.E.G.); (C.A.B.)
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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14
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Bharti S, Singh B, Kumar S, Kumar R, Kumar J. Synthesis of bio-stabilized silver nanoparticles using Roccella montagnei, their anticandidal capacities & potential to inhibit the virulence factors in fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:158. [PMID: 38592601 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-03928-w] [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: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Candida species is the causative agent in approximately 80% of invasive mycoses and drug-resistant Candida albicans is among the four strains of 'critical priority group' framed by WHO. Lichens are endowed with some rare phytochemicals and a plethora of therapeutics viz. antifungal capacities of Roccella montagnei. Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using lichen could offer an eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternative against emerging 'microbial resistance.' Therefore, the objective was to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (Rm-AgNPs) using a Hydro-alcoholic (1:1) extract of R. montagnei to develop a potent anticandidal agent against Fluconazole-resistant C. albicans NBC099. UV-Spectroscopy identified AgNPs specific-peak of Rm-AgNPs at 420-440 nm and FTIR revealed the presence of amines, alcohol, aromatic compounds, and acids. SEM and TEM analysis indicated that Rm-AgNPs are spherical shaped with a size range of 10-50 nm. Zetasizer analysis indicated that particles are highly stable and have a mean hydrodynamic diameter of 116 nm with a zeta potential charge of - 41 mV. XRD analysis suggested face centered cubic crystal lattice structure. Results indicated that Rm-AgNPs strongly inhibited the growth of NBC099 at a minimum inhibitory concentration (IC50) of ≤ 15 µg. C. albicans culture treated with Rm-AgNPs at concentrations below IC50, down-regulates the production of different virulence factors in NBC099, viz. hyphal formation (> 85%), biofilms production (> 80%), phospholipase, esterase, proteinase activity. The apoptosis assay demonstrated the Rm-AgNPs induced apoptosis in NBC099 cells via oxidative stress. Interestingly, Rm-AgNPs showed negligible cytotoxicity (< 6%) in murine RAW 246.7 macrophage cells at a concentration above 15 µg/mL. Therefore, Rm-AgNPs have been offered as an anti-candida alternative that can be utilized to improve the efficacy of already available medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Bharti
- Department of Environmental Microbiology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, Lucknow, India
| | - Balwant Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi, India
| | - Sanket Kumar
- Department of Botany, School of Sciences, IFTM University, Moradabad, 244102, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Department of Environmental Microbiology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, Lucknow, India
| | - Jatinder Kumar
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
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15
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Zhou M, Peng J, Ren K, Yu Y, Li D, She X, Liu W. Divergent mitochondrial responses and metabolic signal pathways secure the azole resistance in Crabtree-positive and negative Candida species. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0404223. [PMID: 38442003 PMCID: PMC10986575 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04042-23] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Azole drugs are the main therapeutic drugs for invasive fungal infections. However, azole-resistant strains appear repeatedly in the environment, posing a major threat to human health. Several reports have shown that mitochondria are associated with the virulence of pathogenic fungi. However, there are few studies on the mechanisms of mitochondria-mediated azoles resistance. Here, we first performed mitochondrial proteomic analysis on multiple Candida species (Candida albicans, Nakaseomyces glabrata, Pichia kudriavzevii, and Candida auris) and analyzed the differentially expressed mitochondrial proteins (DEMPs) between azole-sensitive and azole-resistant Candida species. Subsequently, we performed Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis, gene ontology analysis, and protein-protein interaction network analysis of DEMPs. Our results showed that a total of 417, 165, and 25 DEMPs were identified in resistant C. albicans, N. glabrata, and C. auris, respectively. These DEMPs were enriched in ribosomal biogenesis at cytosol and mitochondria, tricarboxylic acid cycle, glycolysis, transporters, ergosterol, and cell wall mannan biosynthesis. The high activations of these cellular activities, found in C. albicans and C. auris (at low scale), were mostly opposite to those observed in two fermenter species-N. glabrata and P. kudriavzevii. Several transcription factors including Rtg3 were highly produced in resistant C. albicans that experienced a complex I activation of mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC). The reduction of mitochondrial-related activities and complex IV/V of ETC in N. glabrata and P. kudriavzevii was companying with the reduced proteins of Tor1, Hog1, and Snf1/Snf4.IMPORTANCECandida spp. are common organisms that cause a variety of invasive diseases. However, Candida spp. are resistant to azoles, which hinders antifungal therapy. Exploring the drug-resistance mechanism of pathogenic Candida spp. will help improve the prevention and control strategy and discover new targets. Mitochondria, as an important organelle in eukaryotic cells, are closely related to a variety of cellular activities. However, the role of mitochondrial proteins in mediating azole resistance in Candida spp. has not been elucidated. Here, we analyzed the mitochondrial proteins and signaling pathways that mediate azole resistance in Candida spp. to provide ideas and references for solving the problem of azole resistance. Our work may offer new insights into the connection between mitochondria and azoles resistance in pathogenic fungi and highlight the potential clinical value of mitochondrial proteins in the treatment of invasive fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhou
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingwen Peng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medicine School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kun Ren
- Centers for pharmaceutical preparations, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Yu
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Dongmei Li
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Xiaodong She
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Weida Liu
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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16
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Pasrija R, Kumari D, Wadhwan S, Chhillar AK, Mittal V. The Zanthoxylum armatum fruit's oil exterminates Candida cells by inhibiting ergosterol biosynthesis without generating reactive oxygen species. Int Microbiol 2024; 27:423-434. [PMID: 37481507 DOI: 10.1007/s10123-023-00401-w] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Candida spp. is a significant cause of topical and fungal infections in humans. In addition to Candida albicans, many non-albicans species such as C. krusei, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, C. guilliermondii cause severe infections. The main antifungal agents belong to three different classes, including azoles, polyenes, and echinocandins. However, resistance to all three categories of drugs has been reported. Therefore, there is an urgent need to search for other alternatives with antifungal activity. Many herbal extracts and compounds from natural sources show excellent antifungal activity. In this study, we used an oil extract from the fruits of Zanthoxylum armatum, which showed significant antifungal activity against various Candida spp. by two different methods-minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and agar diffusion. In addition, we attempted to explore the possible mechanism of action in C. albicans. It was found that the antifungal activity of Z. armatum oil is fungicidal and involves a decrease in the level of ergosterol in the cell membrane. The decrease in ergosterol level resulted in increased passive diffusion of a fluorescent molecule, rhodamine6G, across the plasma membrane, indicating increased membrane fluidity. The oil-treated cells showed decreased germ tube formation, an important indicator of C. albicans' virulence. The fungal cells also exhibited decreased attachment to the buccal epithelium, the first step toward invasion, biofilm formation, and damage to oral epithelial cells. Interestingly, unlike most antifungal agents, in which the generation of reactive oxygen species is responsible for killing, no significant effect was observed in the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Pasrija
- Department of Biochemistry, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India.
| | - Deepika Kumari
- Department of Biochemistry, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Swati Wadhwan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Kharvel Subharti College of Pharmacy, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | | - Vineet Mittal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
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17
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Ahammed KS, van Hoof A. Fungi of the order Mucorales express a "sealing-only" tRNA ligase. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 30:354-366. [PMID: 38307611 PMCID: PMC10946435 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079957.124] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Some eukaryotic pre-tRNAs contain an intron that is removed by a dedicated set of enzymes. Intron-containing pre-tRNAs are cleaved by tRNA splicing endonuclease, followed by ligation of the two exons and release of the intron. Fungi use a "heal and seal" pathway that requires three distinct catalytic domains of the tRNA ligase enzyme, Trl1. In contrast, humans use a "direct ligation" pathway carried out by RTCB, an enzyme completely unrelated to Trl1. Because of these mechanistic differences, Trl1 has been proposed as a promising drug target for fungal infections. To validate Trl1 as a broad-spectrum drug target, we show that fungi from three different phyla contain Trl1 orthologs with all three domains. This includes the major invasive human fungal pathogens, and these proteins can each functionally replace yeast Trl1. In contrast, species from the order Mucorales, including the pathogens Rhizopus arrhizus and Mucor circinelloides, have an atypical Trl1 that contains the sealing domain but lacks both healing domains. Although these species contain fewer tRNA introns than other pathogenic fungi, they still require splicing to decode three of the 61 sense codons. These sealing-only Trl1 orthologs can functionally complement defects in the corresponding domain of yeast Trl1 and use a conserved catalytic lysine residue. We conclude that Mucorales use a sealing-only enzyme together with unidentified nonorthologous healing enzymes for their heal and seal pathway. This implies that drugs that target the sealing activity are more likely to be broader-spectrum antifungals than drugs that target the healing domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khondakar Sayef Ahammed
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Ambro van Hoof
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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18
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Campbell R, Buchbinder NW, Szwetkowski C, Zhu Y, Piedl K, Truong M, Matson JB, Santos WL, Mevers E. Design, Synthesis, and Antifungal Activity of 3-Substituted-2( 5H)-Oxaboroles. ACS Med Chem Lett 2024; 15:349-354. [PMID: 38505851 PMCID: PMC10945556 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Next generation antimicrobial therapeutics are desperately needed as new pathogens with multiple resistance mechanisms continually emerge. Two oxaboroles, tavaborole and crisaborole, were recently approved as topical treatments for onychomycosis and atopic dermatitis, respectively, warranting further studies into this privileged structural class. Herein, we report the antimicrobial properties of 3-substituted-2(5H)-oxaboroles, an unstudied family of medicinally relevant oxaboroles. Our results revealed minimum inhibitory concentrations as low as 6.25 and 5.20 μg/mL against fungal (e.g., Penicillium chrysogenum) and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) pathogens, respectively. These oxaboroles were nonhemolytic and nontoxic to rat myoblast cells (H9c2). Structure-activity relationship studies suggest that planarity is important for antimicrobial activity, possibly due to the effects of extended conjugation between the oxaborole and benzene rings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Campbell
- Department
of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | | | - Connor Szwetkowski
- Department
of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Yumeng Zhu
- Department
of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Karla Piedl
- Department
of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Mindy Truong
- Department
of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - John B. Matson
- Department
of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Webster L. Santos
- Department
of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Emily Mevers
- Department
of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
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19
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Wroński M, Trawiński J, Skibiński R. Antifungal drugs in the aquatic environment: A review on sources, occurrence, toxicity, health effects, removal strategies and future challenges. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133167. [PMID: 38064946 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Fungal infections pose a significant global health burden, resulting in millions of severe cases and deaths annually. The escalating demand for effective antifungal treatments has led to a rise in the wholesale distribution of antifungal drugs, which consequently has led to their release into the environment, posing a threat to ecosystems and human health. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the presence and distribution of antifungal drugs in the environment, evaluate their potential ecological and health risks, and assess current methods for their removal. Reviewed studies from 2010 to 2023 period have revealed the widespread occurrence of 19 various antifungals in natural waters and other matrices at alarmingly high concentrations. Due to the inefficiency of conventional water treatment in removing these compounds, advanced oxidation processes, membrane filtration, and adsorption techniques have been developed as promising decontamination methods.In conclusion, this review emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive understanding of the presence, fate, and removal of antifungal drugs in the environment. By addressing the current knowledge gaps and exploring future prospects, this study contributes to the development of strategies for mitigating the environmental impact of antifungal drugs and protecting ecosystems and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Wroński
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jakub Trawiński
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Robert Skibiński
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland.
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20
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Sharma D, Vazquez JA. An evaluation of Rezafungin: the latest treatment option for adults with candidemia and invasive candidiasis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:339-347. [PMID: 38497379 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2331775] [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: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Invasive fungal infections, especially candidemia and invasive candidiasis, continue to cause substantial morbidity and mortality. In addition, the emergence of drug-resistant Candida species, notably C. glabrata and C. auris, along with limitations in available treatments, highlights the urgent need for novel, effective antifungal agents. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the results of in vitro studies evaluating the spectrum and highlights the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties. It also includes discussions on two key clinical studies that assess safety, tolerability, and efficacy. EXPERT OPINION Rezafungin has demonstrated comparable efficacy to other echinocandins in two clinical studies and exhibits in vitro activity against a broad range of Candida species and Aspergillus spp. It has a favorable safety profile with minimal side effects, and no drug interactions or effects on QT intervals. In contrast to other echinocandins, it demonstrates dose-dependent killing, a prolonged half-life, and low clearance make it suitable for once-weekly dosing, which is supported by clinical trials confirming its efficacy. Rezafungin offers a promising option for the outpatient management of difficult to treat fungal infections. It has become a valuable addition to the antifungal arsenal, with the potential to reduce hospital length of stay and hospitalization costs and combat drug-resistant Candida species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divisha Sharma
- Division of infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, WellStar MCG Health, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Jose A Vazquez
- Division of infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, WellStar MCG Health, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
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21
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Chilamakuri SN, Kumar A, Nath AG, Gupta A, Selvaraju S, Basrani S, Jadhav A, Gulbake A. Development and In-Vitro Evaluation of Eugenol-Based Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Effectual Topical Treatment Against C. albicans. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:772-784. [PMID: 38043682 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The main objective of the experiment is to develop and evaluate hydrogel-bearing nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) loaded with ketoconazole (KTZ) for the effective treatment of candidiasis. The eugenol was used as a liquid lipid (excipient) for the development of KTZ-loaded NLCs and was explored for anti-fungal effect. The production of NLCs involves high energy processes to generate spherical, uniform particles, having a higher percentage of entrapment efficiency (%EE) for KTZ with 89.83 ± 2.31 %. The data from differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD), and attenuated total reflectance (ATR) demonstrated the KTZ dispersion in NLCs. The NLCs loaded hydrogel possessed optimum spreadability and exhibited shear thinning behavior, indicating the ease of application of the final formulation. The 6.41-fold higher transdermal flux (Jss) was governed for KTZ from KTZ-NLC than coarse-KTZ, which explains the usefulness of NLCs. The KTZ-NLCs exhibited significant 2.58 and 6.35-fold higher retention in the stratum corneum and viable epidermis of the skin. The cell cytotoxicity studies using human dermal fibroblast cell (HDFS) lines depicted the usefulness of NLCs in reducing cell toxicities for KTZ. The KTZ-NLCs were found to inhibit planktonic growth and hyphal transition and showed a larger zone of inhibition against C. albicans strains with a MIC-50 value of 0.39 μg/mL. The antibiofilm activity of KTZ-NLCs at lower concentrations, in contrast to plain KTZ, explained the interaction of developed NLCs with fungal membranes. The overall results depicted the effectiveness of the loading KTZ in the lipid matrix to achieve antifungal activity against C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudarshan Naidu Chilamakuri
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - Ankaj Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - A Gowri Nath
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - Anshu Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - Sudhagar Selvaraju
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - Sargun Basrani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, CIR, DY Patil Education Society, Institution Deemed to be University, Kolhapur, India
| | - Ashwini Jadhav
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, CIR, DY Patil Education Society, Institution Deemed to be University, Kolhapur, India
| | - Arvind Gulbake
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India.
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22
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Gudisa R, Harchand R, Rudramurthy SM. Nucleic-Acid-Based Molecular Fungal Diagnostics: A Way to a Better Future. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:520. [PMID: 38472992 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14050520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The world has seen a tremendous increase in the number of fungal infections during the past two decades. Recently, the World Health Organisation released the pathogen priority list for fungal infections, signifying the importance of these infections in the fields of research and public health. Microbiology laboratories demand an upgrade in the diagnostic system to keep up with the increased burden of these infections. Diagnosis of fungal infections using conventional techniques has always faced limitations in terms of specificity, sensitivity, and turnaround time. Although these methods are the core pillars of the diagnosis, there is an increased need for molecular approaches. Molecular techniques have revolutionised the field of fungal diagnostics. The diverse array of molecular techniques, including techniques like Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), have emerged as a cornerstone in fungal diagnostics. Molecular techniques have transformed fungal diagnostics, providing powerful tools for the rapid and accurate identification of pathogens. As these technologies continue to evolve, their integration into routine clinical practice holds the promise of improving patient outcomes through timely and targeted antifungal interventions. This review will cover the molecular approaches involved in fungal diagnostics, moving from the basic techniques to the advanced-level nucleic-acid-based molecular approaches providing a high throughput and decreased turnaround time for the diagnosis of serious fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajendra Gudisa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Ritika Harchand
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Shivaprakash M Rudramurthy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
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23
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Hefny ZA, Ji B, Elsemman IE, Nielsen J, Van Dijck P. Transcriptomic meta-analysis to identify potential antifungal targets in Candida albicans. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:66. [PMID: 38413885 PMCID: PMC10898158 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03213-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida albicans is a fungal pathogen causing human infections. Here we investigated differential gene expression patterns and functional enrichment in C. albicans strains grown under different conditions. METHODS A systematic GEO database search identified 239 "Candida albicans" datasets, of which 14 were selected after rigorous criteria application. Retrieval of raw sequencing data from the ENA database was accompanied by essential metadata extraction from dataset descriptions and original articles. Pre-processing via the tailored nf-core pipeline for C. albicans involved alignment, gene/transcript quantification, and diverse quality control measures. Quality assessment via PCA and DESeq2 identified significant genes (FDR < = 0.05, log2-fold change > = 1 or <= -1), while topGO conducted GO term enrichment analysis. Exclusions were made based on data quality and strain relevance, resulting in the selection of seven datasets from the SC5314 strain background for in-depth investigation. RESULTS The meta-analysis of seven selected studies unveiled a substantial number of genes exhibiting significant up-regulation (24,689) and down-regulation (18,074). These differentially expressed genes were further categorized into 2,497 significantly up-regulated and 2,573 significantly down-regulated Gene Ontology (GO) IDs. GO term enrichment analysis clustered these terms into distinct groups, providing insights into the functional implications. Three target gene lists were compiled based on previous studies, focusing on central metabolism, ion homeostasis, and pathogenicity. Frequency analysis revealed genes with higher occurrence within the identified GO clusters, suggesting their potential as antifungal targets. Notably, the genes TPS2, TPS1, RIM21, PRA1, SAP4, and SAP6 exhibited higher frequencies within the clusters. Through frequency analysis within the GO clusters, several key genes emerged as potential targets for antifungal therapies. These include RSP5, GLC7, SOD2, SOD5, SOD1, SOD6, SOD4, SOD3, and RIM101 which exhibited higher occurrence within the identified clusters. CONCLUSION This comprehensive study significantly advances our understanding of the dynamic nature of gene expression in C. albicans. The identification of genes with enhanced potential as antifungal drug targets underpins their value for future interventions. The highlighted genes, including TPS2, TPS1, RIM21, PRA1, SAP4, SAP6, RSP5, GLC7, SOD2, SOD5, SOD1, SOD6, SOD4, SOD3, and RIM101, hold promise for the development of targeted antifungal therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Abdelmoghis Hefny
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
| | - Boyang Ji
- BioInnovation Institute, Ole Maaløes Vej 3, Copenhagen, DK2200, Denmark
| | - Ibrahim E Elsemman
- Department of Information Systems, Faculty of Computers and Information, Assiut University, Assiut, 2071515, Egypt
| | - Jens Nielsen
- BioInnovation Institute, Ole Maaløes Vej 3, Copenhagen, DK2200, Denmark.
- Department of Life Sciences, Chalmers University of Technology, Kemivägen 10, SE41296, Gothenburg, SE41296, Sweden.
| | - Patrick Van Dijck
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium.
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24
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Váradi G, Bende G, Borics A, Dán K, Rákhely G, Tóth GK, Galgóczy L. Rational Design of Antifungal Peptides Based on the γ-Core Motif of a Neosartorya ( Aspergillus) fischeri Antifungal Protein to Improve Structural Integrity, Efficacy, and Spectrum. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:7206-7214. [PMID: 38371770 PMCID: PMC10870298 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c09377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Antifungal peptides offer promising alternative compounds for the treatment of fungal infections, for which new antifungal compounds are urgently needed. Constant and broad antifungal spectra of these peptides play essential roles in their reliable therapeutic application. It has been observed that rationally designed peptides using the evolutionarily conserved γ-core region (GXC-X3-9-C) of an antifungal protein from Neosartorya (Aspergillus) fischeri highly inhibit the growth of fungi. The cysteines in these peptides have free sulfhydryl groups, which allow cyclization and dimerization under oxidative conditions, thereby impairing antifungal efficacy. To overcome this problem, one or two cysteine residues were substituted by serines or S-tert-butyl was applied as a cysteine-protecting group. Furthermore, structural integrity and antifungal efficacy investigations before and after oxidative exposure revealed that substituting both cysteines with serines and S-tert-butylation helped maintain the structural integrity. However, it slightly decreased the antifungal efficacy against a yeast, Candida albicans. Interestingly, S-tert-butylation maintained the efficacy and could extend the antifungal activity to a mold, Aspergillus fumigatus. Usually, cyclization and dimerization did not influence the antifungal efficacy of most peptides. Additionally, hemolysis tests and Galleria mellonella toxicity model experiments indicated that none of the applied modifications made the peptides harmful to animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Györgyi Váradi
- Department
of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary
| | - Gábor Bende
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6726, Hungary
- Doctoral
School of Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary
| | - Attila Borics
- Institute
of Biochemistry, HUN-REN Biological Research
Centre, Szeged 6726, Hungary
| | - Kinga Dán
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6726, Hungary
- Doctoral
School of Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary
| | - Gábor Rákhely
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6726, Hungary
- Institute
of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research
Centre, Szeged 6726, Hungary
| | - Gábor K. Tóth
- Department
of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary
- MTA-SZTE
Biomimetic Systems Research Group, University
of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary
| | - László Galgóczy
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6726, Hungary
- Institute
of Biochemistry, HUN-REN Biological Research
Centre, Szeged 6726, Hungary
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25
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Bento-Oliveira A, Moita MLCJ, de Almeida RFM, Starosta R. Unraveling environmental effects in the absorption and fluorescence spectra of p-methoxyphenylpiperazine derivatives. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2024; 306:123583. [PMID: 37913739 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2023.123583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
The p-methoxyphenylpiperazine motif can be found in many biologically active molecules, including approved drugs. It is characterized by a relatively weak fluorescence, which can be employed in different types of studies involving molecules with this motif. In this work, a thorough analysis of the absorption, excitation and emission spectra of the diphenyl(aminomethyl)phosphine and tris(aminomethyl)phosphine derivatives of p-methoxyphenylpiperazine, supported by the DFT calculations (ωB97XD/6-311++G(d,p)) with NBO and QTAIM analysis also for different model molecules (e.g. 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-methylpiperazine) enabled determination of the mechanisms underlying beneath the electronic transitions and allowed to rationalize mixed solvent effects observed in electronic spectra of the studied compounds. Electronic transition from the ground state to the first excited state can be regarded as the n,π → π* transition with no solvatochromic effects, however the hydrogen bonds between the HBD solvent molecules and the nitrogen atom bound directly to the aromatic ring (N(4)) are shifting strongly the 1st absorption or excitation band maxima to the higher energies. Fluorescence band, as a result of the electron transition from the equilibrated 1st excited state to the ground state, can be described as the π*→π with positive solvatochromism. N(4) in the excited states adopts a sp2 hybridization and is no longer able to form HBs. On the other hand, increased electron density on the aromatic ring makes the emission processes vulnerable to its direct environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Bento-Oliveira
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria-Luísa C J Moita
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo F M de Almeida
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Radosław Starosta
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; Faculty of Chemistry, University of Wroclaw, F. Joliot-Curie 14, 50-383 Wroclaw, Poland.
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26
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David S, Cârtoc RE, Petcu IC, Polonschii C, Petran A, Turcu R, Bratu D, Gheorghiu M, Gheorghiu E. In situ detection and viability assessment of target microorganisms. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 245:115821. [PMID: 37984319 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115821] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Rapid detection and viability assessment of pathogenic microorganisms, without the need for pre-enrichment steps, is critical in clinical microbiology, food safety, environmental quality assessment, and biosecurity. We demonstrate a powerful analytical concept and the related platform that enable in situ rapid detection, separation, sensitive quantification, and viability assessment of targeted microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) from minimally processed samples. This is based on a novel integration of magneto-affine selection and electrical impedance assay. The entire process, from capture to measurement, is executed using controlled magnetic fields to manipulate magnetic particles (MPs)-microbe affinity-based clusters, in a compact, portable setup equipped with cost-effective, single-use chambers. The system was tested for non-invasive in situ evaluation of model bacteria (Escherichia coli) and fungi (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) within clinically relevant concentration ranges, and it was demonstrated amenable for both commercial and custom MPs, proving its high versatility. The high capture efficiency, the ability to provide analytic results within 30 min directly from unprocessed samples (buffer and synthetic urine), and the high sensitivity in distinguishing live and dead cells in dynamic exposures represent significant advancements over existing assays and recommend the system as a screening tool for pathogen presence and antimicrobial susceptibility in clinical and environmental samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorin David
- International Centre of Biodynamics, Intrarea Portocalelor Nr. 1B, 060101, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raluca-Elena Cârtoc
- International Centre of Biodynamics, Intrarea Portocalelor Nr. 1B, 060101, Bucharest, Romania; Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, 050095, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ionela-Cristina Petcu
- International Centre of Biodynamics, Intrarea Portocalelor Nr. 1B, 060101, Bucharest, Romania; University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest, Splaiul Independenței 313, 060042, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristina Polonschii
- International Centre of Biodynamics, Intrarea Portocalelor Nr. 1B, 060101, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Petran
- National Institute R&D of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, Cluj-Napoca, 400293, Romania
| | - Rodica Turcu
- National Institute R&D of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, Cluj-Napoca, 400293, Romania
| | - Dumitru Bratu
- International Centre of Biodynamics, Intrarea Portocalelor Nr. 1B, 060101, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Gheorghiu
- International Centre of Biodynamics, Intrarea Portocalelor Nr. 1B, 060101, Bucharest, Romania; Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, 050095, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Eugen Gheorghiu
- International Centre of Biodynamics, Intrarea Portocalelor Nr. 1B, 060101, Bucharest, Romania; Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, 050095, Bucharest, Romania.
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27
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Chaudhari V, Vairagade V, Thakkar A, Shende H, Vora A. Nanotechnology-based fungal detection and treatment: current status and future perspective. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:77-97. [PMID: 37597093 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02662-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infections impose a significant impact on global health and encompass major expenditures in medical treatments. Human mycoses, a fungal co-infection associated with SARS-CoV-2, is caused by opportunistic fungal pathogens and is often overlooked or misdiagnosed. Recently, there is increasing threat about spread of antimicrobial resistance in fungus, mostly in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. The diagnosis and treatment of fungal infections are associated with several issues, including tedious and non-selective detection methods, the growth of drug-resistant bacteria, severe side effects, and ineffective drug delivery. Thus, a rapid and sensitive diagnostic method and a high-efficacy and low-toxicity therapeutic approach are needed. Nanomedicine has emerged as a viable option for overcoming these limitations. Due to the unique physicochemical and optical properties of nanomaterials and newer biosensing techniques, nanodiagnostics play an important role in the accurate and prompt differentiation and detection of fungal diseases. Additionally, nano-based drug delivery techniques can increase drug permeability, reduce adverse effects, and extend systemic circulation time and drug half-life. This review paper is aimed at highlighting recent, promising, and unique trends in nanotechnology to design and develop diagnostics and treatment methods for fungal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Chaudhari
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, India
| | - Vaishnavi Vairagade
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, India
| | - Ami Thakkar
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, India
| | - Himani Shende
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, India
| | - Amisha Vora
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, India.
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28
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Seiser S, Arzani H, Ayub T, Phan-Canh T, Staud C, Worda C, Kuchler K, Elbe-Bürger A. Native human and mouse skin infection models to study Candida auris-host interactions. Microbes Infect 2024; 26:105234. [PMID: 37813159 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2023.105234] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared certain fungal pathogens as global health threats for the next decade. Candida auris (C. auris) is a newly emerging skin-tropic multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen that can cause life-threatening infections of high mortality in hospitals and healthcare settings. Here, we address an unmet need and present novel native ex vivo skin models, thus extending previous C. auris-host interaction studies. We exploit histology and immunofluorescence analysis of ex vivo skin biopsies of human adult and fetal, as well as mouse origin infected with C. auris via distinct routes. We demonstrate that an intact skin barrier efficiently protects from C. auris penetration and invasion. Although C. auris readily grows on native human skin, it can reach deeper layers only upon physical disruption of the barrier by needling or through otherwise damaged skin. By contrast, a barrier disruption is not necessary for C. auris penetration of native mouse skin. Importantly, we show that C. auris undergoes morphogenetic changes upon skin penetration, as it acquires pseudohyphal growth phenotypes in deeper human and mouse dermis. Taken together, this new human and mouse skin model toolset yields new insights into C. auris colonization, adhesion, growth and invasion properties of native versus damaged human skin. The results form a crucial basis for future studies on skin immune defense to colonizing pathogens, and offer new options for testing the action and efficacy of topical antimicrobial compound formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Seiser
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Dermatology, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hossein Arzani
- Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9/2, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Tanya Ayub
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Dermatology, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Trinh Phan-Canh
- Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9/2, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Clement Staud
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christof Worda
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Karl Kuchler
- Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9/2, 1030 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Adelheid Elbe-Bürger
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Dermatology, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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29
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Singh N, Kumari V, Agrawal K, Kulshreshtha M. Molecular Pathway, Epidemiological Data and Treatment Strategies of Fungal Infection (Mycoses): A Comprehensive Review. Cent Nerv Syst Agents Med Chem 2024; 24:68-81. [PMID: 38305394 DOI: 10.2174/0118715249274215231205062701] [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: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
The recent increase in fungal infections is a health crisis. This surge is directly tied to the increase in immunocompromised people caused by changes in medical practice, such as the use of harsh chemotherapy and immunosuppressive medicines. Immunosuppressive disorders such as HIV have exacerbated the situation dramatically. Subcutaneous or superficial fungal infections can harm the skin, keratinous tissues, and mucous membranes. This category includes some of the most common skin disorders that impact millions of people worldwide. Despite the fact that they are seldom fatal, they can have a catastrophic impact on a person's quality of life and, in rare situations, spread to other people or become obtrusive. The majority of fungal infections under the skin and on the surface are simply and quickly cured. An opportunistic organism that preys on a weak host or a natural intruder can both result in systemic fungal infections. Furthermore, it might be exceedingly lethal and dangerous to one's life. Dimorphic fungi may pose a hazard to healthy populations that are not exposed to endemic fungi. Increased surveillance, the availability of quick, noninvasive diagnostic tests, monitoring the emergence of antifungal medication resistance, and research on the pathophysiology, prevention, and management of fungal infections are just a few potential solutions to these new health problems. The goal of this review is to summarize the data available for fungal infections and the different therapies which are involved in their treatment. Additionally, it also summarizes the molecular and scientific data of the plants which contain anti-fungal activity. Data are acquired using Google, PubMed, Scholar, and other online sources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vibha Kumari
- Rajiv Academy for Pharmacy, Mathura (U.P.), India
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30
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Roy S, Ray D, Laha I, Choudhury L. Human Mycobiota and Its Role in Cancer Progression, Diagnostics and Therapeutics: A Link Lesser-Known. Cancer Invest 2024; 42:44-62. [PMID: 38186047 DOI: 10.1080/07357907.2024.2301733] [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: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Although not as well studied as the bacterial component of the human microbiota, the commensal fungi or mycobiota play important roles in maintaining our health by augmenting our immune system. This mycobiota is also associated with various fatal diseases like opportunistic mycoses, and even cancer, with different cancers having respective type-specific mycobiota. The different fungal species which comprise these different intratumoral mycobiota play important roles in cancer progression. The aim of this review paper is to decipher the association between mycobiota and cancer, and shed light on new avenues in cancer diagnosis, and the development of new anti-cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souvik Roy
- Post-Graduate & Research Department of Biotechnology, St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Kolkata, India
| | - Dhrisaj Ray
- 5th Year Integrated M. Sc. (5 year integrated) students, Post-Graduate & Research Department of Biotechnology, St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Kolkata, India
| | - Ishani Laha
- 5th Year Integrated M. Sc. (5 year integrated) students, Post-Graduate & Research Department of Biotechnology, St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Kolkata, India
| | - Lopamudra Choudhury
- State-Aided College Teacher, Department of Microbiology, Sarsuna College (Affiliated to Calcutta University), Kolkata, India
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31
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Brilhante RSN, Costa ADC, de Mesquita JRL, dos Santos Araújo G, Freire RS, Nunes JVS, Nobre AFD, Fernandes MR, Rocha MFG, Pereira Neto WDA, Crouzier T, Schimpf U, Viera RS. Antifungal Activity of Chitosan against Histoplasma capsulatum in Planktonic and Biofilm Forms: A Therapeutic Strategy in the Future? J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1201. [PMID: 38132801 PMCID: PMC10744476 DOI: 10.3390/jof9121201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Histoplasmosis is a respiratory disease caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, a dimorphic fungus, with high mortality and morbidity rates, especially in immunocompromised patients. Considering the small existing therapeutic arsenal, new treatment approaches are still required. Chitosan, a linear polysaccharide obtained from partial chitin deacetylation, has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-toxicity properties. Chitosan with different deacetylation degrees and molecular weights has been explored as a potential agent against fungal pathogens. In this study, the chitosan antifungal activity against H. capsulatum was evaluated using the broth microdilution assay, obtaining minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranging from 32 to 128 µg/mL in the filamentous phase and 8 to 64 µg/mL in the yeast phase. Chitosan combined with classical antifungal drugs showed a synergic effect, reducing chitosan's MICs by 32 times, demonstrating that there were no antagonistic interactions relating to any of the strains tested. A synergism between chitosan and amphotericin B or itraconazole was detected in the yeast-like form for all strains tested. For H. capsulatum biofilms, chitosan reduced biomass and metabolic activity by about 40% at 512 µg/mL. In conclusion, studying chitosan as a therapeutic strategy against Histoplasma capsulatum is promising, mainly considering its numerous possible applications, including its combination with other compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raimunda Sâmia Nogueira Brilhante
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Sciences, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Barão de Canindé, 210, Montese, Fortaleza 60425-540, CE, Brazil; (A.d.C.C.); (A.F.D.N.); (M.R.F.); (W.d.A.P.N.)
| | - Anderson da Cunha Costa
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Sciences, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Barão de Canindé, 210, Montese, Fortaleza 60425-540, CE, Brazil; (A.d.C.C.); (A.F.D.N.); (M.R.F.); (W.d.A.P.N.)
| | | | - Gessica dos Santos Araújo
- Postgraduate in Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Dr. Silas Munguba Avenue, 1700, Itaperi Campus, Fortaleza 60714-903, CE, Brazil; (G.d.S.A.); (M.F.G.R.)
| | - Rosemeyre Souza Freire
- Analytical Center, Department of Physics, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60020-181, CE, Brazil; (R.S.F.); (J.V.S.N.)
| | - João Victor Serra Nunes
- Analytical Center, Department of Physics, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60020-181, CE, Brazil; (R.S.F.); (J.V.S.N.)
| | - Augusto Feynman Dias Nobre
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Sciences, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Barão de Canindé, 210, Montese, Fortaleza 60425-540, CE, Brazil; (A.d.C.C.); (A.F.D.N.); (M.R.F.); (W.d.A.P.N.)
| | - Mirele Rodrigues Fernandes
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Sciences, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Barão de Canindé, 210, Montese, Fortaleza 60425-540, CE, Brazil; (A.d.C.C.); (A.F.D.N.); (M.R.F.); (W.d.A.P.N.)
| | - Marcos Fábio Gadelha Rocha
- Postgraduate in Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Dr. Silas Munguba Avenue, 1700, Itaperi Campus, Fortaleza 60714-903, CE, Brazil; (G.d.S.A.); (M.F.G.R.)
| | - Waldemiro de Aquino Pereira Neto
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, School of Medicine, Specialized Medical Mycology Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical Sciences, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Barão de Canindé, 210, Montese, Fortaleza 60425-540, CE, Brazil; (A.d.C.C.); (A.F.D.N.); (M.R.F.); (W.d.A.P.N.)
| | - Thomas Crouzier
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, Department of Chemistry, Division of Glycoscience, AlbaNova University Center, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.C.); (U.S.)
| | - Ulrike Schimpf
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, Department of Chemistry, Division of Glycoscience, AlbaNova University Center, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.C.); (U.S.)
| | - Rodrigo Silveira Viera
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60440-900, CE, Brazil;
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Mudenda S, Matafwali SK, Mukosha M, Daka V, Chabalenge B, Chizimu J, Yamba K, Mufwambi W, Banda P, Chisha P, Mulenga F, Phiri M, Mfune RL, Kasanga M, Sartelli M, Saleem Z, Godman B. Antifungal resistance and stewardship: a knowledge, attitudes and practices survey among pharmacy students at the University of Zambia; findings and implications. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2023; 5:dlad141. [PMID: 38130703 PMCID: PMC10733812 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlad141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Antifungal resistance (AFR) is a growing global public health concern. Little is currently known about knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding AFR and antifungal stewardship (AFS) in Zambia, and across the globe. To address this evidence gap, we conducted a study through a questionnaire design starting with pharmacy students as they include the next generation of healthcare professionals. Methods A cross-sectional study among 412 pharmacy students from June 2023 to July 2023 using a structured questionnaire. Multivariable analysis was used to determine key factors of influence. Results Of the 412 participants, 55.8% were female, with 81.6% aged between 18 and 25 years. Most students had good knowledge (85.9%) and positive attitudes (86.7%) but sub-optimal practices (65.8%) towards AFR and AFS. Overall, 30.2% of students accessed antifungals without a prescription. Male students were less likely to report a good knowledge of AFR (adjusted OR, AOR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.31-0.98). Similarly, students residing in urban areas were less likely to report a positive attitude (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.13-0.91). Fourth-year students were also less likely to report good practices compared with second-year students (AOR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.27-0.85). Conclusions Good knowledge and positive attitudes must translate into good practices toward AFR and AFS going forward. Consequently, there is a need to provide educational interventions where students have low scores regarding AFR and AFS. In addition, there is a need to implement strategies to reduce inappropriate dispensing of antifungals, especially without a prescription, to reduce AFR in Zambia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steward Mudenda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka PO Box 50110, Zambia
- Antimicrobial Resistance Coordinating Committee, Zambia National Public Health Institute, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Scott Kaba Matafwali
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Moses Mukosha
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka PO Box 50110, Zambia
| | - Victor Daka
- Department of Public Health, Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, Ndola PO Box 71191, Zambia
| | - Billy Chabalenge
- Department of Medicines Control, Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority, Lusaka PO Box 31890, Zambia
| | - Joseph Chizimu
- Antimicrobial Resistance Coordinating Committee, Zambia National Public Health Institute, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kaunda Yamba
- Antimicrobial Resistance Coordinating Committee, Zambia National Public Health Institute, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Webrod Mufwambi
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka PO Box 50110, Zambia
| | - Patrick Banda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka PO Box 50110, Zambia
| | - Patience Chisha
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka PO Box 50110, Zambia
| | - Florence Mulenga
- Conservation Department, World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF Zambia Country Office), Lusaka PO Box 50551, Zambia
| | - McLawrence Phiri
- Department of Pharmacy, Maina Soko Medical Center, Woodlands, Lusaka PO Box 320091, Zambia
| | - Ruth Lindizyani Mfune
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Maisa Kasanga
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Zhengzhou University, College of Public Health, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | | | - Zikria Saleem
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Brian Godman
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Strathclyde University, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
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Freitas CG, Felipe MS. Candida albicans and Antifungal Peptides. Infect Dis Ther 2023; 12:2631-2648. [PMID: 37940816 PMCID: PMC10746669 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-023-00889-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans, a ubiquitous opportunistic fungal pathogen, plays a pivotal role in human health and disease. As a commensal organism, it normally resides harmlessly within the human microbiota. However, under certain conditions, C. albicans can transition into a pathogenic state, leading to various infections collectively known as candidiasis. With the increasing prevalence of immunocompromised individuals and the widespread use of invasive medical procedures, candidiasis has become a significant public health concern. The emergence of drug-resistant strains further complicates treatment options, highlighting the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies. Antifungal peptides (AFPs) have gained considerable attention as potential candidates for combating Candida spp. infections. These naturally occurring peptides possess broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, including specific efficacy against C. albicans. AFPs exhibit several advantageous properties, such as rapid killing kinetics, low propensity for resistance development, and diverse mechanisms of action, making them promising alternatives to conventional antifungal agents. In recent years, extensive research has focused on discovering and developing novel AFPs with improved efficacy and selectivity against Candida species. Advances in biotechnology and synthetic peptide design have enabled the modification and optimization of natural peptides, enhancing their stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic potential. Nevertheless, several challenges must be addressed before AFPs can be widely implemented in clinical practice. These include optimizing peptide stability, enhancing delivery methods, overcoming potential toxicity concerns, and conducting comprehensive preclinical and clinical studies. This commentary presents a short overview of candidemia and AFP; articles and reviews published in the last 10 years were searched on The National Library of Medicine (National Center for Biotechnology Information-NIH-PubMed). The terms used were C. albicans infections, antimicrobial peptides, antifungal peptides, antifungal peptides mechanisms of action, candidemia treatments and guidelines, synthetic peptides and their challenges, and antimicrobial peptides in clinical trials as the main ones. Older publications were cited if they brought some relevant concept or helped to bring a perspective into our narrative. Articles older than 20 years and those that appeared in PubMed but did not match our goal to bring updated information about using antifungal peptides as an alternative to C. albicans infections were not considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila G Freitas
- Higher Education Course in Food Technology, Instituto Federal de Brasília (IFB), Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology Graduate Program, Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Maria Sueli Felipe
- Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology Graduate Program, Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), Brasília, DF, Brazil.
- Universidade de Brasília (UNB), Brasília, DF, Brazil.
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Tiwari A, Tiwari V, Palaria B, Aslam R, Kumar M, Kumar N. Network pharmacology, molecular docking-driven, Qbd-Engineered antifungal in-situ gel loaded with voriconazole nanostructured lipid carriers. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-20. [PMID: 37990482 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2280779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infections (FIs) affect majority of the population, but the current treatments face challenges in terms of their effectiveness. This study focused on specific fungal targets, including dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), acetohydroxy-acid synthase (AHAS), farnesyltransferase and endoglucanase. The docking studies were conducted with the drug voriconazole (VCZ), comparing it with Fluconazole (FCZ) and Amphotericin B (ATB) against 11 protein data bank (PDB) IDs (IDYR, 3NZB, 6DEQ, 1KS5, 7T0C, 1FY4, 5AJH, 7R79, 6TZ6 and 6IDY). Molecular dynamics (MD) analysis, including RMSD, RMSF, PCA and FEL, confirmed the stability of VCZ. The solubility of VCZ was a problem, so nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) were developed to improve ocular penetration. VCF5 was the optimized formulation by using 32 full factorial design. VCZF5-NLCs were the best in terms of nanoparticle size (126.6 nm), Zeta potential (33.5 mV), drug content (DC; 97.38 ± 0.210), encapsulation efficiency (EE; 88.01 ± 0.272) and extended drug release. The results of the ex-vivo corneal diffusion study indicate that VCZ-NLC-loaded in-situ gel (VCZ-NLC-IG3) exhibited DC of 88.25% and drug entrapment (DE) of 74.2%. The results of the zone of inhibition indicated that VCZ-NLC-IG3 had superior efficacy compared to ATB. Network pharmacology showed VCZ interacts with the genes which are responsible for fungus ergosterol biosynthesis, including lanosterol 14-alpha demethylase inhibitors (ERG11), ergosterol biosynthesis protein 5 (ERG5), dimethylallyltransferase 2 (DIT2), ketosynthase (KCN), methylsterol monooxygenase (MSMO1), lamin B receptor (LBR), squalene epoxidase (SQLE), 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A Reductase (MGCR), 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A Synthase (HMGCS) and 3-keto-steroid reductase (HSD17B7). In conclusion, the optimized VCZ-loaded NLCs present a promising approach to treat ocular FIs.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Academy, IFTM University, Moradabad, India
| | - Varsha Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Academy, IFTM University, Moradabad, India
| | - Binita Palaria
- Department of Pharmacy, Devsthali Vidyapeeth College of Pharmacy, Rudrapur, India
| | - Ramsha Aslam
- Department of Pharmacy, Devsthali Vidyapeeth College of Pharmacy, Rudrapur, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, C.T. University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Neeraj Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Bhupal Nobles' College of Pharmacy, Bhupal Nobles' University, Udaipur, India
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Ahammed KS, van Hoof A. Fungi of the order Mucorales express a "sealing-only" tRNA ligase. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.16.567474. [PMID: 38014270 PMCID: PMC10680797 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.16.567474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Some eukaryotic pre-tRNAs contain an intron that is removed by a dedicated set of enzymes. Intron-containing pre-tRNAs are cleaved by tRNA splicing endonuclease (TSEN), followed by ligation of the two exons and release of the intron. Fungi use a "heal and seal" pathway that requires three distinct catalytic domains of the tRNA ligase enzyme, Trl1. In contrast, humans use a "direct ligation" pathway carried out by RTCB, an enzyme completely unrelated to Trl1. Because of these mechanistic differences, Trl1 has been proposed as a promising drug target for fungal infections. To validate Trl1 as a broad-spectrum drug target, we show that fungi from three different phyla contain Trl1 orthologs with all three domains. This includes the major invasive human fungal pathogens, and these proteins each can functionally replace yeast Trl1. In contrast, species from the order Mucorales, including the pathogens Rhizopus arrhizus and Mucor circinelloides, contain an atypical Trl1 that contains the sealing domain, but lack both healing domains. Although these species contain fewer tRNA introns than other pathogenic fungi, they still require splicing to decode three of the 61 sense codons. These sealing-only Trl1 orthologs can functionally complement defects in the corresponding domain of yeast Trl1 and use a conserved catalytic lysine residue. We conclude that Mucorales use a sealing-only enzyme together with unidentified non-orthologous healing enzymes for their heal and seal pathway. This implies that drugs that target the sealing activity are more likely to be broader-spectrum antifungals than drugs that target the healing domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khondakar Sayef Ahammed
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics. UT MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Ambro van Hoof
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics. UT MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
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Jain A, Singhal N, Kumar M. AFRbase: a database of protein mutations responsible for antifungal resistance. Bioinformatics 2023; 39:btad677. [PMID: 37947313 PMCID: PMC10656092 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btad677] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
MOTIVATION Fungal pathogens are known to cause life threatening invasive infections with rising global mortality rates. Besides, the indiscriminate use of antifungals in both clinics and agriculture has promoted antifungal drug resistance in the last decade. Fungi can show drug resistance by a variety of mechanisms. But primary driver in all these hitherto documented mechanisms is stable and heritable point mutations in the key proteins. Therefore, cataloguing mutations that can confer resistance is the first step toward understanding the mechanisms leading to the emergence of antifungal resistance. RESULTS In the present, work we have described a database of all the mutations responsible for antifungal resistance. Named as antifungal resistance database (AFRbase), it is better than the existing databases of antifungal resistance namely, FunResDB and MARDy which have a limited scope and inadequate information. Data of AFRbase was collected using both text mining and manual curation. AFRbase provides a separate window for visualization of mutations in the 2D and 3D formats making it easy for researchers to analyze the mutation data and ensures interoperability with other standard molecular biology databases like NCBI and UniProtKB. We hope AFRbase can be useful to both clinicians and basic biomedical scientists as we envision it as an important resource for genotypic susceptibility testing of fungi and to study/predict the course of evolution of antifungal resistance. The current version of AFRbase contains manually curated 3691 unique mutations present in 29 proteins of 32 fungal species along with the information of drugs against which resistance is caused. AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION AFRbase is an open access database available at http://proteininformatics.org/mkumar/afrbase/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aakriti Jain
- Department of Biophysics, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Neelja Singhal
- Department of Biophysics, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- Department of Biophysics, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi 110021, India
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Kalimuthu S, Pudipeddi A, Braś G, Tanner JA, Rapala-Kozik M, Leung YY, Neelakantan P. A heptadeca amino acid peptide subunit of cathelicidin LL-37 has previously unreported antifungal activity. APMIS 2023; 131:584-600. [PMID: 37150907 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13322] [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: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Yeasts such as Candida albicans, albeit being ubiquitous members of the skin, oral and vaginal microbiome, can cause superficial to life-threatening infections. Human cathelicidin LL-37-based peptides have antibacterial activity and yet, their antifungal activity remains to be thoroughly characterized. The aim of this study was to comprehensively investigate the activity of LL-37-based peptides against C. albicans. LL-37 and its derivatives were tested for their ability to kill C. albicans planktonic cells in the presence of various biological matrices (serum, plasma, saliva and urine), that have been reported to inactivate peptides. The antibiofilm activity, resistance development and biocompatibility were investigated for the lead peptide. GK-17, a 17 amino acid peptide, showed remarkable stability to fungal aspartyl proteases and rapidly killed planktonic C. albicans despite the presence of biological matrices. GK-17 also inhibited adhesion to biotic and abiotic substrates, inhibited biofilm formation and eradicated preformed biofilms in the presence of biological matrices. Compared to nystatin, GK-17 had a lower propensity to allow for resistance development by C. albicans. The peptide showed concentration-dependent biocompatibility to red blood cells, with only 30% hemolysis even at 4× the fungicidal concentration. Taken together, GK-17 is a novel antifungal peptide with promising effects against C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanthini Kalimuthu
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Akhila Pudipeddi
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Grażyna Braś
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Julian A Tanner
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Maria Rapala-Kozik
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Yiu Yan Leung
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong SAR
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Efremenko E, Aslanli A, Stepanov N, Senko O, Maslova O. Various Biomimetics, Including Peptides as Antifungals. Biomimetics (Basel) 2023; 8:513. [PMID: 37999154 PMCID: PMC10669293 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics8070513] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomimetics, which are similar to natural compounds that play an important role in the metabolism, manifestation of functional activity and reproduction of various fungi, have a pronounced attraction in the current search for new effective antifungals. Actual trends in the development of this area of research indicate that unnatural amino acids can be used as such biomimetics, including those containing halogen atoms; compounds similar to nitrogenous bases embedded in the nucleic acids synthesized by fungi; peptides imitating fungal analogs; molecules similar to natural substrates of numerous fungal enzymes and quorum-sensing signaling molecules of fungi and yeast, etc. Most parts of this review are devoted to the analysis of semi-synthetic and synthetic antifungal peptides and their targets of action. This review is aimed at combining and systematizing the current scientific information accumulating in this area of research, developing various antifungals with an assessment of the effectiveness of the created biomimetics and the possibility of combining them with other antimicrobial substances to reduce cell resistance and improve antifungal effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Efremenko
- Faculty of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Lenin Hills 1/3, Moscow 119991, Russia
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Milholland KL, Gregor JB, Hoda S, Píriz-Antúnez S, Dueñas-Santero E, Vu BG, Patel KP, Moye-Rowley WS, Vázquez de Aldana CR, Correa-Bordes J, Briggs SD, Hall MC. Rapid, efficient auxin-inducible protein degradation in Candida pathogens. mSphere 2023; 8:e0028323. [PMID: 37594261 PMCID: PMC10597344 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00283-23] [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: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
A variety of inducible protein degradation (IPD) systems have been developed as powerful tools for protein functional characterization. IPD systems provide a convenient mechanism for rapid inactivation of almost any target protein of interest. Auxin-inducible degradation (AID) is one of the most common IPD systems and has been established in diverse eukaryotic research model organisms. Thus far, IPD tools have not been developed for use in pathogenic fungal species. Here, we demonstrate that the original AID and the second generation, AID2, systems work efficiently and rapidly in the human pathogenic yeasts, Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. We developed a collection of plasmids that support AID system use in laboratory strains of these pathogens. These systems can induce >95% degradation of target proteins within minutes. In the case of AID2, maximal degradation was achieved at low nanomolar concentrations of the synthetic auxin analog 5-adamantyl-indole-3-acetic acid. Auxin-induced target degradation successfully phenocopied gene deletions in both species. The system should be readily adaptable to other fungal species and to clinical pathogen strains. Our results define the AID system as a powerful and convenient functional genomics tool for protein characterization in fungal pathogens. IMPORTANCE Life-threatening fungal infections are an escalating human health problem, complicated by limited treatment options and the evolution of drug resistant pathogen strains. Identification of new targets for therapeutics to combat invasive fungal infections, including those caused by Candida species, is an urgent need. In this report, we establish and validate an inducible protein degradation methodology in Candida albicans and Candida glabrata that provides a new tool for protein functional characterization in these, and likely other, fungal pathogen species. We expect this tool will ultimately be useful for the identification and characterization of promising drug targets and factors involved in virulence and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Justin B. Gregor
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Smriti Hoda
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | | | - Encarnación Dueñas-Santero
- Institute of Functional Biology and Genomics, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Bao Gia Vu
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Krishna P. Patel
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - W. Scott Moye-Rowley
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Carlos R. Vázquez de Aldana
- Institute of Functional Biology and Genomics, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Jaime Correa-Bordes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Scott D. Briggs
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Mark C. Hall
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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Li W, Ma X, Yong YC, Liu G, Yang Z. Review of paper-based microfluidic analytical devices for in-field testing of pathogens. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1278:341614. [PMID: 37709421 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341614] [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: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Pathogens cause various infectious diseases and high morbidity and mortality which is a global public health threat. The highly sensitive and specific detection is of significant importance for the effective treatment and intervention to minimise the impact. However, conventional detection methods including culture and molecular method gravely depend on expensive equipment and well-trained skilled personnel, limiting in the laboratory. It remains challenging to adapt in resource-limiting areas, e.g., low and middle-income countries (LMICs). To this end, low-cost, rapid, and sensitive detection tools with the capability of field testing e.g., a portable device for identification and quantification of pathogens, has attracted increasing attentions. Recently, paper-based microfluidic analytical devices (μPADs) have shown a promising tool for rapid and on-site diagnosis, providing a cost-effective and sensitive analytical approach for pathogens detection. The fast turn-round data collection may also contribute to better understanding of the risks and insights on mitigation method. In this paper, critical developments of μPADs for in-field detection of pathogens both for clinical diagnostics and environmental surveillance are reviewed. The future development, and challenges of μPADs for rapid and onsite detection of pathogens are discussed, including using the cross-disciplinary development with, emerging techniques such as deep learning and Internet of Things (IoT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenliang Li
- School of Water, Energy and Environment, Cranfield University, Cranfield, MK43 0AL, Bedford, United Kingdom
| | - Xuanye Ma
- School of Water, Energy and Environment, Cranfield University, Cranfield, MK43 0AL, Bedford, United Kingdom
| | - Yang-Chun Yong
- Biofuels Institute, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, School of Emergency Management & School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Guozhen Liu
- School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
| | - Zhugen Yang
- School of Water, Energy and Environment, Cranfield University, Cranfield, MK43 0AL, Bedford, United Kingdom.
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Steenwyk JL, Rokas A, Goldman GH. Know the enemy and know yourself: Addressing cryptic fungal pathogens of humans and beyond. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011704. [PMID: 37856485 PMCID: PMC10586694 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob L. Steenwyk
- Howards Hughes Medical Institute and the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Antonis Rokas
- Department of Biological Sciences and Evolutionary Studies Initiative, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Gustavo H. Goldman
- Faculdade de Ciencias Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Kim JS, Lee KT, Bahn YS. Secreted aspartyl protease 3 regulated by the Ras/cAMP/PKA pathway promotes the virulence of Candida auris. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1257897. [PMID: 37780854 PMCID: PMC10540861 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1257897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The surge of multidrug-resistant fungal pathogens, especially Candida auris, poses significant threats to global public health. Candida auris exhibits resistance to multiple antifungal drugs, leading to major outbreaks and a high mortality rate. With an urgent call for innovative therapeutic strategies, this study focused on the regulation and pathobiological significance of secreted aspartyl proteinases (SAPs) in C. auris, as these enzymes play pivotal roles in the virulence of some fungal species. We delved into the Ras/cAMP/PKA signaling pathway's influence on SAP activity in C. auris. Our findings underscored that the Ras/cAMP/PKA pathway significantly modulates SAP activity, with PKA catalytic subunits, Tpk1 and Tpk2, playing a key role. We identified a divergence in the SAPs of C. auris compared to Candida albicans, emphasizing the variation between Candida species. Among seven identified secreted aspartyl proteases in C. auris (Sapa1 to Sapa7), Sapa3 emerged as the primary SAP in the pathogen. Deletion of Sapa3 led to a significant decline in SAP activity. Furthermore, we have established the involvement of Sapa3 in the biofilm formation of C. auris. Notably, Sapa3 was primarily regulated by Tpk1 and Tpk2. Deletion of SAPA3 significantly reduced C. auris virulence, underscoring its pivotal role in C. auris pathogenicity. The outcomes of this study provide valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets, laying the groundwork for future interventions against C. auris infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Seok Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Tae Lee
- Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, Jeonbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sun Bahn
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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43
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Kim JS, Lee KT, Bahn YS. Deciphering the regulatory mechanisms of the cAMP/protein kinase A pathway and their roles in the pathogenicity of Candida auris. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0215223. [PMID: 37671881 PMCID: PMC10581177 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02152-23] [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: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of multidrug-resistant fungal pathogens is a significant concern for global public health. Candida auris poses a considerable threat as a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen. Our recent study revealed that the adenylyl cyclase Cyr1 and protein kinase A (PKA) pathways play distinct and redundant roles in drug resistance and pathogenicity of C. auris. However, the upstream and negative feedback regulatory mechanisms of C. auris are not yet fully understood. In this study, we discovered that the small GTPase Ras1, along with its nucleotide exchange factor Cdc25 and GTPase-activating protein Ira2, plays a major role in regulating cAMP/PKA-dependent traits, while G-protein-coupled receptor Gpr1 and heterotrimeric G-protein α subunit Gpa2 play a minor role. Pde2 plays a major role in negative feedback regulation of the cAMP/PKA pathway, while Pde1 plays a minor role. Hyperactivation of the Ras/cAMP/PKA pathway by deleting PDE2 or BCY1 renders C. auris cells thermosensitive and susceptible to nutrient deficiency, which leads to attenuated virulence. Our study demonstrates the distinct contributions of hyperactivation of the Ras/cAMP/PKA signaling pathway to C. auris pathogenesis and suggests potential therapeutic targets for C. auris-mediated candidiasis. IMPORTANCE Candida auris is a major concern as a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen. While our previous studies highlighted the crucial roles of the cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway in regulating drug resistance, stress responses, morphogenesis, ploidy change, biofilm formation, and pathogenicity in this pathogen, their regulatory mechanism remains unclear. In our study, we provided evidence that the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway in C. auris is primarily governed by the small GTPase RAS rather than a G-protein-coupled receptor. Additionally, we discovered that the negative feedback regulation of cAMP, controlled by phosphodiesterases, is vital for C. auris virulence by promoting resistance to high temperatures and nutrient deficiencies. These findings underscore the diverse pathobiological significance of the Ras/cAMP/PKA signaling pathway in C. auris, shedding light on potential therapeutic targets and strategies for combating this multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Seok Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Tae Lee
- Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonbuk, South Korea
| | - Yong-Sun Bahn
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
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44
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Madkhali OA. A comprehensive review on potential applications of metallic nanoparticles as antifungal therapies to combat human fungal diseases. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:101733. [PMID: 37649674 PMCID: PMC10463261 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2023.101733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Human pathogenic fungi are responsible for causing a range of infection types including mucosal, skin, and invasive infections. Life-threatening and invasive fungal infections (FIs) are responsible for mortality and morbidity, especially for individuals with compromised immune function. The number of currently available therapeutic agents against invasive FIs is limited compared to that against bacterial infections. In addition, the increased mortality and morbidity caused by FIs are linked to the limited number of available antifungal agents, antifungal resistance, and the increased toxicity of these agents. Currently available antifungal agents have several drawbacks in efficiency, efficacy, toxicity, activity spectrum, and selectivity. It has already been demonstrated with numerous metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) that these nanoparticles can serve as an effective and alternative solution as fungicidal agents. MNPs have great potential owing to their intrinsic antifungal properties and potential to deliver antifungal drugs. For instance, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have the capacity to disturb mitochondrial calcium homeostasis induced AuNP-mediated cell death in Candida albicans. In addition, both copper nanoparticles and copper oxide nanoparticles exerted significant suppressive properties against pathogenic fungi. Silver nanoparticles showed strong antifungal properties against numerous pathogenic fungi, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, Mortierella alpina, Chaetomium globosum, A. fumigatus, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Penicillium brevicompactum, Trichophyton rubrum, C. tropicalis, and C. albicans. Iron oxide nanoparticles showed potent antifungal activities against A. niger and P. chrysogenum. It has also been reported that zinc oxide nanoparticles can significantly inhibit fungal growth. These NPs have already exerted potent antifungal properties against a number of pathogenic fungal species including Candida, Aspergillus, Fusarium, and many others. Several strategies are currently used for the research and development of antifungal NPs including chemical modification of NPs and combination with the available drugs. This review has comprehensively presented the current and innovative antifungal approach using MNPs. Moreover, different types of MNPs, their physicochemical characteristics, and production techniques have been summarized in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama A. Madkhali
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45124, Saudi Arabia
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45
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Wójcik-Mieszawska S, Lewtak K, Skwarek E, Dębowski D, Gitlin-Domagalska A, Nowak J, Wydrych J, Pawelec J, Fiołka MJ. Autophagy of Candida albicans cells after the action of earthworm Venetin-1 nanoparticle with protease inhibitor activity. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14228. [PMID: 37648723 PMCID: PMC10468520 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41281-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The present studies show the effect of the Venetin-1 protein-polysaccharide complex obtained from the coelomic fluid of the earthworm Dendrobaena veneta on Candida albicans cells. They are a continuation of research on the mechanisms of action, cellular targets, and modes of cell death. After the action of Venetin-1, a reduced survival rate of the yeast cells was noted. The cells were observed to be enlarged compared to the controls and deformed. In addition, an increase in the number of cells with clearly enlarged vacuoles was noted. The detected autophagy process was confirmed using differential interference contrast, fluorescence microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Autophagic vesicles were best visible after incubation of fungus cells with the Venetin-1 complex at a concentration of 50 and 100 µg mL-1. The changes in the vacuoles were accompanied by changes in the size of mitochondria, which is probably related to the previously documented oxidative stress. The aggregation properties of Venetin-1 were characterized. Based on the results of the zeta potential at the Venetin-1/KCl interface, the pHiep = 4 point was determined, i.e. the zeta potential becomes positive above pH = 4 and is negative below this value, which may affect the electrostatic interactions with other particles surrounding Venetin-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Wójcik-Mieszawska
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Kinga Lewtak
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Ewa Skwarek
- Department of Radiochemistry and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Dawid Dębowski
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Agata Gitlin-Domagalska
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jakub Nowak
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Jerzy Wydrych
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Jarosław Pawelec
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta J Fiołka
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland.
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Cascaes MM, Marques da Silva SH, de Oliveira MS, Cruz JN, de Moraes ÂAB, do Nascimento LD, Ferreira OO, Guilhon GMSP, Andrade EHDA. Exploring the chemical composition, in vitro and in silico study of the anticandidal properties of annonaceae species essential oils from the Amazon. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289991. [PMID: 37616214 PMCID: PMC10449155 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289991] [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: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemical composition of the essential oils (EOs) from the leaves of five Annonaceae species found in the amazon region was analyzed by Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The antifungal activity of theses EOs was tested against Candida albicans, Candida auris, Candida famata, Candida krusei and Candida tropicalis. In addition, an in silico study of the molecular interactions was performed using molecular modeling approaches. Spathulenol (29.88%), α-pinene (15.73%), germacra-4(15),5,10(14)-trien-1-α-ol (6.65%), and caryophylene oxide (6.28%) where the major constitents from the EO of Anaxagorea dolichocarpa. The EO of Duguetia echinophora was characterized by β-phellanderene (24.55%), cryptone (12.43%), spathulenol (12.30%), and sabinene (7.54%). The major compounds of the EO of Guatteria scandens where β-pinene (46.71%), α-pinene (9.14%), bicyclogermacrene (9.33%), and E-caryophyllene (8.98%). The EO of Xylopia frutescens was characterized by α-pinene (40.12%) and β-pinene (36.46%). Spathulenol (13.8%), allo-aromadendrene epoxide (8.99%), thujopsan-2-α-ol (7.74%), and muurola-4,10(14)-dien-1-β-ol (7.14%) were the main chemical constituents reported in Xylopia emarginata EO. All EOs were active against the strains tested and the lowest inhibitory concentrations were observed for the EOs of D. echinophora, X. emarginata, and X. frutescens against C. famata the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration values of 0.07, 0.019 and 0.62 μL.mL-1, respectively. The fungicidal action was based on results of minimum fungicidal concentration and showed that the EOs showed fungicide activity against C. tropicalis (2.5 μL.mL-1), C. krusei (2.5 μL.mL-1) and C. auris (5 μL.mL-1), respectively. The computer simulation results indicated that the major compounds of the EOs can interact with molecular targets of Candida spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márcia Moraes Cascaes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Química, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Silvia Helena Marques da Silva
- Seção de Bacteriologia e Micologia LabMicol—SABMI Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Evandro Chagas—IEC/SVS/MS, Ananindeua, Brazil
| | - Mozaniel Santana de Oliveira
- Laboratório Adolpho Ducke, Coordenação de Botânica, Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Belém, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas—Botânica Tropical, Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia and Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Jorddy Neves Cruz
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Ângelo Antônio Barbosa de Moraes
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Eloisa Helena de Aguiar Andrade
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Química, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
- Laboratório Adolpho Ducke, Coordenação de Botânica, Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Belém, Brazil
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47
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Pan SF, Huang SM, Xie L, Zhang YY, Tang YR, Wang XZ. A Case of Invasive Fungal Infection Due to Scedosporium apiospermum in a Patient with Psoriasis. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:5085-5090. [PMID: 37576520 PMCID: PMC10422967 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s420991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Scedosporium apiospermum (S. apiospermum) is typically reported to be involved in superficial and subcutaneous fungal infections but overlooked in invasive infections, which is associated with a high mortality rate. It poses a diagnostic challenge due to its confusable characteristics to other hyaline hyphomycetes. Here, we reported a psoriasis patient with an invasive S. apiospermum infection. The patient presents an abscess at the intermuscular space of the left hip and an increased C-reactive protein level. Pus culture showed white-greyish, cottonlike colonies with aerial mycelium and terminal oval conidia, suggesting S. apiospermum. This rare fungus was rapidly confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and RNA sequencing. The patient was successfully treated with voriconazole with no recurrence of the abscesses despite delayed treatment. This is the first such case infection report from China that described an unusual case of intermuscular space abscesses due to S. apiospermum. This report highlights the possibility of fungal infections in deeper tissue, as well as the necessity of thorough evaluation and microbiological diagnosis for invasive infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Fei Pan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shi-Mei Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lian Xie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu-Rong Tang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Zhen Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, People’s Republic of China
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Kumari S, Alsaidan OA, Mohanty D, Zafar A, Das S, Gupta JK, Khalid M. Development of Soft Luliconazole Invasomes Gel for Effective Transdermal Delivery: Optimization to In-Vivo Antifungal Activity. Gels 2023; 9:626. [PMID: 37623081 PMCID: PMC10453308 DOI: 10.3390/gels9080626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Luliconazole (LZ) is a good candidate for the treatment of fungal infection topically but has limitations, i.e., poor solubility and poor permeability to skin. Due to these limitations, multiple administrations for a long time are required to treat the inflection. The aim of the present study was to develop the invasomes (IVS) gel of LZ to improve the topical antifungal activity. The IVS was prepared by the thin-film hydration method and optimized by Box-Bhekhen design software. The optimized LZIVS (LZIVSopt) has 139.1 ± 4.32 nm of vesicle size, 88.21 ± 0.82% of entrapment efficiency, 0.301 ± 0.012 of PDI, and 19.5 mV (negative) of zeta potential. Scanning microscopy showed a spherical shape of the vesicle. FTIR spectra showed there is no interaction between the drug and lipid. Thermogram showed that the LZ is encapsulated into the LZIVS matrix. LZIVSopt gel (LZIVSopt-G3) exhibited optimum viscosity (6493 ± 27 cps) and significant spreadability (7.2 g·cm/s). LZIVSopt-G3 showed 2.47-fold higher permeation than pure LZ-gel. LZIVSopt-G3 did not show any edema or swelling in the skin, revealing that the developed formulation is non-irritant. LZIVSopt-G3 exhibited significant inhibition of the fungus infection (C. albicans) in the infected rats. The finding concluded that IVS gel is a good carrier and an attractive approach for the enhancement of topical delivery of LZ to treat the fungal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunitha Kumari
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Anurag University, Hyderabad 500088, Telangana, India;
| | - Omar Awad Alsaidan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72341, Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia; (O.A.A.); (A.Z.)
| | - Dibyalochan Mohanty
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Anurag University, Hyderabad 500088, Telangana, India;
| | - Ameeduzzafar Zafar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72341, Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia; (O.A.A.); (A.Z.)
| | - Swagatika Das
- School of Pharmacy, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Gopalpur 756044, Odisha, India;
| | - Jeetendra Kumar Gupta
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura 281406, Uttar Pradesh, India;
| | - Mohammad Khalid
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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49
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Shukla P, Deswal D, Narula AK. Antifungal activity of novel azetidine tethered chitosan synthesized via multicomponent reaction approach. J Mycol Med 2023; 33:101409. [PMID: 37354816 PMCID: PMC10266883 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2023.101409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The increasing incidences of fungal infections among Covid-19 infected patients is a global public concern and urgently demands novel antifungals. Biopolymers like chitosan hold unique structural properties and thus can be utilized in the synthesis of biologically important scaffolds. To address the current scenario, the author's synthesized novel chitosan-azetidine derivative by adopting one-pot multicomponent reaction approach. The influence of chemical modification on the structural characteristics was investigated by means of spectroscopic techniques viz. FT-IR and 1HNMR and elemental analysis. Additionally, the authors investigated the antifungal potential of chitosan-azetidine derivative against Aspergillus fumigatus 3007 and the results indicated higher antifungal effect with an antifungal inhibitory index of 26.19%. The SEM and confocal microscopy images also reflected a significant inhibitory effect on the morphology of fungal mycelia, thus reflecting the potential of synthesized chitosan-azetidine derivativeas a potential antifungal agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Shukla
- University School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi 110078, India
| | - D Deswal
- Centre of Excellence in Pharmaceutical Sciences (CEPS), Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi 110078, India
| | - A K Narula
- University School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi 110078, India; Centre of Excellence in Pharmaceutical Sciences (CEPS), Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi 110078, India.
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50
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Diongue K, Dembélé B, Ndiaye M, Seck MC, Diallo MA, Badiane AS, Ndiaye D, Ranque S. Evaluation of knowledge and experience of fungal infections (mycoses) among clinical doctors in Senegal. J Mycol Med 2023; 33:101408. [PMID: 37307640 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2023.101408] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In order to assess the knowledge and experience of fungal infections (FIs) among clinicians in Senegal, a cross-sectional survey was carried out among medical practitioners in Senegal via a questionnaire designed with "Google Forms" between 24 January and 24 April 2022. A total of 100 clinicians responded to the questionnaire. Clinicians in the 31- 40-year-old age group formed the majority of respondents (51%). Male respondents were predominant (72%). Forty-one percent of respondents were general practitioners, 40% were specialist doctors, and the rest were residents. Dermatologists were the most common at 15% (6/40). In terms of clinicians' general knowledge of fungi, FIs and their therapeutic management, an average of 70% correct answers was recorded. The majority (70%) of respondents cared for between two to four different categories of patients at risk of invasive FIs (IFIs) at a time, with diabetes predominating. Eighty percent confirmed that they had been confronted with FIs, including 43% with superficial FIs, 3% with subcutaneous FIs and 5% with IFIs. Thirty-four percent of doctors stated that they had never suspected an IFI. Candidiasis was the most commonly mentioned mycosis by doctors. To support the diagnosis of these FIs, 22% of the clinicians said that they had recourse only to the clinical diagnosis. In total, 79% of clinicians responded that they had never used an antifungal chemoprophylaxis. In addition, 28% and 22% of practicing physicians chose a combination of antifungals for the chemoprophylaxis of invasive candidiasis and invasive aspergillosis, respectively. This survey shows that both clinicians' knowledge and experience of fungi, antifungals, FIs and their therapeutic management, as well as chemoprophylaxis, need to be improved. Indeed, half of the clinicians seem to be unaware of the incidence of FIs, in particular IFIs, which, nevertheless, represent some of the deadliest infectious diseases in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadim Diongue
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Aristide Le Dantec University Hospital, Dakar 3001, Senegal; Service of Parasitology-Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology, Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 10700, Senegal; Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée, et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 16477, Senegal.
| | - Boubou Dembélé
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Aristide Le Dantec University Hospital, Dakar 3001, Senegal
| | - Mouhamadou Ndiaye
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Aristide Le Dantec University Hospital, Dakar 3001, Senegal; Service of Parasitology-Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology, Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 10700, Senegal; Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée, et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 16477, Senegal
| | - Mame Cheikh Seck
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Aristide Le Dantec University Hospital, Dakar 3001, Senegal; Service of Parasitology-Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology, Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 10700, Senegal; Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée, et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 16477, Senegal
| | - Mamadou Alpha Diallo
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Aristide Le Dantec University Hospital, Dakar 3001, Senegal; Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée, et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 16477, Senegal
| | - Aïda Sadikh Badiane
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Aristide Le Dantec University Hospital, Dakar 3001, Senegal; Service of Parasitology-Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology, Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 10700, Senegal; Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée, et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 16477, Senegal
| | - Daouda Ndiaye
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Aristide Le Dantec University Hospital, Dakar 3001, Senegal; Service of Parasitology-Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology, Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 10700, Senegal; Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée, et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar 16477, Senegal
| | - Stéphane Ranque
- Aix-Marseille Université, AP-HM, IRD, SSA, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France; IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
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