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Sharma K, Parmanu PK, Sharma M. Mechanisms of antifungal resistance and developments in alternative strategies to combat Candida albicans infection. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:95. [PMID: 38349529 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03824-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal fungus that infects the humans and becomes an opportunistic pathogen particularly in immuno-compromised patients. Among the Candida genus, yeast C. albicans is the most frequently incriminated species and is responsible for nearly 50-90% of human candidiasis, with vulvovaginal candidiasis alone, affecting about 75% of the women worldwide. One of the significant virulence traits in C. albicans is its tendency to alternate between the yeast and hyphae morphotypes, accounting for the development of multi-drug resistance in them. Thus, a thorough comprehension of the decision points and genes controlling this transition is necessary, to understand the pathogenicity of this, naturally occurring, pernicious fungus. Additionally, the formation of C. albicans biofilm is yet another pathogenesis trait and a paramount cause of invasive candidiasis. Since 1980 and in 90 s, wide spread use of immune-suppressing therapies and over prescription of fluconazole, a drug used to treat chronic fungal infections, triggered the emergence of novel anti-fungal drug development. Thus, this review thoroughly elucidates the diseases associated with C. albicans infection as well as the anti-fungal resistance mechanism associated with them and identifies the emerging therapeutic agents, along with a rigorous discussion regarding the future strategies that can possibly be adopted for the cure of this deleterious pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kajal Sharma
- Molecular Genetics of Aging, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi (DU), Delhi, India
| | - Prashant Kumar Parmanu
- Molecular Genetics of Aging, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi (DU), Delhi, India
| | - Meenakshi Sharma
- Molecular Genetics of Aging, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi (DU), Delhi, India.
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2
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Maione A, Norcia M, Sinoca M, Galdiero M, Maselli V, Feola A, Carotenuto R, Cuomo P, Capparelli R, Guida M, Galdiero E. Polystyrene Microplastics Exacerbate Candida albicans Infection Ability In Vitro and In Vivo. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:12. [PMID: 38203182 PMCID: PMC10778850 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is an important environmental problem, and microplastics have been shown to have harmful effects on human and animal health, affecting immune and metabolic physiological functions. Further, microplastics can interfere with commensal microorganisms and exert deleterious effects on exposure to pathogens. Here, we compared the effects of 1 µm diameter polystyrene microplastic (PSMPs) on Candida albicans infection in both in vitro and in vivo models by using HT29 cells and Galleria mellonella larvae, respectively. The results demonstrated that PSMPs could promote Candida infection in HT29 cells and larvae of G. mellonella, which show immune responses similar to vertebrates. In this study, we provide new experimental evidence for the risk to human health posed by PSMPs in conjunction with Candida infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Maione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (V.M.); (A.F.); (R.C.)
| | - Mariangela Norcia
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (V.M.); (A.F.); (R.C.)
| | - Marica Sinoca
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (V.M.); (A.F.); (R.C.)
| | - Marilena Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Naples, Italy;
| | - Valeria Maselli
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (V.M.); (A.F.); (R.C.)
| | - Antonia Feola
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (V.M.); (A.F.); (R.C.)
| | - Rosa Carotenuto
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (V.M.); (A.F.); (R.C.)
| | - Paola Cuomo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Italy; (P.C.); (R.C.)
| | - Rosanna Capparelli
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Italy; (P.C.); (R.C.)
| | - Marco Guida
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (V.M.); (A.F.); (R.C.)
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), 90133 Palermo, Italy
- Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology (BAT Center), 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Emilia Galdiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (V.M.); (A.F.); (R.C.)
- Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology (BAT Center), 80055 Portici, Italy
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3
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Son YE, Yu JH, Park HS. The novel spore-specific regulator SscA controls Aspergillus conidiogenesis. mBio 2023; 14:e0184023. [PMID: 37707170 PMCID: PMC10653911 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01840-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Filamentous fungi produce myriads of asexual spores, which are the main reproductive particles that act as infectious or allergenic agents. Although the serial of asexual sporogenesis is coordinated by various genetic regulators, there remain uncharacterized transcription factors in Aspergillus. To understand the underlying mechanism of spore formation, integrity, and viability, we have performed comparative transcriptomic analyses on three Aspergillus species and found a spore-specific transcription factor, SscA. SscA has a major role in conidial formation, maturation and dormancy, and germination in Aspergillus nidulans. Functional studies indicate that SscA coordinates conidial wall integrity, amino acid production, and secondary metabolism in A. nidulans conidia. Furthermore, the roles of SscA are conserved in other Aspergillus species. Our findings that the SscA has broad functions in Aspergillus conidia will help to understand the conidiogenesis of Aspergillus species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Eun Son
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Jae-Hyuk Yu
- Department of Bacteriology, Food Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Hee-Soo Park
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
- Department of Integrative Biology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
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4
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Montoya C, Kurylec J, Ossa A, Orrego S. Cyclic strain of poly (methyl methacrylate) surfaces triggered the pathogenicity of Candida albicans. Acta Biomater 2023; 170:415-426. [PMID: 37625677 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Candida albicans is an opportunistic yeast and the primary etiological factor in oral candidiasis and denture stomatitis. The pathogenesis of C. albicans could be triggered by several variables, including environmental, nutritional, and biomaterial surface cues. Specifically, biomaterial interactions are driven by different surface properties, including wettability, stiffness, and roughness. Dental biomaterials experience repetitive (cyclic) stresses from chewing and biomechanical movements. Pathogenic biofilms are formed over these biomaterial surfaces under cyclic strain. This study investigated the effect of the cyclic strain (deformation) of biomaterial surfaces on the virulence of Candida albicans. Candida biofilms were grown over Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) surfaces subjected to static (no strain) and cyclic strain with different levels (ε˜x=0.1 and 0.2%). To evaluate the biomaterial-biofilm interactions, the biofilm characteristics, yeast-to-hyphae transition, and the expression of virulent genes were measured. Results showed the biofilm biomass and metabolic activity to be significantly higher when Candida adhered to surfaces subjected to cyclic strain compared to static surfaces. Examination of the yeast-to-hyphae transition showed pseudo-hyphae cells (pathogenic) in cyclically strained biomaterial surfaces, whereas static surfaces showed spherical yeast cells (commensal). RNA sequencing was used to determine and compare the transcriptome profiles of cyclically strained and static surfaces. Genes and transcription factors associated with cell adhesion (CSH1, PGA10, and RBT5), biofilm formation (EFG1), and secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) (CRH1, ADH5, GCA1, and GCA2) were significantly upregulated in the cyclically strained biomaterial surfaces compared to static ones. Genes and transcription factors associated with virulence (UME6 and HGC1) and the secretion of extracellular enzymes (LIP, PLB, and SAP families) were also significantly upregulated in the cyclically strained biomaterial surfaces compared to static. For the first time, this study reveals a biomaterial surface factor triggering the pathogenesis of Candida albicans, which is essential for understanding, controlling, and preventing oral infections. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Fungal infections produced by Candida albicans are a significant contributor to various health conditions. Candida becomes pathogenic when certain environmental conditions change, including temperature, pH, nutrients, and CO2 levels. In addition, surface properties, including wettability, stiffness, and roughness, drive the interactions between Candida and biomaterials. Clinically, Candida adheres to biomaterials that are under repetitive deformation due to body movements. In this work, we revealed that when Candida adhered to biomaterial surfaces subjected to repetitive deformation, the microorganism becomes pathogenic by increasing the formation of biofilms and the expression of virulent factors related to hyphae formation and secretion of enzymes. Findings from this work could aid the development of new strategies for treating fungal infections in medical devices or implanted biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Montoya
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Julia Kurylec
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Alex Ossa
- Production Engineering Department, School of Engineering, Universidad EAFIT, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Santiago Orrego
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Bioengineering Department, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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Rapala-Kozik M, Surowiec M, Juszczak M, Wronowska E, Kulig K, Bednarek A, Gonzalez-Gonzalez M, Karkowska-Kuleta J, Zawrotniak M, Satała D, Kozik A. Living together: The role of Candida albicans in the formation of polymicrobial biofilms in the oral cavity. Yeast 2023; 40:303-317. [PMID: 37190878 DOI: 10.1002/yea.3855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The oral cavity of humans is colonized by diversity of microbial community, although dominated by bacteria, it is also constituted by a low number of fungi, often represented by Candida albicans. Although in the vast minority, this usually commensal fungus under certain conditions of the host (e.g., immunosuppression or antibiotic therapy), can transform into an invasive pathogen that adheres to mucous membranes and also to medical or dental devices, causing mucosal infections. This transformation is correlated with changes in cell morphology from yeast-like cells to hyphae and is supported by numerous virulence factors exposed by C. albicans cells at the site of infection, such as multifunctional adhesins, degradative enzymes, or toxin. All of them affect the surrounding host cells or proteins, leading to their destruction. However, at the site of infection, C. albicans can interact with different bacterial species and in its filamentous form may produce biofilms-the elaborated consortia of microorganisms, that present increased ability to host colonization and resistance to antimicrobial agents. In this review, we highlight the modification of the infectious potential of C. albicans in contact with different bacterial species, and also consider the mutual bacterial-fungal relationships, involving cooperation, competition, or antagonism, that lead to an increase in the propagation of oral infection. The mycofilm of C. albicans is an excellent hiding place for bacteria, especially those that prefer low oxygen availability, where microbial cells during mutual co-existence can avoid host recognition or elimination by antimicrobial action. However, these microbial relationships, identified mainly in in vitro studies, are modified depending on the complexity of host conditions and microbial dominance in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rapala-Kozik
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Magdalena Surowiec
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Juszczak
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Ewelina Wronowska
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Kamila Kulig
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Aneta Bednarek
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Miriam Gonzalez-Gonzalez
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Justyna Karkowska-Kuleta
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Marcin Zawrotniak
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Dorota Satała
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Andrzej Kozik
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
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Kianipour S, Dehghan P, Emami Ardestani M. Detection of Opportunistic Fungi from the Bronchoalveolar Lavage Specimens of Patients with Pulmonary Diseases. Adv Biomed Res 2023; 12:176. [PMID: 37694245 PMCID: PMC10492593 DOI: 10.4103/abr.abr_297_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Opportunistic fungi are a constantly evolving group of pathogens that become active when the immune system is compromised, begin to multiply, and soon overwhelm the weakened immune system. This study was performed to evaluate the number of opportunistic fungi in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples of patients with pulmonary diseases. Materials and Methods After receiving patients' consent and demographic forms, a total of 120 BAL samples were taken by a pulmonary physician. The etiologic agents were identified by standard morphological and molecular methods. Yeast cells were counted on culture media, and direct smears were precisely examined for the presence of yeasts elements, Pneumocystis, and filamentous fungi. Results In this study, 29 (24.1%) patients showed positive direct smears for yeast elements in their BAL samples. The mean colony count of yeasts was 42,000 (CFU/mL) on culture media. Six (5%) species of filamentous fungi, including three (2.5%) isolates of Penicillium species (P. variabile, P. glabrum, and P. thomii), two (1.67%) Aspergillus species (A. flavus and A. fumigatus), 1 case (0.83%) Pseudallescheria boydii were detected. Seven cases (5.83%) of Pneumocystis cysts were observed in the direct smears stained with Giemsa. Identification of all fungi confirmed by molecular or sequencing methods. Conclusions Due to the presence of a large number of fungi in the BAL samples and possible physical interference with the selected drugs for treatment, we draw the attention of pulmonologists to this important issue. Rapid diagnosis of fungal infections is essential to optimize treatments and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Kianipour
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Parvin Dehghan
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Emami Ardestani
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Al-Zahra Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Wijayawardene NN, Boonyuen N, Ranaweera CB, de Zoysa HKS, Padmathilake RE, Nifla F, Dai DQ, Liu Y, Suwannarach N, Kumla J, Bamunuarachchige TC, Chen HH. OMICS and Other Advanced Technologies in Mycological Applications. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:688. [PMID: 37367624 DOI: 10.3390/jof9060688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungi play many roles in different ecosystems. The precise identification of fungi is important in different aspects. Historically, they were identified based on morphological characteristics, but technological advancements such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing now enable more accurate identification and taxonomy, and higher-level classifications. However, some species, referred to as "dark taxa", lack distinct physical features that makes their identification challenging. High-throughput sequencing and metagenomics of environmental samples provide a solution to identifying new lineages of fungi. This paper discusses different approaches to taxonomy, including PCR amplification and sequencing of rDNA, multi-loci phylogenetic analyses, and the importance of various omics (large-scale molecular) techniques for understanding fungal applications. The use of proteomics, transcriptomics, metatranscriptomics, metabolomics, and interactomics provides a comprehensive understanding of fungi. These advanced technologies are critical for expanding the knowledge of the Kingdom of Fungi, including its impact on food safety and security, edible mushrooms foodomics, fungal secondary metabolites, mycotoxin-producing fungi, and biomedical and therapeutic applications, including antifungal drugs and drug resistance, and fungal omics data for novel drug development. The paper also highlights the importance of exploring fungi from extreme environments and understudied areas to identify novel lineages in the fungal dark taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nalin N Wijayawardene
- Centre for Yunnan Plateau Biological Resources Protection and Utilization, College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing 655011, China
- Department of Bioprocess Technology, Faculty of Technology, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Mihintale 50300, Sri Lanka
- Section of Genetics, Institute for Research and Development in Health and Social Care, No: 393/3, Lily Avenue, Off Robert Gunawardane Mawatha, Battaramulla 10120, Sri Lanka
| | - Nattawut Boonyuen
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), 111 Thailand Science Park, Phahonyothin Road, Khlong Nueng, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Chathuranga B Ranaweera
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University Sri Lanka, Kandawala Road, Rathmalana 10390, Sri Lanka
| | - Heethaka K S de Zoysa
- Department of Bioprocess Technology, Faculty of Technology, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Mihintale 50300, Sri Lanka
| | - Rasanie E Padmathilake
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Pulliyankulama, Anuradhapura 50000, Sri Lanka
| | - Faarah Nifla
- Department of Bioprocess Technology, Faculty of Technology, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Mihintale 50300, Sri Lanka
| | - Dong-Qin Dai
- Centre for Yunnan Plateau Biological Resources Protection and Utilization, College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing 655011, China
| | - Yanxia Liu
- Guizhou Academy of Tobacco Science, No.29, Longtanba Road, Guanshanhu District, Guiyang 550000, China
| | - Nakarin Suwannarach
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Jaturong Kumla
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Thushara C Bamunuarachchige
- Department of Bioprocess Technology, Faculty of Technology, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Mihintale 50300, Sri Lanka
| | - Huan-Huan Chen
- Centre for Yunnan Plateau Biological Resources Protection and Utilization, College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing 655011, China
- Key Laboratory of Insect-Pollinator Biology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Agricultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
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8
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Poon Y, Hui M. Inhibitory effect of lactobacilli supernatants on biofilm and filamentation of Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, and Candida parapsilosis. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1105949. [PMID: 36860488 PMCID: PMC9969145 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1105949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Probiotic Lactobacillus strains had been investigated for the potential to protect against infection caused by the major fungal pathogen of human, Candida albicans. Besides antifungal activity, lactobacilli demonstrated a promising inhibitory effect on biofilm formation and filamentation of C. albicans. On the other hand, two commonly isolated non-albicans Candida species, C. tropicalis and C. parapsilosis, have similar characteristics in filamentation and biofilm formation with C. albicans. However, there is scant information of the effect of lactobacilli on the two species. Methods In this study, biofilm inhibitory effects of L. rhamnosus ATCC 53103, L. plantarum ATCC 8014, and L. acidophilus ATCC 4356 were tested on the reference strain C. albicans SC5314 and six bloodstream isolated clinical strains, two each of C. albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis. Results and Discussion Cell-free culture supernatants (CFSs) of L. rhamnosus and L. plantarum significantly inhibited in vitro biofilm growth of C. albicans and C. tropicalis. L. acidophilus, conversely, had little effect on C. albicans and C. tropicalis but was more effective on inhibiting C. parapsilosis biofilms. Neutralized L. rhamnosus CFS at pH 7 retained the inhibitory effect, suggesting that exometabolites other than lactic acid produced by the Lactobacillus strain might be accounted for the effect. Furthermore, we evaluated the inhibitory effects of L. rhamnosus and L. plantarum CFSs on the filamentation of C. albicans and C. tropicalis strains. Significantly less Candida filaments were observed after co-incubating with CFSs under hyphae-inducing conditions. Expressions of six biofilm-related genes (ALS1, ALS3, BCR1, EFG1, TEC1, and UME6 in C. albicans and corresponding orthologs in C. tropicalis) in biofilms co-incubated with CFSs were analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR. When compared to untreated control, the expressions of ALS1, ALS3, EFG1, and TEC1 genes were downregulated in C. albicans biofilm. In C. tropicalis biofilms, ALS3 and UME6 were downregulated while TEC1 was upregulated. Taken together, the L. rhamnosus and L. plantarum strains demonstrated an inhibitory effect, which is likely mediated by the metabolites secreted into culture medium, on filamentation and biofilm formation of C. albicans and C. tropicalis. Our finding suggested an alternative to antifungals for controlling Candida biofilm.
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Tang N, Yuan S, Luo Y, Wang AJ, Sun K, Liu NN, Tao K. Nanoparticle-Based Photodynamic Inhibition of Candida albicans Biofilms with Interfering Quorum Sensing. ACS Omega 2023; 8:4357-4368. [PMID: 36743058 PMCID: PMC9893753 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c07740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Biofilm formation is a critical event in the pathogenesis and virulence of fungal infections caused by Candida albicans, giving rise to about a 1000-fold increase in the resistance to antifungal agents. Although photodynamic treatment (PDT) has been excellently implicated in bacterial infections, studies on its potential against fungal infection through the clearance of fungal biofilm formation remain at its infancy stage. Here, we have designed photodynamic nanoparticles with different sizes, modifications, and the ability of generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) to examine their effects on inhibiting biofilm formation and destructing mature biofilms of C. albicans. We found that the nanoparticles modified with oligo-chitosan exhibited a better binding efficiency for planktonic cells, leading to stronger inhibitory efficacy of the filamentation and the early-stage biofilm formation. However, for mature biofilms, the nanoparticles with the smallest size (∼15 nm) showed the fastest penetration speed and a pronounced destructing effect albeit conferring the lowest ROS-producing capability. The inhibitory effect of photodynamic nanoparticles was dependent on the disruption of fungal quorum sensing (QS) by the upregulation of QS molecules, farnesol and tyrosol, mediated through the upregulation of ARO 8 and DPP 3 expression. Our findings provide a powerful strategy of nanoparticulate PDT to combat fungal infections through the inhibition of both hyphal and biofilm formation by disrupting QS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Tang
- State
Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and
Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China
| | - Shenghao Yuan
- State
Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell
Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai
Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yuxuan Luo
- State
Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell
Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai
Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - An-Jun Wang
- State
Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell
Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai
Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Kang Sun
- State
Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and
Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China
| | - Ning-Ning Liu
- State
Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell
Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai
Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ke Tao
- State
Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and
Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China
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10
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Chudzik-Rząd B, Zalewski D, Kasela M, Sawicki R, Szymańska J, Bogucka-Kocka A, Malm A. The Landscape of Gene Expression during Hyperfilamentous Biofilm Development in Oral Candida albicans Isolated from a Lung Cancer Patient. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010368. [PMID: 36613809 PMCID: PMC9820384 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The filamentation ability of Candida albicans represents one of the main virulence factors allowing for host tissue penetration and biofilm formation. The aim of this paper was to study the genetic background of the hyperfilamentous biofilm development in vitro in C. albicans isolated from the oral cavity of a lung cancer patient. Analyzed C. albicans isolates (CA1, CA2, CA3) were chosen based on their different structures of mature biofilm. The CA3 isolate possessing hyperfilamentation properties and forming high biofilm was compared with CA1 and CA2 isolates exhibiting low or average biofilm-forming ability, respectively. The detailed biofilm organization was studied with the use of confocal scanning laser microscopy. The whole transcriptome analysis was conducted during three stages of biofilm development (24 h, 48 h, 72 h). In contrast to CA1 and/or CA2 isolate, the CA3 isolate was characterized by a significant upregulation of genes encoding for cell wall proteins (HWP1, PGA13, PGA44, ALS3) and candidalysin (ECE1), as well as being involved in iron metabolism (FRE1, ALS3), sulfur metabolism (HAL21), the degradation of aromatic compounds (HQD2), and membrane transport (DIP5, PHO89, TNA1). In contrast, some genes (SCW11, FGR41, RBE1) in the CA3 were downregulated. We also observed the overexpression of a few genes over time-mainly FRE1, ATX1, CSA2 involved in iron metabolism. This is the first insight into the potential function of multiple genes in the hyperfilamentous biofilm formation in C. albicans, primarily isolated from host tissue, which may have an important clinical impact on cancer patients. Moreover, the presented data can lay the foundation for further research on novel pathogen-specific targets for antifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Chudzik-Rząd
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki St., 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Daniel Zalewski
- Department of Biology and Genetics, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodźki St., 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Martyna Kasela
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki St., 20-093 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence: (M.K.); (A.M.); Tel.: +48-81448-7100 (M.K. & A.M.)
| | - Rafał Sawicki
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki St., 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jolanta Szymańska
- Department of Comprehensive Paediatric and Adult Dentistry, Medical University of Lublin, 6 Chodźki St., 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Bogucka-Kocka
- Department of Biology and Genetics, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodźki St., 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Malm
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki St., 20-093 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence: (M.K.); (A.M.); Tel.: +48-81448-7100 (M.K. & A.M.)
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11
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He J, Ye Y, Zhang D, Yao K, Zhou M. Visualized Gallium/Lyticase-Integrated Antifungal Strategy for Fungal Keratitis Treatment. Adv Mater 2022; 34:e2206437. [PMID: 36177690 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202206437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis has been one of the common corneal infections that causes blindness, but an effective antifungal strategy remains a challenge. The exopolysaccharides both in the fungal cell walls and biofilms are a key that acts as a permeation barrier to weaken the therapeutic effect of antifungal agents. Herein, lyticase and gallium ions co-integrated nanosystems (MLPGa) are presented that can degrade exopolysaccharides and then effectively eradicate both planktonic Candida albicans and mature biofilms. The potential antifungal mechanism involves reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and metabolic interference of antioxidant-related genes, exopolysaccharide-related genes, iron-ion-utilization-related genes, fungal/biofilm-development-related genes, and virulence genes. Meanwhile, the Raman signals generated by the chelation between the nanosystems and the gallium ions provide a real-time visualization tool to monitor Ga release. Finally, the MLPGa-based antifungal strategy with good biocompatibility achieves a satisfactory therapeutic effect in a fungal keratitis mouse model. This study provides a unique approach to the effective treatment of fungal keratitis in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian He
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yang Ye
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Dongxiao Zhang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Ke Yao
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentations, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Research Center for Life Science and Human Health, Binjiang Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
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12
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El-Kased RF, El-Kersh DM. GC-MS Profiling of Naturally Extracted Essential Oils: Antimicrobial and Beverage Preservative Actions. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12101587. [PMID: 36295021 PMCID: PMC9605189 DOI: 10.3390/life12101587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the antimicrobial effects of natural essential oils (EO) and determine their preservative action. Eight natural essential oils were tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans representing gram positive, gram negative, and fungi, respectively. The plant materials were used in this study viz. Thymus vulgaris—thyme (TV), Mentha virdis (MV), Mentha longifolia (ML), Rosmarinus officinalis—rosemary (RO), Lavandula dentata—lavender (LD), Origanum majorana—oregano (OM), which belong to the Lamiaceae family. The other two plants were Cymbopogon citratus—lemon grass (family Poaceae) (CC), and Eucalyptus globulus (family Myrtaceae) (EG). Employing the disc diffusion susceptibility test, minimum inhibitory and minimum bactericidal concentrations were estimated for each oil, followed by the addition of oils to pasteurized apple juice after microbial induction. The results revealed that thyme oil showed the maximum zone of inhibition against all tested microbes enriched with monoterpenes class viz. eucalyptol (24.3%), thymol (17.4%), and γ-terpinene (15.2%). All other tested oils exhibited a concentration-dependent inhibition of growth and their MIC ranged from 0.1 to 100 µL/mL. The recorded minimum bactericidal concentration values were apparently double the minimum inhibitory concentration. The EO of Mentha virdis followed by Mentha longifolia showed maximum antimicrobial activity against the tested organisms in pasteurized apple juice. A gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) analysis of lemon grass, thyme, and Mentha virdis essential oils showed their enrichment with monoterpenes class recording 97.10, 97.04, and 97.61%, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reham F. El-Kased
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo 11837, Egypt
- Correspondence: (R.F.E.-K); (D.M.E.-K)
| | - Dina M. El-Kersh
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo 11837, Egypt
- Correspondence: (R.F.E.-K); (D.M.E.-K)
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13
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Priya A, Pandian SK. Biofilm and hyphal inhibitory synergistic effects of phytoactives piperine and cinnamaldehyde against Candida albicans. Med Mycol 2022; 60:6602366. [PMID: 35661216 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myac039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral candidiasis, the most common mycotic infection of the human oral cavity is non-life-threatening yet if untreated may advance as systemic infections. Ability of Candida albicans to adapt sessile lifestyle imparts resistance to drugs and host immunity. Consequently, due to limited effectiveness of conventional antifungal treatment, novel therapeutic strategies are required. In the present study, synergistic interaction of phytochemicals, piperine and cinnamaldehyde against the biofilm and hyphal of C. albicans was evaluated. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and biofilm inhibitory concentration (BIC) of piperine and cinnamaldehyde against C. albicans were analysed through microbroth dilution assay and crystal violet staining method, respectively. Combinatorial biofilm and hyphal inhibitory effect were investigated through checkerboard assay. In vitro results were validated through gene expression analysis. BIC of piperine and cinnamaldehyde was determined to be 32 µg/mL and 64 µg/mL, respectively. Interaction between these two phytocomponents was found to be synergistic and six different synergistic antibiofilm combinations were identified. Microscopic analysis of biofilm architecture also evidenced the biofilm and surface adherence inhibitory potential of piperine and cinnamaldehyde combinations. Phenotypic switching between yeast and hyphal morphological forms was influenced by synergistic combinations. qPCR analysis corroborated the results of in vitro activities. nrg1 and trp1, the negative transcriptional regulators of filamentous growth were upregulated whereas other genes that are involved in biofilm formation, filamentous growth, adhesion etc were found to be downregulated. These proficient phytochemical combinations provide a new therapeutic avenue for the treatment of biofilm associated oral candidiasis and to combat the recurrent infections due to antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arumugam Priya
- Department of Biotechnology, Alagappa University, Science Campus, Karaikudi 630003, Tamil Nadu, India
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14
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Hosseini SMK, Alizadeh F, Nouripour-Sisakht S, Khodavandi A. Synergistic interaction of fluconazole/sodium bicarbonate on the inhibition of Candida glabrata phospholipase gene. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/s2175-97902022e19897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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15
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Kim D, Kim KY. Hedera rhombea inhibits the biofilm formation of Candida, thereby increases the susceptibility to antifungal agent, and reduces infection. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258108. [PMID: 34614005 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida is an opportunistic pathogen and a common cause of fungal infections worldwide. Anti-fungal use against Candida infections has resulted in the appearance of resistant strains. The limited choice of anti-fungal therapy means alternative strategies are needed to control fungal infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inhibition of Candida biofilm formation by Hedera rhombea (Korean name: songak) extract. Biofilm formation was assessed using the crystal violet assay which showed a dose dependent reduction in the presence of extract with the biofilm formation inhibitory concentration of C. albicans (IC50 = 12.5μg/ml), C. tropicalis var. tropicalis (IC50 = 25μg/ml), C. parapsilosis var. parapsilosis (IC50 = 6.25μg/ml), C. glabrata (IC50 = 6.25μg/ml), C. tropicalis (IC50 = 12.5μg/ml), and C. parapsilosis (IC50 = 12.5μg/ml) without directly reducing Candida growth. Treatment with 6.25μg/mL of extract increased the antifungal susceptibility to miconazole from 32% decreasing of fungal growth to 98.8% of that based on the fungal growth assay. Treatment of extract dose-dependently reduced the dimorphic transition of Candida based on the dimorphic transition assay and treatment of 3.125μg/mL of extract completely blocked the adherence of Candida to the HaCaT cells. To know the molecular mechanisms of biofilm formation inhibition by extract, qRT-PCR analysis was done, and the extract was found to dose dependently reduce the expression of hyphal-associated genes (ALS3, ECE1, HWP1, PGA50, and PBR1), extracellular matrix genes (GSC1, ZAP1, ADH5, and CSH1), Ras1-cAMP-PKA pathway genes (CYR1, EFG1, and RAS1), Cph2-Tec1 pathway gene (TEC1) and MAP kinases pathway gene (HST7). In this study, Hedera rhombea extract showed inhibition of fungal biofilm formation, activation of antifungal susceptibility, and reduction of infection. These results suggest that fungal biofilm formation is good screen for developing the antifungal adjuvant and Hedera rhombea extract should be a good candidate against biofilm-related fungal infection.
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16
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Butassi E, Svetaz L, Carpinella MC, Efferth T, Zacchino S. Fungal Biofilms as a Valuable Target for the Discovery of Natural Products That Cope with the Resistance of Medically Important Fungi-Latest Findings. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:1053. [PMID: 34572635 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10091053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of new antifungal agents that target biofilms is an urgent need. Natural products, mainly from the plant kingdom, represent an invaluable source of these entities. The present review provides an update (2017-May 2021) on the available information on essential oils, propolis, extracts from plants, algae, lichens and microorganisms, compounds from different natural sources and nanosystems containing natural products with the capacity to in vitro or in vivo modulate fungal biofilms. The search yielded 42 articles; seven involved essential oils, two Brazilian propolis, six plant extracts and one of each, extracts from lichens and algae/cyanobacteria. Twenty articles deal with the antibiofilm effect of pure natural compounds, with 10 of them including studies of the mechanism of action and five dealing with natural compounds included in nanosystems. Thirty-seven manuscripts evaluated Candida spp. biofilms and two tested Fusarium and Cryptococcus spp. Only one manuscript involved Aspergillus fumigatus. From the data presented here, it is clear that the search of natural products with activity against fungal biofilms has been a highly active area of research in recent years. However, it also reveals the necessity of deepening the studies by (i) evaluating the effect of natural products on biofilms formed by the newly emerged and worrisome health-care associated fungi, C. auris, as well as on other non-albicans Candida spp., Cryptococcus sp. and filamentous fungi; (ii) elucidating the mechanisms of action of the most active natural products; (iii) increasing the in vivo testing.
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17
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Pentland DR, Davis J, Mühlschlegel FA, Gourlay CW. CO(2) enhances the formation, nutrient scavenging and drug resistance properties of C. albicans biofilms. NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes 2021; 7:67. [PMID: 34385462 DOI: 10.1038/s41522-021-00238-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
C. albicans is the predominant human fungal pathogen and frequently colonises medical devices, such as voice prostheses, as a biofilm. It is a dimorphic yeast that can switch between yeast and hyphal forms in response to environmental cues, a property that is essential during biofilm establishment and maturation. One such cue is the elevation of CO2 levels, as observed in exhaled breath for example. However, despite the clear medical relevance, the effect of CO2 on C. albicans biofilm growth has not been investigated to date. Here we show that physiologically relevant CO2 elevation enhances each stage of the C. albicans biofilm-forming process: from attachment through maturation to dispersion. The effects of CO2 are mediated via the Ras/cAMP/PKA signalling pathway and the central biofilm regulators Efg1, Brg1, Bcr1 and Ndt80. Biofilms grown under elevated CO2 conditions also exhibit increased azole resistance, increased Sef1-dependent iron scavenging and enhanced glucose uptake to support their rapid growth. These findings suggest that C. albicans has evolved to utilise the CO2 signal to promote biofilm formation within the host. We investigate the possibility of targeting CO2-activated processes and propose 2-deoxyglucose as a drug that may be repurposed to prevent C. albicans biofilm formation on medical airway management implants. We thus characterise the mechanisms by which CO2 promotes C. albicans biofilm formation and suggest new approaches for future preventative strategies.
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18
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Padder SA, Ramzan A, Tahir I, Rehman RU, Shah AH. Metabolic flexibility and extensive adaptability governing multiple drug resistance and enhanced virulence in Candida albicans. Crit Rev Microbiol 2021; 48:1-20. [PMID: 34213983 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2021.1935447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Commensal fungus-Candida albicans turn pathogenic during the compromised immunity of the host, causing infections ranging from superficial mucosal to dreadful systemic ones. C. albicans has evolved various adaptive measures which collectively contribute towards its enhanced virulence. Among fitness attributes, metabolic flexibility and vigorous stress response are essential for its pathogenicity and virulence. Metabolic flexibility provides a means for nutrient assimilation and growth in diverse host microenvironments and reduces the vulnerability of the pathogen to various antifungals besides evading host immune response(s). Inside the host micro-environments, C. albicans efficiently utilizes the multiple fermentable and non-fermentable carbon sources to sustain and proliferate in glucose deficit conditions. The utilization of alternative carbon sources further highlights the importance of understanding these pathways as the attractive and potential therapeutic target. A thorough understanding of metabolic flexibility and adaptation to environmental stresses is warranted to decipher in-depth insights into virulence and molecular mechanisms of fungal pathogenicity. In this review, we have attempted to provide a detailed and recent understanding of some key aspects of fungal biology. Particular focus will be placed on processes like nutrient assimilation and utilization, metabolic adaptability, virulence factors, and host immune response in C. albicans leading to its enhanced pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Ahmad Padder
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Asiya Ramzan
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Inayatullah Tahir
- Departments of Botany, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Reiaz Ul Rehman
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Abdul Haseeb Shah
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
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19
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Kotey FCN, Dayie NTKD, Tetteh-Uarcoo PB, Donkor ES. Candida Bloodstream Infections: Changes in Epidemiology and Increase in Drug Resistance. Infect Dis (Lond) 2021; 14:11786337211026927. [PMID: 34248358 PMCID: PMC8236779 DOI: 10.1177/11786337211026927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The literature on bloodstream infections (BSIs) have predominantly been biased towards bacteria, given their superior clinical significance in comparison with the other types of microorganisms. Fungal pathogens have epidemiologically received relatively less attention, although they constitute an important proportion of BSI aetiologies. In this review, the authors discuss the clinical relevance of fungal BSIs in the context of Candida species, as well as treatment options for the infections, emphasizing the compelling need to develop newer antifungals and strengthen antimicrobial stewardship programmes in the wake of the rapid spread of antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fleischer CN Kotey
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Korle Bu, Accra, Ghana
- FleRhoLife Research Consult, Teshie, Accra, Ghana
| | - Nicholas TKD Dayie
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Korle Bu, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Eric S Donkor
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Korle Bu, Accra, Ghana
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20
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Kaur N, Bains A, Kaushik R, Dhull SB, Melinda F, Chawla P. A Review on Antifungal Efficiency of Plant Extracts Entrenched Polysaccharide-Based Nanohydrogels. Nutrients 2021; 13:2055. [PMID: 34203999 PMCID: PMC8232670 DOI: 10.3390/nu13062055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human skin acts as a physical barrier; however, sometimes the skin gets infected by fungi, which becomes more severe if the infection occurs on the third layer of the skin. Azole derivative-based antifungal creams, liquids, or sprays are available to treat fungal infections; however, these formulations show various side effects on the application site. Over the past few years, herbal extracts and various essential oils have shown effective antifungal activity. Additionally, autoxidation and epimerization are significant problems with the direct use of herbal extracts. Hence, to overcome these obstacles, polysaccharide-based nanohydrogels embedded with natural plant extracts and oils have become the primary choice of pharmaceutical scientists. These gels protect plant-based bioactive compounds and are effective delivery agents because they release multiple bioactive compounds in the targeted area. Nanohydrogels can be applied to infected areas, and due to their contagious nature and penetration power, they get directly absorbed through the skin, quickly reaching the skin's third layer and effectively reducing the fungal infection. In this review, we explain various skin fungal infections, possible treatments, and the effective utilization of plant extract and oil-embedded polysaccharide-based nanohydrogels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navkiranjeet Kaur
- Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India;
| | - Aarti Bains
- Department of Biotechnology, Chandigarh Group of Colleges Landran, Mohali 140307, Punjab, India;
| | - Ravinder Kaushik
- School of Health Sciences, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun 248007, Uttrakhand, India;
| | - Sanju B. Dhull
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa 125055, Haryana, India;
| | - Fogarasi Melinda
- Department of Food Engineering, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăstur 3–5, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Prince Chawla
- Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India;
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21
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Johns LE, Goldman GH, Ries LN, Brown NA. Nutrient sensing and acquisition in fungi: mechanisms promoting pathogenesis in plant and human hosts. FUNGAL BIOL REV 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbr.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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22
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Ponde NO, Lortal L, Ramage G, Naglik JR, Richardson JP. Candida albicans biofilms and polymicrobial interactions. Crit Rev Microbiol 2021; 47:91-111. [PMID: 33482069 PMCID: PMC7903066 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2020.1843400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Candida albicans is a common fungus of the human microbiota. While generally a harmless commensal in healthy individuals, several factors can lead to its overgrowth and cause a range of complications within the host, from localized superficial infections to systemic life-threatening disseminated candidiasis. A major virulence factor of C. albicans is its ability to form biofilms, a closely packed community of cells that can grow on both abiotic and biotic substrates, including implanted medical devices and mucosal surfaces. These biofilms are extremely hard to eradicate, are resistant to conventional antifungal treatment and are associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, making biofilm-associated infections a major clinical challenge. Here, we review the current knowledge of the processes involved in C. albicans biofilm formation and development, including the central processes of adhesion, extracellular matrix production and the transcriptional network that regulates biofilm development. We also consider the advantages of the biofilm lifestyle and explore polymicrobial interactions within multispecies biofilms that are formed by C. albicans and selected microbial species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole O. Ponde
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
| | - Léa Lortal
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
| | - Gordon Ramage
- School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, Glasgow Dental School and Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Glasgow, G2 3JZ, United Kingdom
| | - Julian R. Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan P. Richardson
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
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Wu J, Wu D, Zhao Y, Si Y, Mei L, Shao J, Wang T, Yan G, Wang C. Sodium New Houttuyfonate Inhibits Candida albicans Biofilm Formation by Inhibiting the Ras1-cAMP-Efg1 Pathway Revealed by RNA-seq. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:2075. [PMID: 32983053 PMCID: PMC7477049 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.02075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we aim to investigate the antifungal effect and mechanism of action of sodium new houttuyfonate (SNH) against Candida albicans. Microdilution analysis results showed that SNH possesses potent inhibitory activity against C. albicans SC5314, with a MIC80 of 256 μg/mL. Furthermore, we found that SNH can effectively inhibit the initial adhesion of C. albicans. Inverted microscopy, crystal violet staining, scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy results showed that morphological changes during the transition from yeast to hypha and the biofilm formation of C. albicans are repressed by SNH treatment. We also found that SNH can effectively inhibit the biofilm formation of clinical C. albicans strains (Z103, Z3044, Z1402, and Z1407) and SNH in combination with fluconazole, berberine chloride, caspofungin and itraconazole antifungal agents can synergistically inhibit the biofilm formation of C. albicans. Eukaryotic transcriptome sequencing and qRT-PCR results showed that SNH treatment resulted in significantly down-regulated expression in several biofilm formation related genes in the Ras1-cAMP-Efg1 pathway (ALS1, ALA1, ALS3, EAP1, RAS1, EFG1, HWP1, and TEC1) and significantly up-regulated expression in yeast form-associated genes (YWP1 and RHD1). We also found that SNH can effectively reduce the production of key messenger cAMP in the Ras1-cAMP-Efg1 pathway. Furthermore, using Galleria mellonella as an in vivo model we found that SNH can effectively treat C. albicans infection in vivo. Our presented results suggest that SNH exhibits potential antibiofilm effects related to inhibiting the Ras1-cAMP-Efg1 pathway in the biofilm formation of C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiadi Wu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Daqiang Wu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Research Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Chinese Herbal Compound Formula in Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Yeye Zhao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanqing Si
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Longfei Mei
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Jing Shao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Research Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Chinese Herbal Compound Formula in Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Tianming Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Herbal Compound Formula in Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Guiming Yan
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Herbal Compound Formula in Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Changzhong Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Research Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Chinese Herbal Compound Formula in Anhui Province, Hefei, China
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Feridoniy M, Alizadeh F, Panahi Kokhdan E, Khodavandi A. Study of the antifungal potential of carvacrol on growth inhibition of Candida krusei in a systemic candidiasis. ADV TRADIT MED (ADTM) 2020; 20:591-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s13596-020-00482-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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.
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Wall G, Montelongo-Jauregui D, Vidal Bonifacio B, Lopez-Ribot JL, Uppuluri P. Candida albicans biofilm growth and dispersal: contributions to pathogenesis. Curr Opin Microbiol 2019; 52:1-6. [PMID: 31085405 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The fungal species Candida albicans is most frequently associated with biofilm formation in immune-compromised and medically compromised patients, and it is now firmly established that biofilm formation represents a major virulence factor during candidiasis. A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that C. albicans biofilm development is a highly regulated and coordinated process, where adhesive interactions, morphogenetic conversions, and consortial behavior play significant roles. Cells within the biofilms are protected from environmental stresses including host immune defenses and antifungal treatment, which carries important clinical consequences for the treatment of biofilm-associated infections. Dispersal of cells from biofilms represents one of the hallmarks of the biofilm life-style, and in the case of C. albicans dispersed cells are responsible for candidemia and dissemination leading to the establishment of invasive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Wall
- Department of Biology and South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Daniel Montelongo-Jauregui
- Department of Biology and South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Bruna Vidal Bonifacio
- Department of Biology and South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Jose L Lopez-Ribot
- Department of Biology and South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA.
| | - Priya Uppuluri
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, 90509, USA.
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Leal F. Special Issue: Fungal Pathogenesis in Humans: The Growing Threat. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:E136. [PMID: 30759890 DOI: 10.3390/genes10020136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 150 fungal species are considered as primary pathogens of humans and animals[...].
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Pais P, Galocha M, Viana R, Cavalheiro M, Pereira D, Teixeira MC. Microevolution of the pathogenic yeasts Candida albicans and Candida glabrata during antifungal therapy and host infection. Microb Cell 2019; 6:142-159. [PMID: 30854392 PMCID: PMC6402363 DOI: 10.15698/mic2019.03.670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Infections by the pathogenic yeasts Candida albicans and Candida glabrata are among the most common fungal diseases. The success of these species as human pathogens is contingent on their ability to resist antifungal therapy and thrive within the human host. C. glabrata is especially resilient to azole antifungal treatment, while C. albicans is best known for its wide array of virulence features. The core mechanisms that underlie antifungal resistance and virulence in these pathogens has been continuously addressed, but the investigation on how such mechanisms evolve according to each environment is scarcer. This review aims to explore current knowledge on micro-evolution experiments to several treatment and host-associated conditions in C. albicans and C. glabrata. The analysis of adaptation strategies that evolve over time will allow to better understand the mechanisms by which Candida species are able to achieve stable phenotypes in real-life scenarios, which are the ones that should constitute the most interesting drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Pais
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,iBB - Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mónica Galocha
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,iBB - Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Romeu Viana
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,iBB - Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Cavalheiro
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,iBB - Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Diana Pereira
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,iBB - Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Miguel Cacho Teixeira
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,iBB - Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisboa, Portugal
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