1
|
Nouraei H, Zare S, Nemati M, Amirzadeh N, Motamedi M, Shabanzadeh S, Zomorodian K, Pakshir K. Comparative analysis of enzymatic profiles and biofilm formation in clinical and environmental Candida kefyr isolates. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2024; 16:e13282. [PMID: 38923398 PMCID: PMC11194042 DOI: 10.1111/1758-2229.13282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The global landscape of Candida infections has seen a significant shift. Previously, Candida albicans was the predominant species. However, there has been an emergence of non-albicans Candida species, which are often less susceptible to antifungal treatment. Candida kefyr, in particular, has been increasingly associated with infections. This study aimed to investigate the profiles of enzymatic activity and biofilm formation in both clinical and non-clinical isolates of C. kefyr. A total of 66 C. kefyr isolates were analysed. The activities of proteinase and phospholipase were assessed using bovine serum albumin and egg yolk agar, respectively. Haemolysin, caseinolytic and esterase activities were evaluated using specific methods. Biofilm formation was investigated using crystal violet staining. The findings indicated that biofilm and proteinase activity were detected in 81.8% and 93.9% of all the isolates, respectively. Haemolysin activity was observed with the highest occurrence (95.5%) among normal microbiota isolates. Esterase activity was predominantly identified in dairy samples and was absent in hospital samples. Caseinase production was found with the highest occurrence (18.2%) in normal microbiota and hospital samples. Phospholipase activity was limited, found in only 3% of all the isolates. These findings reveal variations in enzyme activity between clinical and non-clinical C. kefyr isolates. This sheds light on their pathogenic potential and has implications for therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hasti Nouraei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Samira Zare
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Maryam Nemati
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Neda Amirzadeh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Marjan Motamedi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Shafigheh Shabanzadeh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Kamiar Zomorodian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Keyvan Pakshir
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Characterization of Virulence Factors in Candida Species Causing Candidemia in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9030353. [PMID: 36983521 PMCID: PMC10059995 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Candidemia is often associated with high mortality, and Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, and Candida parapsilosis are common causes of this disease. The pathogenicity characteristics of specific Candida spp. that cause candidemia in Thailand are poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the virulence factors of Candida spp. Thirty-eight isolates of different Candida species from blood cultures were evaluated for their virulence properties, including exoenzyme and biofilm production, cell surface hydrophobicity, tissue invasion, epithelial cell damage, morphogenesis, and phagocytosis resistance; the identity and frequency of mutations in ERG11 contributing to azole-resistance were also determined. C. albicans had the highest epithelial cell invasion rate and phospholipase activity, with true hyphae formation, whereas C. tropicalis produced the most biofilm, hydrophobicity, protease activity, and host cell damage and true hyphae formation. ERG11 mutations Y132F and S154F were observed in all azole-resistant C. tropicalis. C. glabrata had the most hemolytic activity while cell invasion was low with no morphologic transition. C. glabrata was more easily phagocytosed than other species. C. parapsilosis generated pseudohyphae but not hyphae and did not exhibit any trends in exoenzyme production. This knowledge will be crucial for understanding the pathogenicity of Candida spp. and will help to explore antivirulence-based treatment.
Collapse
|
3
|
Savkovic Z, Stupar M, Unkovic N, Stancic A, Vukojevic J, Ljaljevic-Grbic M. Hemolytic potential of bioaerosol-derived Aspergillus, Penicillium and Talaromyces mould isolates. ZBORNIK MATICE SRPSKE ZA PRIRODNE NAUKE 2022. [DOI: 10.2298/zmspn2243015s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus, Penicillium and Talaromyces species are frequently cited as
contaminants of various substrata and are often associated with indoor
environments. The main purpose of this study was to assess the potential
pathogenicity of aerosol-derived fungi from Aspergillus, Penicillium and
Talaromyces genera, isolated in the rooms for con?servation of cultural
heritage artefacts, via estimating hemolytic activity. Hemolysis was
detected in 20.58% of tested isolates at 37?C (11.76% partial and 8.82%
complete) and 64.71% at 25?C (38.24% partial and 26.47% complete). The
majority of isolates that caused ? hemolysis led to the significant
oxidation of hemoglobin iron with methemoglobin content in blood agar
medium, higher than 80%. Aspergillus melleus was the only tested fungi that
caused formation of ferry hemoglobin after the incubation at 25?C. Obtained
I values (index of activity for hemolytic exoenzymes) for ? hemolysis were
in range of from 0.13 to 0.60 for 37?C, while for the temperature of 25?C
values were in range of from 0.08 to 0.50. The same values for ? hemolysis
were in range of from 0.03 to 0.08 (37?C), i.e. 0.06 to 0.49 (25?C).
Monitoring of pathogenic airborne fungi in indoor environments and
estimation of their virulence is essential for the adequate assessment of
human health risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeljko Savkovic
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Botany and Botanical Garden “Jevremovac”, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milos Stupar
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Botany and Botanical Garden “Jevremovac”, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nikola Unkovic
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Botany and Botanical Garden “Jevremovac”, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Stancic
- University of Belgrade, Institute for Medical Research, Laboratory for Immunology, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Vukojevic
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Botany and Botanical Garden “Jevremovac”, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Ljaljevic-Grbic
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Botany and Botanical Garden “Jevremovac”, Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sasani E, Yadegari MH, Khodavaisy S, Rezaie S, Salehi M, Getso MI. Virulence Factors and Azole-Resistant Mechanism of Candida Tropicalis Isolated from Candidemia. Mycopathologia 2021; 186:847-856. [PMID: 34410566 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-021-00580-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited knowledge exists on the virulence factors of Candida tropicalis and the mechanisms of azole resistance that lead to an intensified pathogenicity and treatment failure. We aimed to evaluate the virulence factors and molecular mechanisms of azole resistance among C. tropicalis isolated from patients with candidemia. MATERIALS AND METHODS Several virulence factors, including extracellular enzymatic activities, cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH), and biofilm formation, were evaluated. Antifungal susceptibility pattern and expression level of ERG11, UPC2, MDR1, and CDR1 genes of eight (4 fluconazole resistance and 4 fluconazole susceptible) clinical C. tropicalis isolates were assessed. The correlation between the virulence factors and antifungal susceptibility patterns was analyzed. RESULTS During a 4 year study, forty-five C. tropicalis isolates were recovered from candidemia patients. The isolates expressed different frequencies of virulence determinants as follows: coagulase 4 (8.9%), phospholipase 5 (11.1%), proteinase 31 (68.9%), esterase 43 (95.6%), hemolysin 44 (97.8%), biofilm formation 45 (100%) and CSH 45(100%). All the isolates were susceptible to amphotericin B and showed the highest resistance to voriconazole. There was a significant positive correlation between micafungin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and hemolysin production (rs = 0.316). However, we found a negative correlation between fluconazole MICs and esterase production (rs = -0.383). We observed the high expression of ERG11 and UPC2 genes in fluconazole-resistant C. tropicalis isolates. CONCLUSION C. tropicalis isolated from candidemia patients extensively displayed capacities for biofilm formation, hemolysis, esterase activity, and hydrophobicity. In addition, the overexpression of ERG11 and UPC2 genes was considered one of the possible mechanisms of azole resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Sasani
- Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Yadegari
- Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sadegh Khodavaisy
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sassan Rezaie
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Salehi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Muhammad Ibrahim Getso
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mba IE, Nweze EI. Mechanism of Candida pathogenesis: revisiting the vital drivers. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 39:1797-1819. [PMID: 32372128 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-020-03912-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Candida is the most implicated fungal pathogen in the clinical setting. Several factors play important roles in the pathogenesis of Candida spp. Multiple transcriptional circuits, morphological and phenotypic switching, biofilm formation, tissue damaging extracellular hydrolytic enzymes, metabolic flexibility, genome plasticity, adaptation to environmental pH fluctuation, robust nutrient acquisition system, adherence and invasions (mediated by adhesins and invasins), heat shock proteins (HSPs), cytolytic proteins, escape from phagocytosis, evasion from host immune system, synergistic coaggregation with resident microbiota, resistance to antifungal agents, and the ability to efficiently respond to multiple stresses are some of the major pathogenic determinants of Candida species. The existence of multiple connections, in addition to the interactions and associations among all of these factors, are distinctive features that play important roles in the establishment of Candida infections. This review describes all the underlying factors and mechanisms involved in Candida pathogenesis by evaluating pathogenic determinants of Candida species. It reinforces the already available pool of data on the pathogenesis of Candida species by providing a clear and simplified understanding of the most important factors implicated in the pathogenesis of Candida species. The Candida pathogenesis network, an illustration linking all the major determinants of Candida pathogenesis, is also presented. Taken together, they will further improve our current understanding of how these factors modulate virulence and consequent infection(s). Development of new antifungal drugs and better therapeutic approaches to candidiasis can be achieved in the near future with continuing progress in the understanding of the mechanisms of Candida pathogenesis.
Collapse
|
6
|
Magalhães Pinto L, de Assis Bezerra Neto F, Araújo Paulo de Medeiros M, Zuza Alves DL, Maranhão Chaves G. Candida species isolated from pigeon (Columbia livia) droppings may express virulence factors and resistance to azoles. Vet Microbiol 2019; 235:43-52. [PMID: 31282378 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2019.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Even though it is widely known that Cryptococcus spp. may transmit cryptococcosis trough aerosol formed when dried birds (mainly pigeons) droppings are dispersed and become airborne, little is known about the role of these birds in harboring other pathogenic yeasts in their gastrointestinal tract, feathers and beaks, specifically because these animals often stay and reproduce close or even above air conditioner units. Here we evaluated the prevalence of pathogenic yeasts isolated from pigeon droppings collected in the outside area of a University Hospital in Brazil. We also aimed to investigate the pathogenic potential and antifungal susceptibility of Candida species of medical interest isolated from these samples. Therefore, we performed the evaluation of virulence factors attributes expression in vitro, including the ability to adhere to human buccal epithelial cells and biofilm formation and to produce lytic enzymes, such as phospholipases, proteinases and hemolysins. Antifungal susceptibility testing against fluconazole, itraconazole, amphotericin and micafungin was also performed. The Candida genus was the most prevalent in our study, with several medically important species being isolated. Of note, these strains were able to express several virulence factors in vitro, clearly showing their pathogenic potential. Our study was able to demonstrate that Candida spp. isolated from pigeon droppings may express virulence factors in the same manner of clinical isolates, suggesting a pathogenic potential for these yeasts. The fact these strains were collected from the outside area of a tertiary hospital may be of interest, because they may be a source of infection, specifically to immunocompromised hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Magalhães Pinto
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Mycology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua. Gal. Gustavo Cordeiro de Faria S/N, Petrópolis, CEP: 59012-570. Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil.
| | - Francisco de Assis Bezerra Neto
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Mycology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua. Gal. Gustavo Cordeiro de Faria S/N, Petrópolis, CEP: 59012-570. Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil.
| | - Mariana Araújo Paulo de Medeiros
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Mycology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua. Gal. Gustavo Cordeiro de Faria S/N, Petrópolis, CEP: 59012-570. Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil.
| | - Diana Luzia Zuza Alves
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Mycology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua. Gal. Gustavo Cordeiro de Faria S/N, Petrópolis, CEP: 59012-570. Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil.
| | - Guilherme Maranhão Chaves
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Mycology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua. Gal. Gustavo Cordeiro de Faria S/N, Petrópolis, CEP: 59012-570. Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Vieira de Melo AP, Zuza-Alves DL, da Silva-Rocha WP, Ferreira Canário de Souza LB, Francisco EC, Salles de Azevedo Melo A, Maranhão Chaves G. Virulence factors of Candida spp. obtained from blood cultures of patients with candidemia attended at tertiary hospitals in Northeast Brazil. J Mycol Med 2019; 29:132-139. [PMID: 30876744 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Yeasts of the Candida genus are one of the most common causes of bloodstream infections associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, mainly affecting immunocompromised patients. We aimed to identify yeasts obtained from blood cultures of patients interned at tertiary hospitals in Brazil. METHODS We evaluated some of the major virulence factors of Candida spp., including the ability to adhere to human buccal epithelial cells, biofilm formation, hemolytic and phospholipase activity. RESULTS We analyzed 70 isolates of Candida spp. obtained from March 2011 and March 2015. Candida spp. showed different peculiarities in terms of expression of virulence factors evaluated in vitro. C. albicans strains were more adherent to HBEC than all the other Candida species. C. tropicalis strains were considered strong biofilm producers. Strains belonging to the C. parapsilosis species complex were able to produce hemolysins, while C. glabrata was also able to lyse erythrocytes and to produce phospholipase. CONCLUSION These results suggest that Non-Candida albicans Candida species are also able to express virulence factors which play an important role in bloodstream infectious caused by these yeasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A P Vieira de Melo
- Natal City, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil; Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - D L Zuza-Alves
- Natal City, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil; Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - W P da Silva-Rocha
- Natal City, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil; Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - L B Ferreira Canário de Souza
- Natal City, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil; Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - E C Francisco
- São Paulo City, Laboratório Especial de Micologia, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A Salles de Azevedo Melo
- São Paulo City, Laboratório Especial de Micologia, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G Maranhão Chaves
- Natal City, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil; Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Furlaneto MC, Góes HP, Perini HF, Dos Santos RC, Furlaneto-Maia L. How much do we know about hemolytic capability of pathogenic Candida species? Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2018; 63:405-412. [PMID: 29335820 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-018-0584-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Hemolytic factor production by pathogenic Candida species is considered an important attribute in promoting survival within the mammal host through the ability to assimilate iron from the hemoglobin-heme group. Hemolytic capability has been evaluated for Candida species based on hemolysis zones on plate assay, analysis of hemolytic activity in liquid culture medium, and hemolysis from cell-free culture broth. The production of hemolytic factor is variable among Candida species, where C. parapsilosis is the less hemolytic species. In general, no intraspecies differences in beta-hemolytic activities are found among isolates belonging to C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis. The production of hemolytic factor by Candida species is affected by several factors such as glucose supplementation in the culture medium, blood source, presence of erythrocytes and hemoglobin, and presence of electrolytes. On the basis of existing achievements, more researches are still needed in order to extend our knowledge about the biochemical nature of hemolytic molecules produced by distinct Candida species, the mechanism of hemolysis, and the molecular basis of the hemolytic factor expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Márcia C Furlaneto
- Department of Microbiology, Paraná State University of Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, Km 380, s/n. Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR, 86057-970, Brazil.
| | - Helena P Góes
- Department of Microbiology, Paraná State University of Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, Km 380, s/n. Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR, 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Hugo F Perini
- Department of Microbiology, Paraná State University of Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, Km 380, s/n. Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR, 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Renan C Dos Santos
- Department of Microbiology, Paraná State University of Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, Km 380, s/n. Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR, 86057-970, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Neji S, Hadrich I, Trabelsi H, Abbes S, Cheikhrouhou F, Sellami H, Makni F, Ayadi A. Virulence factors, antifungal susceptibility and molecular mechanisms of azole resistance among Candida parapsilosis complex isolates recovered from clinical specimens. J Biomed Sci 2017; 24:67. [PMID: 28870262 PMCID: PMC5582387 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-017-0376-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to determine the biofilm formation, the extracellular enzymatic activities of 182 clinical isolates of the Candida parapsilosis complex. Methods Molecular identification of the C. parapsilosis species complex was performed using PCR RFLP of SADH gene and PCR sequencing of ITS region. The susceptibility of ours isolates to antifungal agents and molecular mechanisms underlying azole resistance were evaluated. Results 63.5% of C. parapsilosis were phospholipase positive with moderate activity for the majority of strains. None of the C. metapsilosis or C. orthopsilosis isolates was able to produce phospholipase. Higher caseinase activities were detected in C. parapsilosis (Pz = 0.5 ± 0.18) and C. orthopsilosis (Pz = 0.49 ± 0.07) than in C. metapsilosis isolates (Pz = 0.72 ± 0.1). 96.5% of C. parapsilosis strains and all isolates of C. metapsilosis and C. orthopsilosis produced gelatinase. All the strains possessed the ability to show haemolysis on blood agar. C. metapsilosis exhibited the low haemolysin production with statistical significant differences compared to C. parapsilosis and C. orthopsilosis. The biofilm forming ability of C. parapsilosis was highly strain dependent with important heterogeneity, which was less evident with both C. orthopsilosis and C. metapsilosis. Some C. parapsilosis isolates met the criterion for susceptible dose dependent to fluconazole (10.91%), itraconazole (16.36%) and voriconazole (7.27%). Moreover, 5.45% and 1.82% of C. parapsilosis isolates were respectively resistant to fluconazole and voriconazole. All strains of C. metapsilosis and C. orthopsilosis were susceptible to azoles; and isolates of all three species exhibited 100% of susceptibility to caspofungin, amphotericin B and 5-flucytosine. Conclusions A combination of molecular mechanisms, including the overexpression of ERG11, and genes encoding efflux pumps (CDR1, MDR1, and MRR1) were involved in azole resistance in C. parapsilosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sourour Neji
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, UH Habib Bourguiba, Sfax, Tunisia.,Laboratory of Fungal and Parasitic Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Ines Hadrich
- Laboratory of Fungal and Parasitic Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia.
| | - Houaida Trabelsi
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, UH Habib Bourguiba, Sfax, Tunisia.,Laboratory of Fungal and Parasitic Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Salma Abbes
- Laboratory of Fungal and Parasitic Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Fatma Cheikhrouhou
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, UH Habib Bourguiba, Sfax, Tunisia.,Laboratory of Fungal and Parasitic Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Hayet Sellami
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, UH Habib Bourguiba, Sfax, Tunisia.,Laboratory of Fungal and Parasitic Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Fattouma Makni
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, UH Habib Bourguiba, Sfax, Tunisia.,Laboratory of Fungal and Parasitic Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Ali Ayadi
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, UH Habib Bourguiba, Sfax, Tunisia.,Laboratory of Fungal and Parasitic Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zuza-Alves DL, de Medeiros SSTQ, de Souza LBFC, Silva-Rocha WP, Francisco EC, de Araújo MCB, Lima-Neto RG, Neves RP, Melo ASDA, Chaves GM. Evaluation of Virulence Factors In vitro, Resistance to Osmotic Stress and Antifungal Susceptibility of Candida tropicalis Isolated from the Coastal Environment of Northeast Brazil. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:1783. [PMID: 27895625 PMCID: PMC5108815 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.01783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have been developed regarding human health risks associated with the recreational use of beaches contaminated with domestic sewage. These wastes contain various micro-organisms, including Candida tropicalis. In this context, the objective of this study was to characterize C. tropicalis isolates from the sandy beach of Ponta Negra, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, regarding the expression of in vitro virulence factors, adaptation to osmotic stress and susceptibility to antifungal drugs. We analyzed 62 environmental isolates and observed a great variation among them for the various virulence factors evaluated. In general, environmental isolates were more adherent to human buccal epithelial cells (HBEC) than C. tropicalis ATCC13803 reference strain, and they also showed increased biofilm production. Most of the isolates presented wrinkled phenotypes on Spider medium (34 isolates, 54.8%). The majority of the isolates also showed higher proteinase production than control strains, but low phospholipase activity. In addition, 35 isolates (56.4%) had high hemolytic activity (hemolysis index > 0.55). With regard to C. tropicalis resistance to osmotic stress, 85.4% of the isolates were able to grow in a liquid medium containing 15% sodium chloride. The strains were highly resistant to the azoles tested (fluconazole, voriconazole and itraconazole). Fifteen strains were resistant to the three azoles tested (24.2%). Some strains were also resistant to amphotericin B (14 isolates; 22.6%), while all of them were susceptible for the echinocandins tested, except for a single strain of intermediate susceptibility to micafungin. Our results demonstrate that C. tropicalis isolated from the sand can fully express virulence attributes and showed a high persistence capacity on the coastal environment; in addition of showing high minimal inhibitory concentrations to several antifungal drugs used in current clinical practice, demonstrating that environmental isolates may have pathogenic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana L Zuza-Alves
- Medical and Molecular Micology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte Natal, Brazil
| | - Sayama S T Q de Medeiros
- Medical and Molecular Micology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte Natal, Brazil
| | - Luanda B F C de Souza
- Medical and Molecular Micology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte Natal, Brazil
| | - Walicyranison P Silva-Rocha
- Medical and Molecular Micology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte Natal, Brazil
| | - Elaine C Francisco
- Department of Mycology, Federal University of Pernambuco São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria C B de Araújo
- Department of Oceanography and Limnology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Rejane P Neves
- Department of Mycology, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | - Guilherme M Chaves
- Medical and Molecular Micology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte Natal, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wan L, Luo G, Lu H, Xuan D, Cao H, Zhang J. Changes in the hemolytic activity of Candida species by common electrolytes. BMC Microbiol 2015; 15:171. [PMID: 26296996 PMCID: PMC4546287 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-015-0504-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hemolysins are crucial virulence factors which help pathogens to survive and persist in the host. This study investigated whether common electrolytes will affect the hemolysins of Candida species. The hemolysins from 25 Candida isolates were investigated using a plate specially designed for Candida species in the presence of three electrolytes, CaCl2, NaCl and KCl, at different concentrations. The hemolytic activity was determined after 48 h and the hemolytic index was calculated. Results All three electrolytes caused a decrease in the hemolytic activity. Significant differences existed between varying concentrations of NaCl, while no significant differences existed for the CaCl2 and KCl groups. Additionally, the peripheral hemolytic index was highly correlated with the hemolytic index (r = 0.656, p < 0.001). Conclusions Our findings indicate that electrolytes reduce hemolysis by Candida species and a correlation exists between the peripheral hemolytic index and the translucent hemolytic index.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wan
- Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,Department of Periodontology, Guangdong Provincial Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Gang Luo
- Key Laboratory of Oral Medicine,Guangzhou Institute of Oral Disease,Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510140, China.
| | - Haibin Lu
- Department of Periodontology, Guangdong Provincial Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Dongying Xuan
- Department of Periodontology, Guangdong Provincial Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Hong Cao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jincai Zhang
- Department of Periodontology, Guangdong Provincial Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Atanassova M, Fernández-Otero C, Centeno J, Garabal J. Alcohol-Mediated Hemolysis in Dairy Yeast Isolates and Hemolytic Activities on Blood Agar Media Containing Milk and Cheese. J Food Saf 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/jfs.12158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Atanassova
- Dairy Science and Technology Laboratory; Agricultural Research Center of Mabegondo (CIAM), Xunta de Galicia; A Coruña Spain
| | - C. Fernández-Otero
- Dairy Science and Technology Laboratory; Agricultural Research Center of Mabegondo (CIAM), Xunta de Galicia; A Coruña Spain
| | - J.A. Centeno
- Food Technology Area; Faculty of Science; University of Vigo; Ourense Spain
| | - J.I. Garabal
- Dairy Science and Technology Laboratory; Agricultural Research Center of Mabegondo (CIAM), Xunta de Galicia; A Coruña Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Aktas E, Yıgıt N. Hemolytic activity of dermatophytes species isolated from clinical specimens. J Mycol Med 2014; 25:e25-30. [PMID: 25467819 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2014.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Revised: 10/06/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hemolytic activity was recently reported for several pathogenic fungal species, such as Aspergillus, Candida, Trichophyton, Penicillium and Fusarium. Based on a number of mechanistic and characterization studies, several fungal hemolysins have been proposed as virulence factors. Hemolysins lyse red blood cells resulting in the release of iron, an important growth factor for microbes especially during infection. The requirement of iron in fungal growth is necessary for metabolic processes and as a catalyst for various biochemical processes. Expression of a hemolytic protein with capabilities to lyse red blood cells has also been suggested to provide a survival strategy for fungi during opportunistic infections. The aims of this study were to investigate the hemolytic activities of dermatophytes species isolated from patients with dermatophytosis. Hair, skin and nail samples of patients were examined with direct microscopy using potassium hydroxide and cultivated on Mycobiotic agar and Sabouraud's dextrose agar. To determine hemolytic activities of dermatophytes species, they were subcultured on Columbia Agar with 5% sheep blood and incubated for 7-14 days at 25°C in aerobic conditions. Media which displayed hemolysis were further incubated for 1-5 days at 37°C to increase hemolytic activity. In this study, 66 dermatophytes strains were isolated from clinical specimens and were identified by six different species: 43 (65.1%) Trichophyton rubrum, 7 (10.7%) Trichophyton mentagrophytes, 5 (7.6%) Microsporum canis, 5 (7.6%) Trichophyton tonsurans, 4 (6.0%) Epidermophyton floccosum and 2 (3.0%) Trichophyton violaceum. Twenty-one T. rubrum strains showed incomplete (alpha) hemolysis and nine T. rubrum strains showed complete (beta) hemolysis, whereas hemolysis was absent in 13 T. rubrum strains. Four T. mentagrophytes strains showed complete hemolysis and three T. tonsurans strains showed incomplete hemolysis. However, M. canis, E. floccosum and T. violaceum species had no hemolytic activity. Hemolytic activity is pronounced in dermatophytes and may play an important role as a virulence factor. Hemolysins produced may play an important role in the balance between the host's cellular immunity and the ability of the fungus to diminish the immune response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Aktas
- Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology Department, Ataturk University Medical Faculties, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - N Yıgıt
- Medical Laboratory Department, Ataturk University Health Services Vocational Training School, 25070 Erzurum, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Anil S, Hashem M, Vellappally S, Patil S, Bandara HMHN, Samaranayake LP. Sub-inhibitory concentrations of antifungals suppress hemolysin activity of oral Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis isolates from HIV-infected individuals. Mycopathologia 2014; 178:207-15. [PMID: 25142726 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-014-9802-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 08/09/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Secretion of hydrolytic enzymes such as hemolysin is considered an important virulence attribute of the opportunistic pathogenic fungus Candida. It is known that Candida spp. isolated from HIV-infected patients produce copious hemolysins. As common antifungal agents may perturb the production of extracellular enzymes, we evaluated the effect of three antifungals nystatin, amphotericin B and fluconazole on the hemolytic activity of Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis isolates from HIV-infected individuals. The impact of antimycotics on hemolytic activity was assessed by a previously described in vitro plate assay, after exposing ten isolates each of C. albicans and C. tropicalis recovered from HIV-infected individuals to sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (sub-MIC) of nystatin, amphotericin B and fluconazole. All Candida isolates showed a significant reduction in hemolytic activity. The reduction was highest for amphotericin B-exposed C. albicans and C. tropicalis followed by nystatin and fluconazole. The effect of antimycotics was more pronounced on the hemolytic activity of C. tropicalis compared to that of C. albicans. Commonly used antifungal agents significantly suppress hemolysin activity of Candida species. This implies that the antifungals, in addition to their lethality, may modulate key virulence attributes of the yeast. The clinical relevance of this phenomenon in HIV disease and other similar pathologies remains to be determined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sukumaran Anil
- Department of Periodontics and Community Dentistry, College of Dentistry, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Linares CEB, Giacomelli SR, Altenhofen D, Alves SH, Morsch VM, Schetinger MRC. Fluconazole and amphotericin-B resistance are associated with increased catalase and superoxide dismutase activity in Candida albicans and Candida dubliniensis. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2013; 46:752-8. [DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0190-2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
16
|
Ferreira-Paim K, Andrade-Silva L, Mora DJ, Lages-Silva E, Pedrosa AL, da Silva PR, Andrade AA, Silva-Vergara ML. Antifungal susceptibility, enzymatic activity, PCR-fingerprinting and ITS sequencing of environmental Cryptococcus laurentii isolates from Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Mycopathologia 2011; 174:41-52. [PMID: 22116628 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-011-9500-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2011] [Accepted: 10/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcus laurentii has been classically considered a saprophytic species, although several cases of human infection have been already reported. This study aimed to evaluate the phospholipase, proteinase and hemolysins activity, the antifungal susceptibility profile, the genetic variability by M13 and (GACA)(4) fingerprinting and the internal transcribe spacer (ITS) sequencing of 38 C. laurentii isolates recovered from captive bird droppings and surrounding hospital areas. All of them exhibited phospholipase activity, while the hemolytic activity was evidenced in 34 (89.4%) isolates. None of them exhibited proteinase activity. Twenty-seven isolates (71.1%) presented susceptibility dose dependent to fluconazole. Most isolates (94.7%) were susceptible to voriconazole, while one (2.65%) was resistant to this drug. Twenty-one (55.3%) isolates showed reduced susceptibility to itraconazole while nine (23.7%) were resistant. Three (7.9%) and five (13.1%) isolates exhibited resistance to ketoconazole and amphotericin B, respectively. Most C. laurentii fingerprinting obtained with M13 and (GACA)(4) showed high heterogeneity. By using the two primers, seven (18.4%) isolates grouped as A (CL2, CL7, and CL8), B (CL35, CL38) and C (CL29, CL30) with 100% similarity. Different from most variable surrounding hospital isolates, all but one of the pet shops strains clustered with the two primers, although they had been recovered from different neighborhoods. All isolates were identified as C. laurentii phylogenetic group I by ITS sequencing. Thus, the presence of virulence factors, a decreased antifungal susceptibility and a heterogeneous molecular pattern of the C. laurentii isolates here described suggests this species can be a potential pathogen in the context of the immunocompromised population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kennio Ferreira-Paim
- Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Triangulo Mineiro Federal University, Postal Code 118, Uberaba, MG, 38001-170, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Yigit N, Aktas E, Dagistan S, Ayyildiz A. Investigating biofilm production, coagulase and hemolytic activity in Candida species isolated from denture stomatitis patients. Eurasian J Med 2011; 43:27-32. [PMID: 25610156 PMCID: PMC4261369 DOI: 10.5152/eajm.2011.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2010] [Accepted: 12/13/2010] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Oral candidiasis, in the form of Candida-associated denture stomatitis, represents a common disease in a large percentage of denture wearers, and Candida albicans remains the most commonly isolated species. In this study, we aimed to evaluate biofilm production, coagulase and hemolytic activity of Candida species isolated from denture stomatitis patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study included 70 patients (31 female, 39 male). Forty-eight of the patients were found to have a positive culture. A total of 48 Candida isolates representing five species, C. albicans (n=17), C. glabrata (n=10), C. krusei (n=9), C. kefyr (n=7) and C. parapsilosis (n=5), were tested. Their coagulase activities were evaluated by a classical tube coagulase test with rabbit plasma. A blood plate assay on 3% enriched sheep blood Sabouraud-dextrose agar (SDA) was used to determine their in vitro hemolytic activities. Biofilm production was determined by a visual tube method. RESULTS Twenty-one Candida isolates exhibited coagulase activity, and the coagulase activities of the C. albicans (64.7%) isolates were higher than other species. C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. kefyr and C. krusei species demonstrated beta hemolysis. C. parapsilosis strains failed to demonstrate any hemolytic activities. Fifteen (88.0%) of the C. albicans strains were biofilm positive. Six (35.2%) of these strains were strongly positive, 8 (47.0%) C. albicans strains were moderately positive and 1 (5.8%) C. albicans strain was weakly positive. Sixteen (51.6%) of the non-albicans Candida strains were biofilm positive while 15 (48.3%) did not produce biofilms. CONCLUSION The results of this present study indicate coagulase, hemolytic activity and biofilm production by Candida spp. isolated from patients with denture stomatitis. Investigations of these virulence factors might be helpful in gaining information about the possible virulence of oral Candida species related to denture stomatitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nimet Yigit
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Health Services Vocational Training School, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Esin Aktas
- Department of Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Saadettin Dagistan
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Ayyildiz
- Department of Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yigit N, Aktas E. Comparison of the efficacy of different blood medium in determining the hemolytic activity of Candida species. J Mycol Med 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2009.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
|
19
|
Rörig KCO, Colacite J, Abegg MA. Produção de fatores de virulência in vitro por espécies patogênicas do gênero Candida. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2009; 42:225-7. [DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86822009000200029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2008] [Accepted: 03/05/2009] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Avaliou-se, in vitro, a capacidade de crescimento em 39ºC e 42ºC, a produção de enzimas hidrolíticas e a atividade hemolítica de 21 cepas clínicas e de referência de sete espécies de Candida spp, Candida dubliniensis e Candida krusei demonstraram menor potencial de virulência e Candida albicans maior.
Collapse
|