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Campbell JS, Pearce JC, Bebes A, Pradhan A, Yuecel R, Brown AJP, Wakefield JG. Characterising phagocytes and measuring phagocytosis from live Galleria mellonella larvae. Virulence 2024; 15:2313413. [PMID: 38357909 PMCID: PMC10877982 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2313413] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the last 20 years, the larva of the greater waxmoth, Galleria mellonella, has rapidly increased in popularity as an in vivo mammalian replacement model organism for the study of human pathogens. Experimental readouts of response to infection are most often limited to observing the melanization cascade and quantifying larval death and, whilst transcriptomic and proteomic approaches, and methods to determine microbial load are also used, a more comprehensive toolkit of profiling infection over time could transform the applicability of this model. As an invertebrate, Galleria harbour an innate immune system comprised of both humoral components and a repertoire of innate immune cells - termed haemocytes. Although information on subtypes of haemocytes exists, there are conflicting reports on their exact number and function. Flow cytometry has previously been used to assay Galleria haemocytes, but protocols include both centrifugation and fixation - physical methods which have the potential to affect haemocyte morphology prior to analysis. Here, we present a method for live haemocyte analysis by flow cytometry, revealing that Galleria haemocytes constitute only a single resolvable population, based on relative size or internal complexity. Using fluorescent zymosan particles, we extend our method to show that up to 80% of the Galleria haemocyte population display phagocytic capability. Finally, we demonstrate that the developed assay reliably replicates in vitro data, showing that cell wall β-1,3-glucan masking by Candida albicans subverts phagocytic responses. As such, our method provides a new tool with which to rapidly assess phagocytosis and understand live infection dynamics in Galleria.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Attila Bebes
- Exeter Centre for Cytomics, Henry Wellcome Building for Biocatalysis, Biosciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Arnab Pradhan
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Raif Yuecel
- Exeter Centre for Cytomics, Henry Wellcome Building for Biocatalysis, Biosciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Alistair J P Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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2
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Wang H, Li H, Liu Z, Zhu Z, Cao Y. Activity of thonningianin A against Candida albicans in vitro and in vivo. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:96. [PMID: 38212967 PMCID: PMC10784352 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12996-1] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Fungal infections are increasing rapidly, and antifungal agents used in clinics are limited. Therefore, novel antifungal agents with high efficiency are urgently required. In this study, we investigated the antifungal activity of thonningianin A (THA), a natural compound that is widely found in plants. We first determined the activity of THA against Candida albicans, one of the most common fungal pathogens, and found that THA showed antifungal activity against all C. albicans tested, including several fluconazole-resistant isolates. THA also inhibits the growth of non-Candida albicans species. In addition, THA displayed antibiofilm activity and could not only inhibit biofilm formation but also destroy mature biofilms. The in vivo antifungal efficacy of THA was confirmed in a Galleria mellonella infection model. Further studies revealed that THA could enhance intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and regulate the transcription of several redox-related genes. Specifically, caspase activity and expression of CaMCA1, a caspase-encoding gene in C. albicans, were remarkably increased upon THA treatment. Consistent with this, in the presence of THA, the Camca1 null mutant displayed higher survival rates and reduced caspase activity compared to the wild-type or CaMCA1-reintroduced strains, indicating an important role of CaMCA1 in the antifungal activity of THA. Taken together, our results indicate that THA possesses excellent antifungal activity and may be a promising novel antifungal candidate. KEY POINTS: • THA exhibits activity against Candida species, including fluconazole-resistant isolates • THA inhibits biofilm formation and destroys mature biofilm • Elevated ROS production and CaMCA1-mediated caspase activity are involved in the antifungal mechanisms of THA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200443, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Dermatology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - ZhiWei Liu
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200443, China
| | - ZhenYu Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - YingYing Cao
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200443, China.
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Topical Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200443, China.
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3
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Sendid B, Cao C, Colombel JF, Poulain D. Coincidence of antibodies against Hwp1 and ASCA, two distinct molecular targets of Candida albicans, reinforces the link between this fungal species and coeliac disease. Virulence 2024; 15:2334085. [PMID: 38528835 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2334085] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is an immunogen for anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA), a serological marker of Crohn's disease. ASCA has also been reported in other autoimmune diseases, including coeliac disease (CeD). A strong antibody response against Hwp1, a protein associated with invasive hyphal form of C. albicans which presents peptide sequence homologies with gliadin, has also been described in CeD. This observation supports the hypothesis that C. albicans hyphal transition in C. albicans may trigger CeD onset through a mechanism of molecular/antigenic mimicry. In this study, we assessed whether the anti-C. albicans oligomannose and anti-Hwp1 protein responses may be linked despite their different pathophysiological significance. The measurement of ASCA levels in a cohort of patients involved in our previous Hwp1 study showed a significant correlation between the two biomarkers. This new observation further reinforces the link between C. albicans and CeD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boualem Sendid
- CNRS, UMR 8576 - UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Univ INSERM U1285, Lille, France
- CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Lille, France
| | - Christopher Cao
- Dr Henry D Janowitz Division of Gastroenterology, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, USA
| | - Jean-Frederic Colombel
- Dr Henry D Janowitz Division of Gastroenterology, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, USA
| | - Daniel Poulain
- CNRS, UMR 8576 - UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Univ INSERM U1285, Lille, France
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Salvatore MM, Maione A, Imparato M, Salvatore F, Guida M, Galdiero E, Andolfi A. A metabolomics footprinting approach using GC-MS to study inhibitory effects of the fungal metabolite diplopyrone C against nosocomial pathogen biofilms. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 243:116081. [PMID: 38452422 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.116081] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Seen initially as wonder drugs, the widespread and often inappropriate use of antibiotics led to the development of microbial resistances. As a result, a true emergency has arisen, and a significant need has emerged to discover and develop new safe and valuable antibiotics. The captivating chemical structure of the fungal metabolite diplopyrone C has caught our attention as an excellent candidate for a circumstantial study aimed at revealing its antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities. In this work, we describe the full analytical strategy from the isolation/identification to the evaluation of the metabolomics effect on target microorganisms of this fungal metabolite. Our results show interesting antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of diplopyrone C against two frequently isolated nosocomial pathogens (i.e., the fungus Candida albicans and the gram-negative bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae). Moreover, a GC-MS based metabolomics footprinting approach gave an insight into the uptake and excretion of metabolites from and into the culture medium as a response to the presence of this active substance. The workflow employed in this study is suitable to exploit natural resources for the search of lead compounds for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Michela Salvatore
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80126, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80126, Italy.
| | - Angela Maione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80126, Italy
| | - Marianna Imparato
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80126, Italy
| | - Francesco Salvatore
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80126, Italy
| | - Marco Guida
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80126, Italy; BAT Center-Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, NA 80055, Italy
| | - Emilia Galdiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80126, Italy.
| | - Anna Andolfi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80126, Italy
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5
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Mo H, Zhang T, Zhang J, Peng S, Xiang F, Li H, Ge Y, Yao L, Hu L. Ferrous sulphate triggers ferroptosis in Candida albicans and cures vulvovaginal candidiasis in a mouse model. Microbiol Res 2024; 283:127704. [PMID: 38554652 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127704] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans is the most leading cause of life-threatening fungal invasive infections, especially for vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). Resistance and tolerance to common fungicide has risen great demands on alternative strategies for treating C. albicans infections. In the present study, ferroptosis has been proven to occur in C. albicans by directly exposed to FeSO4 via induing hallmarks of ferroptosis, including Fe2+ overload burden, ROS eruption and lipid peroxidation. Transcriptomic profile gave the great hints of the possible mechanism for fungal ferroptosis that FeSO4 disturb pathways associated to ribosome, tyrosine metabolism, triglyceride metabolism and thiamine metabolism, thus mobilizing death-related gene synthesis. Inspired by the results, a FeSO4-loaded hydrogel was prepared as an antifungal agent to treat C. albicans infection. This hydrogel exhibited excellent dressing properties and maintained superior antifungal activity by characterization tests. Besides, mice treated by this composite hydrogel displayed excellent therapeutic efficacy. These results highlighted the potential therapeutic use of FeSO4 as an innovative strategy in treating C. albicans infections by targeting ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haizhen Mo
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Jiayi Zhang
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Shurui Peng
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Fukun Xiang
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Hongbo Li
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Yaming Ge
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Lishan Yao
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China.
| | - Liangbin Hu
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China.
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Harrar S, Mimouni N, Kharchi R, Abkari I, El Hakkouni A. Challenges in the management of severe cutaneous mucormycosis: A case of rapid progression in uncontrolled diabetes mellitus with polymicrobial implications. Med Mycol Case Rep 2024; 44:100643. [PMID: 38516607 PMCID: PMC10950793 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2024.100643] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis, a rare but life-threatening fungal infection, poses significant challenges in clinical management, particularly in patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. This case report presents the clinical journey of a 44-year-old woman who developed a rapidly progressing Mucorales infection following a domestic knife injury. Her condition, complicated by diabetic ketoacidosis and co-infection with Candida albicans, led to severe hand phlegm and sepsis. Despite aggressive intervention, the infection continued to advance, ultimately resulting in the patient's demise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Harrar
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory Department, Mohammed VI University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, 40000, Morocco
| | - Nidae Mimouni
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory Department, Mohammed VI University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, 40000, Morocco
| | - Rabie Kharchi
- Traumatology-Orthopedy B Department, Mohammed VI University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, 40000, Morocco
| | - Imad Abkari
- Traumatology-Orthopedy B Department, Mohammed VI University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, 40000, Morocco
| | - Awatif El Hakkouni
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory Department, Mohammed VI University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, 40000, Morocco
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de Jongh CA, Bikker FJ, de Vries TJ, Werner A, Gibbs S, Krom BP. Porphyromonas gingivalis interaction with Candida albicans allows for aerobic escape, virulence and adherence. Biofilm 2024; 7:100172. [PMID: 38226024 PMCID: PMC10788424 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioflm.2023.100172] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
In the oral cavity Candida albicans interacts with many oral bacteria, including Porphyromonas gingivalis, both physically and metabolically. The aim of this in vitro study was to characterize these interactions and study their effects on the survival of P. gingivalis. First, metabolic interactions were evaluated by counting the colony forming units (CFU) after co-culturing. The results indicated that the anaerobic bacterium P. gingivalis survives under aerobic conditions when co-cultured with C. albicans. This is due to the oxygen consumption by C. albicans as determined by a reduction in survival upon the addition of Antimycin A. By measuring the protease activity, it was found that the presence of C. albicans induced gingipain activity by P. gingivalis, which is an important virulence factor. Adherence of P. gingivalis to hyphae of C. albicans was observed with a dynamic flow system. Using various C. albicans mutants, it was shown that the mechanism of adhesion was mediated by the cell wall adhesins, members of the agglutinin-like sequence (Als) family: Als3 and Als1. Furthermore, the two microorganisms could be co-cultured into forming a biofilm in which P. gingivalis can survive under aerobic culturing conditions, which was imaged using scanning electron microscopy. This study has further elucidated mechanisms of interaction, virulence acquisition and survival of P. gingivalis when co-cultured with C. albicans. Such survival could be essential for the pathogenicity of P. gingivalis in the oxygen-rich niches of the oral cavity. This study has emphasized the importance of interaction between different microbes in promoting survival, virulence and attachment of pathogens, which could be essential in facilitating penetration into the environment of the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A. de Jongh
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Periodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Oral Cell Biology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Floris J. Bikker
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Teun J. de Vries
- Department of Periodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Arie Werner
- Department of Dental Materials Science, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Susan Gibbs
- Department of Oral Cell Biology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bastiaan P. Krom
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Chen T, Gao C. Innate immune signal transduction pathways to fungal infection: Components and regulation. Cell Insight 2024; 3:100154. [PMID: 38464417 PMCID: PMC10924179 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2024.100154] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Candida species are significant causes of mucosal and systemic infections in immune compromised populations, including HIV-infected individuals and cancer patients. Drug resistance and toxicity have limited the use of anti-fungal drugs. A good comprehension of the nature of the immune responses to the pathogenic fungi will aid in the developing of new approaches to the treatment of fungal diseases. In recent years, extensive research has been done to understand the host defending systems to fungal infections. In this review, we described how pattern recognition receptors senses the cognate fungal ligands and the cellular and molecular mechanisms of anti-fungal innate immune responses. Furthermore, particular focus is placed on how anti-fungal signal transduction cascades are being activated for host defense and being modulated to better treat the infections in terms of immunotherapy. Understanding the role that these pathways have in mediating host anti-fungal immunity will be crucial for future therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Chen
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province & Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Chengjiang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province & Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Immunology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
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9
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Wu Y, Sun A, Chen F, Zhao Y, Zhu X, Zhang T, Ni G, Wang R. Synthesis, structure-activity relationship and biological evaluation of indole derivatives as anti- Candida albicans agents. Bioorg Chem 2024; 146:107293. [PMID: 38507998 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107293] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
In this work, we synthesized a series of indole derivatives to cope with the current increasing fungal infections caused by drug-resistant Candida albicans. All compounds were evaluated for antifungal activities against Candida albicans in vitro, and the structure-activity relationships (SARs) were analyzed. The results indicated that indole derivatives used either alone or in combination with fluconazole showed good activities against fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans. Further mechanisms studies demonstrated that compound 1 could inhibit yeast-to-hypha transition and biofilm formation of Candida albicans, increase the activity of the efflux pump, the damage of mitochondrial function, and the decrease of intracellular ATP content. In vivo studies, further proved the anti-Candida albicans activity of compound 1 by histological observation. Therefore, compound 1 could be considered as a novel antifungal agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yandan Wu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Aimei Sun
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Fei Chen
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Yin Zhao
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Xianhu Zhu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Tianbao Zhang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Guanghui Ni
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China.
| | - Ruirui Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China.
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Esfahani A, Omran AN, Salehi Z, Shams-Ghahfarokhi M, Ghane M, Eybpoosh S, Razzaghi-Abyaneh M. Up-regulation of CDR1 and MDR1 efflux pump genes and fluconazole resistance are involved in recurrence in Candida albicans-induced vulvovaginal candidiasis. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 109:116242. [PMID: 38452558 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2024.116242] [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: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) due to fluconazole resistance in Candida albicans isolates causes a wide range of complications. A number of 63 Candida albicans isolates obtained from vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) were identified by Internal Transcribed Spacer-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (ITS-RFLP). Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed by broth microdilution method according to the CLSI protocol. The role of CDR1 and MDR1 genes in progress of VVC to RVVC was examined and the activity of virulence-related enzymes was assessed. Candida albicans was diagnosed in 62.4 % cases, of which 22.2 % were confirmed as RVVC. Voriconazole was the most active drug among five tested antifungals. The mean expression level of CDR1 and MDR1 was higher in RVVC isolates compared to multidrug azole-resistant VVC isolates. Our results demonstrated that the expression of CDR1 and MDR1 and the level of phospholipase and proteinase activities could be quite important to induce fluconazole resistance in C. albicans and to progress of VVC to become RVVC in involved patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Esfahani
- Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tonekabon Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon, Iran
| | - Ayatollah Nasrollahi Omran
- Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tonekabon Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon, Iran
| | - Zahra Salehi
- Department of Mycology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
| | | | - Masood Ghane
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Tonekabon Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon, Iran
| | - Sana Eybpoosh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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Cicuéndez M, García-Lizarribar A, Casarrubios L, Feito MJ, Fernández-San-Argimiro FJ, García-Urkia N, Murua O, Madarieta I, Olalde B, Diez-Orejas R, Portolés MT. Functionality of macrophages encapsulated in porcine decellularized adipose matrix hydrogels and interaction with Candida albicans. Biomater Adv 2024; 159:213794. [PMID: 38367317 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213794] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix hydrogels are considered one of the most suitable biomaterials for tissue regeneration due to their similarity with the extracellular microenvironment of the native tissue. Their properties are dependent on their composition, material concentration, fiber density and the fabrication approaches, among other factors. The encapsulation of immune cells in this kind of hydrogels, both in absence or presence of a pathogen, represents a promising strategy for the development of platforms that mimic healthy and infected tissues, respectively. In this work, we have encapsulated macrophages in 3D hydrogels of porcine decellularized adipose matrices (pDAMs) without and with the Candida albicans fungus, as 3D experimental models to study the macrophage immunocompetence in a closer situation to the physiological conditions and to mimic an infection scenario. Our results indicate that encapsulated macrophages preserve their functionality within these pDAM hydrogels and phagocytose live pathogens. In addition, their behavior is influenced by the hydrogel pore size, inversely related to the hydrogel concentration. Thus, larger pore size promotes the polarization of macrophages towards M2 phenotype along the time and enhances their phagocytosis capability. It is important to point out that encapsulated macrophages in absence of pathogen showed an M2 phenotype, but macrophages coencapsulated with C. albicans can switch towards an M1 inflammatory phenotype to resolve the infection, depending on the fungus quantity. The present study reveals that pDAM hydrogels preserve the macrophage plasticity, demonstrating their relevance as new models for macrophage-pathogen interaction studies that mimic an infection scenario with application in regenerative medicine research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Cicuéndez
- Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Laura Casarrubios
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - María José Feito
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Nerea García-Urkia
- TECNALIA, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), E20009 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Olatz Murua
- TECNALIA, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), E20009 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Iratxe Madarieta
- TECNALIA, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), E20009 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Beatriz Olalde
- TECNALIA, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), E20009 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Rosalía Diez-Orejas
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - María Teresa Portolés
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, CIBER-BBN, ISCIII, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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Tan J, Zhang Z, Zheng D, Mu Y, Cao B, Yang J, Han L, Huang X. Structure-activity relationship and biofilm formation-related gene targets of oleanolic acid-type saponins from Pulsatilla chinensis against Candida albicans. Bioorg Chem 2024; 146:107311. [PMID: 38547720 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107311] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
In the course of our investigations of antifungal natural products, the structure-activity relationship and antifungal activities of oleanolic acid-type saponins (1-28) from Pulsatilla chinensis against human and plant pathogenic fungi were elucidated. The analysis of structure-activity relationship of oleanolic acid-type saponins showed that the free carboxyl at C-28 was essential for their antifungal activities; the free hydroxyl group at the C-23 site of oleanolic acid-type saponins played a crucial role in their antifungal activities; the oligosaccharide chain at C-3 oleanolic acid-type saponins showed significant effects on antifungal efficacy and a disaccharide or trisaccharide moiety at position C-3 displayed optimal antifungal activity. The typical saponin pulchinenoside B3 (16, PB3) displayed satisfactory antifungal activity against human and plant pathogenic fungi, especially, C. albicans with an MIC value of 12.5 μg/mL. Furthermore, PB3 could inhibit the biofilm formation of C. albicans through downregulating the expression of the integrated network of biofilm formation-associated transcription factors (Bcr1 Efg1, Ndt80, Brg1, Rob1 and Tec1) and adhesion-related target genes (HWP1, ALS1, and ALS3). Meanwhile, we found that PB3 could effectively destroy the mature biofilm of C. albicans by the oxidative damage and inducing mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfeng Tan
- Institute of Microbial Pharmaceuticals, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China; Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning Province, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Zengguang Zhang
- Institute of Microbial Pharmaceuticals, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Dan Zheng
- Institute of Microbial Pharmaceuticals, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Yu Mu
- Institute of Microbial Pharmaceuticals, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Bixuan Cao
- Institute of Microbial Pharmaceuticals, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Junwei Yang
- Institute of Microbial Pharmaceuticals, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Li Han
- Institute of Microbial Pharmaceuticals, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China; Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning Province, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China.
| | - Xueshi Huang
- Institute of Microbial Pharmaceuticals, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China; Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning Province, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China.
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Alsulami KA, Bakr AA, Alshehri AA, Aodah AH, Almughem FA, Alamer AA, Alharbi LA, Alsuwayeh DS, Halwani AA, Alamoudi AA, Alfassam HA, Tawfik EA. Fabrication and evaluation of ribavirin-loaded electrospun nanofibers as an antimicrobial wound dressing. Saudi Pharm J 2024; 32:102058. [PMID: 38601973 PMCID: PMC11004991 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2024.102058] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Skin is regarded as an essential first line of defense against harmful pathogens and it hosts an ecosystem of microorganisms that create a widely diverse skin microbiome. In chronic wounds, alterations in the host-microbe interactions occur forming polymicrobial biofilms that hinder the process of wound healing. Ribavirin, an antiviral drug, possesses antimicrobial activity, especially against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans, which are known as the main opportunistic pathogens in chronic wounds. Rationale In this study, electrospun nanofiber systems loaded with ribavirin were developed as a potential wound dressing for topical application in chronic wounds. Ribavirin was chosen in this study owing to the emerging cases of antimicrobial (antibiotics and antifungal) resistance and the low attempts to discover new antimicrobial agents, which encouraged the repurposing use of current medication as an alternative solution in case of resistance to the available agents. Additionally, the unique mechanism of action of ribavirin, i.e., perturbing the bacterial virulence system without killing or stopping their growth and rendering the pathogens disarmed, might be a promising choice to prevent drug resistance. Cyclodextrin (CD) was utilized to formulate ribavirin as an electrospun nanofibers delivery system to enhance the absorption and accelerate the release of ribavirin for topical use. Results The results demonstrated a successful ribavirin nanofibers fabrication that lacked beads and pores on the nanofibrous surfaces. Ribavirin underwent a physical transformation from crystalline to amorphous form, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. This change occurred due to the molecular dispersion after the electrospinning process. Additionally, the CD enhanced the encapsulation efficiency of ribavirin in the nanofibers as observed from the drug-loading results. Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and CD increased ribavirin released into the solution and the disintegration of fibrous mats which shrank and eventually dissolved into a gel-like substance as the ribavirin-loaded fibers began to break down from their border toward the midpoint. Cytotoxicity of ribavirin and CD was evaluated against human dermal fibroblasts (HFF-1) and the results showed a relatively safe profile of ribavirin upon 24-hour cell exposure, while CD was safe within 24- and 48-hour. Conclusion This study provides valuable insights into the potential application of our nanofibrous system for treating chronic wounds; however, further antimicrobial and in-vivo studies are required to confirm its safety and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khulud A. Alsulami
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abrar A. Bakr
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A. Alshehri
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alhassan H. Aodah
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad A. Almughem
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali A. Alamer
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lujain A. Alharbi
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Deema S. Alsuwayeh
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman A. Halwani
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A. Alamoudi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haya A. Alfassam
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Essam A. Tawfik
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
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Mansour AM, Radacki K, Mostafa GAE, Ali EA, Shehab OR. Antimicrobial properties of triazolato terpyridine Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes formed by [3+2] cycloaddition coupling reaction. Bioorg Chem 2024; 146:107262. [PMID: 38467092 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107262] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Modern classes of antimicrobials are crucial because most drugs in development today are basically antibiotic derivatives. Even though a large number of metal-based compounds have been studied as antimicrobial agents, relatively few studies have examined the antimicrobial properties of Pd(II) and Pt(II) compounds. The [3+2] cycloaddition reactions of [M(N3)L]PF6 (M = Pd(II) and Pt(II); L = 4'-(2-pyridyl)-2,2':6',2″-terpyridine) with 4,4,4-trifluoro-2-butynoic acid ethyl ester gave the corresponding triazolate complexes. The reaction products were fully characterized with a variety of analytical and spectroscopic tools including X-ray crystallographic analysis. The crystal structure of [Pd(triazolatoCF3,COOCH2CH3)L]PF6 provided cut-off evidence that the kinetically formed N1-triazolato isomer favoured the isomerization to the thermodynamically stable N2-analogue. The experimental work was complemented with computational work to get an insight into the nature of the predominant triazolate isomer. The lysozyme binding affinity of the triazolate complexes was examined by mass spectrometry. An analysis of the lysozyme Pd(II) adducts suggests a coordinative covalent mode of binding via the loss of the triazolato ligand. The free ligand and its triazolate complexes displayed selective toxicity against Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans, while no cytotoxicity was observed against the normal human embryonic kidney cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Mansour
- Department of Chemistry, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates; Department of Chemistry, Cairo University, Faculty of Science, Gamma Street, Giza, Cairo 12613, Egypt.
| | - Krzysztof Radacki
- Institut für Anorganische Chemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Am Hubland, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Gamal A E Mostafa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Essam A Ali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ola R Shehab
- Department of Chemistry, Cairo University, Faculty of Science, Gamma Street, Giza, Cairo 12613, Egypt
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He R, Lin F, Yu B, Huang L. Efficacy and safety of ibrexafungerp in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28776. [PMID: 38628772 PMCID: PMC11019174 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28776] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety associated with ibrexafungerp in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis infection patients. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search of the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Clinical Trials databases up to December 25, 2022. The primary outcomes were clinical cure rate and mycological eradication rate, whereas the secondary outcomes were the risk of an adverse events. Results In total of four studies encompassing 880 patients diagnosed with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) were included in the analysis. The findings demonstrated that ibrexafungerp exhibited superior clinical cure ratio (RR = 1.33 [1.07, 1.66]), mycological eradication rate (RR = 1.72 [1.00, 2.95]), and overall success ratio (RR = 1.64 [0.92, 2.92]) when compared to the fluconazole/placebo in the treatment of VVC. Furthermore, patients treated with ibrexafungerp demonstrated significantly higher clinical cure rates, mycological eradication, and overall success ratio compared to those receiving other treatments for vulvovaginal candidiasis caused by C. albicans. When ibrexafungerp was compared to fluconazole/placebo, the duration of any treatment-related treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAE), nausea, and diarrhea during therapy was significantly longer. Conclusion In summary, the use of ibrexafungerp was linked to superior clinical cure ratio, and mycological eradication when compared to fluconazole/placebo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong He
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Fei Lin
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Bin Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, China
| | - Ling Huang
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
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16
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Wang X, Xu T, Wu S, Li L, Cai X, Chen F, Yan Z. Candida albicans-myeloid cells-T lymphocytes axis in the tumor microenvironment of oral tumor-bearing mice. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216814. [PMID: 38499264 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216814] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans) is associated with the development of oral cancer. Here, we report the altered tumor microenvironment in oral tumor-bearing mice caused by C. albicans infection. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed that C. albicans infection influenced the tumor microenvironment significantly. Specifically, C. albicans infection reduced the CD8+ T cells but increased the IL-17A+ CD4+ T cells and IL-17A+ γδ T cells in oral tumor. The neutralization of IL-17A or TCR γ/δ alleviated the tumor progression caused by C. albicans infection. Additionally, C. albicans infection promoted the infiltration of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) into tumor, especially polymorphonuclear (PMN)-MDSCs, which infiltration was reduced after the neutralization of CCL2. Thus, our findings reveal the myeloid cells-T lymphocytes axis in oral tumor microenvironment with C. albicans infection, which helps to understand the mechanisms for C. albicans promoting oral cancer from the perspective of immune microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Wang
- Department of Oral Medicine, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, China; National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China
| | - Tiansong Xu
- Central Laboratory, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, China; National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China
| | - Shuangshuang Wu
- Department of Oral Medicine, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, China; National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China
| | - Linman Li
- Department of Oral Medicine, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, China; National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China
| | - Xinjia Cai
- Department of Oral Pathology, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, China; National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Chen
- Central Laboratory, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, China; National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhimin Yan
- Department of Oral Medicine, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, China; National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
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Wakade RS, Wellington M, Krysan DJ. Temporal dynamics of Candida albicans morphogenesis and gene expression reveals distinctions between in vitro and in vivo filamentation. mSphere 2024; 9:e0011024. [PMID: 38501830 PMCID: PMC11036811 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00110-24] [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: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a common human fungal pathogen that is also a commensal of the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. C. albicans pathogenesis is linked to its transition from budding yeast to filamentous morphologies including hyphae and pseudohyphae. The centrality of this virulence trait to C. albicans pathobiology has resulted in extensive characterization of a wide range of factors associated with filamentation with a strong focus on transcriptional regulation. The vast majority of these experiments have used in vitro conditions to induce the yeast-to-filament transition. Taking advantage of in vivo approaches to quantitatively characterize both morphology and gene expression during filamentation during mammalian infection, we have investigated the dynamics of these two aspects of filamentation in vivo and compared them to in vitro filament induction with "host-like" tissue culture media supplemented with serum at mammalian body temperature. Although filamentation shares many common features in the two conditions, we have found two significant differences. First, alternative carbon metabolism genes are expressed early during in vitro filamentation and late in vivo, suggesting significant differences in glucose availability. Second, C. albicans begins a hyphae-to-yeast transition after 4-h incubation while we find little evidence of hyphae-to-yeast transition in vivo up to 24 h post-infection. We show that the low rate of in vivo hyphae-to-yeast transition is likely due to the very low expression of PES1, a key driver of lateral yeast in vitro and that heterologous expression of PES1 is sufficient to trigger lateral yeast formation in vivo.IMPORTANCECandida albicans filamentation is correlated with virulence and is an intensively studied aspect of C. albicans biology. The vast majority of studies on C. albicans filamentation are based on in vitro induction of hyphae and pseudohyphae. Here we used an in vivo filamentation assay and in vivo expression profiling to compare the tempo of morphogenesis and gene expression between in vitro and in vivo filamentation. Although the hyphal gene expression profile is induced rapidly in both conditions, it remains stably expressed over a 12-h time course in vivo while it peaks after 4 h in vitro and is reduced. This reduced hyphal gene expression in vitro correlates with reduced hyphae and increased hyphae-to-yeast transition. By contrast, there is little evidence of hyphae-to-yeast transition in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan S. Wakade
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Melanie Wellington
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Damian J. Krysan
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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18
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Dalabehera M, Rathore C, Rathee A, Lal UR. From plants to particles: herbal solutions and nanotechnology combating resistant vulvovaginal candidiasis. Ther Deliv 2024. [PMID: 38651887 DOI: 10.4155/tde-2023-0133] [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] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite having current advanced therapy, vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) remains a common yet debated healthcare-associated topic worldwide due to multi-drug resistance Candida species. In our review, we outlined and highlighted upcoming values with scope of existing and emerging information regarding the possibility of using various natural molecules combined with modern technology that shows promising anti-candida activity in VVC. Furthermore, in this review, we compiled herbal drug molecules and their nanocarriers approach for enhancing the efficacy and stability of herbal molecules. We have also summarized the patent literature available on herbal drug molecules and their nanoformulation techniques that could alternatively become a new innovative era to combat resistance VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Dalabehera
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Ajitgarh, Punjab, India
| | - Charul Rathore
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Ajitgarh, Punjab, India
| | - Ankit Rathee
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Ajitgarh, Punjab, India
| | - Uma Ranjan Lal
- Department of Natural Products, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Punjab 160062 Mohali, India
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Jensen O, Trujillo E, Hanson L, Ost KS. Controlling Candida: immune regulation of commensal fungi in the gut. Infect Immun 2024:e0051623. [PMID: 38647290 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00516-23] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The intestinal microbiome harbors fungi that pose a significant risk to human health as opportunistic pathogens and drivers of inflammation. Inflammatory and autoimmune diseases are associated with dysbiotic fungal communities and the expansion of potentially pathogenic fungi. The gut is also the main reservoir for disseminated fungal infections. Immune interactions are critical for preventing commensal fungi from becoming pathogenic. Significant strides have been made in defining innate and adaptive immune pathways that regulate intestinal fungi, and these discoveries have coincided with advancements in our understanding of the fungal molecular pathways and effectors involved in both commensal colonization and pathogenesis within the gut. In this review, we will discuss immune interactions important for regulating commensal fungi, with a focus on how specific cell types and effectors interact with fungi to limit their colonization or pathogenic potential. This will include how innate and adaptive immune pathways target fungi and orchestrate antifungal immune responses, in addition to how secreted immune effectors, such as mucus and antimicrobial peptides, regulate fungal colonization and inhibit pathogenic potential. These immune interactions will be framed around our current understanding of the fungal effectors and pathways regulating colonization and pathogenesis within this niche. Finally, we highlight important unexplored mechanisms by which the immune system regulates commensal fungi in the gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owen Jensen
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Emma Trujillo
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Luke Hanson
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kyla S Ost
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Bregón-Villahoz M, Menéndez-Manjón P, Carrano G, Díez-Villalba A, Arrieta-Aguirre I, Fernandez-de-Larrinoa I, Moragues MD. Candida albicans cDNA library screening reveals novel potential diagnostic targets for invasive candidiasis. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 109:116311. [PMID: 38657353 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2024.116311] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The detection of patterns associated with the invasive form of Candida albicans, such as Candida albicans germ tube antibodies (CAGTA), is a useful complement to blood culture for Invasive Candidiasis (IC) diagnosis. As CAGTA are detected by a non-standardisable and non-automatable technique, a Candida albicans cDNA expression library was screened with CAGTA isolated from serum of an animal model of invasive candidiasis, and five protein targets were identified: hyphally regulated cell wall protein 1 (Hyr1), enolase 1 (Eno1), coatomer subunit gamma (Sec21), a metallo-aminopeptidase (Ape2) and cystathionine gamma-lyase (Cys3). Homology with proteins from other organisms rules out Cys3 as a good biomarker while Sec21 results suggest that it is not in the germ tubes surface but secreted to the external environment. Our analysis propose Ape2, Sec21 and a region of Hyr1 different from the one currently being studied for immunoprotection as potential biomarker candidates for the diagnosis of IC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Bregón-Villahoz
- Department of Nursing I, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain; Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain
| | - Pilar Menéndez-Manjón
- Department of Nursing I, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain; Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain
| | - Giulia Carrano
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain
| | - Ander Díez-Villalba
- Department of Nursing I, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain; Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain
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Rabaan AA, Alfouzan WA, Garout M, Halwani MA, Alotaibi N, Alfaresi M, Al Kaabi NA, Almansour ZH, Bueid AS, Yousuf AA, Eid HMA, Alissa M. Antifungal drug discovery for targeting Candida albicans morphogenesis through structural dynamics study. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-17. [PMID: 38634700 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2332507] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
In response to the escalating threat of drug-resistant fungi to human health, there is an urgent need for innovative strategies. Our focus is on addressing this challenge by exploring a previously untapped target, yeast casein kinase (Yck2), as a potential space for antifungal development. To identify promising antifungal candidates, we conducted a thorough screening of the diverse-lib drug-like molecule library, comprising 99,288 molecules. Five notable drug-like compounds with diverse-lib IDs 24334243, 24342416, 17516746, 17407455, and 24360740 were selected based on their binding energy scores surpassing 11 Kcal/mol. Our investigation delved into the interaction studies and dynamic stability of these compounds. Remarkably, all selected molecules demonstrated acceptable RMSD values during the 200 ns simulation, indicating their stable nature. Further analysis through Principal Component Analysis (PCA)-based Free Energy Landscape (FEL) revealed minimal energy transitions for most compounds, signifying dynamic stability. Notably, the two compounds exhibited slightly different behaviour in terms of energy transitions. These findings mark a significant breakthrough in the realm of antifungal drugs against C. albicans by targeting the Yck2 protein. However, it is crucial to note that additional experimental validation is imperative to assess the efficacy of these molecules as potential antifungal candidates. This study serves as a promising starting point for further exploration and development in the quest for effective antifungal solutions.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan
| | - Wadha A Alfouzan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
- Microbiology Unit, Department of Laboratories, Farwania Hospital, Farwania, Kuwait
| | - Mohammed Garout
- Department of Community Medicine and Health Care for Pilgrims, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad A Halwani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Al Baha University, Al Baha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouf Alotaibi
- Clinical pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mubarak Alfaresi
- Department of Microbiology, National Reference laboratory, Cleveland clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nawal A Al Kaabi
- College of Medicine and Health Science, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zainab H Almansour
- Biological Science Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed S Bueid
- Microbiology Laboratory, King Faisal General Hospital, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad A Yousuf
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamza M A Eid
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alissa
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
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22
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Muttaleb Asfoor H, Saied Hamied A. Immune response to colonization of Candida albicans in mice treated with Cefoperazone. Cytokine 2024; 179:156611. [PMID: 38640559 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2024.156611] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Candida species are a normal human flora in humans' digestive and reproductive systems, oral cavity, skin, and mucosal surfaces. This study aimed to detect the immunological role of Candida infection by using some immunological markers. The results of levels in serum showed high concentrations of IgA (56.20 ± 12 pg/ml,29.55 ± 4.5 pg/ml respectively) and IgG (12.05 ± 3.218 pg/ml, 3.836 ± 1.23 pg/ml respectively) in mice infected with C. albicans and mice treated with Cefoperazone and infected with Candida with significant differences (P value < 0.05). The results showed high serum levels of IL-17(191.5 ± 42.81 pg/ml) and TLR2(7.651 ± 1.5 pg/ml) in group mice infected with C. albicans compared with negative control and group mice treated with Cefoperazone. Also, high levels of IL-17 (91.33 ± 4.816 pg/ml) and TLR2 (2.630 ± 0.5 pg/ml) in group mice treated with Cefoperazone and infected with Candida compared with negative control and group mice treated with Cefoperazone (P value < 0.05). The results of antibodies and immunological markers in the intestine showed high levels of IgA and IgG in mice infected with C.albicans (55.7 ± 4.9 pg/ml, 18.19 ± 0.63 pg/ml respectively).Also,IgA and IgG in mice treated with Cefoperazone and infected with Candida were high level (43.04 ± 2.1 pg/ml, 2.927 ± 0.2 pg/ml respectively) in mice infected with C. albicans with significant differences (P value < 0.05). The results levels of IL-17 and TLR2 were increased in mice infected with C. albicans (191.5 ± 42.81 pg/ml, 7.651 ± 1.5 pg/ml respectively) and mice treated with Cefoperazone and infected with Candida (91.33 ± 4.816 pg/ml,2.630 ± 0.5 pg/ml respectively) with significant differences (P < 0.05). In conclusion, this study demonstrated that cefoperazone treatment and infection by Candida albicans changed the microbiome components in the gut and finally can change host immune responses. It was observed that elevated levels of the antibodies production (IgA and IgG) and immunological markers (IL-17, and TLR2) in serum and the gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Muttaleb Asfoor
- Department of Biology, College of Education for pure science Ibn-Al Haitham, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Atyaf Saied Hamied
- Department of Biology, College of Education for pure science Ibn-Al Haitham, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq.
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23
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Petraitiene R, Petraitis V, Zaw MH, Hussain K, Ricart Arbona RJ, Roilides E, Walsh TJ. Combination of Systemic and Lock-Therapies with Micafungin Eradicate Catheter-Based Biofilms and Infections Caused by Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis in Neutropenic Rabbit Models. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:293. [PMID: 38667964 DOI: 10.3390/jof10040293] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular catheter-related infections, primarily caused by Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis, pose significant challenges due to the formation of biofilms on catheters, leading to refractory disease and considerable morbidity. We studied the efficacy of micafungin in systemic and lock therapies to eliminate catheter-based biofilms and deep tissue infections in experimental central venous catheter (CVC)-related candidemia in neutropenic rabbits. Silastic CVCs in rabbits were inoculated with 1 × 103 CFU/mL of C. albicans or C. parapsilosis, establishing catheter-based biofilm, and subjected to various treatments. Neutropenic rabbits treated with a combination of lock therapy and systemic micafungin demonstrated the most significant reduction in fungal burden, from 5.0 × 104 to 1.8 × 102 CFU/mL of C. albicans and from 5.9 × 104 to 2.7 × 102 CFU/mL of C. parapsilosis (p ≤ 0.001), in the CVC after 24 h, with full clearance of blood cultures after 72 h from treatment initiation. The combination of lock and systemic micafungin therapy achieved eradication of C. albicans from all studied tissues (0.0 ± 0.0 log CFU/g) vs. untreated controls (liver 7.5 ± 0.22, spleen 8.3 ± 0.25, kidney 8.6 ± 0.07, cerebrum 6.3 ± 0.31, vena cava 6.6 ± 0.29, and CVC wash 2.3 ± 0.68 log CFU/g) (p ≤ 0.001). Rabbits treated with a combination of lock and systemic micafungin therapy demonstrated a ≥2 log reduction in C. parapsilosis in all treated tissues (p ≤ 0.05) except kidney. Serum (1→3)-β-D-glucan levels demonstrated significant decreases in response to treatment. The study demonstrates that combining systemic and lock therapies with micafungin effectively eradicates catheter-based biofilms and infections caused by C. albicans or C. parapsilosis, particularly in persistently neutropenic conditions, offering promising implications for managing vascular catheter-related candidemia and providing clinical benefits in cases where catheter removal is not feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruta Petraitiene
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Vidmantas Petraitis
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Myo H Zaw
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
- Sutter Health Memorial Medical Center, 1700 Coffee Rd., Modesto, CA 95355, USA
| | - Kaiser Hussain
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Radiology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston Radiology Associated, 6565 Fannin St. #268, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rodolfo J Ricart Arbona
- Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, 1275 York Ave., New York, NY 10021, USA
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Emanuel Roilides
- Hippokration Hospital, School of Medicine, Aristotle University, Konstantinoupoleos 49, GR-54642 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Thomas J Walsh
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, 1300 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA
- Center for Innovative Therapeutics and Diagnostics, Richmond, VA 23220, USA
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24
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Viano ME, Baez NS, Savid-Frontera C, Baigorri RE, Dinatale B, Pacini MF, Bulfoni Balbi C, Gonzalez FB, Fozzatti L, Lidón NL, Young HA, Hodge DL, Cerban F, Stempin CC, Pérez AR, Rodriguez-Galán MC. Systemic inflammatory Th1 cytokines during Trypanosoma cruzi infection disrupt the typical anatomical cell distribution and phenotypic/functional characteristics of various cell subsets within the thymus. Microbes Infect 2024:105337. [PMID: 38615883 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2024.105337] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The thymus plays a crucial role in T cell differentiation, a complex process influenced by various factors such as antigens, the microenvironment and thymic architecture. The way the thymus resolves infections is critical, as chronic persistence of microbes or inflammatory mediators can obstruct the differentiation. Here, we illustrate that following inflammatory T helper 1 infectious processes like those caused by Candida albicans or Trypanosoma cruzi, single positive thymocytes adopt a mature phenotype. Further investigations focused on T. cruzi infection, reveal a substantial existence of CD44+ cells in both the cortical and medullary areas of the thymus at the onset of infection. This disturbance coincides with heightened interferon gamma (IFNγ) production by thymocytes and an increased cytotoxic capacity against T. cruzi-infected macrophages. Additionally, we observe a reduced exportation capacity in T. cruzi-infected mice. Some alterations can be reversed in IFNγ knockout mice (KO). Notably, the majority of these effects can be replicated by systemic expression of interleukin (IL)-12+IL-18, underlining the predominantly inflammatory rather than pathogen-specific nature of these phenomena. Understanding the mechanisms through which systemic inflammation disrupts normal T cell development, as well as subsequent T cell exportation to secondary lymphoid organs (SLO) is pivotal for comprehending susceptibility to diseases in different pathological scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Estefania Viano
- Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Natalia Soledad Baez
- Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Constanza Savid-Frontera
- Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ruth Eliana Baigorri
- Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Brenda Dinatale
- Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario (IDICER CONICET-UNR), Argentina
| | - Maria Florencia Pacini
- Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario (IDICER CONICET-UNR), Argentina
| | - Camila Bulfoni Balbi
- Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario (IDICER CONICET-UNR), Argentina
| | | | - Laura Fozzatti
- Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Nicolas Leonel Lidón
- Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Howard A Young
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Deborah L Hodge
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Fabio Cerban
- Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Cinthia Carolina Stempin
- Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ana Rosa Pérez
- Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario (IDICER CONICET-UNR), Argentina; Centro de Investigación y Producción de Reactivos Biológicos (CIPREB), Facultad de Cs. Médicas de la Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Argentina
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25
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Jin P, Wang L, Chen D, Chen Y. Unveiling the complexity of early childhood caries: Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans cooperative strategies in carbohydrate metabolism and virulence. J Oral Microbiol 2024; 16:2339161. [PMID: 38606339 PMCID: PMC11008315 DOI: 10.1080/20002297.2024.2339161] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the mechanisms underlying the virulence changes in early childhood caries (ECC) caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans) and Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), with a focus on carbohydrate metabolism and environmental acidification. Methods A review of literature was conducted to understand the symbiotic relationship between C. albicans and S. mutans, and their role in the pathogenesis of ECC. The review also examined how their interactions influence carbohydrate metabolism and environmental acidification in the oral cavity. Results C. albicans and S. mutans play crucial roles in the onset and progression of ECC. C. albicans promotes the adhesion and accumulation of S. mutans, while S. mutans creates an environment favorable for the growth of C. albicans. Their interactions, especially through carbohydrate metabolism, strengthen their pathogenic potential. The review highlights the importance of understanding these mechanisms for the development of effective management and treatment protocols for ECC. Conclusion The symbiotic relationship between C. albicans and S. mutans, and their interactions through carbohydrate metabolism and environmental acidification, are key factors in the pathogenesis of ECC. A comprehensive understanding of these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective strategies to manage and treat ECC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Jin
- Wuxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Wuxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Daozhen Chen
- Wuxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Wuxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Jiangsu, China
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26
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Böttcher B, Kienast SD, Leufken J, Eggers C, Sharma P, Leufken CM, Morgner B, Drexler HCA, Schulz D, Allert S, Jacobsen ID, Vylkova S, Leidel SA, Brunke S. A highly conserved tRNA modification contributes to C. albicans filamentation and virulence. Microbiol Spectr 2024:e0425522. [PMID: 38587411 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04255-22] [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: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
tRNA modifications play important roles in maintaining translation accuracy in all domains of life. Disruptions in the tRNA modification machinery, especially of the anticodon stem loop, can be lethal for many bacteria and lead to a broad range of phenotypes in baker's yeast. Very little is known about the function of tRNA modifications in host-pathogen interactions, where rapidly changing environments and stresses require fast adaptations. We found that two closely related fungal pathogens of humans, the highly pathogenic Candida albicans and its much less pathogenic sister species, Candida dubliniensis, differ in the function of a tRNA-modifying enzyme. This enzyme, Hma1, exhibits species-specific effects on the ability of the two fungi to grow in the hypha morphology, which is central to their virulence potential. We show that Hma1 has tRNA-threonylcarbamoyladenosine dehydratase activity, and its deletion alters ribosome occupancy, especially at 37°C-the body temperature of the human host. A C. albicans HMA1 deletion mutant also shows defects in adhesion to and invasion into human epithelial cells and shows reduced virulence in a fungal infection model. This links tRNA modifications to host-induced filamentation and virulence of one of the most important fungal pathogens of humans.IMPORTANCEFungal infections are on the rise worldwide, and their global burden on human life and health is frequently underestimated. Among them, the human commensal and opportunistic pathogen, Candida albicans, is one of the major causative agents of severe infections. Its virulence is closely linked to its ability to change morphologies from yeasts to hyphae. Here, this ability is linked-to our knowledge for the first time-to modifications of tRNA and translational efficiency. One tRNA-modifying enzyme, Hma1, plays a specific role in C. albicans and its ability to invade the host. This adds a so-far unknown layer of regulation to the fungal virulence program and offers new potential therapeutic targets to fight fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Böttcher
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
- Septomics Research Center, Friedrich Schiller University and Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Sandra D Kienast
- Max Planck Research Group for RNA Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
- Research Group for Cellular RNA Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Leufken
- Max Planck Research Group for RNA Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
- Research Group for Cellular RNA Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cristian Eggers
- Max Planck Research Group for RNA Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
- Research Group for Cellular RNA Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Puneet Sharma
- Max Planck Research Group for RNA Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
- Research Group for Cellular RNA Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christine M Leufken
- Max Planck Research Group for RNA Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Bianka Morgner
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Hannes C A Drexler
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Unit, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Daniela Schulz
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Stefanie Allert
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Ilse D Jacobsen
- Research Group Microbial Immunology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Slavena Vylkova
- Septomics Research Center, Friedrich Schiller University and Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Sebastian A Leidel
- Max Planck Research Group for RNA Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
- Research Group for Cellular RNA Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
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27
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Ahn JY, Kim YJ, Lee JH, Singh RK, Lee HH. Mechanophysical and Anti-Adhesive Properties of a Nanoclay-Containing PMMA Denture Resin. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:2151-2164. [PMID: 38453640 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01817] [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] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) is commonly used for dental dentures, but it has the drawback of promoting oral health risks due to oral bacterial adhesion. Recently, various nanoparticles have been incorporated into PMMA to tackle these issues. This study aims to investigate the mechanophysical and antimicrobial adhesive properties of a denture resin by incorporating of nanoclay into PMMA. Specimens were prepared by adding 0, 1, 2, and 4 wt % surface-modified nanoclay (Sigma) to self-polymerizing PMMA denture resin. These specimens were then evaluated using FTIR, TGA/DTG, and FE-SEM with EDS. Various mechanical and surface physical properties, including nanoindentation, were measured and compared with those of pure PMMA. Antiadhesion experiments were conducted by applying a Candida albicans (ATCC 11006) suspension to the surface of the specimens. The antiadhesion activity of C. albicans was confirmed through a yeast-wall component (mannan) and mRNA-seq analysis. The bulk mechanical properties of nanoclay-PMMA composites were decreased compared to those of pure PMMA, while the flexural strength and modulus met the ISO 20795-1 requirement. However, there were no significant differences in the nanoindentation hardness and elastic modulus. The surface energy revealed a significant decrease at 4 wt % nanoclay-PMMA. The antiadhesion effect of Candida albicans was evident along with nanoclay content in the nanocomposites and confirmed by the reduced attachment of mannan on nanoclay-PMMA composites. mRNA-seq analysis supported overall transcriptome changes in altering attachment and metabolism behaviors on the surface. The nanoclay-PMMA materials showed a lower surface energy as the content increased, leading to an antiadhesion effect against Candida albicans. These findings indicate that incorporating nanoclay into PMMA surfaces could be a valuable strategy for preventing the fungal biofilm formation of denture base materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Yong Ahn
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu-Jin Kim
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Lee
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Rajendra K Singh
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Hyoung Lee
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do 31116, Republic of Korea
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28
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Panio A, Ionescu AC, La Ferla B, Zoia L, Savadori P, Tartaglia GM, Brambilla E. Cellulose Nanocrystals Show Anti-Adherent and Anti-Biofilm Properties against Oral Microorganisms. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:355. [PMID: 38671777 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11040355] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are cellulose-derived nanomaterials that can be easily obtained, e.g., from vegetable waste produced by circular economies. They show promising antimicrobial activity and an absence of side effects and toxicity. This study investigated the ability of CNCs to reduce microbial adherence and biofilm formation using in vitro microbiological models reproducing the oral environment. Microbial adherence by microbial strains of oral interest, Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans, was evaluated on the surfaces of salivary pellicle-coated enamel disks in the presence of different aqueous solutions of CNCs. The anti-biofilm activity of the same CNC solutions was tested against S. mutans and an oral microcosm model based on mixed plaque inoculum using a continuous-flow bioreactor. Results showed the excellent anti-adherent activity of the CNCs against the tested strains from the lowest concentration tested (0.032 wt. %, p < 0.001). Such activity was significantly higher against S. mutans than against C. albicans (p < 0.01), suggesting a selective anti-adherent activity against pathogenic strains. At the same time, there was a minimal, albeit significant, anti-biofilm activity (0.5 and 4 wt. % CNC solution for S. mutans and oral microcosm, respectively, p = 0.01). This makes CNCs particularly interesting as anticaries agents, encouraging their use in the oral field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Panio
- Oral Microbiology and Biomaterials Laboratory, Department of Biomedical, Surgical, and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrei C Ionescu
- Oral Microbiology and Biomaterials Laboratory, Department of Biomedical, Surgical, and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara La Ferla
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo, 1, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Zoia
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo, 1, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Savadori
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical, and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via Della Commenda, 10/12, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca M Tartaglia
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical, and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via Della Commenda, 10/12, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Eugenio Brambilla
- Oral Microbiology and Biomaterials Laboratory, Department of Biomedical, Surgical, and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy
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29
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Donati L, Casagrande Pierantoni D, Conti A, Calzoni E, Corte L, Santi C, Rosati O, Cardinali G, Emiliani C. Water Extracts from Industrial Hemp Waste Inhibit the Adhesion and Development of Candida Biofilm and Showed Antioxidant Activity on HT-29 Colon Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3979. [PMID: 38612793 PMCID: PMC11011686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073979] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The evolution of regulatory perspectives regarding the health and nutritional properties of industrial hemp-based products (Cannabis sativa L.) has pushed research to focus on the development of new methods for both the extraction and formulation of the bioactive compounds present in hemp extracts. While the psychoactive and medicinal properties of hemp-derived cannabinoid extracts are well known, much less has been investigated on the functional and antimicrobial properties of hemp extracts. Within the hemp value chain, various agricultural wastes and by-products are generated. These materials can be valorised through eco-innovations, ultimately promoting sustainable economic development. In this study, we explored the use of waste from industrial light cannabis production for the extraction of bioactive compounds without the addition of chemicals. The five extracts obtained were tested for their antimicrobial activity on both planktonic and sessile cells of pathogenic strains of the Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida tropicalis species and for their antioxidant activity on HT-29 colon cancer cells under oxidative stress. Our results demonstrated that these extracts display interesting properties both as antioxidants and in hindering the development of fungal biofilm, paving the way for further investigations into the sustainable valorisation of hemp waste for different biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Donati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (L.D.); (D.C.P.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (O.R.); (G.C.)
| | - Debora Casagrande Pierantoni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (L.D.); (D.C.P.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (O.R.); (G.C.)
| | - Angela Conti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (L.D.); (D.C.P.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (O.R.); (G.C.)
| | - Eleonora Calzoni
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (E.C.); (C.E.)
| | - Laura Corte
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (L.D.); (D.C.P.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (O.R.); (G.C.)
- CEMIN Excellence Research Centre, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Claudio Santi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (L.D.); (D.C.P.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (O.R.); (G.C.)
| | - Ornelio Rosati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (L.D.); (D.C.P.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (O.R.); (G.C.)
| | - Gianluigi Cardinali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (L.D.); (D.C.P.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (O.R.); (G.C.)
- CEMIN Excellence Research Centre, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Carla Emiliani
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (E.C.); (C.E.)
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Norozipor S, Bamorovat M, Ayatollahi Mosavi SA, Salarkia E, Hadizadeh S, Sharifi F, Karamoozian A, Ranjbar M, Agha Kuchak Afshari S. Synergistic activity of crocin and crocin loaded in niosomes alone and in combination with fluconazole against Candida albicans isolates: In vitro and in silico study. J Mycol Med 2024; 34:101478. [PMID: 38582029 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2024.101478] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Since the drug resistance in Candida species is becoming a serious clinical challenge, novel alternative therapeutic options, particularly herbal medicine, have attracted increasing interest. This study aimed to pinpoint the potential antifungal activity of crocin (Cro), the efficacy of the niosomal formulation of Cro (NCro), and the synergistic activity of both formulations in combination with fluconazole (FLC) against susceptible and resistant C. albicans isolates. MATERIAL AND METHODS NCro was formulated using the heating method. The in vitro antimycotic activity of Cro, NCro, and FLC was evaluated. Checkerboard and isobologram assays evaluated the interaction between both formulations of Cro and FLC. Necrotic and apoptotic effects of different agents were analyzed using the flow cytometry method. In silico study was performed to examine the interactions between Lanosterol 14 alpha-demethylase and Cro as a part of our screening compounds with antifungal properties. RESULTS NCro exhibited high entrapment efficiency up to 99.73 ± 0.54, and the mean size at 5.224 ± 0.618 µm (mean ± SD, n = 3). Both formulations of Cro were shown to display good anticandidal activity against isolates. The synergistic effect of the NCro in combination with FLC is comparable to Cro (P-value =0.03). Apoptotic indicators confirmed that tested compounds caused cell death in isolates. The docking study indicated that Cro has interactivity with the protein residue of 14α-demethylase. CONCLUSION The results showed a remarkable antifungal effect by NCro combined with FLC. Natural compounds, particularly nano-sized carrier systems, can act as an effective therapeutic option for further optimizing fungal infection treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Norozipor
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehdi Bamorovat
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Ehsan Salarkia
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Sanaz Hadizadeh
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sharifi
- Research Center of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Karamoozian
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehdi Ranjbar
- Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Setareh Agha Kuchak Afshari
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Medical Mycology and Bacteriology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Huang T, Zhang ZY, Qiu ZL, Li L, Liu XX, Wang L, Wang ZY, Li ZP, Xiao GS, Wang W. Effect of Cymbopogon martini (Roxb.) Will.Watson essential oil on antioxidant activity, immune and intestinal barrier-related function, and gut microbiota in pigeons infected by Candida albicans. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1380277. [PMID: 38628645 PMCID: PMC11018936 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1380277] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Essential oils are potential alternatives to antibiotics for preventing Candida albicans (C. albicans) infection which is responsible for economic losses in the pigeon industry. Cymbopogon martini essential oil (EO) can inhibit pathogens, particularly fungal pathogens but its potential beneficial effects on C. albicans-infected pigeons remain unclear. Therefore, we investigated the impact of C. martini EO on antioxidant activity, immune response, intestinal barrier function, and intestinal microbiota in C. albicans-infected pigeons. The pigeons were divided into four groups as follows: (1) NC group: C. albicans uninfected/C. martini EO untreated group; (2) PC group: C. albicans infected/C. martini EO untreated group; (3) LPA group: C. albicans infected/1% C. martini EO treated group; and (4) HPA group: C. albicans infected/2% C. martini EO treated group. The pigeons were infected with C. albicans from day of age 35 to 41 and treated with C. martini EO from day of age 42 to 44, with samples collected on day of age 45 for analysis. The results demonstrated that C. martini EO prevented the reduction in the antioxidant enzymes SOD and GSH-Px causes by C. albicans challenge in pigeons. Furthermore, C. martini EO could decrease the relative expression of IL-1β, TGF-β, and IL-8 in the ileum, as well as IL-1β and IL-8 in the crop, while increasing the relative expression of Claudin-1 in the ileum and the crop and Occludin in the ileum in infected pigeons. Although the gut microbiota composition was not significantly affected by C. martini EO, 2% C. martini EO increased the abundance of Alistipes and Pedobacter. In conclusion, the application of 2% C. martini EO not only enhanced the level of antioxidant activity and the expression of genes related to intestinal barrier function but also inhibited inflammatory genes in C. albicans-infected pigeons and increased the abundance of gut bacteria that are resistant to C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Huang
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zheng-Yue Zhang
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Lin Qiu
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin Li
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xian-Xi Liu
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zi-Ying Wang
- Meizhou Jinlv Modern Agriculture Development Co., Ltd., Meizhou, China
| | - Zhi-Peng Li
- Guangdong Baoning Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Technology Co., Ltd., Meizhou, China
| | - Geng-Sheng Xiao
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
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Gautier C, Maciel EI, Ene IV. Approaches for identifying and measuring heteroresistance in azole-susceptible Candida isolates. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0404123. [PMID: 38483474 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04041-23] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Heteroresistance to antifungal agents poses a significant challenge in the treatment of fungal infections. Currently, the absence of established methods for detecting and measuring heteroresistance impedes progress in understanding this phenomenon in fungal pathogens. In response to this gap, we present a comprehensive set of new and optimized methods designed to detect and quantify azole heteroresistance in Candida albicans. Here, we define two primary assays for measuring heteroresistance: population analysis profiling, based on growth on solid medium, and single-cell assays, based on growth in liquid culture. We observe good correlations between the measurements obtained with liquid and solid assays, validating their utility for studying azole heteroresistance. We also highlight that disk diffusion assays could serve as an additional tool for the rapid detection of heteroresistance. These methods collectively provide a versatile toolkit for researchers seeking to assess heteroresistance in C. albicans. They also serve as a critical step forward in the characterization of antifungal heteroresistance, providing a framework for investigating this phenomenon in diverse fungal species and in the context of other antifungal agents. Ultimately, these advancements will enhance our ability to effectively measure antifungal drug responses and combat fungal infections.IMPORTANCEHeteroresistance involves varying antimicrobial susceptibility within a clonal population. This phenomenon allows the survival of rare resistant subpopulations during drug treatment, significantly complicating the effective management of infections. However, the absence of established detection methods hampers progress in understanding this phenomenon in human fungal pathogens. We propose a comprehensive toolkit to address this gap in the yeast Candida albicans, encompassing population analysis profiling, single-cell assays, and disk diffusion assays. By providing robust and correlated measurements through both solid and liquid assays, this work will provide a framework for broader applications across clinically relevant Candida species. These methods will enhance our ability to understand this phenomenon and the failure of antifungal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Gautier
- Fungal Heterogeneity Group, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Eli I Maciel
- Fungal Heterogeneity Group, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Iuliana V Ene
- Fungal Heterogeneity Group, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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Duan H, Meng F, Liu X, Qi P, Peng X, Li C, Wang Q, Zhao G, Lin J. Extracellular vesicles from Candida albicans modulate immune cells function and play a protective role in fungal keratitis. Microb Pathog 2024; 189:106606. [PMID: 38437994 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106606] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis (FK) is a highly blinding infectious corneal disease caused by pathogenic fungi. Candida albicans (C. albicans) is one of the main pathogens of fungal keratitis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), lipid bilayer compartments released by almost all living cells, including fungi, have garnered attention for their role in pathogenic microbial infection and host immune responses in recent years. Studies have reported that pretreating the host with fungal EVs can reduce the inflammatory response of the host when attacked by fungi and reduce the lethality of fungal infection. However, there are no studies that have evaluated whether C. albicans EVs can modulate the inflammatory response associated with C. albicans keratitis. Our study revealed that C. albicans EVs could activate the polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) and promote their secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide (NO), enhance their phagocytic and fungicidal abilities against C. albicans. C. albicans EVs also induced a proinflammatory response in RAW264.7 cells, which was characterized by increased production of inflammatory cytokines and elevated expression of the chemokine CCL2. Similarly, stimulation of C. albicans EVs to RAW264.7 cells also enhanced the phagocytosis and killing ability of cells against C. albicans. Besides, in our in vivo experiments, after receiving subconjunctival injection of C. albicans EVs, C57BL/6 mice were infected with C. albicans. The results demonstrated that pre-exposure to C. albicans EVs could effectively diminish the severity of keratitis, reduce fungal load and improve prognosis. Overall, we conclude that C. albicans EVs can modulate the function of immune cells and play a protective role in C. albicans keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijin Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Fanyue Meng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Xing Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Pingli Qi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Xudong Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Guiqiu Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China.
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China.
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Souza JAS, do Amaral JG, Monteiro DR, Fernandes RA, Fernandes GL, Gorup LF, de Souza Neto FN, de Camargo ER, Agostinho AM, Barbosa DB, Delbem ACB. 'Green' silver nanoparticles combined with tyrosol as potential oral antimicrobial therapy. J Dent 2024; 143:104867. [PMID: 38286192 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdent.2024.104867] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) obtained by a 'green' route associated or not to tyrosol (TYR) against Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans in planktonic and biofilms states. METHODS AgNPs were obtained by a 'green' route using pomegranate extract. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against S. mutans and C. albicans was determined for AgNPs and TYR combined and alone, and fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) was calculated. Single biofilms of C. albicans and S. mutans were cultivated for 24 h and then treated with drugs alone or in combination for 24 h. RESULTS AgNPs and TYR were effective against C. albicans and S. mutans considering planktonic cells alone and combined. The MIC values obtained for C. albicans was 312.5 µg/mL (AgNPs) and 50 mM (TYR) and for S. mutans was 78.1 µg/mL (AgNPs) and 90 mM (TYR). The combination of these antimicrobial agents was also effective against both microorganisms: 2.44 µg/mL/0.08 mM (AgNPs/TYR) for C. albicans and 39.05 µg/mL /1.25 mM (AgNPs/TYR) for S. mutans. However, synergism was observed only for C. albicans (FICI 0.008). When biofilm was evaluated, a reduction of 4.62 log10 was observed for S. mutans biofilm cells treated with AgNPs (p < 0.05, Tukey test). However, the addition of TYR to AgNPs did not improve their action against biofilm cells (p > 0.05). AgNPs combined with TYR demonstrated a synergistic effect against C. albicans biofilms. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest the potential use of AgNPs with or without TYR against C. albicans and S. mutans, important oral pathogens. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE AgNPs obtained by a 'green' route combined or not with TYR can be an alternative to develop several types of oral antimicrobial therapies and biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio Santos Souza
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba 16015-050, SP, Brazil
| | - Jackeline Gallo do Amaral
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba 16015-050, SP, Brazil
| | - Douglas Roberto Monteiro
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba 16015-050, SP, Brazil
| | - Renan Aparecido Fernandes
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba 16015-050, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Lopes Fernandes
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba 16015-050, SP, Brazil
| | - Luiz Fernando Gorup
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos 13565-905, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Debora Barros Barbosa
- Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba 16015-050, SP, Brazil
| | - Alberto Carlos Botazzo Delbem
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba 16015-050, SP, Brazil.
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Hamion G, Aucher W, Mercier A, Tewes F, Menard M, Bertaux J, Girardot M, Imbert C. Insights into betulinic acid as a promising molecule to fight the interkingdom biofilm Staphylococcus aureus- Candida albicans. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2024:107166. [PMID: 38570017 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2024.107166] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The demand for antibiofilm molecules has increased for several years due to their potential to fight biofilm-associated infections such as those including the interkingdom Staphylococcus aureus - Candida albicans occurring in clinical settings worldwide. Recently, we have identified a pentacyclic triterpenoid compound identified as betulinic acid (BA) from invasive macrophytes with interesting antibiofilm properties. Our study aimed at providing insights into the mechanism of action of BA against the clinically relevant bi-species S. aureus-C. albicans biofilms. Microscopy examinations, flow cytometry and crystal violet assays confirmed that BA was effective for damaging mature S. aureus-C. albicans biofilms or inhibiting their formation, reducing biofilm biomass by 70% on average and without microbicidal activity. Results suggested an action of BA on cell membranes, inducing changes in properties such as composition, hydrophobicity and fluidity as observed in C. albicans, which may hinder the early adhesion step, the biofilm growth and the physical interactions of both microbial species. Further results of real-time PCR argued in favor of a reduction of S. aureus-C. albicans physical interaction due to BA by the modulation of biofilm-related gene expression as observed in early stages of biofilm formation. This study revealed the potential of BA as candidate agent for the prevention and treatment of S. aureus-C. albicans biofilm-related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Hamion
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, F-86000 Poitiers, France.
| | - Willy Aucher
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, F-86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Anne Mercier
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, F-86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Frederic Tewes
- Pharmacology of Antimicrobial Agents and Antibioresistance, University of Poitiers, INSERM U1070, F-86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Maëlenn Menard
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, F-86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Joanne Bertaux
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, F-86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Marion Girardot
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, F-86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Christine Imbert
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, F-86000 Poitiers, France
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Koser K, Bhat AA, Manzoor N, Ahmedi S, Hashmi AA. Physico-chemical and antifungal studies of spun cotton thread reinforced cellulose film. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 265:130826. [PMID: 38484813 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130826] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
This study examines cellulose films reinforced with spun cotton thread and their antifungal properties. The morphology and structure of the cellulose film are analyzed using various techniques, including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM), Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), UV-Visible Spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The XRD pattern confirms the crystalline nature of the spun cotton-reinforced cellulose film. UV absorption analysis shows activity in the UV region of the optical spectrum. The reinforced cellulose film shows a band gap of 4.7 eV by employing the Wood and Tauc equation. FTIR spectroscopy confirms the film's structural formation. Morphological analysis reveals a random distribution of numerous pore structures on the material's surface. Thermalgravimetric Analysis indicates the material's stability at elevated temperatures, suggesting versatile applications. The film also exhibits antifungal activity against Candida albicans. This research highlights the potential of reinforced cellulose film in various applications, such as food and non-food packaging, offering enhanced UV protection and strength for heavy goods transport. The study emphasizes the multifunctional properties of the material, showcasing its promising role as a polymer in various practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kulsoom Koser
- Bio Inorganic Lab, Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi-110025, India
| | - Aadil Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, South Korea
| | - Nikhat Manzoor
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi-110025, India
| | - Saiema Ahmedi
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi-110025, India
| | - Athar Adil Hashmi
- Bio Inorganic Lab, Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi-110025, India.
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Rais A, Sharma S, Mishra P, Khan LA, Prasad T. Biocompatible carbon quantum dots as versatile imaging nanotrackers of fungal pathogen - Candida albicans. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2024; 19:671-688. [PMID: 38426561 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2023-0292] [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] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: The development of carbon quantum dots (C-QDs) as nanotrackers to understand drug-pathogen interactions, virulence and multidrug resistance. Methods: Microwave synthesis of C-QDs was performed using citric acid and polyethylene glycol. Further, in vitro toxicity was evaluated and imaging applications were demonstrated in Candida albicans isolates. Results: Well-dispersed, ultra small C-QDs exhibited no cyto/microbial/reactive oxygen species-mediated toxicity and internalized effectively in Candida yeast and hyphal cells. C-QDs were employed for confocal imaging of drug-sensitive and -resistant cells, and a study of the yeast-to-hyphal transition using atomic force microscopy in Candida was conducted for the first time. Conclusion: These biocompatible C-QDs have promising potential as next-generation nanotrackers for in vitro and in vivo targeted cellular and live imaging, after functionalization with biomolecules and drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anam Rais
- Special Centre for Nano Science & AIRF, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Shubham Sharma
- Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Prashant Mishra
- Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Luqman Ahmad Khan
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Tulika Prasad
- Special Centre for Nano Science & AIRF, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
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Brettner L, Eder R, Schmidlin K, Geiler-Samerotte K. An ultra high-throughput, massively multiplexable, single-cell RNA-seq platform in yeasts. Yeast 2024; 41:242-255. [PMID: 38282330 DOI: 10.1002/yea.3927] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Yeasts are naturally diverse, genetically tractable, and easy to grow such that researchers can investigate any number of genotypes, environments, or interactions thereof. However, studies of yeast transcriptomes have been limited by the processing capabilities of traditional RNA sequencing techniques. Here we optimize a powerful, high-throughput single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) platform, SPLiT-seq (Split Pool Ligation-based Transcriptome sequencing), for yeasts and apply it to 43,388 cells of multiple species and ploidies. This platform utilizes a combinatorial barcoding strategy to enable massively parallel RNA sequencing of hundreds of yeast genotypes or growth conditions at once. This method can be applied to most species or strains of yeast for a fraction of the cost of traditional scRNAseq approaches. Thus, our technology permits researchers to leverage "the awesome power of yeast" by allowing us to survey the transcriptome of hundreds of strains and environments in a short period of time and with no specialized equipment. The key to this method is that sequential barcodes are probabilistically appended to cDNA copies of RNA while the molecules remain trapped inside of each cell. Thus, the transcriptome of each cell is labeled with a unique combination of barcodes. Since SPLiT-seq uses the cell membrane as a container for this reaction, many cells can be processed together without the need to physically isolate them from one another in separate wells or droplets. Further, the first barcode in the sequence can be chosen intentionally to identify samples from different environments or genetic backgrounds, enabling multiplexing of hundreds of unique perturbations in a single experiment. In addition to greater multiplexing capabilities, our method also facilitates a deeper investigation of biological heterogeneity, given its single-cell nature. For example, in the data presented here, we detect transcriptionally distinct cell states related to cell cycle, ploidy, metabolic strategies, and so forth, all within clonal yeast populations grown in the same environment. Hence, our technology has two obvious and impactful applications for yeast research: the first is the general study of transcriptional phenotypes across many strains and environments, and the second is investigating cell-to-cell heterogeneity across the entire transcriptome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandra Brettner
- Biodesign Institute Center for Mechanisms of Evolution, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Rachel Eder
- Biodesign Institute Center for Mechanisms of Evolution, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Kara Schmidlin
- Biodesign Institute Center for Mechanisms of Evolution, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Kerry Geiler-Samerotte
- Biodesign Institute Center for Mechanisms of Evolution, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
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Zhou Z, Wang S, Fan P, Meng X, Cai X, Wang W, Ma L, Ma H, Su J. Borneol serves as an adjuvant agent to promote the cellular uptake of curcumin for enhancing its photodynamic fungicidal efficacy against Candida albicans. J Photochem Photobiol B 2024; 253:112875. [PMID: 38430681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2024.112875] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans), a major opportunistic pathogenic fungus, is known to cause superficial skin infections. Unfortunately, the misuse of antibiotics has led to the emergence of drug resistance in fungi. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), a non-antibiotic alternative, has shown potential in treating drug-resistant fungal infections. Curcumin is a photodynamically active phytochemical whose photodynamic fungicidal efficacy is largely dependent on its intracellular accumulation. However, curcumin faces challenges in penetrating the cytoplasm due to its poor water solubility and the fungal cell wall. Borneol, another monoterpenoid phytochemical, is known for its ability to enhance drug absorption. In this study, we showed that borneol improved the cellular uptake of curcumin, thereby enhancing its photodynamic fungicidal efficacy against C. albicans. This effect was attributed to borneol's ability to increase cell permeability. Transcriptomic analysis further confirmed that borneol disrupted the normal structure and function of the C. albicans cell wall and membrane, resulting in dysregulated mRNA expression of related genes and ultimately increased cell permeability. As a result, the excessive accumulation of curcumin in C. albicans triggered the overproduction of intracellular ROS upon exposure to blue light. These excessive intracellular ROS disrupted various cellular structures, interfered with essential cellular processes, inhibited biofilm formation and reduced virulence. Remarkably, borneol was also found to enhance curcumin uptake by C. albicans within biofilms, further enhancing the anti-biofilm efficacy of curcumin-mediated aPDT (Cur-aPDT). In conclusion, the results of this study strongly support the potential of borneol as an adjuvant agent to Cur-aPDT in treating superficial cutaneous fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenlong Zhou
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China; China-Singapore International Joint Research Institute, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shengli Wang
- Institute of Biomedical Transformation, School of Basic Medicine and Public Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, People's Republic of China
| | - Penghui Fan
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China; China-Singapore International Joint Research Institute, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Meng
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China; China-Singapore International Joint Research Institute, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Cai
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Wen Wang
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Lin Ma
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China; China-Singapore International Joint Research Institute, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hang Ma
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Jianyu Su
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China; China-Singapore International Joint Research Institute, Guangzhou, China; Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health (111 Center), Guangzhou, China.
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Caetano MH, Menis Ferreira A, De Andrade D, Lopes de Sousa ÁF, Moretti Carneiro L, Lyrio Barbosa A, Félix de Carvalho HE, Rigotti MA, Gottardo de Almeida MT. Effect of ozone gas on cultures of Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus: evaluation of two ozonation devices. J Infect Dev Ctries 2024; 18:473-479. [PMID: 38635625 DOI: 10.3855/jidc.15344] [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: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus are two important agents of Healthcare-associated infections. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of ozone (O3) gas produced by two commercial devices against cultures of these two species. METHODOLOGY Sterile plastic plates were inoculated with C. albicans and A. fumigatus and placed on a countertop at three distances (30 cm, 1 m, and 2 m) and three positions in relation to the wall (near, middle, and away), considering the source of O3. Plates were exposed to O3 for one hour and incubated. After incubation, the counting of colony-forming units was performed. As a control, an inoculated plate was incubated, without being exposed to O3. Tests were carried out with two different devices (namely, Mod.I and Mod.II), with the air conditioner on and off, in triplicate. RESULTS Both devices showed antifungal activity. Mod. I presented better results, due to a higher flow rate. The best activity was on plates at 30 cm, middle position. Contrarily, on plates at 2m, near the wall, the inhibition activity was lower. The best results were obtained with the air conditioner off. Candida albicans was more sensitive to O3 than A. fumigatus. CONCLUSIONS This method of decontamination by O3 gas shows potential due to its fast and easy execution. The establishment of new protocols for hygiene and hospital disinfection using this approach should be considered, which may reduce environmental contamination by fungi and, consequently, the burden of fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maicon Henrique Caetano
- Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências, Letras e Ciências Exatas (Ibilce), Campus São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Denise De Andrade
- Human Exposome and Infectious Diseases Network (HEID); Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Álvaro Francisco Lopes de Sousa
- Human Exposome and Infectious Diseases Network (HEID); Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Herica Emilia Félix de Carvalho
- Human Exposome and Infectious Diseases Network (HEID); Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Arano-Martinez JA, Hernández-Benítez JA, Martines-Arano H, Rodríguez-Tovar AV, Trejo-Valdez M, García-Pérez BE, Torres-Torres C. Multiphotonic Ablation and Electro-Capacitive Effects Exhibited by Candida albicans Biofilms. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:333. [PMID: 38671755 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11040333] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This work reports the modification in the homogeneity of ablation effects with the assistance of nonlinear optical phenomena exhibited by C. albicans ATCC 10231, forming a biofilm. Equivalent optical energies with different levels of intensity were irradiated in comparative samples, and significant changes were observed. Nanosecond pulses provided by an Nd:YAG laser system at a 532 nm wavelength in a single-beam experiment were employed to explore the photodamage and the nonlinear optical transmittance. A nonlinear optical absorption coefficient -2 × 10-6 cm/W was measured in the samples studied. It is reported that multiphotonic interactions can promote more symmetric optical damage derived by faster changes in the evolution of fractional photoenergy transference. The electrochemical response of the sample was studied to further investigate the electronic dynamics dependent on electrical frequency, and an electro-capacitive behavior in the sample was identified. Fractional differential calculations were proposed to describe the thermal transport induced by nanosecond pulses in the fungi media. These results highlight the nonlinear optical effects to be considered as a base for developing photothermally activated phototechnology and high-precision photodamage in biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Alberto Arano-Martinez
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Ingeniería Mecánica y Eléctrica Unidad Zacatenco, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07738, Mexico
| | - José Alejandro Hernández-Benítez
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico
| | - Hilario Martines-Arano
- Escuela Superior Tepeji del Río, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Tepeji del Río de Ocampo, Hidalgo 42860, Mexico
| | - Aída Verónica Rodríguez-Tovar
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico
| | - Martin Trejo-Valdez
- Escuela Superior de Ingeniería Química e Industrias Extractivas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07738, Mexico
| | - Blanca Estela García-Pérez
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico
| | - Carlos Torres-Torres
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Ingeniería Mecánica y Eléctrica Unidad Zacatenco, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07738, Mexico
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Nickerson KW, Gutzmann DJ, Boone CHT, Pathirana RU, Atkin AL. Physiological adventures in Candida albicans: farnesol and ubiquinones. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0008122. [PMID: 38436263 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00081-22] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYFarnesol was first identified as a quorum-sensing molecule, which blocked the yeast to hyphal transition in Candida albicans, 22 years ago. However, its interactions with Candida biology are surprisingly complex. Exogenous (secreted or supplied) farnesol can also act as a virulence factor during pathogenesis and as a fungicidal agent triggering apoptosis in other competing fungi. Farnesol synthesis is turned off both during anaerobic growth and in opaque cells. Distinctly different cellular responses are observed as exogenous farnesol levels are increased from 0.1 to 100 µM. Reported changes include altered morphology, stress response, pathogenicity, antibiotic sensitivity/resistance, and even cell lysis. Throughout, there has been a dearth of mechanisms associated with these observations, in part due to the absence of accurate measurement of intracellular farnesol levels (Fi). This obstacle has recently been overcome, and the above phenomena can now be viewed in terms of changing Fi levels and the percentage of farnesol secreted. Critically, two aspects of isoprenoid metabolism present in higher organisms are absent in C. albicans and likely in other yeasts. These are pathways for farnesol salvage (converting farnesol to farnesyl pyrophosphate) and farnesylcysteine cleavage, a necessary step in the turnover of farnesylated proteins. Together, these developments suggest a unifying model, whereby high, threshold levels of Fi regulate which target proteins are farnesylated or the extent to which they are farnesylated. Thus, we suggest that the diversity of cellular responses to farnesol reflects the diversity of the proteins that are or are not farnesylated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth W Nickerson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Daniel J Gutzmann
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Cory H T Boone
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Ruvini U Pathirana
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Texas A&M International University, Laredo, Texas, USA
| | - Audrey L Atkin
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
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Vélez N, Argel A, Kissmann AK, Alpízar-Pedraza D, Escandón P, Rosenau F, Ständker L, Firacative C. Pore-forming peptide C14R exhibits potent antifungal activity against clinical isolates of Candida albicans and Candida auris. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1389020. [PMID: 38601736 PMCID: PMC11004338 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1389020] [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: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Invasive candidiasis is a global public health problem as it poses a significant threat in hospital-settings. The aim of this study was to evaluate C14R, an analog derived from peptide BP100, as a potential antimicrobial peptide against the prevalent opportunistic yeast Candida albicans and the emergent multidrug-resistant yeast Candida auris. Methods Antifungal susceptibility testing of C14R against 99 C. albicans and 105 C. auris clinical isolates from Colombia, was determined by broth microdilution. Fluconazole was used as a control antifungal. The synergy between C14R and fluconazole was assessed in resistant isolates. Assays against fungal biofilm and growth curves were also carried out. Morphological alterations of yeast cell surface were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. A permeability assay verified the pore-forming ability of C14R. Results C. albicans and C. auris isolates had a geometric mean MIC against C14R of 4.42 µg/ml and 5.34 µg/ml, respectively. Notably, none of the isolates of any species exhibited growth at the highest evaluated peptide concentration (200 µg/ml). Synergistic effects were observed when combining the peptide and fluconazole. C14R affects biofilm and growth of C. albicans and C. auris. Cell membrane disruptions were observed in both species after treatment with the peptide. It was confirmed that C14R form pores in C. albicans' membrane. Discussion C14R has a potent antifungal activity against a large set of clinical isolates of both C. albicans and C. auris, showing its capacity to disrupt Candida membranes. This antifungal activity remains consistent across isolates regardless of their clinical source. Furthermore, the absence of correlation between MICs to C14R and resistance to fluconazole indicates the peptide's potential effectiveness against fluconazole-resistant strains. Our results suggest the potential of C14R, a pore-forming peptide, as a treatment option for fungal infections, such as invasive candidiasis, including fluconazole and amphotericin B -resistant strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norida Vélez
- Studies in Translational Microbiology and Emerging Diseases (MICROS) Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Andreys Argel
- Studies in Translational Microbiology and Emerging Diseases (MICROS) Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | | | - Daniel Alpízar-Pedraza
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Ciudad de La Habana, Cuba
| | | | - Frank Rosenau
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ludger Ständker
- Core Facility for Functional Peptidomics, Faculty of Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Carolina Firacative
- Studies in Translational Microbiology and Emerging Diseases (MICROS) Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
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Wakade RS, Wellington M, Krysan DJ. The role of the C. albicans transcriptional repressor NRG1 during filamentation and disseminated candidiasis is strain dependent. mSphere 2024; 9:e0078523. [PMID: 38376205 PMCID: PMC10964420 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00785-23] [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: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is one of the most common causes of superficial and invasive fungal diseases in humans. Its ability to cause disease is closely linked to its ability to undergo a morphological transition from budding yeast to filamentous forms (hyphae and pseudohyphae). The extent to which C. albicans strains isolated from patients undergo filamentation varies significantly. In addition, the filamentation phenotypes of mutants involving transcription factors that positively regulate hyphal morphogenesis can also vary from strain to strain. Here, we characterized the virulence, in vitro and in vivo filamentation, and in vitro and in vivo hypha-associated gene expression profiles for four poorly filamenting C. albicans isolates and their corresponding deletion mutants of the repressor of filamentation NRG1. The two most virulent strains, 57055 and 78048, show robust in vivo filamentation but are predominately yeast phase under in vitro hypha induction; the two low-virulence strains (94015 and 78042) do not undergo filamentation well under either condition. In vitro, deletion of NRG1 increases hyphae formation in the SC5314 derivative SN250, but only pseudohyphae are formed in the clinical isolates. Deletion of NRG1 modestly increased the virulence of 78042, which was accompanied by increased expression of hypha-associated genes without an increase in filamentation. Strikingly, deletion of NRG1 in 78048 reduced filamentation in vivo, expression of candidalysin (ECE1), and virulence without dramatically altering establishment of infection. Thus, the function of the conserved repressor NRG1 in C. albicans shows strain-based heterogeneity during infection.IMPORTANCEClinical isolates of the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans show significant variation in their ability to undergo in vitro filamentation and in the function of well-characterized transcriptional regulators of filamentation. Here, we show that Nrg1, a key repressor of filamentation and filament specific gene expression in standard reference strains, has strain-dependent functions, particularly during infection. Most strikingly, loss of NRG1 function can reduce filamentation, hypha-specific gene expression such as the toxin candidalysin, and virulence in some strains. Our data emphasize that the functions of seemingly fundamental and well-conserved transcriptional regulators such as Nrg1 are contextual with respect to both environment and genetic backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan S. Wakade
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Melanie Wellington
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Damian J. Krysan
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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Lo TL, Wang Q, Nickson J, van Denderen BJW, Deveson Lucas D, Chai HX, Knott GJ, Weerasinghe H, Traven A. The C-terminal protein interaction domain of the chromatin reader Yaf9 is critical for pathogenesis of Candida albicans. mSphere 2024; 9:e0069623. [PMID: 38376217 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00696-23] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections cause a large health burden but are treated by only a handful of antifungal drug classes. Chromatin factors have emerged as possible targets for new antifungals. These targets include the reader proteins, which interact with posttranslationally modified histones to influence DNA transcription and repair. The YEATS domain is one such reader recognizing both crotonylated and acetylated histones. Here, we performed a detailed structure/function analysis of the Candida albicans YEATS domain reader Yaf9, a subunit of the NuA4 histone acetyltransferase and the SWR1 chromatin remodeling complex. We have previously demonstrated that the homozygous deletion mutant yaf9Δ/Δ displays growth defects and is avirulent in mice. Here we show that a YEATS domain mutant expected to inactivate Yaf9's chromatin binding does not display strong phenotypes in vitro, nor during infection of immune cells or in a mouse systemic infection model, with only a minor virulence reduction in vivo. In contrast to the YEATS domain mutation, deletion of the C-terminal domain of Yaf9, a protein-protein interaction module necessary for its interactions with SWR1 and NuA4, phenocopies the null mutant. This shows that the C-terminal domain is essential for Yaf9 roles in vitro and in vivo, including C. albicans virulence. Our study informs on the strategies for therapeutic targeting of Yaf9, showing that approaches taken for the mammalian YEATS domains by disrupting their chromatin binding might not be effective in C. albicans, and provides a foundation for studying YEATS proteins in human fungal pathogens.IMPORTANCEThe scarcity of available antifungal drugs and rising resistance demand the development of therapies with new modes of action. In this context, chromatin regulation may be a target for novel antifungal therapeutics. To realize this potential, we must better understand the roles of chromatin regulators in fungal pathogens. Toward this goal, here, we studied the YEATS domain chromatin reader Yaf9 in Candida albicans. Yaf9 uses the YEATS domain for chromatin binding and a C-terminal domain to interact with chromatin remodeling complexes. By constructing mutants in these domains and characterizing their phenotypes, our data indicate that the Yaf9 YEATS domain might not be a suitable therapeutic drug target. Instead, the Yaf9 C-terminal domain is critical for C. albicans virulence. Collectively, our study informs how a class of chromatin regulators performs their cellular and pathogenesis roles in C. albicans and reveals strategies to inhibit them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tricia L Lo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Joshua Nickson
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Bryce J W van Denderen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | | | - Her Xiang Chai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Gavin J Knott
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Harshini Weerasinghe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Ana Traven
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
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Henry M, Khemiri I, Tebbji F, Abu-Helu R, Vincent AT, Sellam A. Manganese homeostasis modulates fungal virulence and stress tolerance in Candida albicans. mSphere 2024; 9:e0080423. [PMID: 38380913 PMCID: PMC10964418 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00804-23] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to the scarcity of transition metals within the human host, fungal pathogens have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to uptake and utilize these micronutrients at the infection interface. While considerable attention was turned to iron and copper acquisition mechanisms and their importance in fungal fitness, less was done regarding either the role of manganese (Mn) in infectious processes or the cellular mechanism by which fungal cells achieve their Mn-homeostasis. Here, we undertook transcriptional profiling in the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans experiencing both Mn starvation and excess to capture biological processes that are modulated by this metal. We uncovered that Mn scarcity influences diverse processes associated with fungal fitness including invasion of host cells and antifungal sensitivity. We show that Mn levels influence the abundance of iron and zinc emphasizing the complex crosstalk between metals. The deletion of SMF12, a member of Mn Nramp transporters, confirmed its contribution to Mn uptake. smf12 was unable to form hyphae and damage host cells and exhibited sensitivity to azoles. We found that the unfolded protein response (UPR), likely activated by decreased glycosylation under Mn limitation, was required to recover growth when cells were shifted from an Mn-starved to an Mn-repleted medium. RNA-seq profiling of cells exposed to Mn excess revealed that UPR was also activated. Furthermore, the UPR signaling axis Ire1-Hac1 was required to bypass Mn toxicity. Collectively, this study underscores the importance of Mn homeostasis in fungal virulence and comprehensively provides a portrait of biological functions that are modulated by Mn in a fungal pathogen. IMPORTANCE Transition metals such as manganese provide considerable functionality across biological systems as they are used as cofactors for many catalytic enzymes. The availability of manganese is very limited inside the human body. Consequently, pathogenic microbes have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to uptake this micronutrient inside the human host to sustain their growth and cause infections. Here, we undertook a comprehensive approach to understand how manganese availability impacts the biology of the prevalent fungal pathogen, Candida albicans. We uncovered that manganese homeostasis in this pathogen modulates different biological processes that are essential for host infection which underscores the value of targeting fungal manganese homeostasis for potential antifungal therapeutics development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Henry
- Montreal Heart Institute/Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Inès Khemiri
- Montreal Heart Institute/Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Faiza Tebbji
- Montreal Heart Institute/Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Rasmi Abu-Helu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Professions, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Antony T. Vincent
- Department of Animal Sciences, Université Laval, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Adnane Sellam
- Montreal Heart Institute/Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Lin SY, Huang HY, Chang LL, Wang YL, Chen TC, Chang K, Tu HP, Lu PL. The impact of the fluconazole trailing effect on the persistence of Candida albicans bloodstream infection when treated with fluconazole. Clin Microbiol Infect 2024:S1198-743X(24)00154-X. [PMID: 38527614 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2024.03.023] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The trailing effect of Candida species is a phenomenon characterized by reduced but persistent growth at antifungal concentrations above the MIC. We assessed the impact of trailing growth on the persistence of Candida albicans candidemia in patients receiving fluconazole (FLC) therapy. METHODS We retrospectively investigated candidemia isolates at three hospitals in southern Taiwan between 2013 and 2020. Patients treated with FLC for FLC-susceptible C. albicans candidemia were enrolled. The degree of trailing was determined as the average growth above the MIC divided by the measured growth at the lowest drug concentration using the EUCAST method and classified into four categories: residual (0.1-5%), slight (6-10%), moderate (11-15%), and heavy trailers (>15%). RESULTS Among isolates from 190 patients, the proportions of heavy trailers at 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours were 63.7% (121/190), 63.2% (120/190), and 74.7% (142/190), respectively. Persistent candidemia was observed in 17 (8.9 %) patients. The proportion of persistent C. albicans candidemia in heavy trailing isolates at 48 hours was higher than in isolates without heavy trailing (13.3% [16/120] vs. 1.4% [1/70], p = 0.007). A multivariate analysis showed that immunosuppression (OR = 7.92; 95% CI: 2.38-26.39, p = 0.001), hospitalization days after the index date of C. albicans identification (OR = 1.03; 95% CI: 1.01-1.05, p = 0.011), and heavy trailing isolates at 48 hours (OR = 10.04; 95% CI: 1.27-79.88, p = 0.029) were independent factors for persistent candidemia. DISCUSSION The current study revealed that heavy trailing in C. albicans isolates is associated with persistent candidemia in patients receiving FLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang-Yi Lin
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ho-Yin Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Lin-Li Chang
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ling Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tun-Chieh Chen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ko Chang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Pin Tu
- Department of Public Health and Environmental Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Liang Lu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; School of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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Mancier V, Fattoum S, Haguet H, Laloy J, Maillet C, Gangloff SC, Chopart JP. Antifungal and Coagulation Properties of a Copper (I) Oxide Nanopowder Produced by Out-of-Phase Pulsed Sonoelectrochemistry. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:286. [PMID: 38534722 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13030286] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Copper (I) oxide (cuprite) is a material widely used nowadays, and its versatility is further amplified when it is brought to the nanometric size. Among the possible applications of this nanomaterial, one of the most interesting is that in the medical field. This paper presents a cuprite nanopowder study with the aim of employing it in medical applications. With regards to the environmental context, the synthesis used is related to green chemistry since the technique (out-of-phase pulsed electrochemistry) uses few chemical products via electricity consumption and soft conditions of temperature and pressure. After different physico-chemical characterizations, the nanopowder was tested on the Candida albicans to determine its fungicide activity and on human blood to estimate its hemocompatibility. The results show that 2 mg of this nanopowder diluted in 30 µL Sabouraud broth was able to react with Candida albicans. The hemocompatibility tests indicate that for 25 to 100 µg/mL of nanopowder in an aqueous medium, the powder was not toxic for human blood (no hemolysis nor platelet aggregation) but promoted blood coagulation. It appears, therefore, as a potential candidate for the functionalization of matrices for medical applications (wound dressing or operating field, for example).
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Mancier
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne (URCA), Institut de Thermique, Mécanique et Matériaux (ITheMM, UR 7548), BP 1039, 51687 Reims, France
| | - Sirine Fattoum
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne (URCA), Institut de Thermique, Mécanique et Matériaux (ITheMM, UR 7548), BP 1039, 51687 Reims, France
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne (URCA), MATériaux et Ingénierie Mécanique (MATIM, UR 3689), BP 1039, 51687 Reims, France
| | - Hélène Haguet
- Département de Pharmacie, University of Namur (UNamur), Rue de Bruxelles 61, 5000 Namur, Belgium
| | - Julie Laloy
- Département de Pharmacie, University of Namur (UNamur), Rue de Bruxelles 61, 5000 Namur, Belgium
| | - Christina Maillet
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne (URCA), Biomatériaux et Inflammation en Site Osseux (BIOS), 51097 Reims, France
| | - Sophie C Gangloff
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne (URCA), Biomatériaux et Inflammation en Site Osseux (BIOS), 51097 Reims, France
| | - Jean-Paul Chopart
- Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne (URCA), MATériaux et Ingénierie Mécanique (MATIM, UR 3689), BP 1039, 51687 Reims, France
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49
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Vazquez-Munoz R, Thompson A, Sobue T, Dongari-Bagtzoglou A. Powder diet exacerbates oropharyngeal candidiasis in a mouse model. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0171323. [PMID: 38319097 PMCID: PMC10952443 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01713-23] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This study reports on the influence of a powder diet in a mouse model of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC), a significant health concern caused primarily by Candida albicans. Despite identical nutritional composition, we found that a powdered diet significantly increased Candida burdens and oral lesions, and aggravated weight loss compared to a standard pelleted diet. High fungal burdens and severe oral lesions were accomplished within 48 hours after infection with only one dose of cortisone. Moreover, mice on a powder diet recovered a week after infection. Using a powder diet, we thus modified the cortisone OPC murine model in a way that simplifies the infection process, enhances reproducibility, and facilitates studies investigating both pathogenesis and recovery processes. Our findings also underscore the pivotal role of the physical form of the diet in the progression and severity of oral Candida infection in this model. Future research should investigate this relationship further to broaden our understanding of the underlying mechanisms, potentially leading to novel prevention strategies and improved disease management.IMPORTANCEOropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) is a multifactorial disease and a significant health concern. We found that the physical form of the diet plays a critical role in the severity and progression of OPC. We developed a modified cortisone OPC murine model that facilitates studies investigating pathogenesis and recovery processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Vazquez-Munoz
- Department of General Dentistry, The University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Angela Thompson
- Department of General Dentistry, The University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Takanori Sobue
- Department of General Dentistry, The University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Anna Dongari-Bagtzoglou
- Department of General Dentistry, The University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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50
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Váczi P, Proškovcová M, Čonková E, Marcinčáková D, Bačkorová M, Harčárová M. Essential oil and plant extract of oregano as agents influencing the virulence factors of Candida albicans. Pol J Vet Sci 2024; 27:25-33. [PMID: 38511572 DOI: 10.24425/pjvs.2024.149330] [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] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Candida albicans, a polymorphic yeast, is a physiological component of the human and animal commensal microbiome. It is an etiological factor of candidiasis, which is treated by azole antifungals. Growing resistance to azoles is a reason to look for other alternative treatment options. The pharmacotherapeutic use of plant extracts and essential oils has become increasingly important. In our experiment, C. albicans showed susceptibility to four observed plant extracts and essential oils from peppermint ( Mentha piperita), thyme ( Thymus vulgaris), sage ( Salvia officinalis), and oregano ( Origanum vulgare). Oregano plant extract and essential oil showed the highest antifungal activity, at MIC values of 4.9 mg/mL and 0.4 mg/mL respectively. Therefore, it was subjected to further research on the influence of virulence factors - biofilm formation, extracellular phospholipase production and germ tube formation. Oregano plant extract and essential oil showed an inhibitory effect on the observed C. albicans virulence factors at relatively low concentrations. The extract inhibited the adherence of cells at MIC 12.5 mg/mL and essential oil at MIC 0.25 mg/mL. Degradation of the formed biofilm was detected at MIC 14.1 mg/mL for plant extract and at MIC 0.4 mg/mL for essential oil. Extracellular phospholipase production was most effectively inhibited by the essential oil. In particular, the number of isolates with intensive extracellular phospholipase production decreased significantly. Of the 12 isolates intensively producing extracellular phospholipase, only 1 isolate (4.5%) retained intense production. Essential oil caused up to a 100 % reduction in germ tubes formation and plant extract reduced their formation depending on the concentration as follows: 2.6% (0.8 mg/mL), 21.2 % (6.25 mg/mL), and 64.5 % (12.5 mg/mL) compared to the control.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Váczi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
| | | | - E Čonková
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
| | | | - M Bačkorová
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Pharmacognosy and Botany
| | - M Harčárová
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Husbandry, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenského 73, Košice, 041 81, Slovakia
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