RESUMEN
Food contamination by mycotoxigenic fungi is one of the principal factors that cause food loss and economic losses in the food industry. The objective of this work was to incorporate the essential oil from Corymbia citriodora Hook and its constituents citronellal and ß-citronellol into poly(lactic acid) nanofibers; to characterize the nanofibers by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry; to evaluate the antifungal activity by the fumigation method; to evaluate the antimycotoxigenic activity against Aspergillus carbonarius, Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus westerdijkiae, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus parasiticus; and to evaluate the morphology of these microorganisms. All the nanofibers had a regular, smooth, and continuous morphology. FTIR analyses confirmed that the active ingredients were incorporated into the polymer matrix. All samples exhibited antifungal and ochratoxigenic inhibitory activities of up to 100% and 99%, respectively, with the best results observed for (PLA + 30 wt% ß-citronellol) nanofibers and (PLA + 30 wt% citronellal) nanofibers. However, 100% inhibition of the production of aflatoxin B1 and B2 was not observed. The images obtained by SEM indicated that the nanofibers caused damage to the hyphae, caused a decrease in the production of spores, and caused deformation, rupture, and non-formation of the conid head, might be an alternative for the control of mycotoxigenic fungi.
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Monoterpenos Acíclicos , Antifúngicos , Aspergillus , Nanofibras , Aceites Volátiles , Poliésteres , Nanofibras/química , Poliésteres/química , Poliésteres/farmacología , Aceites Volátiles/farmacología , Aceites Volátiles/química , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Antifúngicos/química , Monoterpenos Acíclicos/farmacología , Monoterpenos Acíclicos/química , Aspergillus/efectos de los fármacos , Aldehídos/farmacología , Aldehídos/química , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Monoterpenos/farmacología , Monoterpenos/químicaRESUMEN
Invasive infections caused by non-albicans Candida are increasing worldwide. However, there is still a lack of information on invasive candidiasis (IC) in the pediatric setting, including susceptibility profiles and clonal studies. We investigated the clinical, epidemiologic, and laboratory characteristics of IC, possible changes in antifungal susceptibility profiles over time, and the occurrence of clonality in our tertiary children's hospital. We analyzed 123 non-duplicate Candida isolates from sterile sites of pediatric patients in a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil, between 2016 and 2021. Data on demographics, comorbidities, and clinical outcomes were collected. Candida species distribution, antifungal susceptibility profiles, biofilm production, and molecular epidemiology of isolates were assessed using reference methods. The range of IC incidence was 0.88-1.55 cases/1000 hospitalized patients/year, and the IC-related mortality rate was 20.3%. Of the total IC cases, 42.3% were in patients aged < 13 months. Mechanical ventilation, parenteral nutrition, and intensive care unit (ICU) admission were common in this group. In addition, ICU admission was identified as a risk factor for IC-related mortality. The main site of Candida spp. isolation was blood, and non-albicans Candida species were predominant (70.8%). No significant clonal spread was observed among isolates of the three most commonly isolated species, and 99.1% of all isolates were biofilm producers. Non-albicans Candida species were predominant in this study. Notably, clonal expansion and emergence of antifungal drug resistance were not observed in our pediatric setting.
The epidemiology of invasive candidiasis has changed over time and there is still a lack of information in the pediatric setting. Non-albicans Candida species predominated in this study, clonal expansion and emergence of antifungal drug resistance were not observed in our pediatric setting.
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Antifúngicos , Candida , Candidiasis Invasiva , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Centros de Atención Terciaria , Humanos , Centros de Atención Terciaria/estadística & datos numéricos , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Antifúngicos/uso terapéutico , Candidiasis Invasiva/microbiología , Candidiasis Invasiva/mortalidad , Candidiasis Invasiva/epidemiología , Lactante , Masculino , Femenino , Brasil/epidemiología , Preescolar , Candida/efectos de los fármacos , Candida/aislamiento & purificación , Candida/clasificación , Niño , Hospitales Pediátricos/estadística & datos numéricos , Biopelículas/crecimiento & desarrollo , Biopelículas/efectos de los fármacos , Incidencia , Farmacorresistencia Fúngica , Adolescente , Recién Nacido , Factores de Riesgo , Estudios RetrospectivosRESUMEN
The antifungal and antimycotoxigenic activities of the essential oils (EO) from Cuminum cyminum and Laurus nobilis, and their respective principal compounds, cuminaldehyde and 1,8-cineole, were evaluated against fungi of the genus Aspergillus: A. carbonarius, A. niger, A. ochraceus, and A. westerdijkiae. The antifungal activity was determined by the contact method and the mycelial growth of the fungi was evaluated. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images were obtained to suggest modes of action of the compounds analysed. The antimycotoxigenic activity was determined by high-performance liquid chromatograph. Aspergillus carbonarius was completely inhibited by cumin EO (500 µl l-1), by laurel EO and by cuminaldehyde (5000 µl l-1). The cumin EO (500 µl l-1) completely inhibited the growth of A. niger. All the samples inhibited the mycelial growth of A. ochraceus, especially cumin EO and cuminaldehyde (250 µl l-1). Aspergillus westerdijkiae was completely inhibited by cumin EO and cuminaldehyde (1000 µl l-1), by laurel EO and 1,8-cineole (10 000 µl l-1). A decrease in the production of ochratoxin A (OTA) was observed post-treatment, except in A. ochraceus, only inhibited by laurel EO. SEM images showed morphological changes in fungal structures and spore inhibition post-treatment. The results confirmed the antifungal and antimycotoxigenic effect of EO and their principal constituents on fungi evaluated.
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Antifúngicos , Aspergillus , Cuminum , Laurus , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Aceites Volátiles , Cuminum/química , Aceites Volátiles/farmacología , Aceites Volátiles/química , Aspergillus/efectos de los fármacos , Aspergillus/crecimiento & desarrollo , Aspergillus/metabolismo , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Antifúngicos/química , Laurus/química , Benzaldehídos/farmacología , Eucaliptol/farmacología , CimenosRESUMEN
The urgency surrounding Candida auris as a public health threat is highlighted by both the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) that categorized this species as a priority fungal pathogen. Given the current limitations of antifungal therapy for C. auris, particularly due to its multiple resistance to the current antifungals, the identification of new drugs is of paramount importance. Some alkaloids abundant in the venom of the red invasive fire ant (Solenopsis invicta), known as solenopsins, have garnered attention as potent inhibitors of bacterial biofilms, and there are no studies demonstrating such effects against fungal pathogens. Thus, we herein investigated the antibiotic efficacy of solenopsin alkaloids against C. auris biofilms and planktonic cells. Both natural and synthetic solenopsins inhibited the growth of C. auris strains from different clades, including fluconazole and amphotericin B-resistant isolates. Such alkaloids also inhibited matrix deposition and altered cellular metabolic activity of C. auris in biofilm conditions. Mechanistically, the alkaloids compromised membrane integrity as measured by propidium iodide uptake in exposed planktonic cells. Additionally, combining the alkaloids with AMB yielded an additive antifungal effect, even against AMB-resistant strains. Finally, both extracted solenopsins and the synthetic analogues demonstrated protective effect in vivo against C. auris infection in the invertebrate model Galleria mellonella. These findings underscore the potent antifungal activities of solenopsins against C. auris and suggest their inclusion in future drug development. Furthermore, exploring derivatives of solenopsins could reveal novel compounds with therapeutic promise.
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Alcaloides , Antifúngicos , Hormigas , Biopelículas , Candida auris , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Animales , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Biopelículas/efectos de los fármacos , Biopelículas/crecimiento & desarrollo , Candida auris/efectos de los fármacos , Candida auris/genética , Alcaloides/farmacología , Alcaloides/química , Hormigas/microbiología , Candidiasis/microbiología , Candidiasis/tratamiento farmacológico , Venenos de Hormiga/farmacología , Venenos de Hormiga/química , Hormigas de FuegoRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Auranofin is an approved anti-rheumatic drug that has a broad-range inhibitory action against several microorganisms, including human pathogenic fungi. The auranofin activity against Histoplasma capsulatum, the dimorphic fungus that causes histoplasmosis, has not been properly addressed. Since there are few therapeutic options for this life-threatening systemic mycosis, this study evaluated the effects of auranofin on H. capsulatum growth and expression of virulence factors. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Minimal inhibitory and fungicidal concentrations (MIC and MFC, respectively) of auranofin against 15 H. capsulatum strains with distinct genetic backgrounds were determined using the yeast form of the fungus and a microdilution protocol. Auranofin activity was also assessed on a macrophage model of infection and on a Tenebrio molitor invertebrate animal model. Expression of virulence-related genes was compared between auranofin treated and untreated H. capsulatum yeast cells using a quantitative PCR assay. Auranofin affected the growth of different strains of H. capsulatum, with MIC and MFC values ranging from 1.25 to 5.0 µM and from 2.5 to >10 µM, respectively. Auranofin was able to kill intracellular H. capsulatum yeast cells and conferred protection against the fungus in the experimental animal model of infection. Moreover, the expression of catalase A, HSP70, superoxide dismutase, thioredoxin reductase, serine proteinase, cytochrome C peroxidase, histone 2B, formamidase, metallopeptidase, Y20 and YPS3 proteins were reduced after six hours of auranofin treatment. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Auranofin is fungicidal against H. capsulatum and reduces the expression of several virulence-related genes, which makes this anti-rheumatic drug a good candidate for new medicines against histoplasmosis.
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Antifúngicos , Auranofina , Histoplasma , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Histoplasma/efectos de los fármacos , Histoplasma/genética , Histoplasma/patogenicidad , Auranofina/farmacología , Animales , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Factores de Virulencia/genética , Histoplasmosis/microbiología , Histoplasmosis/tratamiento farmacológico , Macrófagos/microbiología , Macrófagos/efectos de los fármacos , Ratones , Tenebrio/microbiología , Virulencia/efectos de los fármacos , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , HumanosRESUMEN
Introduction. Tissue conditioners modified with antifungals are a potential alternative to denture stomatitis (DS) treatment.Gap Statement. Information on tissue response to this treatment before its clinical application is lacking.Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the tissue response of a tissue conditioner modified with antifungals in a rat model of DS.Methodology. After DS induction for 4 days under antibiotic therapy, Wistar rats had their intraoral devices (IODs) relined with the tissue conditioner Softone without (Soft) or with the MICs against Candida albicans of nystatin (Nys) or chlorhexidine (Chx) complexed or not with ß-cyclodextrin (Nys:ßCD and Chx:ßCD). Three controls were included: healthy rats [negative control (Nc)], rats using a sterile IOD [sterile device (Sd)] and rats with DS that did not receive treatment (DS). After 4 days of treatment, the palatal mucosa under the IODs underwent histological processing for morphohistopathological and histometric analyses, morphology of collagen fibres (birefringence), immunohistochemistry for the expression of cell proliferation (proliferating cell nuclear antigen) and cytokine (IL-1ß).Results. The Nc and Sd groups were similar (P>0.05), displaying epithelial and connective tissues without any discernible changes in the parameters assessed. The DS and Soft groups exhibited pronounced epithelial alterations, cell proliferation and expression of the cytokine IL-1ß. In groups treated with drug incorporation (Nys, Chx, Nys:ßCD and Chx:ßCD), all samples demonstrated a reduction in tissue inflammation or complete tissue recovery, with an epithelium compatible with health. For the immunohistochemical parameters, the Chx, Nys:ßCD and Chx:ßCD groups were comparable with Nc (P>0.05).Conclusion. The proposed treatment could be promising for DS, as it led to the tissue recovery of the palatal mucosa. Nevertheless, much lower concentrations of complexed antifungals were required to achieve a similar or higher degree of tissue response compared with uncomplexed drugs in a modified tissue conditioner formulation.
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Antifúngicos , Candida albicans , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Mucosa Bucal , Nistatina , Ratas Wistar , Estomatitis Subprotética , beta-Ciclodextrinas , Animales , beta-Ciclodextrinas/química , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Estomatitis Subprotética/tratamiento farmacológico , Estomatitis Subprotética/microbiología , Ratas , Nistatina/farmacología , Nistatina/administración & dosificación , Candida albicans/efectos de los fármacos , Mucosa Bucal/efectos de los fármacos , Mucosa Bucal/microbiología , Masculino , Clorhexidina/farmacología , Interleucina-1beta/metabolismo , Antígeno Nuclear de Célula en Proliferación/metabolismo , Pruebas de Sensibilidad MicrobianaRESUMEN
The transmission of microorganisms via hands is a critical factor in healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), underscoring the importance of rigorous hand hygiene. The rise of antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms, driven in part by the overuse of antibiotics in clinical medicine, presents a significant global health challenge. Antimicrobial soaps, although commonly used, may exacerbate bacterial resistance and disrupt skin microbiota, posing additional health risks and environmental hazards. Essential oils, with their broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, offer a promising alternative. This study evaluates the antimicrobial activity of essential oils against various bacterial and fungal strains, including multidrug-resistant isolates. Using a range of in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial assays, including minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC), and minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC), the essential oils were tested against a broad spectrum of pathogens. Additionally, the chemical composition of the oils was analyzed in detail using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (CG-MS). Clove, oregano, and thyme oils demonstrated potent inhibition of all tested ATCC bacterial strains, with MIC values ranging from 3.125 to 50 µL/mL. These oils also showed significant activity against multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. Notably, clove oil exhibited remarkable efficacy against fungal strains such as Aspergillus fumigatus and Trichophyton rubrum, with MIC values as low as 1.56 µL/mL. Synergy tests revealed that combinations of clove, oregano, and thyme oils yielded significantly lower MIC values than individual oils, indicating additive or synergistic effects. The formulation of a soap incorporating clove and oregano oils demonstrated efficacy comparable to synthetic antiseptics in vivo. These findings highlight the exceptional antimicrobial potential of essential oils, mainly clove and oregano, against resistant microorganisms, offering a viable alternative to conventional antimicrobial agents.
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Antibacterianos , Antifúngicos , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Aceites Volátiles , Origanum , Jabones , Aceites Volátiles/farmacología , Aceites Volátiles/química , Origanum/química , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Antifúngicos/química , Antibacterianos/farmacología , Antibacterianos/química , Jabones/farmacología , Jabones/química , Syzygium/química , Farmacorresistencia Bacteriana Múltiple/efectos de los fármacos , Hongos/efectos de los fármacos , Bacterias/efectos de los fármacosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Candidemia is an invasive mycosis with an increasing global incidence and high mortality rates in cancer patients. The production of biofilms by some strains of Candida constitutes a mechanism that limits the action of antifungal agents; however, there is limited and conflicting evidence about its role in the risk of death. This study aimed to determine whether biofilm formation is associated with mortality in cancer patients with candidemia. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included patients treated at Peru's oncologic reference center between June 2015 and October 2017. Data were collected by monitoring patients for 30 days from the diagnosis of candidemia until the date of death or hospital discharge. Statistical analyses evaluated the association between biofilm production determined by XTT reduction and mortality, adjusting for demographic, clinical, and microbiological factors assessed by the hospital routinary activities. Survival analysis and bivariate and multivariate Cox regression were used, estimating the hazard ratio (HR) as a measure of association with a significance level of p < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 140 patients with candidemia were included in the study. The high mortality observed on the first day of post-diagnosis follow-up (81.0%) among 21 patients who were not treated with either antifungal or antimicrobial drugs led to stratification of the analyses according to whether they received treatment. In untreated patients, there was a mortality gradient in patients infected with non-biofilm-forming strains vs. low/medium and high-level biofilm-forming strains (25.0%, 66.7% and 82.3%, respectively, p = 0.049). In treated patients, a high level of biofilm formation was associated with increased mortality (HR, 3.92; 95% p = 0.022), and this association persisted after adjusting for age, comorbidities, and hospital emergency admission (HR, 6.59; CI: 1.87-23.24, p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS: The association between candidemia with in vitro biofilm formation and an increased risk of death consistently observed both in patients with and without treatment, provides another level of evidence for a possible causal association. The presence of comorbidities and the origin of the hospital emergency, which reflect the fragile clinical condition of the patients, and increasing age above 15 years were associated with a higher risk of death.
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Antifúngicos , Biopelículas , Candida , Candidemia , Neoplasias , Humanos , Biopelículas/crecimiento & desarrollo , Candidemia/mortalidad , Candidemia/microbiología , Candidemia/tratamiento farmacológico , Masculino , Femenino , Estudios Retrospectivos , Persona de Mediana Edad , Perú/epidemiología , Neoplasias/complicaciones , Neoplasias/mortalidad , Neoplasias/microbiología , Anciano , Antifúngicos/uso terapéutico , Candida/aislamiento & purificación , Candida/fisiología , Candida/efectos de los fármacos , AdultoRESUMEN
The etiology of tinea capitis changes over time, mainly due to trends in migration. We report 19 cases of tinea capitis caused by Microsporum audouinii, an uncommon agent in South America, all of them confirmed by molecular methods. All patients were male. The average age was 6.1 years. Fifteen patients were residents of Rio de Janeiro city and four were from neighboring cities. Among the patients submitted to follow-up, griseofulvin was prescribed for eight of them. Due to medication shortages, terbinafine was prescribed for five patients, needing to be switched in three cases, with a bigger total average time until clinical improvement. The study reaffirms the emergence of a new etiological agent in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The etiology of tinea capitis changes over time, mainly due to migratory flows. We report 19 cases of tinea capitis caused by Microsporum audouinii, an uncommon agent in South America, all of them confirmed by molecular methods. The study reaffirms the emergence of a new etiological agent in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Antifúngicos , Griseofulvina , Microsporum , Terbinafina , Tiña del Cuero Cabelludo , Humanos , Tiña del Cuero Cabelludo/microbiología , Tiña del Cuero Cabelludo/tratamiento farmacológico , Tiña del Cuero Cabelludo/epidemiología , Brasil/epidemiología , Microsporum/aislamiento & purificación , Masculino , Antifúngicos/uso terapéutico , Niño , Preescolar , Griseofulvina/uso terapéutico , Terbinafina/uso terapéutico , Adolescente , LactanteRESUMEN
Inga cylindrica, a tropical fruit tree of the Fabaceae family (subfamily Mimosoideae), is native to South America. The seeds from this family are an essential source of trypsin inhibitors, which display promising bioactivity for increasing host defense against pathogens. The aim of the present study was to characterize the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of the trypsin inhibitor extracted from I. cylindrica seeds, ICTI. ICTI demonstrated antifungal activity with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 32.11 µmol.L-1, and a minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of 32.1 µmol.L-1, against Cryptococcus gattii, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata and Candida guilliermondii. Combining ICTI with Amphotericin B had a significant synergistic effect, reducing the concentration of the antibiotic by 75% for C. albicans and 94% for C. gatti. The significant increase (16 x) in activity observed with ergosterol (1.01 mol.L-1) for C. albicans and C. gatti, and the lack of activity against bacterial strains, suggests that ICTI interferes with the integrity of the fungal cell membrane. Treatment with ICTI at 10 x MIC resulted in a 51% reduction in biofilm formation and a 56% decrease in mature biofilm colonies for C. albicans. Finally, ICTI displayed no toxicity in the in vivo Galleria mellonella model. Given its antifungal and antibiofilm properties, ICTI could be a promising candidate for the development of new antimicrobial drug prototypes.
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Antifúngicos , Biopelículas , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Inhibidores de Tripsina , Biopelículas/efectos de los fármacos , Animales , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Inhibidores de Tripsina/farmacología , Candida/efectos de los fármacos , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Fabaceae/química , Semillas/químicaRESUMEN
Immunosuppressed individuals, including those undergoing cancer treatment, are more vulnerable to fungal infections, such as oral candidiasis, impacting their quality of life. Given the limitations of current therapies, the discovery of new antifungal agents, including those of natural origin, is crucial for the proper managing of these infections. We investigated the phytochemical profile and antifungal activity of both the essential oil and crude ethanolic extract (CEE) obtained from Eugenia luschnathiana against reference strains and clinical isolates of Candida from oncology patients. Toxicological characterization was also conducted. Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) were used for phytochemical analysis. Antifungal evaluation was conducted to determine the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Fungicidal Concentration (MFC); evaluation of potential mechanisms of action; activity on a fungal biofilm; evaluation of the cytotoxic effect on human keratinocytes of the HaCat lineage by the MTT method; determination of lethality for Artemia salina larvae. GC-MS identified a predominance of sesquiterpenes in the essential oil, notably (E)-Caryophyllene. The 1H NMR spectrum identified aliphatic, osidic, and aromatic compounds in the crude ethanolic extract. The essential oil showed no antifungal activity. However, the CEE exhibited fungicidal activity, with MIC and MFC ranging from 1.95 µg/mL to 3.90 µg/mL. The antifungal effect was affected by sorbitol, indicating a possible mechanism targeting fungal cell wall structures. At low concentration (19.5 µg/mL), the CEE inhibited 62,78% of C. albicans biofilm. The CEE demonstrated a promising toxicity profile, with an LC50 of 142.4 µg/mL against Artemia salina. In conclusion, the CEE from Eugenia luschnathiana exhibited potent antifungal activity, likely through cell wall disruption, biofilm inhibition, and a favorable toxicity profile for further exploration.
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Antifúngicos , Candida , Eugenia , Cromatografía de Gases y Espectrometría de Masas , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Aceites Volátiles , Extractos Vegetales , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Aceites Volátiles/farmacología , Aceites Volátiles/química , Humanos , Eugenia/química , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Extractos Vegetales/química , Candida/efectos de los fármacos , Animales , Artemia/efectos de los fármacos , Biopelículas/efectos de los fármacos , Neoplasias , Syzygium/químicaRESUMEN
This study aimed to evaluate the genomic profile of the Antarctic marine Curtobacterium sp. CBMAI 2942, as well as to optimize the conditions for chitinase production and antifungal potential for biological control. Assembly and annotation of the genome confirmed the genomic potential for chitinase synthesis, revealing two ChBDs of chitin binding (Chi C). The optimization enzyme production using an experimental design resulted in a 3.7-fold increase in chitinase production. The chitinase enzyme was identified by SDS-PAGE and confirmed through mass spectrometry analysis. The enzymatic extract obtained using acetone showed antifungal activity against the phytopathogenic fungus Aspergillus sp. series Nigri CBMAI 1846. The genetic capability of Curtobacterium sp. CBMAI 2942 for chitin degradation was confirmed through genomic analysis. The basal culture medium was adjusted, and the chitinase produced by this isolate from Antarctica showed significant inhibition against Aspergillus sp. Nigri series CBMAI 1846, which is a tomato phytopathogenic fungus. This suggests that this marine bacterium could potentially be used as a biological control of agricultural pests.
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Antifúngicos , Quitinasas , Proteómica , Quitinasas/metabolismo , Quitinasas/genética , Quitinasas/farmacología , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Regiones Antárticas , Proteómica/métodos , Genómica/métodos , Aspergillus/enzimología , Aspergillus/genética , Genoma Bacteriano , Proteínas Bacterianas/metabolismo , Proteínas Bacterianas/genética , Organismos Acuáticos , Quitina/farmacología , Quitina/metabolismo , Quitina/químicaRESUMEN
Candida albicans invasive candidiasis is considered a global health problem. In such cases, biofilm formation on implanted devices represents a therapeutic challenge and the presence of metabolically inactive persistent cells (PCs) in these communities increases their tolerance to fungicidal drugs. This study investigated the influence of amoxicillin, AMX; cefepime, CEF; gentamicin, GEN; amikacin, AMK; vancomycin, VAN; and ciprofloxacin, CIP; on the production of PCs in biofilms of C. albicans bloodstream isolates. 48 h-mature biofilms (n = 6) grown in RPMI-1640 supplemented with antibiotics were treated with 100 µg ml-1 amphotericin B and then evaluated for PCs. Biofilms grown in the presence of antibiotics produced more PCs, up to 10×, when exposed to AMX and CIP; 5 × to CEF; and 6 × to GEN and VAN. The results indicate that antibiotics can modulate PC production in C. albicans biofilms. This scenario may have clinical repercussions in immunocompromised patients under broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy.
Biofilms are microbial communities tolerant to antifungals. Our research showed that antibiotics stimulate the formation of persistent cells within Candida albicans biofilms. These are dormant, metabolically silent cells that resist to therapy and can be related to metastatic and recalcitrant infections.
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Antibacterianos , Biopelículas , Candida albicans , Biopelículas/efectos de los fármacos , Biopelículas/crecimiento & desarrollo , Candida albicans/efectos de los fármacos , Candida albicans/fisiología , Antibacterianos/farmacología , Humanos , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Ciprofloxacina/farmacología , Gentamicinas/farmacología , Amoxicilina/farmacología , Vancomicina/farmacología , Amicacina/farmacología , Cefepima/farmacología , Anfotericina B/farmacología , Cefalosporinas/farmacología , Candidiasis/microbiología , Candidiasis/tratamiento farmacológicoRESUMEN
Candida auris is a multidrug-resistant yeast that has seen a worrying increase during the COVID-19 pandemic. Give7/n this, new therapeutic options, such as controlled-release nanomaterials, may be promising in combating the infection. Therefore, this study aimed to develop amphotericin B (AmB) and micafungin (MICA)-loaded nanoemulsions (NEMA) and evaluated against biofilms of C. auris. Nanoemulsions (NEs) were characterized and determined minimum inhibitory concentration MIC90, checkerboard and anti-biofilm. NEMA presented a size of 53.7 and 81.4 nm for DLS and NTA, respectively, with good stability and spherical morphology. MICAmB incorporated efficiency was 88.4 and 99.3%, respectively. The release results show that AmB and MICA obtained a release of 100 and 63.4%, respectively. MICAmB and NEMA showed MIC90 values of 0.015 and 0.031 ug/mL, respectively and synergism. NEMA showed greater metabolic inhibition and morphological changes in mature biofilms. This drugs combination and co-encapsulation proved to be a promising therapy against C. auris biofilms.
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Anfotericina B , Antifúngicos , Biopelículas , Candida auris , Emulsiones , Micafungina , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Biopelículas/efectos de los fármacos , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Antifúngicos/química , Antifúngicos/administración & dosificación , Anfotericina B/farmacología , Anfotericina B/administración & dosificación , Anfotericina B/química , Micafungina/farmacología , Micafungina/administración & dosificación , Emulsiones/farmacología , Emulsiones/química , Candida auris/efectos de los fármacos , Humanos , SARS-CoV-2/efectos de los fármacos , COVID-19 , Nanopartículas/químicaRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Candida auris is a globally disseminated invasive ascomycetous yeast, that imposes a substantial burden on healthcare systems. It has been documented to have spread to over 40 countries across six continents, necessitating in-depth comprehension through advanced techniques like Whole-Genome Sequencing. METHOD: This study entailed the isolation and Whole-Genome Sequencing of a fluconazole-resistant C. auris strain (CA01) obtained from a patient's blood in Beijing. Genome analysis was conducted to classify the strain, and molecular docking was performed to understand the impact of mutations on drug resistance. RESULTS: Genome analysis revealed that CA01 belongs to the South Asia Clade (I) and shares the closest genetic relationship with previously reported strains BJCA001 and BJCA002. Notably, unlike BJCA001, CA01 exhibits significant resistance to fluconazole primarily due to the A395T mutation in the ERG11 gene. Molecular docking studies demonstrated that this mutation leads to geometric changes in the active site where fluconazole binds, resulting in decreased binding affinity. Additionally, the present findings have identified several core virulence genes in C. auris, such as RBF1. DISCUSSION: The findings from this study expand the understanding of the genetic diversity and adaptive mechanisms of C. auris within the South Asia Clade (I). The observed fluconazole resistance driven by the ERG11 mutation A395T highlights the need for heightened awareness and adaptation in clinical treatment strategies in China. This study provides critical insights into drug resistance and virulence profiles at a genetic level, which could guide future therapeutic and management strategies for C. auris infections.
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Antifúngicos , Candida auris , Farmacorresistencia Fúngica , Fluconazol , Humanos , Farmacorresistencia Fúngica/genética , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Antifúngicos/uso terapéutico , Fluconazol/farmacología , Fluconazol/uso terapéutico , Virulencia/genética , Candida auris/genética , Candida auris/efectos de los fármacos , Candida auris/patogenicidad , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Mutación , Beijing , Simulación del Acoplamiento Molecular , Candidiasis/microbiología , Candidiasis/tratamiento farmacológico , Secuenciación Completa del Genoma , Sur de AsiaRESUMEN
During the COVID-19 pandemic, fungal infections, especially pulmonary aspergillosis, mucormycosis, and invasive candidiasis, have emerged as a significant health concern. Beyond Candida albicans, the most common cause of invasive candidiasis, other rare ascomycetous yeast species have been described in tertiary care units, potentially posing a broader health threat. We have isolated, from September 2020 to June 2021, nine Diutina catenulata strains from urine samples of six patients. This was intriguing as this fungus had not been previously identified in our institution, nor after June 2021. Therefore, we decided to outline the clinical features of the patients with this rare pathogen, to describe phenotypic characteristics, including antifungal susceptibility profiles, of this yeast species and to identify the genetic makeup through whole-genome sequencing analysis to evaluate if this was a cluster of genetically similar D. catenulata isolates in our institution. The strains were identified through MALDI-TOF MS analyses and Sanger sequencing of two rDNA regions. All patients yielding D. catenulata from urine samples needed ventilator support and used urinary catheters during hospitalization for treatment of COVID-19. None of them had received COVID-19 vaccines. Morphological and biochemical profiles of the nine strains were largely consistent, although fluconazole susceptibility varied, ranging from 4 to 32 µg/mL. Phylogenomic analysis revealed minimal genetic variation among the isolates, with low intrapopulation variation, supported by the identification of only 84 SNPs across all strains. Therefore, we propose that the yeast strains isolated were part of a cluster of D. catenulata funguria in the context of COVID-19.
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Antifúngicos , COVID-19 , SARS-CoV-2 , Centros de Atención Terciaria , Humanos , COVID-19/microbiología , COVID-19/epidemiología , Centros de Atención Terciaria/estadística & datos numéricos , Brasil/epidemiología , Masculino , Femenino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Antifúngicos/uso terapéutico , Antifúngicos/farmacología , SARS-CoV-2/genética , SARS-CoV-2/efectos de los fármacos , Anciano , Adulto , Filogenia , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Saccharomycetales/genética , Saccharomycetales/aislamiento & purificación , Saccharomycetales/clasificación , Secuenciación Completa del GenomaRESUMEN
Candida sp. infections are a threat to global health, with high morbidity and mortality rates due to drug resistance, especially in immunocompromised people. For this reason, the search for new alternatives is urgent, and in recent years, a combined therapy with natural compounds has been proposed. Considering the biological potential of isoespintanol (ISO) and continuing its study, the objective of this research was to assess the effect of ISO in combination with the antifungals fluconazole (FLZ), amphotericin B (AFB) and caspofungin (CASP) against clinical isolates of C. tropicalis and to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of this compound in the acute phase (days 0 and 14) and chronic phase (days 0, 14, 28, 42, 56, 70 and 84) in female mice (Mus musculus) of the Balb/c lineage. The results show that ISO can potentiate the effect of FLZ, AFB and CASP, showing synergism with these antifungals. An evaluation of the mice via direct observation showed no behavioral changes or variations in weight during treatment; furthermore, an analysis of the cytokines IFN-γ and TNF in plasma, peritoneal cavity lavage (PCL) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) indicated that there was no inflammation process. In addition, histopathological studies of the lungs, liver and kidneys showed no signs of toxicity caused by ISO. This was consistent with an analysis of oxaloacetic transaminases (GOT) and pyruvic transaminases (GPT), which remained in the standard range. These findings indicate that ISO does not have a cytotoxic effect at the doses evaluated, placing it as a monoterpene of interest in the search for compounds with pharmacological potential.
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Antifúngicos , Sinergismo Farmacológico , Ratones Endogámicos BALB C , Animales , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Ratones , Femenino , Monoterpenos/farmacología , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Anfotericina B/farmacología , Anfotericina B/toxicidad , Candidiasis/tratamiento farmacológico , Candida tropicalis/efectos de los fármacos , Fluconazol/farmacología , Citocinas/metabolismo , Citocinas/sangre , Caspofungina/farmacologíaRESUMEN
Introduction: Data on the prevalence of fungal coinfections/superinfections in patients with COVID-19 are limited. Objective: To describe the prevalence of fungal coinfections/superinfections in patients with COVID-19, as well as risk factors and demographic, clinical, and microbiological characteristics. Material and methods: We included patients with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis and a confirmed fungal infection hospitalized in the ICU from March 2020 to December 2021. We collected data on age, sex, comorbidities, hospital length of stay (days), laboratory (ferritin) and microbiological results, treatment for COVID-19, antifungal therapy, and outcomes obtained from the clinical records. Results: Only 11 out of 740 patients met the inclusion criteria. The coinfection rate was 0.3% and the superinfection was 1.2%. The most affected population was male adults. The coinfections/superinfections diagnosed were candiduria and candidemia, caused by Candida albicans, C. tropicalis, C. glabrata, C. lusitaniae, and Kluyveromyces marxianus (C. kefyr). In addition, tracheobronchitis due to Aspergillus fumigatus was found. The most used antifungals were fluconazole and caspofungin. The lethality in patients with fungal coinfections was 50% and superinfections, 22%. The length of hospital stay was 11-65 days. Eight patients required mechanical ventilation and six received corticosteroids. The main comorbidity was diabetes mellitus (81.8%). Conclusions: The rate of fungal coinfections/superinfections in COVID-19 patients was low, but the lethality found urges for routine fungal screening in patients with severe COVID-19 to timely detect fungal infections that may further compromise the patient's life.
Introducción: Los datos sobre la prevalencia de coinfecciones o sobreinfecciones fúngicas en pacientes con COVID-19 son limitados. Objetivo: Describir la prevalencia de coinfecciones o sobreinfecciones fúngicas en pacientes con COVID-19, así como los factores de riesgo y las características demográficas, clínicas y microbiológicas. Material y métodos: Se incluyeron pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado de COVID-19, hospitalizados en la unidad de cuidados intensivos y con infección fúngica confirmada entre marzo del 2020 y diciembre del 2021. Del expediente clínico se obtuvieron datos sobre edad, sexo, comorbilidades, días de estancia hospitalaria, resultados de laboratorio (ferritina) y microbiológicos, tratamiento contra COVID-19, terapia antifúngica y desenlace. Resultados: Once de 740 pacientes cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. La tasa de coinfección fue del 0,3 % y la de sobreinfección fue del 1,2 %. La población más afectada fue la de hombres adultos. Las coinfecciones o sobreinfecciones diagnosticadas fueron candiduria y candidemia, causadas por Candida albicans, C. tropicalis, C. glabrata, C. lusitaniae y Kluyveromyces marxianus (C. kefyr). Además, se encontró una traqueobronquitis por Aspergillus fumigatus. Los antifúngicos más administrados fueron fluconazol y caspofungina. La letalidad en pacientes con coinfecciones fue del 50 % y con sobreinfecciones fúngicas, del 22 %. El tiempo de estancia intrahospitalaria fue de 11 a 65 días. Ocho de los pacientes requirieron asistencia respiratoria mecánica y seis recibieron corticoides. La principal comorbilidad fue diabetes mellitus (81,8 %). Conclusiones: La tasa de coinfecciones o sobreinfecciones por hongos en pacientes con COVID-19 fue baja, pero la letalidad de estas requiere, con urgencia, la realización de pruebas de rutina para detectar hongos en pacientes con COVID-19 grave para diagnosticar oportunamente infecciones fúngicas que puedan comprometer aún más la vida del paciente.
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COVID-19 , Coinfección , Sobreinfección , Centros de Atención Terciaria , Humanos , Masculino , Coinfección/epidemiología , México/epidemiología , COVID-19/epidemiología , COVID-19/complicaciones , Sobreinfección/epidemiología , Femenino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto , Anciano , Antifúngicos/uso terapéutico , Micosis/epidemiología , Micosis/tratamiento farmacológico , Micosis/diagnóstico , Prevalencia , Factores de Riesgo , Comorbilidad , Tiempo de Internación/estadística & datos numéricos , SARS-CoV-2 , Estudios RetrospectivosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitous opportunistic pathogen. This fungus can acquire resistance to azole antifungals due to different mutations in the cyp51A gene. Azole resistance has been observed in several continents and appears to be a globally distributed phenomenon. Specific mutations in cyp51A that lead to azole resistance, such as the TR34/L98H modification, have been reported. AIMS: To evaluate the azole resistance in clinically isolated A. fumigatus strains. METHODS: As a result of our passive surveillance strategy, a total of 23 A. fumigatus isolates from clinical origins were identified through a phylogenetic analysis using the ITS region and ß-tubulin gene fragments, and typed with the CSP microsatellite. Azole susceptibility profiles were performed by disk diffusion and microdilution broth methodologies according to CLSI guidelines. RESULTS: Here we describe, for the first time, the detection of azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates from clinical origins in Chile with mutations in the cyp51A gene. In addition to the TR34/L98H mutation, one isolate exhibited an F46Y/M172V/E427K-type mutation. Furthermore, microsatellite typing based on cell surface protein (CSP) was performed, showing the t02 (TR34/L98H), t15 (F46Y/M172V/E427K) and t01 (susceptible clinical isolates) genotypes. CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrates the presence of mutations related to azole resistance in A. fumigatus strains isolated from clinical samples in Chile. In order to obtain information that may help to tackle the spread of antifungal resistance among A. fumigatus populations, and to ensure the efficacy of future treatments against aspergillosis, a further research is necessary.
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Antifúngicos , Aspergillus fumigatus , Azoles , Farmacorresistencia Fúngica , Proteínas Fúngicas , Aspergillus fumigatus/efectos de los fármacos , Aspergillus fumigatus/genética , Aspergillus fumigatus/aislamiento & purificación , Humanos , Farmacorresistencia Fúngica/genética , Chile , Azoles/farmacología , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Proteínas Fúngicas/genética , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Aspergilosis/microbiología , Sistema Enzimático del Citocromo P-450/genética , Mutación , Masculino , FemeninoRESUMEN
Itraconazole (ITZ) is widely prescribed for the treatment of mycosis such as Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM). However, it's related to toxicity and serious adverse events, such as Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). The objective is to describe a patient with PCM and CHF secondary to ITZ. Male, 50-years old, was diagnosed with chronic adult PCM and started ITZ 200 mg 12/12 h. After 2-months, acute CHF began without previous-heart disease. The electrocardiogram showed changes in ventricular repolarization and left anterior superior divisional block. Echocardiogram: slight reduction in left ventricular systolic function and ejection fraction of 51%. ITZ was replaced by trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. After a week, there was remission of symptoms. Despite thousands of patients around the world received ITZ, few cases of CHF were reported. It's dose dependent and improves when the drug is discontinuing. ITZ has negative inotropic effect and probably causes mitochondrial dysfunction. However, the intrinsic mechanisms are not yet completely understood.