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J. Fungi, Volume 8, Issue 7 (July 2022) – 111 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Ocular fungal infections are being increasingly recognized as important causes of morbidity and blindness worldwide. Thus, early detection and proper therapy are important in improving visual outcome. Among fungal pathogens, Aspergillus species are known to cause both exogenous and endogenous endophthalmitis following ocular trauma or due to immunosuppression, respectively. This review elucidates the pathobiology of Aspergillus endophthalmitis, including epidemiology, clinical presentations, host immune response, and recent advancements in diagnosis and treatment. View this paper
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18 pages, 5329 KiB  
Review
Trichophyton indotineae—An Emerging Pathogen Causing Recalcitrant Dermatophytoses in India and Worldwide—A Multidimensional Perspective
by Silke Uhrlaß, Shyam B. Verma, Yvonne Gräser, Ali Rezaei-Matehkolaei, Maryam Hatami, Martin Schaller and Pietro Nenoff
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 757; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070757 - 21 Jul 2022
Cited by 91 | Viewed by 10842
Abstract
Trichophyton (T.) indotineae is a newly identified dermatophyte species that has been found in a near-epidemic form on the Indian subcontinent. There is evidence of its spread from the Indian subcontinent to a number of countries worldwide. The fungus is identical to genotype [...] Read more.
Trichophyton (T.) indotineae is a newly identified dermatophyte species that has been found in a near-epidemic form on the Indian subcontinent. There is evidence of its spread from the Indian subcontinent to a number of countries worldwide. The fungus is identical to genotype VIII within the T. mentagrophytes/T. interdigitale species complex, which was described in 2019 by sequencing the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region of ribosomal DNA of the dermatophyte. More than 10 ITS genotypes of T. interdigitale and T. mentagrophytes can now be identified. T. indotineae causes inflammatory and itchy, often widespread, dermatophytosis affecting the groins, gluteal region, trunk, and face. Patients of all ages and genders are affected. The new species has largely displaced other previously prevalent dermatophytes on the Indian subcontinent. T. indotineae has become a problematic dermatophyte due to its predominantly in vitro genetic resistance to terbinafine owing to point mutations of the squalene epoxidase gene. It also displays in vivo resistance to terbinafine. The most efficacious drug currently available for this terbinafine-resistant dermatophytoses, based on sound evidence, is itraconazole. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dermatophytes and Dermatophytoses)
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16 pages, 2369 KiB  
Article
Development of a Monoclonal Antibody and a Serodiagnostic Lateral-Flow Device Specific to Rhizopus arrhizus (Syn. R. oryzae), the Principal Global Agent of Mucormycosis in Humans
by Genna E. Davies and Christopher R. Thornton
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 756; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070756 - 21 Jul 2022
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5805
Abstract
Mucormycosis is a highly aggressive angio-invasive disease of humans caused by fungi in the zygomycete order, Mucorales. Though a number of different species can cause mucormycosis, the principal agent of the disease worldwide is Rhizopus arrhizus, which accounts for the majority of [...] Read more.
Mucormycosis is a highly aggressive angio-invasive disease of humans caused by fungi in the zygomycete order, Mucorales. Though a number of different species can cause mucormycosis, the principal agent of the disease worldwide is Rhizopus arrhizus, which accounts for the majority of rhino-orbital-cerebral, pulmonary, and disseminated infections in immunocompromised individuals. It is also the main cause of life-threatening infections in patients with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, and in corticosteroid-treated patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, where it causes the newly described disease, COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM). Diagnosis currently relies on non-specific CT, a lengthy and insensitive culture from invasive biopsy, and a time-consuming histopathology of tissue samples. At present, there are no rapid antigen tests for the disease that detect biomarkers of infection, and which allow point-of-care diagnosis. Here, we report the development of an IgG1 monoclonal antibody (mAb), KC9, which is specific to Rhizopus arrhizus var. arrhizus (syn. Rhizopus oryzae) and Rhizopus arrhizus var. delemar (Rhizopus delemar), and which binds to a 15 kDa extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) antigen secreted during hyphal growth of the pathogen. Using the mAb, we have developed a competitive lateral-flow device (LFD) that allows rapid (30 min) and sensitive (~50 ng/mL running buffer) detection of the EPS biomarker, and which is compatible with human serum (limit of detection of ~500 ng/mL) and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (limit of detection of ~100 ng/mL). The LFD, therefore, provides a potential novel opportunity for the non-invasive detection of mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus arrhizus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Infections and COVID-19)
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22 pages, 2951 KiB  
Article
Morpho-Cultural and Pathogenic Variability of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Causing White Mold of Common Beans in Temperate Climate
by Roaf Ahmad Rather, Farooq Ahmad Ahanger, Shafat Ahmad Ahanger, Umer Basu, M. Altaf Wani, Zahida Rashid, Parvaze Ahmad Sofi, Vishal Singh, Kounser Javeed, Alaa Baazeem, Saqer S. Alotaibi, Owais Ali Wani, Jasima Ali Khanday, Showket Ahmad Dar and Muntazir Mushtaq
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 755; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070755 - 21 Jul 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2906
Abstract
The present systematic research on cultural, morphological, and pathogenic variability was carried out on eighty isolates of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum collected from major common bean production belts of North Kashmir. The isolates were found to vary in both cultural and morphological characteristics such as [...] Read more.
The present systematic research on cultural, morphological, and pathogenic variability was carried out on eighty isolates of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum collected from major common bean production belts of North Kashmir. The isolates were found to vary in both cultural and morphological characteristics such as colony color and type, colony diameter, number of days for sclerotia initiation, sclerotia number per plate, sclerotial weight, and size. The colony color ranged between white and off-white with the majority. The colony was of three types, in majority smooth, some fluffy, and a few fluffy-at-center-only. Colony diameter ranged between 15.33 mm and 29 mm after 24 h of incubation. The isolates took 4 to 7 days for initiation of sclerotia and varied in size, weight, and number per plate ranging between 14 and 51.3. The sclerotial arrangement pattern on plates was peripheral, sub peripheral, peripheral, and subperipheral, arranged at the rim and scattered. A total of 22 Mycelial compatibility groups (MCGs) were formed with seven groups constituted by a single isolate. The isolates within MCGs were mostly at par with each other. The six isolates representing six MCGs showed variability in pathogenicity with isolate G04 as the most and B01 as the least virulent. The colony diameter and disease scores were positively correlated. Sclerotia were observed to germinate both myceliogenically and carpogenically under natural temperate conditions of Kashmir. Germplasm screening revealed a single resistant line and eleven partially resistant lines against most virulent isolates. Full article
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13 pages, 2516 KiB  
Article
BEM2, a RHO GTPase Activating Protein That Regulates Morphogenesis in S. cerevisiae, Is a Downstream Effector of Fungicidal Action of Fludioxonil
by Anupam Sharma, Yogita Martoliya and Alok K. Mondal
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 754; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070754 - 21 Jul 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1662
Abstract
Fludioxonil belongs to the phenylpyrrole group of fungicides with a broad antifungal spectrum that has been widely used in agricultural practices for the past thirty years. Although fludioxonil is known to exert its fungicidal action through group III hybrid histidine kinases, the downstream [...] Read more.
Fludioxonil belongs to the phenylpyrrole group of fungicides with a broad antifungal spectrum that has been widely used in agricultural practices for the past thirty years. Although fludioxonil is known to exert its fungicidal action through group III hybrid histidine kinases, the downstream effector of its cytotoxicity is poorly understood. In this study, we utilized a S. cerevisiae model to decipher the cytotoxic effect of fludioxonil. Through genome wide transposon mutagenesis, we have identified Bem2, a Rho GTPase activating protein, which is involved in this process. The deletion of BEM2 resulted in fludioxonil resistance. Our results showed that both the GAP and morphogenesis checkpoint activities of Bem2 were important for this. We also provided the genetic evidence that the role of Bem2 in the cell wall integrity (CWI) pathway and cell cycle regulation could contribute to the fludioxonil resistance phenotype. Full article
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19 pages, 6102 KiB  
Article
ZnO Nanoparticle-Mediated Seed Priming Induces Biochemical and Antioxidant Changes in Chickpea to Alleviate Fusarium Wilt
by Farhana, Muhammad Farooq Hussain Munis, Khalid H. Alamer, Ashwaq T. Althobaiti, Asif Kamal, Fiza Liaquat, Urooj Haroon, Junaid Ahmed, Hassan Javed Chaudhary and Houneida Attia
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 753; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070753 - 21 Jul 2022
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3048
Abstract
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the main pulse crops of Pakistan. The yield of chickpea is affected by a variety of biotic and abiotic factors. Due to their environmentally friendly nature, different nanoparticles are being synthesized and applied to economically [...] Read more.
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the main pulse crops of Pakistan. The yield of chickpea is affected by a variety of biotic and abiotic factors. Due to their environmentally friendly nature, different nanoparticles are being synthesized and applied to economically important crops. In the present study, Trichoderma harzianum has been used as a stabilizing and reducing agent for the mycosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). Before their application to control Fusarium wilt of chickpea, synthesized ZnO NPs were characterized. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the average size (13 nm) of ZnO NPs. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicated their spherical structure, and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) confirmed the oxide formation of ZnO NPs. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) described the size and shape of nanoparticles, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy displayed the presence of reducing and stabilizing chemical compounds (alcohol, carboxylic acid, amines, and alkyl halide). Successfully characterized ZnO NPs exhibited significant mycelial growth inhibition of Fusarium oxysporum, in vitro. In a greenhouse pot experiment, the priming of chickpea seeds with ZnO NPs significantly increased the antioxidant activity of germinated plants and they displayed 90% less disease incidence than the control. Seed priming with ZnO NPs helped plants to accumulate higher quantities of sugars, phenol, total proteins, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) to create resistance against wilt pathogen. These nanofungicides were produced in powder form and they can easily be transferred and used in the field to control Fusarium wilt of chickpea. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Pathogenesis and Disease Control)
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16 pages, 335 KiB  
Review
Yeast Genomics and Its Applications in Biotechnological Processes: What Is Our Present and Near Future?
by Vivian Tullio
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 752; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070752 - 20 Jul 2022
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4438
Abstract
Since molecular biology and advanced genetic techniques have become important tools in a variety of fields of interest, including taxonomy, identification, classification, possible production of substances and proteins, applications in pharmacology, medicine, and the food industry, there has been significant progress in studying [...] Read more.
Since molecular biology and advanced genetic techniques have become important tools in a variety of fields of interest, including taxonomy, identification, classification, possible production of substances and proteins, applications in pharmacology, medicine, and the food industry, there has been significant progress in studying the yeast genome and its potential applications. Because of this potential, as well as their manageability, safety, ease of cultivation, and reproduction, yeasts are now being extensively researched in order to evaluate a growing number of natural and sustainable applications to provide many benefits to humans. This review will describe what yeasts are, how they are classified, and attempt to provide a rapid overview of the many current and future applications of yeasts. The review will then discuss how yeasts—including those molecularly modified—are used to produce biofuels, proteins such as insulin, vaccines, probiotics, beverage preparations, and food additives and how yeasts could be used in environmental bioremediation and biocontrol for plant infections. This review does not delve into the issues raised during studies and research, but rather presents the positive outcomes that have enabled several industrial, clinical, and agricultural applications in the past and future, including the most recent on cow-free milk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Yeast Genomics)
18 pages, 4608 KiB  
Article
Macrophage Lysosomal Alkalinization Drives Invasive Aspergillosis in a Mouse Cystic Fibrosis Model of Airway Transplantation
by Efthymia Iliana Matthaiou, Wayland Chiu, Carol Conrad and Joe Hsu
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070751 - 20 Jul 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2943
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) lung transplant recipients (LTRs) exhibit a disproportionately high rate of life-threatening invasive aspergillosis (IA). Loss of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR-/-) in macrophages (mφs) has been associated with lyosomal alkalinization. We hypothesize that this alkalinization would [...] Read more.
Cystic fibrosis (CF) lung transplant recipients (LTRs) exhibit a disproportionately high rate of life-threatening invasive aspergillosis (IA). Loss of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR-/-) in macrophages (mφs) has been associated with lyosomal alkalinization. We hypothesize that this alkalinization would persist in the iron-laden post-transplant microenvironment increasing the risk of IA. To investigate our hypothesis, we developed a murine CF orthotopic tracheal transplant (OTT) model. Iron levels were detected by immunofluorescence staining and colorimetric assays. Aspergillus fumigatus (Af) invasion was evaluated by Grocott methenamine silver staining. Phagocytosis and killing of Af conidia were examined by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. pH and lysosomal acidification were measured by LysoSensorTM and LysotrackerTM, respectively. Af was more invasive in the CF airway transplant recipient compared to the WT recipient (p < 0.05). CFTR-/- mφs were alkaline at baseline, a characteristic that was increased with iron-overload. These CFTR-/- mφs were unable to phagocytose and kill Af conidia (p < 0.001). Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles acidified lysosomes, restoring the CFTR-/- mφs’ ability to clear conidia. Our results suggest that CFTR-/- mφs’ alkalinization interacts with the iron-loaded transplant microenvironment, decreasing the CF-mφs’ ability to kill Af conidia, which may explain the increased risk of IA. Therapeutic pH modulation after transplantation could decrease the risk of IA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances Against Aspergillosis and Mucormycosis 2022)
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12 pages, 4017 KiB  
Article
DdaCrz1, a C2H2-Type Transcription Factor, Regulates Growth, Conidiation, and Stress Resistance in the Nematode-Trapping Fungus Drechslerella dactyloides
by Xiaozhou Zhao, Yani Fan, Meichun Xiang, Seogchan Kang, Shunxian Wang and Xingzhong Liu
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 750; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070750 - 20 Jul 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2743
Abstract
The Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent signaling pathway regulates diverse cellular processes. Calcineurin is a calcium-dependent phosphatase acting in fungi mainly through Crz1, a zinc finger transcription factor. Although the likely involvement of Ca2+ in fungal carnivorism has been documented, how Crz1 functions in [...] Read more.
The Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent signaling pathway regulates diverse cellular processes. Calcineurin is a calcium-dependent phosphatase acting in fungi mainly through Crz1, a zinc finger transcription factor. Although the likely involvement of Ca2+ in fungal carnivorism has been documented, how Crz1 functions in nematode-trapping fungi remains unknown. Here, we identified the Crz1 gene (named as DdaCrz1) in Drechslerella dactyloides, a species that forms constricting rings to trap nematodes. The deletion of DdaCrz1 significantly reduced hyphal growth and conidiation, trap formation, and ring cell inflation. Moreover, the mutation increased sensitivity to Mn2+ but decreased sensitivity to Ca2+, Mg2+, Zn2+, and Li+. Similarly, the mutant showed increased tolerance to osmotic stress but was more sensitive to Congo red, a cell wall-damaging agent. Our results confirmed the critical roles of the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent signaling pathway in regulating growth, conidiation, and the stress response, and suggested its involvement in trapping nematodes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Genomics, Genetics and Molecular Biology)
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13 pages, 1682 KiB  
Article
Sporothrix brasiliensis and Feline Sporotrichosis in the Metropolitan Region of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (1998–2018)
by Jéssica Sepulveda Boechat, Manoel Marques Evangelista Oliveira, Isabella Dib Ferreira Gremião, Rodrigo Almeida-Paes, Ana Caroline de Sá Machado, Rosely Maria Zancopé-Oliveira, Raquel de Vasconcellos Carvalhaes Oliveira, Débora Salgado Morgado, Maria Lopes Corrêa, Anna Barreto Fernandes Figueiredo, Rodrigo Caldas Menezes and Sandro Antonio Pereira
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 749; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070749 - 20 Jul 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5031
Abstract
Feline sporotrichosis is enzootic in different regions of Brazil, especially in Rio de Janeiro. This study compared the genotype profiles of Sporothrix sp. isolated from cats in Rio de Janeiro between 1998 and 2018 and evaluated their association with clinical and epidemiological characteristics. [...] Read more.
Feline sporotrichosis is enzootic in different regions of Brazil, especially in Rio de Janeiro. This study compared the genotype profiles of Sporothrix sp. isolated from cats in Rio de Janeiro between 1998 and 2018 and evaluated their association with clinical and epidemiological characteristics. One hundred nineteen Sporothrix sp. isolates from a cohort of cats with sporotrichosis seen at INI/Fiocruz were included. Clinical and epidemiological data were obtained from the medical records of the animals. T3B PCR fingerprinting was used for molecular identification of the Sporothrix species. All isolates were characterized as Sporothrix brasiliensis, with the observation of low intraspecific variation in 31 isolates (31.3%). The interval between lesion onset and first medical visit at INI/Fiocruz, as well as treatment duration until clinical cure, was longer in cats from the first decade of the epizootic. In addition, the frequency of the variables “good general status” and “presence of lymphadenomegaly” was higher among cats whose strains did not exhibit intraspecific variation. So far, S. brasiliensis has been the only species identified in feline cases of sporotrichosis since the beginning of the epizootic in Rio de Janeiro at INI/Fiocruz. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sporothrix and Sporotrichosis 2.0)
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3 pages, 229 KiB  
Commentary
Novel Environmental Niches for Candida auris: Isolation from a Coastal Habitat in Colombia
by Patricia Escandón
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 748; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070748 - 19 Jul 2022
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 2683
Abstract
Climate change has been proposed as a set of factors that affect the frequency, distribution, and morbimortality of many infectious diseases, in which mycosis has also been impacted. Most fungi have the ability to cause disease in mammalian hosts as a result of [...] Read more.
Climate change has been proposed as a set of factors that affect the frequency, distribution, and morbimortality of many infectious diseases, in which mycosis has also been impacted. Most fungi have the ability to cause disease in mammalian hosts as a result of their competitive fitness advantages that allow adaptation to diverse ecological niches. Candida auris has burst in the infectious disease scenario, and it has been hypothesized that a combination of stress adaptation and biotic predation has driven this fungus in the evolution of thermotolerance and halotolerance mechanisms to adapt to different environmental niches, which have resulted in the capacity to cross the thermal infection barrier in humans. Consequently, the isolation of C. auris from estuaries in Colombia adds to the evidence that suggests that this fungus existed in the environment previously to being recognized as a human pathogen, and promotes the need for further investigations to identify additional ecological niches. Full article
26 pages, 2833 KiB  
Article
Morphological and Phylogenetic Characterization Reveals Five New Species of Samsoniella (Cordycipitaceae, Hypocreales)
by Zhiqin Wang, Yao Wang, Quanying Dong, Qi Fan, Van-Minh Dao and Hong Yu
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 747; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070747 - 19 Jul 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2665
Abstract
Samsoniella is a very important fungal resource, with some species in the genus having great medical, economic and ecological value. This study reports five new species of Samsoniella from Yunnan Province and Guizhou Province in Southwestern China and Dole Province in Vietnam, providing [...] Read more.
Samsoniella is a very important fungal resource, with some species in the genus having great medical, economic and ecological value. This study reports five new species of Samsoniella from Yunnan Province and Guizhou Province in Southwestern China and Dole Province in Vietnam, providing morphological descriptions, illustrations, phylogenetic placements, associated hosts and comparisons with allied taxa. Based on morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses of combined nrSSU, nrLSU, tef-1α, rpb1 and rpb2 sequence data, it was determined that these five new species were located in the clade of Samsoniella and different from other species of Samsoniella. The five novel species had morphologies similar to those of other species in the genus, with bright orange cylindrical to clavate stromata (gregarious). The fertile part lateral sides usually had a longitudinal ditch without producing perithecia, and superficial perithecia. The phialides had a swollen basal portion, tapering abruptly into a narrow neck and oval or fusiform one-celled conidia, often in chains. The morphological characteristics of 23 species in Samsoniella, including five novel species and 18 known taxa, were also compared in the present study. Full article
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16 pages, 2007 KiB  
Article
Organization and Unconventional Integration of the Mating-Type Loci in Morchella Species
by Hongmei Chai, Ping Liu, Yuanhao Ma, Weimin Chen, Nan Tao and Yongchang Zhao
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 746; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070746 - 19 Jul 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1992
Abstract
True morels (Morchella spp.) are a group of delicious fungi in high demand worldwide, and some species of morels have been successfully cultivated in recent years. To better understand the sexual reproductive mechanisms of these fungi, we characterized the structure of the [...] Read more.
True morels (Morchella spp.) are a group of delicious fungi in high demand worldwide, and some species of morels have been successfully cultivated in recent years. To better understand the sexual reproductive mechanisms of these fungi, we characterized the structure of the mating-type loci from ten morel species, and seven of them were obtained using long-range PCR amplification. Among the studied species, eight were heterothallic, two were homothallic, and four types of composition were observed in the MAT loci. In three of the five black morel species, the MAT1-1-1, MAT1-1-10, and MAT1-1-11 genes were in the MAT1-1 idiomorph, and only the MAT1-2-1 gene was in the MAT1-2 idiomorph, while an integration event occurred in the other two species and resulted in the importation of the MAT1-1-11 gene into the MAT1-2 idiomorph and survival as a truncated fragment in the MAT1-1 idiomorph. However, the MAT1-1-11 gene was not available in the four yellow morels and one blushing morel species. M. rufobrunnea, a representative species of the earliest diverging branch of true morels, along with another yellow morel Mes-15, were confirmed to be homothallic, and the MAT1-1-1, MAT1-1-10, and MAT1-2-1 genes were arranged in a tandem array. Therefore, we hypothesized that homothallism should be the ancestral reproductive state in Morchella. RT-PCR analyses revealed that four mating genes could be constitutively expressed, while the MAT1-1-10 gene underwent alternative splicing to produce different splice variants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomics and Evolution of Macrofungi)
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21 pages, 3737 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Impact of Climatic Variables on Arecanut Fruit Rot Epidemic by Understanding the Disease Dynamics in Relation to Space and Time
by Balanagouda Patil, Vinayaka Hegde, Shankarappa Sridhara, Hanumappa Narayanaswamy, Manjunatha K. Naik, Kiran Kumar R. Patil, Hosahatti Rajashekara and Ajay Kumar Mishra
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 745; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070745 - 19 Jul 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2394
Abstract
To understand the spatio-temporal dynamics and the effect of climate on fruit rot occurrence in arecanut plantations, we evaluated the intensity of fruit rot in three major growing regions of Karnataka, India for two consecutive years (2018 and 2019). A total of 27 [...] Read more.
To understand the spatio-temporal dynamics and the effect of climate on fruit rot occurrence in arecanut plantations, we evaluated the intensity of fruit rot in three major growing regions of Karnataka, India for two consecutive years (2018 and 2019). A total of 27 sampling sites from the selected regions were monitored and the percentage disease intensity (PDI) was assessed on 50 randomly selected palms. Spatial interpolation technique, ordinary kriging (OK) was employed to predict the disease occurrence at unsampled locations. OK resulted in aggregated spatial maps, where the disease intensity was substantial (40.25–72.45%) at sampling sites of the Malnad and coastal regions. Further, Moran’s I spatial autocorrelation test confirmed the presence of significant spatial clusters (p ≤ 0.01) across the regions studied. Temporal analysis indicated the initiation of disease on different weeks dependent on the sampling sites and evaluated years with significant variation in PDI, which ranged from 9.25% to 72.45%. The occurrence of disease over time revealed that the epidemic was initiated early in the season (July) at the Malnad and coastal regions in contrary to the Maidan region where the occurrence was delayed up to the end of the season (September). Correlations between environmental variables and PDI revealed that, the estimated temperature (T), relative humidity (RH) and total rainfall (TRF) significantly positively associated (p = 0.01) with disease occurrence. Regression model analysis revealed that the association between Tmax, RH1 and TRF with PDI statistically significant and the coefficients for the predictors Tmax, RH1 and TRF are 1.731, 1.330 and 0.541, respectively. The information generated in the present study will provide a scientific decision support system, to generate forecasting models and a better surveillance system to develop adequate strategies to curtail the fruit rot of arecanut. Full article
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9 pages, 1778 KiB  
Article
Silver Nanoparticles: A Promising Antifungal Agent against the Growth and Biofilm Formation of the Emergent Candida auris
by Reem AlJindan and Doaa M. AlEraky
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 744; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070744 - 19 Jul 2022
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3033
Abstract
Candida auris is a globally-emerging pathogen that is correlated to nosocomial infections and high mortality rates, causing major outbreaks in hospitals and serious public health concerns worldwide. This study investigated the antifungal activity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on clinical isolates of C. auris. [...] Read more.
Candida auris is a globally-emerging pathogen that is correlated to nosocomial infections and high mortality rates, causing major outbreaks in hospitals and serious public health concerns worldwide. This study investigated the antifungal activity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on clinical isolates of C. auris. A total of eight clinical isolates were collected from blood, urine, ear swab, and groin. C. auris was confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS, and gene sequencing. All isolates confirmed as C. auris were subjected to antimicrobial agents, including amphotericin B, fluconazole, caspofungin, voriconazole, micafungin, and flucytosine. A serial dilution of a silver nanoparticles solution was prepared to test antifungal susceptibility testing under planktonic conditions. Moreover, an antibiofilm activity assay was determined using a colony-forming assay and a cell viability assay by a live–dead yeast kit. Significant antifungal and antibiofilm activity of AgNPs was detected against all isolates; MIC was <6.25 μg/mL, the range of MFC was from 6.25 to 12.5 μg/mL for all isolates, and the highest value of IC50 was 3.2 μg/mL. Silver nanomaterials could represent a possible antimicrobial agent to prevent outbreaks caused by C. auris infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis and Treatment of Candida Species)
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13 pages, 2656 KiB  
Review
Mycetoma: Development of Diagnosis and Treatment
by Xingpei Hao, Marcus Cognetti, Rhonda Burch-Smith, Emerald O’Sullivan Mejia and Gene Mirkin
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 743; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070743 - 19 Jul 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6961
Abstract
Mycetoma describes a heterogeneous group of cutaneous and subcutaneous infections caused by either fungi (eumycetomas) or bacteria (actinomycetomas). It is characterized by a triad of clinical symptoms: painless subcutaneous tumor-like swelling, multiple sinuses and fistulas, and discharged grains in pus. This predominantly affects [...] Read more.
Mycetoma describes a heterogeneous group of cutaneous and subcutaneous infections caused by either fungi (eumycetomas) or bacteria (actinomycetomas). It is characterized by a triad of clinical symptoms: painless subcutaneous tumor-like swelling, multiple sinuses and fistulas, and discharged grains in pus. This predominantly affects the feet in more than 70% of patients. It is endemic in the “mycetoma belt” regions, including Africa, South America, and South Asia. Autochthonous mycetoma is rare in the United States of America (USA). We recently reported a Latin American immigrant with eumycetoma in the State of Maryland, USA. With millions of immigrants from endemic regions, the true number of mycetomas in the USA is most likely higher than currently recognized. With the aim to raise the awareness of clinicians about mycetoma, especially dermatologists and podiatrists, we update the development of the epidemiology, etiology, clinical presentations, pathogenesis, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment of mycetoma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Infections in Dermatology)
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10 pages, 464 KiB  
Review
Dermatophytomas: Clinical Overview and Treatment
by Aditya K. Gupta, Tong Wang and Elizabeth A. Cooper
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 742; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070742 - 19 Jul 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3934
Abstract
Dermatophytomas are characterized as a hyperkeratotic fungal mass in the subungual space, showing as dense white or yellow, typically in longitudinal streaks or patches. Masses can be visualized by traditional microscopy or histology. Newer technologies such as dermoscopy and optical coherence tomography also [...] Read more.
Dermatophytomas are characterized as a hyperkeratotic fungal mass in the subungual space, showing as dense white or yellow, typically in longitudinal streaks or patches. Masses can be visualized by traditional microscopy or histology. Newer technologies such as dermoscopy and optical coherence tomography also provide visual features for dermatophytoma diagnosis. The density of fungal mass, and lack of adherence to the nail structures, as well as possible biofilm development, may play a role in the reduction in drug penetration and subsequent lack of efficacy with traditional oral therapies such as terbinafine and itraconazole. A combination of drug treatment with mechanical or chemical debridement/avulsion has been recommended to increase efficacy. The topical antifungal solutions such as tavaborole, efinaconazole, and luliconazole may reach the dermatophytoma by both the transungual and subungual routes, due to low affinity for keratin and low surface tension. Current data indicates these topicals may provide efficacy for dermatophytoma treatment without debridement/avulsion. Similarly, fosravuconazole (F-RVCZ) has an improved pharmacological profile versus ravuconazole and may be an improved treatment option versus traditional oral therapies. The availability of improved treatments for dermatophytomas is crucial, as resistance to traditional therapies is on the increase. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Onychomycosis Emerging Investigators)
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11 pages, 1497 KiB  
Article
Performance of Two Commercial Assays for the Detection of Serum Aspergillus Galactomannan in Non-Neutropenic Patients
by Rodrigo Almeida-Paes, Marcos de Abreu Almeida, Priscila Marques de Macedo, Diego H. Caceres and Rosely Maria Zancopé-Oliveira
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 741; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070741 - 18 Jul 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2414
Abstract
Besides the relevance of aspergillosis in neutropenic patients, this mycosis has gained significance among non-neutropenic patients in last years. The detection of Aspergillus galactomannan has been used for aspergillosis diagnosis and follow-up in neutropenic patients. This study evaluated the applicability of two commercial [...] Read more.
Besides the relevance of aspergillosis in neutropenic patients, this mycosis has gained significance among non-neutropenic patients in last years. The detection of Aspergillus galactomannan has been used for aspergillosis diagnosis and follow-up in neutropenic patients. This study evaluated the applicability of two commercial tests for galactomannan detection in non-neutropenic patients with different clinical forms of aspergillosis. Serum samples from patients with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, aspergilloma, invasive aspergillosis, and COVID-19 associated pulmonary aspergillosis were evaluated using the IMMY sōna AGM lateral flow assay and the Bio-Rad Platelia sandwich ELISA. Serum specimens from patients with tuberculosis, histoplasmosis, paracoccidioidomycosis, and from healthy individuals were used as controls. The Bio-Rad Platelia sandwich ELISA presented greater sensitivity, whereas the IMMY sōna AGM lateral flow assay presented greater specificity. The accuracies of the tests were similar, as demonstrated by a receiver operator characteristic analysis. Moreover, the best cut-off values determined by this analysis were closer to that recommended by both manufacturers for neutropenic patients. The galactomannan indexes determined by different methodologies were strongly related, and a substantial agreement was observed between results. Both tests can be used in non-neutropenic patients with the cut-off values defined by the manufacturers. Histoplasma cross-reactions may occur in areas where histoplasmosis is endemic. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges of Human Fungal Infections)
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17 pages, 2608 KiB  
Article
Diversity of Colletotrichum Species Causing Apple Bitter Rot and Glomerella Leaf Spot in China
by Yang Chen, Dandan Fu, Wei Wang, Mark L. Gleason, Rong Zhang, Xiaofei Liang and Guangyu Sun
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 740; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070740 - 18 Jul 2022
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 3453
Abstract
Bitter rot and Glomerella leaf spot (GLS) of apples, caused by Colletotrichum species, are major diseases of apples around the world. A total of 98 isolates were obtained from apple fruits with bitter rot, and 53 isolates were obtained from leaves with leaf [...] Read more.
Bitter rot and Glomerella leaf spot (GLS) of apples, caused by Colletotrichum species, are major diseases of apples around the world. A total of 98 isolates were obtained from apple fruits with bitter rot, and 53 isolates were obtained from leaves with leaf spot in the primary apple production regions in China. These isolates were characterized morphologically, and five gene regions (ITS, ACT, GAPDH, CHS-1 and TUB2) were sequenced for each isolate. A phylogenetic analysis, combined with a comparison of the morphological, cultural and pathogenic characters, sorted bitter rot isolates into six species: C. alienum, C. fructicola, C. gloeosporioides sensu stricto, C. nymphaeae, C. siamense and one new species, C. orientalis Dandan Fu & G.Y. Sun. Among these, C. siamense was the predominant pathogen associated with bitter rot. Isolates from leaf spot were identified as two species, C. aenigma and C. fructicola. This is the first report of C. orientalis as an apple bitter rot pathogen worldwide, and the results provide important insights into the diversity of Colletotrichum species in China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Fungal Diversity)
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13 pages, 2972 KiB  
Article
Changes in Chemical Structure of Thermally Modified Spruce Wood Due to Decaying Fungi
by Zuzana Vidholdová, František Kačík, Ladislav Reinprecht, Viera Kučerová and Jana Luptáková
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 739; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070739 - 18 Jul 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 1906
Abstract
Fungi play a critical role in the decomposition of wood and wood-based products in use. The ability of decaying fungi to cause degradation of polysaccharides and lignin in the thermally modified Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst.) wood was examined with pure [...] Read more.
Fungi play a critical role in the decomposition of wood and wood-based products in use. The ability of decaying fungi to cause degradation of polysaccharides and lignin in the thermally modified Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst.) wood was examined with pure culture decomposition tests in laboratory conditions using the brown-rot fungus Serpula lacrymans (Schumacher ex Fries) S.F. Gray and white-rot fungus Trametes versicolor (Linnaeus ex Fries) Pilat. Spruce wood samples were primary thermally treated under atmospheric pressure at the temperatures of 100, 150, 200, 220, 240 and 260 °C during 1, 3 and 5 h, whereby larger losses in their mass, holocellulose, mannose and xylose were achieved at harder thermal regimes. Meanwhile, the holocellulose percent content reduced considerably, and the percent content of lignin increased sharply. Spruce wood thermally modified at and above 200 °C better resisted to brown-rot fungus S. lacrymans than the white-rot fungus T. versicolor. Due to the decay processes, the mass fractions of holocellulose, cellulose and hemicelluloses were lower in those spruce wood samples in which thermal degradation was more intensive, with achieving the highest mass loss values after thermal treatments, after which the decay attacks were poorer or even none with the minimal mass loss values due to action by the brown-rot fungus S. lacrymans and the white-rot fungus T. versicolor. The mannose and glucose percent content in thermally–fungally attacked spruce wood was intensive reduced, e.g., by 17% to 98% in wood after thermal treatments at temperature equal and above 200 °C. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungi in Decomposition Processes)
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20 pages, 822 KiB  
Article
Bioactivity of Biomass and Crude Exopolysaccharides Obtained by Controlled Submerged Cultivation of Medicinal Mushroom Trametes versicolor
by Galena Angelova, Mariya Brazkova, Dasha Mihaylova, Anton Slavov, Nadejda Petkova, Denica Blazheva, Ivelina Deseva, Irina Gotova, Zhechko Dimitrov and Albert Krastanov
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 738; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070738 - 17 Jul 2022
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3849
Abstract
The aim of this study is to characterize the bioactivity of mycelial biomass and crude exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by Trametes versicolor NBIMCC 8939 and to reveal its nutraceutical potential. The EPS (1.58 g/L) were isolated from a culture broth. The macrofungal biomass was [...] Read more.
The aim of this study is to characterize the bioactivity of mycelial biomass and crude exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by Trametes versicolor NBIMCC 8939 and to reveal its nutraceutical potential. The EPS (1.58 g/L) were isolated from a culture broth. The macrofungal biomass was rich in protein, insoluble dietary fibers and glucans. The amino acid composition of the biomass was analyzed and 18 amino acids were detected. Three mycelial biomass extracts were prepared and the highest total polyphenol content (16.11 ± 0.14 mg GAE/g DW) and the total flavonoid content (5.15 ± 0.03 mg QE/g DW) were found in the water extract. The results indicated that the obtained EPS were heteropolysaccharides with glucose as the main building monosaccharide and minor amounts of mannose, xylose, galactose, fucose and glucuronic acid. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the complex structure of the crude EPS. Five probiotic lactic acid bacteria strains were used for the determination of the prebiotic effect of the crude EPS. The anti-inflammatory potential was tested in vitro using cell line HT-29. The significant decrease of IL-1 and IL-8 and increase of TGF-beta expression revealed anti-inflammatory potential of the crude exopolysaccharides from T. versicolor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives on Bioactive Compounds in Mushrooms)
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21 pages, 1920 KiB  
Review
New-Generation Sequencing Technology in Diagnosis of Fungal Plant Pathogens: A Dream Comes True?
by Maria Aragona, Anita Haegi, Maria Teresa Valente, Luca Riccioni, Laura Orzali, Salvatore Vitale, Laura Luongo and Alessandro Infantino
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 737; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070737 - 16 Jul 2022
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4889
Abstract
The fast and continued progress of high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and the drastic reduction of its costs have boosted new and unpredictable developments in the field of plant pathology. The cost of whole-genome sequencing, which, until few years ago, was prohibitive for many projects, [...] Read more.
The fast and continued progress of high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and the drastic reduction of its costs have boosted new and unpredictable developments in the field of plant pathology. The cost of whole-genome sequencing, which, until few years ago, was prohibitive for many projects, is now so affordable that a new branch, phylogenomics, is being developed. Fungal taxonomy is being deeply influenced by genome comparison, too. It is now easier to discover new genes as potential targets for an accurate diagnosis of new or emerging pathogens, notably those of quarantine concern. Similarly, with the development of metabarcoding and metagenomics techniques, it is now possible to unravel complex diseases or answer crucial questions, such as “What’s in my soil?”, to a good approximation, including fungi, bacteria, nematodes, etc. The new technologies allow to redraw the approach for disease control strategies considering the pathogens within their environment and deciphering the complex interactions between microorganisms and the cultivated crops. This kind of analysis usually generates big data that need sophisticated bioinformatic tools (machine learning, artificial intelligence) for their management. Herein, examples of the use of new technologies for research in fungal diversity and diagnosis of some fungal pathogens are reported. Full article
13 pages, 2364 KiB  
Article
Understanding the Role of Nitronate Monooxygenases in Virulence of the Human Fungal Pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus
by Phuong Tuyen Nguyen, Theresa Wacker, Alistair J. P. Brown, Alessandra da Silva Dantas and Elena Shekhova
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 736; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070736 - 16 Jul 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3053
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is the leading cause of the fungal invasive disease called aspergillosis, which is associated with a high mortality rate that can reach 50% in some groups of immunocompromised individuals. The increasing prevalence of azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates, both in clinical settings [...] Read more.
Aspergillus fumigatus is the leading cause of the fungal invasive disease called aspergillosis, which is associated with a high mortality rate that can reach 50% in some groups of immunocompromised individuals. The increasing prevalence of azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates, both in clinical settings and the environment, highlights the importance of discovering new fungal virulence factors that can potentially become targets for novel antifungals. Nitronate monooxygenases (Nmos) represent potential targets for antifungal compounds as no orthologs of those enzymes are present in humans. Nmos catalyse the denitrification of nitroalkanes, thereby detoxifying these mediators of nitro-oxidative stress, and therefore we tested whether Nmos provide protection for A. fumigatus against host-imposed stresses at sites of infection. The results of inhibition zone assays indicated that Nmo2 and Nmo5 are not essential for the oxidative stress resistance of A. fumigatus in vitro. In addition, the resazurin-based metabolic activity assay revealed that the growth of mutants lacking the nmo2 or nmo5 genes was only slightly reduced in the presence of 0.05 mM peroxynitrite. Nevertheless, both Nmo2 and Nmo5 were shown to contribute to defense against murine bone marrow-derived macrophages, and this was no longer observed when NADPH oxidase, the main generator of reactive oxygen species during infection, was inhibited in macrophages. Furthermore, we revealed that Nnmos promote the virulence of the fungus in the Galleria mellonella model of infection. Both nmo2 and nmo5 knock-out strains were less virulent than the wild-type control as recorded 72 h post-infection. Our results indicate that Nmos play a role in the virulence of A. fumigatus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Redox in Microorganisms)
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21 pages, 1409 KiB  
Article
Fungal Community Composition as Affected by Litter Chemistry and Weather during Four Years of Litter Decomposition in Rainshadow Coastal Douglas-Fir Forests
by Philip-Edouard Shay, Richard S. Winder, C. Peter Constabel and J. A. (Tony) Trofymow
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 735; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070735 - 16 Jul 2022
Viewed by 1948
Abstract
Climate and litter chemistry are major factors influencing litter decay, a process mediated by microbes, such as fungi, nitrogen-fixing bacteria and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria. Increasing atmospheric CO2 concentrations can decrease nitrogen (N) and increase condensed tannin (CT) content in foliar litter, reducing litter [...] Read more.
Climate and litter chemistry are major factors influencing litter decay, a process mediated by microbes, such as fungi, nitrogen-fixing bacteria and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria. Increasing atmospheric CO2 concentrations can decrease nitrogen (N) and increase condensed tannin (CT) content in foliar litter, reducing litter quality and slowing decomposition. We hypothesized that reduced litter quality inhibits microbes and is the mechanism causing decomposition to slow. Litterbags of Douglas-fir needles and poplar leaves with a range of N (0.61–1.57%) and CT (2.1–29.1%) treatment and natural acid unhydrolyzable residue (35.3–41.5%) concentrations were placed along climatic gradients in mature Douglas-fir stands of coastal British Columbia rainshadow forests. The structure (diversity, richness and evenness) and composition of microbial communities were analyzed using DGGE profiles of 18S, NifH-universal and AmoA PCR amplicons in foliar litter after 7, 12, 24 and 43 months of decay. High CT and low N concentrations in leaf litter were associated with changes in microbial community composition, especially fungi. Contrary to our hypothesis, high CT and low N treatments did not inhibit microbial colonization or diversity. The joint effects of air temperature and soil moisture on microbial community composition at our sites were more important than the effects of initial litter chemistry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungi in Decomposition Processes)
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17 pages, 1102 KiB  
Review
Cryptococcus neoformans Genotypic Diversity and Disease Outcome among HIV Patients in Africa
by Kennedy Kassaza, Fredrickson Wasswa, Kirsten Nielsen and Joel Bazira
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070734 - 15 Jul 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3154
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, a disease with poor patient outcomes, remains the most prevalent invasive fungal infection worldwide, accounting for approximately 180,000 deaths each year. In several areas of sub-Saharan Africa with the highest HIV prevalence, cryptococcal meningitis is the leading cause of community-acquired meningitis, [...] Read more.
Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, a disease with poor patient outcomes, remains the most prevalent invasive fungal infection worldwide, accounting for approximately 180,000 deaths each year. In several areas of sub-Saharan Africa with the highest HIV prevalence, cryptococcal meningitis is the leading cause of community-acquired meningitis, with a high mortality among HIV-infected individuals. Recent studies show that patient disease outcomes are impacted by the genetics of the infecting isolate. Yet, there is still limited knowledge of how these genotypic variations contribute to clinical disease outcome. Further, it is unclear how the genetic heterogeneity of C. neoformans and the extensive phenotypic variation observed between and within isolates affects infection and disease. In this review, we discuss current knowledge of how various genotypes impact disease progression and patient outcome in HIV-positive populations in sub-Saharan African, a setting with a high burden of cryptococcosis. Full article
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19 pages, 6139 KiB  
Article
Combination Effect of Novel Bimetallic Ag-Ni Nanoparticles with Fluconazole against Candida albicans
by Majid Rasool Kamli, Elham A. Alzahrani, Soha M. Albukhari, Aijaz Ahmad, Jamal S. M. Sabir and Maqsood Ahmad Malik
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 733; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070733 - 14 Jul 2022
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 2596
Abstract
The increasing frequency of antifungal drug resistance among pathogenic yeast “Candida” has posed an immense global threat to the public healthcare sector. The most notable species of Candida causing most fungal infections is Candida albicans. Furthermore, recent research has revealed that [...] Read more.
The increasing frequency of antifungal drug resistance among pathogenic yeast “Candida” has posed an immense global threat to the public healthcare sector. The most notable species of Candida causing most fungal infections is Candida albicans. Furthermore, recent research has revealed that transition and noble metal combinations can have synergistic antimicrobial effects. Therefore, a one-pot seedless biogenic synthesis of Ag-Ni bimetallic nanoparticles (Ag-Ni NPs) using Salvia officinalis aqueous leaf extract is described. Various techniques, such as UV–vis, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, and TGA, were used to validate the production of Ag-Ni NPs. The antifungal susceptibility of Ag-Ni NPs alone and in combination with fluconazole (FLZ) was tested against FLZ-resistant C. albicans isolate. Furthermore, the impacts of these NPs on membrane integrity, drug efflux pumps, and biofilms formation were evaluated. The MIC (1.56 μg/mL) and MFC (3.12 μg/mL) results indicated potent antifungal activity of Ag-Ni NPs against FLZ-resistant C. albicans. Upon combination, synergistic interaction was observed between Ag-Ni NPs and FLZ against C. albicans 5112 with a fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) value of 0.31. In-depth studies revealed that Ag-Ni NPs at higher concentrations (3.12 μg/mL) have anti-biofilm properties and disrupt membrane integrity, as demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy results. In comparison, morphological transition was halted at lower concentrations (0.78 μg/mL). From the results of efflux pump assay using rhodamine 6G (R6G), it was evident that Ag-Ni NPs blocks the efflux pumps in the FLZ-resistant C. albicans 5112. Targeting biofilms and efflux pumps using novel drugs will be an alternate approach for combatting the threat of multi-drug resistant (MDR) stains of C. albicans. Therefore, this study supports the usage of Ag-Ni NPs to avert infections caused by drug resistant strains of C. albicans. Full article
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16 pages, 3739 KiB  
Article
Genomic Characteristics and Comparative Genomics Analysis of Parafenestella ontariensis sp. nov.
by Evgeny Ilyukhin, Svetlana Markovskaja, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Salim S. Al-Rejaie and Sajeewa S.N. Maharachchikumbura
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 732; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070732 - 14 Jul 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2931
Abstract
A new ascomycetous species of Parafenestella was isolated from Acer negundo during the survey of diseased trees in Southern Ontario, Canada. The species is morphologically similar to other taxa of Cucurbitariacea (Pleosporales). The new species is different from the extant species [...] Read more.
A new ascomycetous species of Parafenestella was isolated from Acer negundo during the survey of diseased trees in Southern Ontario, Canada. The species is morphologically similar to other taxa of Cucurbitariacea (Pleosporales). The new species is different from the extant species in the morphology of ascospores, culture characteristics and molecular data. The novel species is described as Parafenestella ontariensis sp. nov. based on morphological and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses using a combined set of ITS, LSU, tef1 and tub2 loci. Additionally, the genome of P. ontariensis was sequenced and analyzed. The phylogenomic analysis confirmed the close relationship of the species to the fenestelloid clades of Cucurbitariaceae. The comparative genomics analysis revealed that the species lifestyle appears to be multitrophic (necrotrophic or hemi-biotrophic) with a capability to turn pathogenic on a corresponding plant host. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomics Analysis of Fungi)
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14 pages, 4692 KiB  
Article
Selenium Combined with Methyl Jasmonate to Control Tomato Gray Mold by Optimizing Microbial Community Structure in Plants
by Changyin Li, Chengxiao Hu, Jiatao Xie, Guangyu Shi, Xu Wang, Xiang Yuan, Keyi Li, Siqi Chen, Xiaohu Zhao and Guocheng Fan
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070731 - 14 Jul 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2624
Abstract
Tomato cultivation is seriously affected by infection from Botrytis cinerea. The safe and effective control of tomato gray mold remains elusive. Plant-related microbial communities regulate not only plant metabolism but also plant immune systems. In this study, we observed that Selenium application [...] Read more.
Tomato cultivation is seriously affected by infection from Botrytis cinerea. The safe and effective control of tomato gray mold remains elusive. Plant-related microbial communities regulate not only plant metabolism but also plant immune systems. In this study, we observed that Selenium application in soil combined with foliar spraying of methyl jasmonate could reduce Botrytis cinerea infection in tomato fruits and leaves and improve tomato fruit quality. The infection rate of leaves decreased from 42.19% to 25.00%, and the vitamin C content increased by 22.14%. The bacterial community structure of the tomato was studied by using amplicon sequencing technology. The leaf bacterial alpha diversity of tomatoes treated with Se plus methyl jasmonate was significantly higher than that of the control. Then we isolated five strains antagonistic to Botrytis cinerea in vitro from tomato leaves in the treatment of Se plus methyl jasmonate. The antagonistic strains were identified as Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus velezensis. Spraying mixed antagonistic strain suspension significantly inhibited the diameter of Botrytis cinerea with an inhibition rate of 40.99%. This study revealed the key role of plant-beneficial bacteria recruited by Se combined with methyl jasmonate in improving tomato plant disease resistance. These findings may benefit our understanding of the new regulation of microorganisms on Botrytis cinerea. Full article
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22 pages, 6068 KiB  
Article
Improved Tolerance of Artemisia ordosica to Drought Stress via Dark Septate Endophyte (DSE) Symbiosis
by Xia Li, Xue Zhang, Minghui Xu, Qiannan Ye, Huili Gao and Xueli He
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 730; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070730 - 13 Jul 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2769
Abstract
Dark septate endophytes (DSEs) usually colonize plant roots, especially in stress environments. However, their relationship with plants ranges from beneficial to harmful and has remained largely uncharacterized. In the present study, 14 DSE species grouped into 11 genera were isolated from the roots [...] Read more.
Dark septate endophytes (DSEs) usually colonize plant roots, especially in stress environments. However, their relationship with plants ranges from beneficial to harmful and has remained largely uncharacterized. In the present study, 14 DSE species grouped into 11 genera were isolated from the roots of a desert plant, Artemisia ordosica, which is widely distributed in northwest China. Three dominant DSE species—Paraphoma chrysanthemicola (Pc), Alternaria chartarum (Ac), and Acrocalymma vagum (Av)—were selected and tested for their resistance to drought in vitro. Furthermore, we characterized the responses of A. ordosica under drought conditions in relation to the presence of these DSEs following inoculation. The results showed that all three strains grew well under in vitro drought stress, and the biomass of Ac and Av was significantly higher than that of the unstressed control. The effects of DSE inoculation on the growth of A. ordosica under drought stress varied according to the different DSE species but were generally beneficial. Under drought stress, Av and Pc promoted plant growth, antioxidant enzyme activity, and root development of the hosts. The Ac strain conferred obvious positive effects on the antioxidant enzyme activity of the hosts. In general, Av and Pc demonstrated better application potential for improving the drought resistance of A. ordosica. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beneficial Plant–Fungal Interactions)
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17 pages, 6053 KiB  
Article
Hidden Species Diversity was Explored in Two Genera of Catapyrenioid Lichens (Verrucariaceae, Ascomycota) from the Deserts of China
by Tingting Zhang, Xin Zhang, Qiuxia Yang and Xinli Wei
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 729; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070729 - 13 Jul 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2056
Abstract
Verrucariaceae is the third-largest lichen family with high species diversity. However, this diversity has not been well-explored in China. We carried out a wide-scale field investigation in the arid and semi-arid regions of Northwest China from 2017 to 2021. A large number of [...] Read more.
Verrucariaceae is the third-largest lichen family with high species diversity. However, this diversity has not been well-explored in China. We carried out a wide-scale field investigation in the arid and semi-arid regions of Northwest China from 2017 to 2021. A large number of lichen groups, especially those commonly distributed in deserts, were collected. Based on molecular phylogeny using ITS and nuLSU sequences by Bayesian and maximum likelihood analyses, combining morphological characters, seven taxa of catapyrenioid lichens in Verricariaceae were found in this study, including one genus (Clavascidium) and one species (Clavascidium lacinulatum) new to China; one genus (Placidium) new to the mainland of China; and four species (Clavascidium sinense, Placidium nitidulum, Placidium nigrum, and Placidium varium) new to science. It enriched our understanding of the high species diversity in Verrucariaceae and the lichen flora of Chinese arid and semi-arid deserts. Full article
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9 pages, 1463 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Immunodiagnostic Assays for the Rapid Diagnosis of Coccidioidomycosis in Dogs
by Diego H. Caceres and Mark D. Lindsley
J. Fungi 2022, 8(7), 728; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8070728 - 13 Jul 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1982
Abstract
Coccidioidomycosis is a disease caused by the dimorphic fungi Coccidioides spp., which affects humans and a variety of animal species, including domestic dogs. In dogs, accurate diagnosis could provide a substantial improvement on the quality of canine life, as well as an advancement [...] Read more.
Coccidioidomycosis is a disease caused by the dimorphic fungi Coccidioides spp., which affects humans and a variety of animal species, including domestic dogs. In dogs, accurate diagnosis could provide a substantial improvement on the quality of canine life, as well as an advancement in the mapping of regions endemic for coccidioidomycosis. The purpose of this study was to compare immunodiagnostic assays for anti-Coccidioides antibody (Ab) detection in dogs’ serum. Three commercially available immunodiagnostic assays (IMMY®; Norman, OK, USA) were evaluated, including the sōna Coccidioides Ab Lateral Flow Assay (LFA), Coccidioides IDCF immunodiffusion assay (IDCF), and the Clarus Coccidioides Ab Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA). Assays were evaluated using 98 dog serum samples: 29 from dogs with coccidioidomycosis, 15 from dogs diagnosed with histoplasmosis, 10 from dogs diagnosed with blastomycosis, and 44 from dogs without a fungal disease. Using specimens from dogs with coccidioidomycosis, the IDCF had an accuracy of 92% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 85–96%), the EIA had an accuracy of 91% (95% CI = 83–96%), and the LFA displayed an accuracy of 82% (95% CI = 73–89%). Using Kappa analysis, the agreement between LFA and EIA was 0.59 (95% CI = 0.42–0.75), that between LFA and IDCF was 0.64 (95% CI = 0.48–0.79), and that between EIA and IDCF was 0.79 (95% CI = 0.64–0.90). Most cross-reactions were observed in dogs with histoplasmosis. Compared with EIA and IDCF, the LFA requires substantially less laboratory equipment and infrastructure and rapidly produces results, offering a substantial improvement for the initial screening of coccidioidomycosis in dogs. Full article
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