Journal of Fungi

13 pages, 3064 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Isolation and Identification of Spoilage Fungi in Potato Fresh Wet Vermicelli and Inhibition Effect of Different Fungicides on Spoilage Fungi

by Feng Zhang, Mei Li, Jiachun Tian, Xia Ge, Shouqiang Li, Jianxin Chen, Yumei Li and Yaqian Zhang

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 367; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050367 - 8 May 2025

Abstract

Fresh wet vermicelli is highly susceptible to microbial contamination during storage as a result of its high moisture content and rich nutrients, which leads to spoilage and deterioration. In addition to exerting a great impact on the quality of the product, this results [...] Read more.

Fresh wet vermicelli is highly susceptible to microbial contamination during storage as a result of its high moisture content and rich nutrients, which leads to spoilage and deterioration. In addition to exerting a great impact on the quality of the product, this results in significant economic losses and potential food safety risks. This work aimed to identify spoilage microorganisms via traditional culturing methods and molecular biology techniques. The effects of environmental factors such as temperature and pH on the growth and development of the dominant spoilage fungi were investigated, and the inhibitory effects of both chemical (potassium sorbate) and natural antimicrobial agents (chitooligosaccharides, chitosan, tea polyphenols, citric acid, and ε-polylysine hydrochloride) were evaluated. The results indicated that Penicillium crustosum was the major spoilage microorganism in fresh wet vermicelli, whose optimal growth temperature and pH was 28 °C and 7, respectively. While conidial germination began at 7 h, hyphal formation was only observed after 12 h. Moreover, the findings suggest that both natural and chemical antimicrobial agents can effectively inhibit the growth of P. crustosum, with ε-polylysine hydrochloride being the strongest antimicrobial agent. Overall, the findings of this study provide a scientific foundation for improving the preservation of fresh wet vermicelli, which is of great significance for extending its shelf life and enhancing food safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control of Postharvest Fungal Diseases, 2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 4426 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploration of Mangrove Endophytes as Novel Sources of Tannase Producing Fungi

by Vinodkumar Kushwaha, Jitendra R. Patil, Ganesh Chandrakant Nikalje and Lal Sahab Yadav

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050366 - 8 May 2025

Abstract

Tannase, a highly adaptive biocatalyst, plays a pivotal role in diverse bioconversion reactions in nature. This enzyme exhibits numerous applications across various industrial sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and beverages. This study aimed to screen and characterize fungal endophytes isolated from mangrove plants [...] Read more.

Tannase, a highly adaptive biocatalyst, plays a pivotal role in diverse bioconversion reactions in nature. This enzyme exhibits numerous applications across various industrial sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and beverages. This study aimed to screen and characterize fungal endophytes isolated from mangrove plants for their enzyme tannase-producing ability. Eighty-five filamentous endophytic fungi were isolated from different mangrove samples and subsequently identified. These fungal strains were initially screened using the tannic acid agar plate method. Out of the screened strains, 13 fungal isolates demonstrated tannase production ability. The quantitative estimation of extracellular tannase was performed using the submerged fermentation technique. Among the studied endophytes, eight isolates, namely LV_084 (21.21 IU/mL), LV_074 (15.41 IU/mL), LV_078 (6.98 IU/mL), LV_038 (6.97 IU/mL), LV_077 (6.32 IU/mL), LV_016 and LV_066 (6.37 IU/mL), and LV_060 (6.18 IU/mL) exhibited excellent tannase activity. Among these isolates, LV_084 Phyllosticta capitalensis and LV_074 Aspergillus chevalieri showed the highest enzyme-producing ability. These isolates were authenticated using ITS rDNA sequencing, followed by BLAST search and phylogenetic analysis. Furthermore, the physical and chemical conditions for the maximum enzyme production were optimized. This is the first report of enzyme tannase production by Phyllosticta capitalensis and Aspergillus chevalieri. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Wonders: Investigating the Diverse Biological Activities of Fungal-Derived Compounds)

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17 pages, 4468 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Amino Acid Profiling and 4D-DIA Proteomics Reveal Protein Quality Divergence and Metabolic Adaptation in Cordyceps Species

by Chuyu Tang, Yuejun Fan, Tao Wang, Jie Wang, Mengjun Xiao, Min He, Xiyun Chang, Yuling Li and Xiuzhang Li

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050365 - 8 May 2025

Abstract

To explore the differences in protein quality among classic medicinal entomopathogenic fungi and to evaluate their metabolic adaptability, we analyzed the amino acid composition and proteomic characteristics of Cordyceps sinensis (CS), Cordyceps militaris (CM), and Cordyceps cicadae (CC). Quantitative analysis showed CM contained [...] Read more.

To explore the differences in protein quality among classic medicinal entomopathogenic fungi and to evaluate their metabolic adaptability, we analyzed the amino acid composition and proteomic characteristics of Cordyceps sinensis (CS), Cordyceps militaris (CM), and Cordyceps cicadae (CC). Quantitative analysis showed CM contained the highest crude protein and lysine, methionine, threonine, and valine. CS adapted to high-altitude hypoxia and exhibited lower protein but elevated leucine, isoleucine, and histidine contents, which may contribute to membrane stabilization and oxidative stress resistance. CC displayed higher non-essential amino acids such as arginine, proline, and tyrosine, reflecting active nitrogen metabolism. Four-dimensional data-independent acquisition (4D-DIA) proteomics identified 495 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Compared with CS, CM and CC displayed upregulated glutamate oxaloacetate transaminases 2 (GOT2), glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), and argininosuccinate synthase 1 (ASS1) coordinately regulate nitrogen flux through the alanine-aspartate-glutamate metabolic network and urea cycle, supporting metabolic intermediate replenishment for energy metabolism. The upregulation of branched-chain keto acid dehydrogenase E1 subunit alpha (BCKDHA) and acyl-CoA dehydrogenase short/branched chain (ACADSB) in CM and CC facilitated the integration of branched-chain amino acid catabolism with the TCA cycle, explaining species-specific differences in protein content. This study presents the first application of 4D-DIA proteomics to compare CS, CM, and CC, providing insights into quality divergence mechanisms in medicinal fungi. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Metabolomics and Genomics)

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14 pages, 7554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High-Throughput Sequencing Uncovers Fungal Community Succession During Morchella sextelata Development

by Qi Yan, Peng Wang, Zhushan Liu, Ya Yu, Xiao Tan, Xiao Huang, Jiawei Wen and Weidong Zhang

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 364; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050364 - 7 May 2025

Abstract

To investigate the correlation between soil fungal communities and the growth and development of Morchella sextelata, this study utilized high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze the structure and diversity of soil fungal communities at various growth stages of Morchella sextelata. The results [...] Read more.

To investigate the correlation between soil fungal communities and the growth and development of Morchella sextelata, this study utilized high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze the structure and diversity of soil fungal communities at various growth stages of Morchella sextelata. The results revealed significant variations in the diversity, composition, and relative abundance of soil fungal communities across different growth stages of Morchella sextelata, demonstrating stage-specific characteristics. Alpha diversity analysis indicated that the Shannon index was highest during the CK stage, significantly decreased in the LS stage (p < 0.01), increased again in the LY stage, and then declined once more in the LC stage. Beta diversity analysis (Principal Coordinates Analysis, PCoA) demonstrated significant differences in fungal community structure across various stages (R = 0.9567, p = 0.001). At the phylum level, Ascomycota remained dominant throughout all growth stages of Morchella sextelata, but its relative abundance exhibited significant dynamic changes. At the fungal genus level, Paecilomyces dominated in the primordium stage (27.12%), whereas Morchella dominated in the conidial stage (LS) and fruiting body stage (LC), accounting for 43.48% and 41.61%, respectively. Additionally, in the LC stage, the plant pathogenic genus Fusarium significantly increased (3.49%), indicating an elevated risk of disease. Functional prediction results revealed that saprotrophic fungi were predominant at all stages, but the relative abundance of pathogenic fungi gradually increased, rising from 0.06% in the LS stage to 41.41% in the LC stage, a substantial increase of 40.81% compared to the LS stage. This suggests a higher potential risk of disease occurrence during the fruiting body stage. Our study provides an overview of the dynamics of soil fungal communities during the cultivation of Morchella sextelata. These findings offer scientific insights for optimizing the artificial cultivation technology of Morchella sextelata and provide a reference for disease prevention and control. Full article

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17 pages, 1262 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pediatric Candida Manifestations in the Orofacial Region: A Retrospective Analysis of Different Forms, Risk Factors and Species Distribution

by Sara Carina Kakoschke, Sara Fleschutz, Elisabeth Ruff, Karl Dichtl, Moritz Groeger, Carola Schoen, Sven Otto and Tamara Katharina Kakoschke

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050363 - 7 May 2025

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the spectrum of Candida manifestations in the orofacial region to address the lack of comprehensive data in the diverse pediatric population. This retrospective study included all positive Candida findings in patients aged 0–18 years treated [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to analyze the spectrum of Candida manifestations in the orofacial region to address the lack of comprehensive data in the diverse pediatric population. This retrospective study included all positive Candida findings in patients aged 0–18 years treated between 2014 and 2023 at a university maxillofacial department in Germany and evaluated associated risk profiles, comorbidities and species distributions. Candida infection sites included oral mucosa, dental abscesses and otitis media. Candida was more frequent in children with pre-existing conditions, particularly immunosuppression, neuromuscular disorders and facial deformities. Tympanostomy tubes and recent antibiotic use were significant risk factors for Candida in otitis media. Whereas in dental abscesses, Candida had a significant proportion independent of prior antibiotic use. Non-albicans subspecies, particularly Candida parapsilosis, were notably more prevalent in the middle ear compared to oral and dental infections. Candida manifests in various forms in the orofacial region, with different characteristics and species distributions. Further investigations are needed to better understand the role of Candida as a symptom or a contributor to an underlying condition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pediatric Fungal Infections, 2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 753 KiB

Open AccessReview

Management of Intra-Abdominal Candidiasis in Intensive Care Setting: A Narrative Review

by Marco Marotta Pais, Rafael Zaragoza, Ignacio Martín-Loeches, Frederic F. Gómez-Bertomeu and Alejandro Rodríguez

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050362 - 6 May 2025

Abstract

Intra-abdominal candidiasis (IAC), with or without candidemia, is a common condition in patients in intensive care units (ICUs). Early diagnosis of IAC remains a challenge for clinicians despite new biomarkers. Early and appropriate antifungal treatment, which is associated with better clinical outcomes, is [...] Read more.

Intra-abdominal candidiasis (IAC), with or without candidemia, is a common condition in patients in intensive care units (ICUs). Early diagnosis of IAC remains a challenge for clinicians despite new biomarkers. Early and appropriate antifungal treatment, which is associated with better clinical outcomes, is negatively affected by the increased isolation of non-albicans Candida strains that are resistant to the commonly used azoles and echinocandins. Based on the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) properties of the different treatment options, liposomal amphotericin B, rezafungin or high doses of anidulafungin appear to be the most appropriate first-line options for complicated IAC in ICUs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Infections in Intensive Care Medicine)

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9 pages, 426 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Successful Management of Spondylodiscitis Caused by Aspergillus nidulans: A Case Report and Literature Review

by Safia Nadji, Nicolas Ettahar, Jordan Leroy, Gisèle Dewulf and Edith Mazars

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050361 - 6 May 2025

Abstract

We report a case of spondylodiscitis caused by Aspergillus nidulans (SCAN). A. nidulans is a saprophytic fungus and emerging pathogen responsible for a variety of infections, although it is rarely implicated in osteoarticular infections. The patient was a 59-year-old immunocompromised patient [...] Read more.

We report a case of spondylodiscitis caused by Aspergillus nidulans (SCAN). A. nidulans is a saprophytic fungus and emerging pathogen responsible for a variety of infections, although it is rarely implicated in osteoarticular infections. The patient was a 59-year-old immunocompromised patient with a history of lymphoma and splenectomy. Following diagnosis, the patient was promptly and effectively treated with voriconazole. A literature review underlines the distinctive features of the few case reports of SCAN, as well as the original features of the present case report. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Pathogenesis and Disease Control)

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19 pages, 2397 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Airborne Fungal Spore Diversity Assessment Using Culture-Dependent and Metabarcoding Approaches in Bat-Inhabited Natural and Anthropogenic Roosts in Portugal

by Jaqueline T. Bento, Guilherme Moreira, Eugénia Pinto, Priscilla Gomes da Silva, Hugo Rebelo, Joana Mourão, Sofia I. V. Sousa and João R. Mesquita

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 360; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050360 - 6 May 2025

Abstract

Cave environments represent extreme and underexplored ecosystems wherein fungi play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and ecological dynamics. This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of fungal diversity in air samples from caves across Portugal, with six samples from five locations being [...] Read more.

Cave environments represent extreme and underexplored ecosystems wherein fungi play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and ecological dynamics. This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of fungal diversity in air samples from caves across Portugal, with six samples from five locations being assessed through culture-dependent and metabarcoding approaches. From the five bat roosts studied, eleven morphologically distinct fungal colonies were isolated, with genera such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Chaetomium identified. Concurrently, Oxford Nanopore sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of fungal rDNA revealed 286 genera, with Aspergillus, Candida, and Calyptella dominating across the sites. Diversity indices and community composition analyses, including Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) and hierarchical clustering, highlighted distinct fungal profiles influenced by site-specific environmental factors and human activity. The data underscores the dual role of fungi in bat roosts as essential decomposers, emphasizing their adaptability to oligotrophic conditions. These findings advance our understanding of subterranean fungal ecology and emphasize the need for targeted conservation efforts to protect cave ecosystems from anthropogenic impacts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Diversity in Europe, 3rd Edition)

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Graphical abstract

14 pages, 3433 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bax Inhibitor MoBi-1 Is Required for Conidiation, Pathogenicity, and Stress Responses in Magnaporthe oryzae

by Shuai Meng, Yangyang Shen, Dixuan Zhang, Liutao Bao, Hao Cao, Gening Song, Chenshun Xie, Jane S. Jagernath, Guoqiang Shen and Jie Chen

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050359 - 5 May 2025

Abstract

Magnaporthe oryzae serves as a model organism for studying the molecular biology of filamentous fungi and the pathogenic mechanisms of fungal pathogens. It also poses a significant threat to rice production in China. Bax inhibitor-1 (Bi-1), a protein with evolutionary conservation, functions as [...] Read more.

Magnaporthe oryzae serves as a model organism for studying the molecular biology of filamentous fungi and the pathogenic mechanisms of fungal pathogens. It also poses a significant threat to rice production in China. Bax inhibitor-1 (Bi-1), a protein with evolutionary conservation, functions as an inhibitor of programmed cell death induced by the proapoptotic protein Bax. Despite the widespread presence of Bi-1 proteins in hyphal fungi, their biological functions have not been extensively characterized. Here, we characterized the function of MoBI-1, a putative Bax-inhibitor protein in M. oryzae, which is located in the mitochondria and participates in conidiation, stress adaptation, and pathogenicity. Further investigations revealed that MoBi-1 is also essential for the regulation of mitochondrial energy metabolism. Remarkably, experimental evidence indicates that MoBi-1 does not seem to function in inhibiting Bax-induced programmed cell death, thus lacking inherent Bax inhibitory function, which broadens the existing understanding of Bax inhibitor-1’s function and provides significant new insights into the disease-causing mechanisms of M. oryzae. Full article

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31 pages, 13778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Diversity of the Genus Tuber in Greece—A New Species to Science in the Maculatum Clade and Seven First National Records

by Vassileios Daskalopoulos, Elias Polemis, Georgios Konstantinidis, Vasileios Kaounas, Nikolaos Tsilis, Vassiliki Fryssouli, Vassili N. Kouvelis and Georgios I. Zervakis

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050358 - 5 May 2025

Abstract

Ectomycorrhizal fungi of the genus Tuber (Ascomycota) produce hypogeous ascomata commonly known as truffles. Despite their high ecological and economic importance, a considerable gap of knowledge exists concerning the diversity of Tuber species in the eastern Mediterranean region. In the frame of this [...] Read more.

Ectomycorrhizal fungi of the genus Tuber (Ascomycota) produce hypogeous ascomata commonly known as truffles. Despite their high ecological and economic importance, a considerable gap of knowledge exists concerning the diversity of Tuber species in the eastern Mediterranean region. In the frame of this study, more than 200 Tuber collections, originating from various regions of Greece, were examined. A new species to science, i.e., Tuber leptodermum, is formally described. Tuber leptodermum is grouped in the Maculatum clade, as revealed by the ITS and LSU rDNA concatenated phylogenetic tree, and appears as sister to T. foetidum. In addition, T. leptodermum exhibits distinct morphoanatomic features: it produces medium-sized, dark-brown ascomata with a thin pseudoparenchymatous peridium, composed of globose-to-angular cells and forms one-to-four-spored asci containing reticulate–alveolate, ellipsoid ascospores with broad meshes. Thirty other phylogenetic species are identified: seven of them (i.e., T. anniae, T. buendiae, T. conchae, T. dryophilum, T. monosporum, T. regianum and T. zambonelliae) constitute new records for the Greek mycobiota, while the presence of five other species is molecularly confirmed for the first time. Moreover, the existence of ten undescribed phylogenetic species is revealed, six of which are reported for the first time in Greece. Several taxonomic and phylogenetic issues and discrepancies in the genus Tuber are discussed in relation to the new findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Evolution, Biodiversity and Systematics)

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20 pages, 836 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidosis and Its Underlying Mechanisms: A Systematic Review

by Maria Lobo, Catarina Cerqueira, Acácio Gonçalves Rodrigues and Carmen Lisboa

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050357 - 5 May 2025

Abstract

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis (RVVC), defined as three or more episodes of vulvovaginal candidosis (VVC) within a 12-month period, is a common and debilitating condition that affects a significant percentage of reproductive-aged women, negatively impacting their quality of life. This review aimed to synthesize [...] Read more.

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis (RVVC), defined as three or more episodes of vulvovaginal candidosis (VVC) within a 12-month period, is a common and debilitating condition that affects a significant percentage of reproductive-aged women, negatively impacting their quality of life. This review aimed to synthesize the most recent scientific data on the pathophysiological mechanisms triggering primary or idiopathic RVVC. Three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for studies published between 2014 and 2024. Twelve studies were included, covering prospective cohort, cross-sectional, and case–control studies conducted in different countries. The results indicate that recurrence may be related to both intrinsic characteristics of the pathogen, such as increased virulence attributes of Candida spp., and host immune system dysregulation, including alterations in Th1/Th17 and Th2/Treg cytokine levels, decreased levels of mannose-binding lectin (MBL), impaired neutrophil and lymphocyte function, and overexpression of CD163+ macrophages and NLRP3 inflammasome. Additionally, genetic factors, such as polymorphisms in the MBL2, IL-12, NLRP3, and TLR2 genes, are associated with increased susceptibility to RVVC. In conclusion, RVVC appears to involve a complex interaction between pathogen virulence and an altered host immune response, which reinforces the need for further investigations to develop personalized therapeutic strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Pathogenesis and Disease Control)

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13 pages, 2968 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Current Performance of MALDI–TOF Mass Spectrometry Databases for the Identification of Dermatophyte Species

by David Rodriguez-Temporal, Daniel Adrados, Ana Alastruey-Izquierdo, Miriam Alkorta, Ana Candela, Andrés Canut, Carmen Castro, Carlos Gustavo Cilla, Juan de Dios Caballero, María Ercibengoa, Marina Fernández, Isabel Fradejas, Oscar Fraile, María José Goyanes, Ainhoa Gutiérrez, José Israel López, Concha López, Ana Isabel López-Calleja, Ramiro López-Medrano, Patricia Muñoz, Adriana María Ortega, Marina Oviaño, Javier Peman, María Rodríguez-Mayo, Alba Ruiz, Alexander Tristancho and Belén Rodríguez-Sánchez Show full author list Hide full author list

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050356 - 5 May 2025

Abstract

The identification of filamentous fungi by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI–TOF MS) represents a challenge due to their complex taxonomy and the lack of comprehensive databases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current status of available MALDI–TOF [...] Read more.

The identification of filamentous fungi by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI–TOF MS) represents a challenge due to their complex taxonomy and the lack of comprehensive databases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current status of available MALDI–TOF MS databases for the identification of dermatophytes, including commercial, in-house, and web-based databases. We collected 289 dermatophyte strains from different centers and analyzed them using four databases and a combination of them. The combination of commercial and in-house databases was shown to improve the identification rate and accuracy at the species level. For Trichophyton rubrum, the concordance among all databases was above 90.0%. For the T. mentagrophytes group, correct identification at the species level ranged from 30.0 to 78.9%, depending on the database, and showed very low agreement among them. The addition of the novel species T. japonicum to our in-house database resulted in the successful identification of this species. On the other hand, T. interdigitale and T. tonsurans were the species most frequently misidentified by MALDI–TOF MS. Through deep spectra analysis of both species, up to 29 protein peaks were found to be suitable for their differentiation, demonstrating the potential of peak analysis in differentiating closely related species. In conclusion, improvements of the databases with new strains resulted in increased identification accuracy at the species level. This, combined with peak analysis, could improve the overall identification of dermatophytes by MALDI–TOF MS in clinical laboratories. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Infections: New Challenges and Opportunities, 3rd Edition)

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9 pages, 230 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Prognostic Value of Serum and Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Galactomannan Levels in Invasive Aspergillosis: An 8-Year Experience at a Tertiary Cancer Center

by Saliba Wehbe, Anne-Marie Chaftari, Ray Hachem, Hiba Dagher, Andrea Haddad, Ann Philip, Ying Jiang, Ramia Zakhour, Peter Bakht, Jishna Shrestha, Peter Lamie, Robin Sherchan, Jennifer Makhoul, Patrick Chaftari and Issam I. Raad

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050355 - 3 May 2025

Abstract

Background: Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a life-threatening fungal infection that primarily affects immunocompromised individuals and has high morbidity and mortality rates, necessitating timely diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic utility of serum and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid galactomannan levels, [...] Read more.

Background: Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a life-threatening fungal infection that primarily affects immunocompromised individuals and has high morbidity and mortality rates, necessitating timely diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic utility of serum and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid galactomannan levels, as well as galactomannan kinetics, in patients with IA. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who were diagnosed with proven or probable IA from March 2016 to April 2024 at a tertiary cancer center. The collected data included patient characteristics, baseline and peak galactomannan levels in serum and BAL fluid, galactomannan trends, and clinical outcomes. Subgroup analyses were performed to assess the prognostic value of dual-source galactomannan positivity (positive serum and BAL fluid galactomannan levels). Results: Elevated baseline serum galactomannan levels independently predicted treatment non-response (p = 0.039) and 12-week all-cause mortality (p < 0.001). Peak serum and BAL fluid galactomannan levels were strongly associated with poor clinical outcomes (p < 0.01). Compared to single-source galactomannan positivity, dual-source galactomannan positivity was linked to reduced treatment response (22% vs. 43%, p = 0.01) and higher IA-attributable mortality (52% vs. 27%, p = 0.002). Patients with neutropenia had poorer outcomes compared to patients without neutropenia, but neutrophil recovery dramatically improved survival (25% vs. 69% mortality, p < 0.0001). Early galactomannan kinetics and malignancy type had limited prognostic value. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the potential role of galactomannan as a key biomarker for early prognostication for IA. The strong association between galactomannan levels and clinical outcomes suggests its utility in identifying high-risk patients who may benefit from more aggressive management. Further studies are needed to introduce a nuanced and context-specific use of galactomannan into clinical practice and assess its role as a prognostic biomarker. Full article

14 pages, 2515 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phenotypic and Molecular Characterization of Candida albicans Isolates from Mexican Women with Vulvovaginitis

by Hugo Díaz-Huerta, Eduardo García-Salazar, Xóchitl Ramírez-Magaña, Erick Martínez-Herrera, Rodolfo Pinto-Almazán, Paola Betancourt-Cisneros, Esperanza Duarte-Escalante, María del Rocío Reyes-Montes, Rigberto Hernández-Castro and María Guadalupe Frías-De-León

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050354 - 2 May 2025

Abstract

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is an opportunistic mycosis that affects women of reproductive age. The most frequent etiological agent is Candida albicans. The development of VVC depends on factors related to the host and the fungus. Among the factors related to Candida spp. [...] Read more.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is an opportunistic mycosis that affects women of reproductive age. The most frequent etiological agent is Candida albicans. The development of VVC depends on factors related to the host and the fungus. Among the factors related to Candida spp. are virulence factors, but genotype may also be involved. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ABC genotypes and extracellular hydrolytic enzyme production in C. albicans isolates obtained from Mexican women with vulvovaginitis to determine if there is a correlation between these characteristics that allows the fungus to invade and cause damage to the host. Forty-three yeast isolates were obtained from vaginal exudates from women with symptoms of infection. The isolates were identified by germ tube tests and by Cand PCR. The ABC genotype of the isolates identified as C. albicans was determined through the isolates’ DNA amplification using the oligonucleotides CA-INT-R and CA-INT-L. The activity of esterase, phospholipase, proteinase, and hemolysin was evaluated in specific culture media. The correlation between extracellular enzyme production and genotype was analyzed using a two-way ANOVA and the Sidak comparison test. A total of 57.5% of the yeast isolates were identified as C. albicans. The genotypes identified were A (82.6%) and B (17.4%). The activity of esterase, phospholipase, proteinase, and hemolysin was very strong. No statistically significant difference was found between enzyme production and genotypes. In conclusion, genotype A predominates among C. albicans vaginal isolates. The production of extracellular hydrolytic enzymes was widely expressed in C. albicans vaginal isolates, but no correlation with genotype was found. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungi in Vulvovaginal Infections)

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23 pages, 4959 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Key Metabolic Markers in Hongqujiu Across Different Aging Years Using Metabolomics

by Yiyang Cai, Sunan Yan, Simei Huang, Bin Yang, Wenlan Mo, Lishi Xiao, Xiangyou Li and Zhiwei Huang

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050353 - 2 May 2025

Abstract

Hongqujiu, one of the three principal varieties of yellow wine, is a traditional fermented beverage originating from China that employs Hongqu as the fermentation agent. In this study, an untargeted metabolomics approach based on gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) [...] Read more.

Hongqujiu, one of the three principal varieties of yellow wine, is a traditional fermented beverage originating from China that employs Hongqu as the fermentation agent. In this study, an untargeted metabolomics approach based on gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was applied to systematically analyze the volatile compounds (VOCs) and non-volatile compounds (NVCs) in Hongqujiu across different aging years for the first time. The analysis identified a total of 262 VOCs and 2564 NVCs in samples of Hongqujiu aged for six distinct years. Based on metabolic differences, the samples were categorized into two groups: the low-year group (5-year, 6-year) and the high-year group (8-year, 10-year, 15-year, 20-year). Nineteen VOCs (e.g., 4-amino-butyric acid and diethanolamine) and thirty NVCs (e.g., palmitoylethanolamide and erinacine D) were identified as key differential metabolites distinguishing the low-year group from the high-year group. The higher-year group is enriched with a variety of substances with different flavors or biological activities, such as sugar derivatives, amino acids and their complexes, organic acids and their intermediate metabolites, steroids and terpenoid compounds, lipids and their derivatives, nitrogen-containing heterocycles, and aromatic compounds. The accumulation of these substances not only shapes the unique and rich flavor characteristics of aged red rice wine (such as the caramel aroma and umami peptide flavor), but also endows red rice wine with potential health benefits due to the physiological regulatory functions of some active ingredients. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the composition and dynamic variations in metabolites in Hongqujiu, offering a scientific foundation for identifying aged Hongqujiu and conducting further research to enhance its quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Monascus spp. and Their Relative Products)

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28 pages, 4650 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Silencing of MNT1 and PMT2 Shows the Importance of O-Linked Glycosylation During the Sporothrix schenckii–Host Interaction

by Manuela Gómez-Gaviria, José A. Martínez-Álvarez, Iván Martínez-Duncker, Andrea Regina de Souza Baptista and Héctor M. Mora-Montes

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050352 - 2 May 2025

Abstract

Sporothrix schenckii is a pathogenic fungus of worldwide distribution and one of the etiological agents of sporotrichosis. The cell wall is the first point of contact with host cells; therefore, its composition has been widely studied. It has a cell wall composed of [...] Read more.

Sporothrix schenckii is a pathogenic fungus of worldwide distribution and one of the etiological agents of sporotrichosis. The cell wall is the first point of contact with host cells; therefore, its composition has been widely studied. It has a cell wall composed of chitin, β-glucans, and glycoproteins modified with N-linked and O-linked glycans. Protein O-linked glycosylation is mediated by two gene families, PMT and MNT. Therefore, we evaluated the relevance of protein O-linked glycosylation during the interaction of S. schenckii with the host. Independent silencing of the MNT1 and PMT2 was accomplished by interference RNA. Morphological analyses revealed defects in cell morphology in both yeast and mycelial cells; however, these defects differed between MNT1 and PMT2 silencing. Subsequently, the cell wall was characterized, and the silencing of these genes markedly changed cell wall organization. When the silenced strains interacted with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, a reduced ability to stimulate the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNFα was found. However, the PMT2-silenced mutants also stimulated higher levels of IL-10 and IL-1β. Interaction with macrophages and neutrophils was also altered, with increased phagocytosis and decreased extracellular trap formation in both sets of silenced strains. Survival assays in Galleria mellonella larvae showed that silencing of any of these genes reduced the ability of S. schenckii to kill the host. In addition, the mutant strains showed defects in the adhesion to extracellular matrix proteins. These data indicate that MNT1 and PMT2 are relevant for cell wall synthesis and interaction with the host. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protein Research in Pathogenic Fungi)

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14 pages, 3203 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Radioactive Contaminants in Edible Mushrooms: A Comparative Study of ¹³⁷Cs and Natural Radionuclides in Amasya and Tekirdağ, Türkiye

by Afife Akkaya and Sinan Aktaş

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050351 - 1 May 2025

Abstract

Mushrooms are a significant component of human diets but can bioaccumulate hazardous substances, including both anthropogenic (¹³⁷Cs) and naturally occurring (²³⁸U, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K) radionuclides. This study quantified these radionuclides in 24 commonly consumed mushroom species collected [...] Read more.

Mushrooms are a significant component of human diets but can bioaccumulate hazardous substances, including both anthropogenic (¹³⁷Cs) and naturally occurring (²³⁸U, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K) radionuclides. This study quantified these radionuclides in 24 commonly consumed mushroom species collected in Amasya and Tekirdağ, provinces of Türkiye. Using a high-purity germanium (HPGe) detector, we found ¹³⁷Cs activity in the Tekirdağ samples ranging from 3.9 to 127.8 Bq/kg, while the ¹³⁷Cs activity in the Amasya samples ranged from 3.1 to 63.7 Bq/kg. In particular, Tricholoma terreum (Tekirdağ) and Tricholoma imbricatum (Amasya) exhibited notably higher ¹³⁷Cs concentrations. The concentration of ²³⁸U varied between 4.8 and 17.5 Bq/kg in the Tekirdağ samples and 6.5 and 16 Bq/kg in the Amasya samples, whereas the ²³²Th and ⁴⁰K values fluctuated across species and regions, with ⁴⁰K sometimes exceeding 1900 Bq/kg. These results highlight that mushrooms can serve as effective bioindicators for residual radioactive contamination and underline the need for periodic monitoring to assess potential public health risks associated with wild mushroom consumption. These findings also offer a valuable dataset for understanding post-Chernobyl fallout dynamics in the forest ecosystems of Türkiye. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental and Ecological Interactions of Fungi)

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18 pages, 1299 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advances in CRISPR/Cas9-Based Gene Editing in Filamentous Fungi

by Bin Ma, Yimiao Li, Tinghui Wang, Dongming Li and Shuang Jia

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050350 - 1 May 2025

Abstract

As an important class of microorganisms, filamentous fungi have crucial roles in protein secretion, secondary metabolite production and environmental pollution control. However, characteristics such as apical growth, heterokaryon, low homologous recombination (HR) efficiency and the scarcity of genetic markers mean that the application [...] Read more.

As an important class of microorganisms, filamentous fungi have crucial roles in protein secretion, secondary metabolite production and environmental pollution control. However, characteristics such as apical growth, heterokaryon, low homologous recombination (HR) efficiency and the scarcity of genetic markers mean that the application of traditional gene editing technology in filamentous fungi faces great challenges. The introduction of the RNA-mediated CRISPR/Cas (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/CRlSPR-associated protein) system in filamentous fungi in recent years has revolutionized gene editing in filamentous fungi. In addition, the continuously expressed CRISPR system has significantly improved the editing efficiency, while the optimized sgRNA design and reduced cas9 concentration have effectively reduced the off-target effect, further enhancing the safety and reliability of the technology. In this review, we systematically analyze the molecular mechanism and regulatory factors of CRISPR/Cas9, focus on the optimization of its expression system and the improvement of the transformation efficiency in filamentous fungi, and reveal the core regulatory roles of HR and non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathways in gene editing. Based on the analysis of various filamentous fungi applications, this review reveals the outstanding advantages of CRISPR/Cas9 in the enhancement of protein secretion, addresses the reconstruction of secondary metabolic pathways and pollutant degradation in the past decade, and provides a theoretical basis and practical guidance for the optimization of the technology and engineering applications. Full article

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18 pages, 3340 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Mycoprotein Production by Aspergillus oryzae Using Soy Whey as a Substrate

by Ferren Pratama, Richelle Tirta Rahardja, Angellique Regina Rachmadi, Wildan Qoharisma Salam, Katherine Kho, Aivyanca Adelie and Putu Virgina Partha Devanthi

J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050349 - 1 May 2025

Abstract

Soy whey, a by-product of soy processing, has shown promise as a substrate for mycoprotein production using Aspergillus oryzae. However, the low biomass concentration obtained necessitates optimization of cultivation conditions to enhance total protein production. In this study, we optimized substrate concentration [...] Read more.

Soy whey, a by-product of soy processing, has shown promise as a substrate for mycoprotein production using Aspergillus oryzae. However, the low biomass concentration obtained necessitates optimization of cultivation conditions to enhance total protein production. In this study, we optimized substrate concentration (50%, 75%, and 100%), initial pH (unadjusted, 4, 5, and 6), and supplementation with 8 g/L ammonium sulfate, minerals (0.75 g/L MgSO₄·7H₂O, 1 g/L CaCl₂·H₂O and 3.5 g/L KH₂PO₄), or their combination to maximize biomass production. The results showed that adjusting the initial pH to 5 and adding ammonium sulfate and minerals increased biomass concentration by 169% from 1.82 g/L to 4.9 g/L in 100% soy whey. This optimized condition also slightly improved the protein content of the biomass from 53% w/w to 55.93% w/w. Additionally, cultivating A. oryzae under these optimized conditions significantly reduced soy whey’s chemical oxygen demand from 8100 mg/L to 3267 mg/L, highlighting bioremediation potential. These findings suggest that the optimized conditions enhance the productivity of mycoprotein and also contribute to the sustainable management of soy whey waste, providing a combined benefit of nutrient recovery and wastewater treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungi in Agriculture and Biotechnology)

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