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Jabeen R, Kizhisseri MI, Mayanaik SN, Mohamed MM. Bioaerosol assessment in indoor and outdoor environments: a case study from India. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18066. [PMID: 37872255 PMCID: PMC10593752 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44315-z] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to bioaerosols has been associated with the occurrence of a variety of health impacts, including infectious illnesses, acute toxic effects, allergies, and cancer. This study aimed at evaluating airborne bacteria and fungi populations at different indoor and outdoor sites on a college campus in Bengaluru, India. Bioaerosol samples were collected using a two-stage Andersen air sampler; and isolates were identified using standard procedures. Six air samples and meteorological data were collected in March and April 2014 to examine the effects of temperature and relative humidity on bioaerosol concentration using linear regression modeling. Among all sites, the canteen showed the highest bioaerosol levels both indoors and outdoors. Specific bacterial identification was not possible, but gram staining and microscopic analysis helped to identify gram positive and gram negative bacteria. The most prevalent fungal species in the samples were Cladosporium, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium, Rhizopus, Fusarium, Mucor, and Alternaria. Due to the impact of weather conditions, such as temperature and relative humidity, the bioaerosol concentration varied greatly at each site according to the regression model. The indoor bioaerosol concentrations at all sites exceeded the values established by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (< 250 CFU/m3 for total fungi and < 500 CFU/m3 for total bacteria). Higher concentrations of bioaerosols may be attributed to the transportation of microbes from the ground surface to suspended particles, the release of microbes from the respiratory tract, higher rate of shredding of human skin cells, and many other factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raisa Jabeen
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China State Construction Engineering Corporation, Middle East L.L.C, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamed Ibrahim Kizhisseri
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Mohamed Mostafa Mohamed
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
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Sharma B, Nonzom S. Mucormycosis and Its Upsurge During COVID-19 Epidemic: An Updated Review. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:322. [PMID: 37592083 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03430-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Although mucormycosis may have reached an epidemic situation during the COVID-19 pandemic, the term was much more familiar even before the COVID-19 period. The year 2020 showed an outbreak of novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) which affected millions of people all over the world. One of the noticeable complications observed to be associated with this disease is mucormycosis. It is an opportunistic infection caused by members of the Order Mucorales existing worldwide and has been commonly reported as a laboratory contaminant for a long time. However, nowadays due to the changes in the host environment, they have been emerging as potent opportunistic pathogens responsible for causing primary infections or coinfections with other diseases eventually resulting in morbidity and even mortality in severe cases. Although immunocompromised patients are more susceptible to this infection, few cases have been reported in immunocompetent individuals. Various risk factors which are responsible for the acquisition of mucormycosis include diabetes mellitus type 2, ketoacidosis, hematological malignancies, organ transplants, and chemotherapy recipients. Among the various etiological agents, Rhizopus is found to be the most common, and rhino-cerebral to be the most frequent clinical presentation. As far as pathogenesis is concerned, host cell invasion, thrombosis, and necrosis are the main events in the progression of this disease. The aim of the present review is to address a complete spectrum of mucormycosis and COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) in a single article. Both global and Indian scenarios of mucormycosis are taken into account while framing this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharti Sharma
- Department of Botany, University of Jammu, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, 180006, India
| | - Skarma Nonzom
- Department of Botany, University of Jammu, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, 180006, India.
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3
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Mohamed HMA, Haziri I, Saied AA, Dhama K, Al-Said AA, Abdou SE, Kamaly HF, Abd-Elhafeez HH. Molecular characterization of gliotoxin-producing Aspergillus fumigatus in dairy cattle feed. Vet World 2023; 16:1636-1646. [PMID: 37766716 PMCID: PMC10521192 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.1636-1646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Several strains of Aspergillus fumigatus produce mycotoxins that affect the health and productivity of dairy cattle, and their presence in dairy cattle feed is a serious concern. This study aimed to determine the densities of A. fumigatus and gliotoxin in commercial dairy feed. Materials and Methods More than 60 dairy feed samples were examined for fungal contamination, specifically for A. fumigatus, using phenotypic approaches and DNA sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and β-tubulin regions. Thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used to assess gliotoxin production in A. fumigatus. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to investigate the expression of gliZ, which was responsible for gliotoxin production. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to detect gliotoxin in feed samples. Results Aspergillus was the most commonly identified genus (68.3%). Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated from 18.3% of dairy feed samples. Only four of the 11 A. fumigatus isolates yielded detectable gliotoxins by HPLC. In total, 7/11 (43.7%) feed samples tested had gliotoxin contamination above the threshold known to induce immunosuppressive and apoptotic effects in vitro. The HPLC-based classification of isolates as high, moderate, or non-producers of gliotoxin was confirmed by RT-PCR, and the evaluation of gliZ expression levels corroborated this classification. Conclusion The identification of A. fumigatus from animal feed greatly depended on ITS and β-tubulin sequencing. Significant concentrations of gliotoxin were found in dairy cattle feed, and its presence may affect dairy cow productivity and health. Furthermore, workers face contamination risks when handling and storing animal feed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hams M. A. Mohamed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt
| | - Imer Haziri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary, University of Prishtina “Hasan Prishtina”, 10000 Pristina, Kosovo
| | - AbdulRahman A. Saied
- National Food Safety Authority, Aswan Branch, Aswan 81511, Egypt
- Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Aswan Office, Aswan 81511, Egypt
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243122, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Amal A. Al-Said
- Department of Mycology, Animal Health Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center (ARC), P.O. 12618, Gizza
| | - Suzan E. Abdou
- Biochemistry Unit, Animal Health Research Institute Agriculture Research Center (ARC), P.O. 12618, Gizza
| | - Heba F. Kamaly
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
| | - Hanan H. Abd-Elhafeez
- Department of Cell and Tissues, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71526, Egypt
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Anand T, Mukherjee A, Satija A, Velamuri PS, Singh KJ, Das M, Josten K, Yadav PD, Sahay RR, Keche AY, Nagarkar NM, Gupta P, Himanshu D, Mistry SN, Patel JD, Rao P, Rohatgi S, Ghosh S, Hazra A, Kindo AJ, Annamalai R, Rudramurthy SM, Singh MP, Shameem M, Fatima N, Khambholja JR, Parikh S, Madkaikar M, Pradhan VD, Kataria S, Sharma P, Panda S, Shete AM, Majumdar T, Abraham P, Bhargava A, Mehata R, Arora RD, Tigga R, Banerjee G, Sonkar V, Malhotra HS, Kumar N, Patil R, Raut CG, Bhattacharyya K, Arthur P, Somu L, Srikanth P, Panda NK, Sharma D, Hasan W, Ahmed A, Bathla M, Solanki S, Doshi H, Kanani Y, Patel N, Shah Z, Tembhurne AK, Rajguru C, Sankhe LR, Chavan SS, Yadav RM, Deswal V, Kumar K. A case control investigation of COVID-19 associated mucormycosis in India. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:856. [PMID: 36384482 PMCID: PMC9667849 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07844-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increased occurrence of mucormycosis during the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in early 2021 in India prompted us to undertake a multi-site case–control investigation. The objectives were to examine the monthly trend of COVID-19 Associated Mucormycosis (CAM) cases among in-patients and to identify factors associated with development of CAM. Methods Eleven study sites were involved across India; archived records since 1st January 2021 till 30th September 2021 were used for trend analysis. The cases and controls were enrolled during 15th June 2021 to 30th September 2021. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Among 1211 enrolled participants, 336 were CAM cases and 875 were COVID-19 positive non-mucormycosis controls. Results CAM-case admissions reached their peak in May 2021 like a satellite epidemic after a month of in-patient admission peak recorded due to COVID-19. The odds of developing CAM increased with the history of working in a dusty environment (adjusted odds ratio; aOR 3.24, 95% CI 1.34, 7.82), diabetes mellitus (aOR: 31.83, 95% CI 13.96, 72.63), longer duration of hospital stay (aOR: 1.06, 95% CI 1.02, 1.11) and use of methylprednisolone (aOR: 2.71, 95% CI 1.37, 5.37) following adjustment for age, gender, occupation, education, type of houses used for living, requirement of ventilatory support and route of steroid administration. Higher proportion of CAM cases required supplemental oxygen compared to the controls; use of non-rebreather mask (NRBM) was associated as a protective factor against mucormycosis compared to face masks (aOR: 0.18, 95% CI 0.08, 0.41). Genomic sequencing of archived respiratory samples revealed similar occurrences of Delta and Delta derivates of SARS-CoV-2 infection in both cases and controls. Conclusions Appropriate management of hyperglycemia, judicious use of steroids and use of NRBM during oxygen supplementation among COVID-19 patients have the potential to reduce the risk of occurrence of mucormycosis. Avoiding exposure to dusty environment would add to such prevention efforts. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-022-07844-y.
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Novak Babič M, Gunde-Cimerman N, Breskvar M, Džeroski S, Brandão J. Occurrence, Diversity and Anti-Fungal Resistance of Fungi in Sand of an Urban Beach in Slovenia—Environmental Monitoring with Possible Health Risk Implications. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080860. [PMID: 36012848 PMCID: PMC9410438 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Beach safety regulation is based on faecal indicators in water, leaving out sand and fungi, whose presence in both matrices has often been reported. To study the abundance, diversity and possible fluctuations of mycobiota, fungi from sand and seawater were isolated from the Portorož beach (Slovenia) during a 1-year period. Sand analyses yielded 64 species of 43 genera, whereas seawater samples yielded 29 species of 18 genera. Environmental and taxonomical data of fungal communities were analysed using machine learning approaches. Changes in the air and water temperature, sunshine hours, humidity and precipitation, air pressure and wind speed appeared to affect mycobiota. The core genera Aphanoascus, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Bisifusarium, Penicillium, Talaromyces, and Rhizopus were found to compose a stable community within sand, although their presence and abundance fluctuated along with weather changes. Aspergillus spp. were the most abundant and thus tested against nine antimycotics using Sensititre Yeast One kit. Aspergillus niger and A. welwitschiae isolates were found to be resistant to amphotericin B. Additionally, four possible human pollution indicators were isolated during the bathing season, including Meyerozyma, which can be used in beach microbial regulation. Our findings provide the foundations for additional research on sand and seawater mycobiota and show the potential effect of global warming and extreme weather events on fungi in sand and sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Novak Babič
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Correspondence: (M.N.B.); (J.B.)
| | - Nina Gunde-Cimerman
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Martin Breskvar
- Department of Knowledge Technologies, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sašo Džeroski
- Department of Knowledge Technologies, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - João Brandão
- Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Av. Padre Cruz, 1600-609 Lisbon, Portugal
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM)—Department of Animal Biology, University of Lisbon, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal
- Correspondence: (M.N.B.); (J.B.)
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COVID-19-Associated Mucormycosis: A Matter of Concern Amid the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10081266. [PMID: 36016154 PMCID: PMC9415927 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10081266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is an invasive fungal infection caused by fungi belonging to order Mucorales. Recently, with the increase in COVID-19 infections, mucormycosis infections have become a matter of concern globally, because of the high morbidity and mortality rates associated with them. Due to the association of mucormycosis with COVID-19 disease, it has been termed COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM). In the present review, we focus on mucormycosis incidence, pathophysiology, risk factors, immune dysfunction, interactions of Mucorales with endothelial cells, and the possible role of iron in Mucorales growth. We review the limitations associated with current diagnostic procedures and the requirement for more specific, cost-effective, convenient, and sensitive assays, such as PCR-based assays and monoclonal antibody-based assays for the effective diagnosis of mucormycosis. We discuss the current treatment options involving antifungal drug therapies, adjunctive therapy, surgical treatment, and their limitations. We also review the importance of nutraceuticals-based therapy for the prevention as well as treatment of mucormycosis. Our review also highlights the need to explore the potential of novel immunotherapeutics, which include antibody-based therapy, cytokine-based therapy, and combination/synergistic antifungal therapy, as treatment options for mucormycosis. In summary, this review provides a complete overview of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, addressing the current research gaps and future developments required in the field.
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Balushi AA, Ajmi AA, Sinani QA, Menon V, Berieki ZA, Shezawi AA, Azri SA, Rashdi AA, Jardani AA, Baluki TA, Ghaithi SA, Reesi AA, Al-Za'abi AT, Al’ Balushi MA, Maqbali TA. COVID-19-Associated Mucormycosis: An Opportunistic Fungal Infection. A Case Series and Review. Int J Infect Dis 2022; 121:203-210. [PMID: 35533833 PMCID: PMC9075983 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A surge in COVID-19-associated mucormycosis cases has been observed during the second wave of COVID-19 in summer of 2021. Most cases were reported from India. The Delta variant (B.1.617.2) was the most common variant circulating at that time. Mucormycosis is an opportunistic angioinvasive fungal infection with high morbidity and mortality. METHODS We present 10 cases of COVID-19-associated rhino-orbital and rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis managed in a secondary hospital in Oman. RESULTS The median time for developing mucormycosis was two weeks after COVID-19 diagnosis. All patients were newly diagnosed or already known to have poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. Five patients received corticosteroid therapy for COVID-19. Three patients had severe COVID-19 and died of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome and septic shock. Another three patients died of advanced mucormycosis and cerebral involvement. Despite aggressive medical and surgical intervention, the mortality rate was 60% (6/10). CONCLUSION Mucormycosis is an aggressive opportunistic infection with high morbidity and mortality that requires prompt recognition and urgent intervention. Uncontrolled blood sugar, the use of corticosteroids, and immune dysfunction due to COVID-19 are all important risk factors for development of mucormycosis. Worse outcomes are associated with poor glycemic control despite aggressive medical and surgical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Al Balushi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman,Corresponding author: Asma Al Balushi: Address: Infectious Diseases Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Seeb, Alkhoudh, P. O. Box 35, Postal Code 123, Oman. Mobile number: (+968) 92319222
| | - Ahmed Al Ajmi
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Sohar Hospital, Ministry of Health, Sohar, Oman
| | - Qais Al Sinani
- Ear, Nose and Throat Surgical Department, Sohar Hospital, Ministry of Health, Sohar, Oman
| | - Varna Menon
- Histopathology Department, Sohar Hospital, Ministry of Health, Sohar, Oman
| | - Zainab Al Berieki
- Radiology Department, Sohar Hospital, Ministry of Health, Sohar, Oman
| | - Asma Al Shezawi
- Radiology Department, Sohar Hospital, Ministry of Health, Sohar, Oman
| | - Saleh Al Azri
- Central Public Health Laboratories, Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Azza Al Rashdi
- Central Public Health Laboratories, Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Amina Al Jardani
- Central Public Health Laboratories, Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Thuwaiba Al Baluki
- Internal Medicine Department, Sohar Hospital, Ministry of Health, Sohar, Oman
| | - Salem Al Ghaithi
- Internal Medicine Department, Sohar Hospital, Ministry of Health, Sohar, Oman
| | - Ali Al Reesi
- Internal Medicine Department, Sohar Hospital, Ministry of Health, Sohar, Oman
| | | | | | - Talib Al Maqbali
- Ear, Nose and Throat Surgical Department, Sohar Hospital, Ministry of Health, Sohar, Oman
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Sharma R, Kumar P, Rauf A, Chaudhary A, Prajapati PK, Emran TB, Gonçalves Lima CM, Conte-Junior CA. Mucormycosis in the COVID-19 Environment: A Multifaceted Complication. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:937481. [PMID: 35923801 PMCID: PMC9339637 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.937481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The second wave of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused severe infections with high mortality. An increase in the cases of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) was reported predominantly in India. Commonly present in immunocompromised individuals, mucormycosis is often a life-threatening condition. Confounding factors and molecular mechanisms associated with CAM are still not well understood, and there is a need for careful research in this direction. In this review, a brief account of the diagnosis, management, and advancement in drug discovery for mucormycosis has been provided. Here, we summarize major factors that dictate the occurrence of mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients through the analysis of published literature and case reports. Major predisposing factors to mucormycosis appear to be uncontrolled diabetes, steroid therapy, and certain cancers. At the molecular level, increased levels of iron in COVID-19 might contribute to mucormycosis. We have also discussed the potential role and regulation of iron metabolism in COVID-19 patients in establishing fungal growth. Other factors including diabetes prevalence and fungal spore burden in India as contributing factors have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Sharma
- Department of Rasa shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP, India
- *Correspondence: Rohit Sharma, ; ; Praveen Kumar, ; ; Carlos Adam Conte-Junior,
| | - Praveen Kumar
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP, India
- *Correspondence: Rohit Sharma, ; ; Praveen Kumar, ; ; Carlos Adam Conte-Junior,
| | - Abdur Rauf
- Department of Chemistry, University of Swabi, Swabi, Pakistan
| | - Ashun Chaudhary
- Department of Plant Science (Botany), Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar Prajapati
- Department of Rasashastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi, India
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong, Bangladesh
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Carlos Adam Conte-Junior
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Rohit Sharma, ; ; Praveen Kumar, ; ; Carlos Adam Conte-Junior,
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Galosi L, Falcaro C, Danesi P, Zanardello C, Berardi S, Biagini L, Attili AR, Rossi G. Atypical Mycosis in Psittacine Birds: A Retrospective Study. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:883276. [PMID: 35647088 PMCID: PMC9135461 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.883276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A retrospective study was conducted on parrots submitted from necropsy to the Department of Veterinary Pathology, School of Biosciences and Veterinary, University of Camerino, Italy, from 2007 to 2018. From a total of 2,153 parrots examined at post-mortem, four cases were diagnosed with atypical mycosis and were considered for determination of the fungus species by PCR. A Fischer's lovebird (Agapornis fischeri), Peach-faced lovebirds (Agapornis roseicollis), and two Blue and Gold Macaws (Ara ararauna) from four different aviaries died after some days of lethargy and ruffled feathers. Records of gross necropsy and histopathological exams (H&E, PAS, and Grocott stain) were described and biomolecular analyses were carried out. No specific gross lesions were appreciated at necropsy, while histopathology evidenced a systemic mycosis in several organs, particularly in the lungs. In affected organs, broad and non-septate hyphae, suggestive of mycoses, were observed. Molecularly, Mucor racemosus (Fischer's lovebird) and M. circinelloides (Peach-faced lovebirds) were identified from formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) lung and liver tissue. In addition, Alternaria alternata and Fusicladium spp. (respectively in male and female Blue and Gold macaws) were identified in FFPE tissue from several organs; whereas the role of Mucor spp. as true pathogens is well-demonstrated, and the behavior of A. alternata and Fusicladium spp. in macaws as opportunistic pathogens have been discussed. To our knowledge, this report is the first one reporting mucormycosis caused by M. racemosus and M. circinelloides in lovebirds, and A. alternata and Fusicladium spp. in macaws.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Galosi
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Matelica, Italy
- *Correspondence: Livio Galosi
| | - Christian Falcaro
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Patrizia Danesi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Claudia Zanardello
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Sara Berardi
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Matelica, Italy
| | - Lucia Biagini
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Matelica, Italy
| | - Anna-Rita Attili
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Matelica, Italy
| | - Giacomo Rossi
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Matelica, Italy
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Abstract
The exact cause of the disproportionate increase in COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) cases in India remains unknown. Most researchers consider the major cause of India’s CAM epidemic to be the conjunction of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated corticosteroid treatment with the enormous number of Indians with diabetes mellitus (DM). However, excess CAM cases were not seen to the same extent in the Western world, where diabetes is prevalent and corticosteroids are also used extensively for COVID-19 treatment. Herein, we hypothesize that previously overlooked environmental factors specific to India were important contributors to the country’s CAM epidemic. Specifically, we propose that the spread of fungal spores, mainly through fumes generated from the burning of Mucorales-rich biomass, like cow dung and crop stubble, caused extensive environmental exposure in the context of a large population of highly vulnerable patients with DM and COVID-19. Testing this hypothesis with epidemiologic studies, phylogenetic analyses, and strategic environmental sampling may have implications for preventing future epidemics.
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11
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Gnat S, Łagowski D, Nowakiewicz A, Dyląg M. A global view on fungal infections in humans and animals: opportunistic infections and microsporidioses. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 131:2095-2113. [PMID: 33556223 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
After cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases are the second most common cause of death worldwide. Although these infections are caused mainly by viruses or bacteria, a systematically growing prevalence of human and animal opportunistic fungal infections is noticeable worldwide. More attention is being paid to this problem, especially due to the growing frequency of recalcitrant and recurrent mycoses. The latter are classically divided into superficial, which are the most common type, subcutaneous, and systemic. This work discusses opportunistic fungal pathogens without proven horizontal transmission between different animal species including humans and microsporidia as spore-forming unicellular parasites related to fungi; however, with a yet undetermined taxonomic position. The review also mentions aetiological agents, risk factors, epidemiology, geographical distribution, and finally symptoms characteristic for individual disease entities. This paper provides insight into fungal infections from a global perspective and simultaneously draws attention to emerging pathogens, whose prevalence is continuously increasing. Finally, this work also takes into consideration the correct nomenclature of fungal disease entities and the importance of secondary metabolites in the pathogenesis of fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gnat
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Life Sciences, Lublin, Poland
| | - D Łagowski
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Life Sciences, Lublin, Poland
| | - A Nowakiewicz
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Life Sciences, Lublin, Poland
| | - M Dyląg
- Department of Mycology and Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
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Rana R, Tripathi A, Kumar N, Ganguly NK. A Comprehensive Overview on COVID-19: Future Perspectives. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:744903. [PMID: 34595136 PMCID: PMC8476999 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.744903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The outbreak of COVID-19 has proven to be an unprecedented disaster for the whole world. The virus has inflicted billion of lives across the globe in all aspects-physically, psychologically, as well as socially. Compared to the previous strains of β-CoV genera- MERS and SARS, SARS-CoV-2 has significantly higher transmissibility and worst post-recovery implications. A frequent mutation in the initial SARS-CoV-2 strain has been a major cause of mortalities (approx. 3 million deaths) and uncontrolled virulence (approx. 1 billion positive cases). As far as clinical manifestations are concerned, this particular virus has exhibited deleterious impacts on systems other than the respiratory system (primary target organ), such as the brain, hematological system, liver, kidneys, endocrine system, etc. with no promising curatives to date. Lack of emergency treatments and shortage of life-saving drugs has promoted the repurposing of existing therapeutics along with the emergence of vaccines with the combined efforts of scientists and industrial experts in this short span. This review summarizes every detail on COVID-19 and emphasizes undermining the future approaches to minimize its prevalence to the remaining lives.
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Fungal Taxa Responsible for Mucormycosis/"Black Fungus" among COVID-19 Patients in India. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7080641. [PMID: 34436180 PMCID: PMC8402169 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is caused by fungi belonging to the order Mucorales. The term “Black Fungus” has been widely applied to human pathogenic Mucorales in India. They mainly infect the sinuses and brain, lungs, stomach and intestines, and skin. While this has been considered a rare disease, thousands of cases have been reported during the second wave of COVID-19 in India, between the months of April and June 2021. Hitherto, more than 45,374 cases and over 4300 deaths have been reported among COVID-19 patients across India from April 2021 to July 21, 2021. Though the mortality rate is estimated to be 50%, it could be above 90% if left untreated. In India, Rhizopus arrhizus has been related to be the most common species to cause human mucormycosis, followed by Apophysomyces variabilis, Rhizopus microsporus, and R. homothallicus. Accurate sample identification of human pathogenic Mucorales species is challenging especially due to the frequent lack of diagnostic morphological features. Traditionally, the culture-based approach has been extensively used to isolate and characterize human pathogenic Mucorales. However, this may not be an appropriate approach to objectively isolate and characterize all species, as the germination and growth of fungal spores are highly dependent on culture media and environmental conditions. Therefore, a robust approach to the accurate and rapid identification of human pathogenic Mucorales species is a prerequisite. The metagenomic approach comprehensively sequences and analyzes all genetic material in a complex biological sample and, consequently, this could be an appropriate approach to objectively characterize human pathogenic Mucorales taxa without the need for in vitro culture. The precise identification of the species will not only be useful for the correct diagnosis of this disease, but also for the development of antifungal drugs specific for each species. Accurate and rapid species identification is desperately needed to save lives in the mucormycosis outbreak among COVID-19 patients in India and neighboring countries.
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Prakash H, Skiada A, Paul RA, Chakrabarti A, Rudramurthy SM. Connecting the Dots: Interplay of Pathogenic Mechanisms between COVID-19 Disease and Mucormycosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:616. [PMID: 34436155 PMCID: PMC8400165 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-associated mucormycosis (CAM) is an emerging threat globally, especially in India. More than 40,000 CAM cases have been reported in India. The emergence of CAM cases in India has been attributed to environmental, host, and iatrogenic factors. Mucorales spore burden has been reported globally; however, their presence is higher in tropical countries such as India, contributing to the emergence of CAM. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with diabetes mellitus, haematological malignancies, solid organ transplants, corticosteroid therapy and neutropenia were more prone to mucormycosis, whereas in COVID-19 patients, virus-induced endothelial dysfunction, hyperglycaemia, and immune dysfunction following corticosteroid use increase the risk of acquiring mucormycosis. The interaction of Mucorales spores with the epithelial cells, followed by endothelial invasion, is a crucial step in the pathogenesis of mucormycosis. Endothelial damage and increased endothelial receptor expression induced by COVID-19 infection may predispose patients to CAM. COVID-19 infection may directly induce hyperglycaemia by damaging beta cells of the pancreas or by corticosteroid therapy, which may contribute to CAM pathogenesis. Iron acquisition from the host, especially in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or deferoxamine therapy, is an important virulence trait of Mucorales. Similarly, the hyperferritinaemia caused by COVID-19 may act as a source of iron for Mucorales growth and invasion. In addition, corticosteroid treatment reduces or abolishes the innate immune functions of phagocytic cells contributing to the pathogenesis of CAM. This review aims to discuss primarily the host and iatrogenic factors shared between COVID-19 and mucormycosis that could explain the emergence of CAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hariprasath Prakash
- Medical Microbiology, Department of Public Health, International Higher School of Medicine, Issyk-Kul Regional Campus, Cholpon-Ata 722125, Kyrgyzstan;
| | - Anna Skiada
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Raees Ahmad Paul
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India; (R.A.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Arunaloke Chakrabarti
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India; (R.A.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Shivaprakash Mandya Rudramurthy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India; (R.A.P.); (A.C.)
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Nagesh CP. The "black fungus" through a gray lens: Imaging COVID-19-associated mucormycosis. Indian J Ophthalmol 2021; 69:1648-1649. [PMID: 34146001 PMCID: PMC8374769 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_1506_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chinmay P Nagesh
- Department of Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology, Apollo Speciality Hospital, Jayanagar, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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16
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Zhang J, Debets AJM, Verweij PE, Schoustra SE. Selective Flamingo Medium for the Isolation of Aspergillus fumigatus. Microorganisms 2021; 9:1155. [PMID: 34072240 PMCID: PMC8228204 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9061155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
For various studies in the clinic as well as the environment, it is essential to be able to selectively isolate Aspergillus fumigatus from samples containing bacteria as well as various other fungi (mainly Mucorales). Six agar media were compared for effectiveness in selectively isolating Aspergillus fumigatus from agricultural plant waste, woodchip waste, green waste, soil, grass and air samples collected in The Netherlands at a 48 °C incubation. The Flamingo Medium incubated at 48 °C, provided the most effective condition for the isolation of A. fumigatus from environmental samples, since it effectively inhibited the growth of competing fungi (mainly Mucorales) present in the environmental samples. Flamingo Medium reduced the number of colonies of Mucorales species by 95% and recovered an average of 20-30% more A. fumigatus colonies compared to the other media. We further confirmed that Flamingo Medium can inhibit the growth of clinical Mucorales, which occasionally present in patient's tissue and can also be used for clinical applications. We suggest the use of Flamingo Medium as an efficient method for the study of A. fumigatus from important environmental niches for which there is increasing interest. Additionally, it can also be used in the clinic to isolate A. fumigatus especially from tissue contaminated with Mucorales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhua Zhang
- Laboratory for Genetics, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands; (A.J.M.D.); (S.E.S.)
| | - Alfons J. M. Debets
- Laboratory for Genetics, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands; (A.J.M.D.); (S.E.S.)
| | - Paul E. Verweij
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
- Center of Expertise in Mycology Radboudumc/CWZ, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Center for Infectious Diseases Research, Diagnostics and Laboratory Surveillance, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Sijmen E. Schoustra
- Laboratory for Genetics, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands; (A.J.M.D.); (S.E.S.)
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Hurdeal VG, Gentekaki E, Lee HB, Jeewon R, Hyde KD, Tibpromma S, Mortimer PE, Xu J. Mucoralean Fungi in Thailand: Novel Species of Absidia from Tropical Forest Soil. CRYPTOGAMIE MYCOL 2021. [DOI: 10.5252/cryptogamie-mycologie2021v42a4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vedprakash G. Hurdeal
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 and School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 (Thailand)
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 (Thailand)
| | - Hyang B. Lee
- Environmental Microbiology Lab., Dept. of Agricultural Biological Chemistry, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186 (Korea)
| | - Rajesh Jeewon
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mauritius, Reduit (Mauritius)
| | - Kevin D. Hyde
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 (Thailand) and Institute of Plant Health, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Haizhu District, Guangzhou 510225 (China) and CAS Key Laboratory for Pl
| | - Saowaluck Tibpromma
- CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan and Mountain futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming 650201, Yunn
| | - Peter E. Mortimer
- CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan and Mountain futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming 650201, Yunn
| | - Jianchu Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan and Mountain futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming 650201, Yunn
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Muszewska A, Okrasińska A, Steczkiewicz K, Drgas O, Orłowska M, Perlińska-Lenart U, Aleksandrzak-Piekarczyk T, Szatraj K, Zielenkiewicz U, Piłsyk S, Malc E, Mieczkowski P, Kruszewska JS, Bernat P, Pawłowska J. Metabolic Potential, Ecology and Presence of Associated Bacteria Is Reflected in Genomic Diversity of Mucoromycotina. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:636986. [PMID: 33679672 PMCID: PMC7928374 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.636986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucoromycotina are often considered mainly in pathogenic context but their biology remains understudied. We describe the genomes of six Mucoromycotina fungi representing distant saprotrophic lineages within the subphylum (i.e., Umbelopsidales and Mucorales). We selected two Umbelopsis isolates from soil (i.e., U. isabellina, U. vinacea), two soil-derived Mucor isolates (i.e., M. circinatus, M. plumbeus), and two Mucorales representatives with extended proteolytic activity (i.e., Thamnidium elegans and Mucor saturninus). We complement computational genome annotation with experimental characteristics of their digestive capabilities, cell wall carbohydrate composition, and extensive total lipid profiles. These traits inferred from genome composition, e.g., in terms of identified encoded enzymes, are in accordance with experimental results. Finally, we link the presence of associated bacteria with observed characteristics. Thamnidium elegans genome harbors an additional, complete genome of an associated bacterium classified to Paenibacillus sp. This fungus displays multiple altered traits compared to the remaining isolates, regardless of their evolutionary distance. For instance, it has expanded carbon assimilation capabilities, e.g., efficiently degrades carboxylic acids, and has a higher diacylglycerol:triacylglycerol ratio and skewed phospholipid composition which suggests a more rigid cellular membrane. The bacterium can complement the host enzymatic capabilities, alter the fungal metabolism, cell membrane composition but does not change the composition of the cell wall of the fungus. Comparison of early-diverging Umbelopsidales with evolutionary younger Mucorales points at several subtle differences particularly in their carbon source preferences and encoded carbohydrate repertoire. Nevertheless, all tested Mucoromycotina share features including the ability to produce 18:3 gamma-linoleic acid, use TAG as the storage lipid and have fucose as a cell wall component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Muszewska
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Alicja Okrasińska
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biology, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamil Steczkiewicz
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Olga Drgas
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Orłowska
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Katarzyna Szatraj
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Urszula Zielenkiewicz
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sebastian Piłsyk
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Malc
- High Throughput Sequencing Facility of UNC, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Piotr Mieczkowski
- High Throughput Sequencing Facility of UNC, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Joanna S. Kruszewska
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Przemysław Bernat
- Department of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
| | - Julia Pawłowska
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biology, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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19
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Special Issue: Mucorales and Mucormycosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 6:jof6010006. [PMID: 31877973 PMCID: PMC7151165 DOI: 10.3390/jof6010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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