FUNGUS infections of bone.
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Bone Diseases↗
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A fungal metallothionein is required for pathogenicity of Magnaporthe grisea.
The causal agent of rice blast disease, the ascomycete fungus Magnaporthe grisea, infects rice (Oryza sativa) plants by means of specialized infection structures called appressoria, which are formed on the leaf surface and mechanically rupture the cuticle. We have identified a gene, Magnaporthe metallothionein 1 (MMT1), which is highly expressed throughout growth and development by M. grisea and encodes an unusual 22-amino acid metallothionein-like protein containing only six Cys residues. The MMT1-encoded protein shows a very high affinity for zinc and can act as a powerful antioxidant. Targeted gene disruption of MMT1 produced mutants that show accelerated hyphal growth rates and poor sporulation but had no effect on metal tolerance. Mmt1 mutants are incapable of causing plant disease because of an inability to bring about appressorium-mediated cuticle penetration. Mmt1 appears to be distributed in the inner side of the cell wall of the fungus. These findings indicate that Mmt1-like metallothioneins may play a novel role in fungal cell wall biochemistry that is required for fungal virulence.
Amino Acid Sequence↗
Quantitative trait locus analysis of fungal disease resistance factors on a molecular map of grapevine.
A full-sibling F1 population comprising 153 individuals from the cross of 'Regent' x 'Lemberger' was employed to construct a genetic map based on 429 molecular markers. The newly-bred red grapevine variety 'Regent' has multiple field-resistance to fungal diseases inherited as polygenic traits, while 'Lemberger' is a traditional fungus-susceptible cultivar. The progeny segregate quantitatively for resistances to Plasmopara viticola and Uncinula necator, fungal pathogens that threaten viticulture in temperate areas. A double pseudo-testcross strategy was employed to construct the two parental maps under high statistical stringency for linkage to obtain a robust marker frame for subsequent quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis. In total, 185 amplified fragment length polymorphism, 137 random amplified polymorphic DNA, 85 single sequence repeat and 22 sequence characterized amplified region or cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence markers were mapped. The maps were aligned by co-dominant or doubly heterozygous dominant anchor markers. Twelve pairs of homologous linkage groups could be integrated into consensus linkage groups. Resistance phenotypes and segregating characteristics were scored as quantitative traits in three or four growing seasons. Interval mapping reproducibly localized genetic factors that correlated with fungal disease resistances to specific regions on three linkage groups of the maternal 'Regent' map. A QTL for resistance to Uncinula necator was identified on linkage group 16, and QTLs for endurance to Plasmopara viticola on linkage groups 9 and 10 of 'Regent'. Additional QTLs for the onset of berry ripening ("veraison"), berry size and axillary shoot growth were identified. Berry color segregated as a simple trait in this cross of two red varieties and was mapped as a morphological marker. Six markers derived from functional genes could be localized. This dissection of polygenic fungus disease resistance in grapevine allows the development of marker-assisted selection for breeding, the characterization of genetic resources and the isolation of the corresponding genes.
Chromosome Mapping↗
Farmer's lung; report of two cases in which lung biopsies were performed.
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Biopsy↗
Basidiobolomycosis: an unusual fungal infection mimicking inflammatory bowel disease.
Basidiobolus ranarum is a fungus belonging to the Entomophthoraceae family and is mainly associated with subcutaneous soft tissue infection. The disease is usually characterized by an insidious onset of massive induration of the subcutaneous tissue involving the limbs, trunk, or buttocks. Most cases of basidiobolomycosis have been reported from Africa, South America, and tropical Asia. Visceral involvement is extremely rare. Only 4 cases with involvement of the gastrointestinal tract, including 1 fatal case originating in the United States, have been well documented in the English-language literature. This case report describes the first successfully treated patient residing in the United States who had B. ranarum infection involving the gastrointestinal tract.
Colonic Diseases↗
A cysteine/methionine auxotroph of the opportunistic fungus Aspergillus flavus is associated with host-range restriction: a model for emerging diseases.
The evolution of host specialization in pathogens is a topic of considerable interest, particularly since it can represent a decisive step in the emergence of infectious diseases. Aspergillus flavus is an opportunistic fungus capable of infecting a wide variety of hosts, including plants, insects and mammals, although with low virulence. Here the derivation of an A. flavus strain that exhibits severe host restriction is reported. This strain exhibited a severe diminution or a complete lack of conidial production on a variety of standard agar media and on various plant species. However, it retained its ability to infect insects from various orders and to re-emerge from and adequately conidiate on the insect cadavers as a culmination of the pathogenic life cycle. This strain, demonstrating insect-dependent conidiation, was discovered to be a cysteine/methionine auxotroph due to an inability to reduce sulfate to sulfite. However, other A. flavus auxotrophs tested for plant and insect host range failed to show insect-dependent conidiation. An association between this specific auxotroph and a decreased host range is shown, emphasizing the role of nutrition in the host-pathogen relationship with respect to host restriction and evolution towards obligate pathogenesis.
Animals↗
Fungal genotype controls mutualism and sex in Brachypodium sylvaticum infected by epichloë sylvatica.
The fungal endophyte Epichloë sylvatica (Clavicipitaceae, Ascomycota) may obligatorily infect the woodland grass Brachypodium sylvaticum, on which it can display two alternative modes of reproduction. During the sexual cycle, external stromata suppress host flowering and production of seed (choke disease), whereas in the asexual cycle the fungus remains asymptomatic and transmits vertically by seeds. Variation in the reproductive system thus determines whether the symbiosis is mutualistic or parasitic. In order to assess the relative effects of each genotype on fungal reproduction, we used naturally infected seed families of B. sylvaticum and experimentally infected plants with different combinations of plant and fungal genotypes. The results of one experiment suggested a maternal effect of the host association on the choke rate in the offspring, while the results of a second experiment clearly indicated that the fungal genotype determines stroma formation and thus the mode of reproduction. Since sexual reproduction of the fungus is closely tied with disease expression on the host, the fungal genotype may also be responsible for whether an endophyte association is beneficial or pathogenic. We discuss the results in the light of current theories about the evolution of mutualism and the maintenance of sex.
Hypocreales↗
A century of plant virus management in the Salinas valley of California, 'East of Eden'.
The mild climate of the Salinas Valley, CA lends itself well to a diverse agricultural industry. However, the diversity of weeds, crops and insect and fungal vectors also provide favorable conditions for plant virus disease development. This paper considers the incidence and management of several plant viruses that have caused serious epidemics and been significant in the agricultural development of the Salinas Valley during the 20th century. Beet curly top virus (BCTV) almost destroyed the newly established sugarbeet industry soon after its establishment in the 1870s. A combination of resistant varieties, cultural management of beet crops to provide early plant emergence and development, and a highly coordinated beet leafhopper vector scouting and spray programme have achieved adequate control of BCTV. These programmes were first developed by the USDA and still operate. Lettuce mosaic virus was first recognized as causing a serious disease of lettuce crops in the 1930s. The virus is still a threat but it is controlled by a lettuce-free period in December and a seed certification programme that allows only seed lots with less than one infected seed in 30000 to be grown. 'Virus Yellows' is a term used to describe a complex of yellows inducing viruses which affect mainly sugarbeet and lettuce. These viruses include Beet yellows virus and Beet western yellows virus. During the 1950s, the complex caused significant yield losses to susceptible crops in the Salinas Valley. A beet-free period was introduced and is still used for control. The fungus-borne rhizomania disease of sugarbeet caused by Beet necrotic yellow vein virus was first detected in Salinas Valley in 1983. Assumed to have been introduced from Europe, this virus has now become widespread in California wherever beets are grown and crop losses can be as high as 100%. Movement of infested soil and beets accounts for its spread throughout the beet-growing regions of the United States. Control of rhizomania involves several cultural practices, but the use of resistant varieties is the most effective and is necessary where soils are infested. Rhizomania-resistant varieties are now available that perform almost as well as the non-resistant varieties under non-rhizomania conditions. Another soil-borne disease termed lettuce dieback, caused by a tomato bushy stunt-like tombusvirus, has become economically limiting to romaine and leaf lettuce varieties. The virus has no known vector and it seems to be moved through infested soil and water. Heavy rains in the past 4 years have caused flooding of the Salinas River and lettuce fields along the river have been affected severely by dieback. Studies are now in progress to characterize this new virus and identify sources of resistance. Agriculture in the Salinas Valley continues to grow and diversify, driven by demands for 'clean', high quality food by the American public and for export. The major aspects of plant virus control, including crop-free periods, breeding for resistance, elimination of inoculum sources, and vector control will continue to be vital to this expansion. Undoubtedly, the advances in crop production through genetic manipulation and advances in pest management through biological control will eventually become an important part of agricultural improvement.
Animals↗
[Systematic research of fungus on genital membranes before and after antibiotics].
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Anti-Bacterial Agents↗
Aspergillus fumigatus fungus ball in hospitalized patients with chronic pulmonary disease. Usefulness of double immunodiffusion test as a screening procedure.
Double immunodiffusion (DID) was used as a screening test for the diagnosis of aspergillosis. Three hundred and fifty patients were tested, all of them referred from a specialized chest disease hospital and without a definitive etiological diagnosis. When DID was positive additional information such as clinical history and radiographic findings were requested and also surgical specimens were obtained whenever possible. Specific precipitin bands for Aspergillus fumigatus antigen were found in 29 (8.3%) of 350 patients sera. Nineteen (65.5%) of the 29 patients with positive serology were recognized as having a fungus ball by X-rays signs in 17 or by pathological examination in 2 or by both in 8 patients. This two-year prospective study has shown that pulmonary aspergillosis is a considerable problem among patients admitted to a Chest Diseases Hospital, especially in those with pulmonary cavities or bronchiectasis.
Antibodies, Fungal↗
Microreview of Pityriasis versicolor and Malassezia species.
Recently 11 Malassezia species were isolated. Attention has focused on the relationship between Malassezia species and Malassezia-related disease. The causal fungus of Pityriasis versicolor is M. globosa. The conditions of mycelial form induction are not clear for M. globosa.
Antifungal Agents↗
Drug resistance in Cryptococcus neoformans.
Cryptococcus neoformans has become a major opportunistic fungal pathogen worldwide. Successful treatment of invasive disease with this fungus has used amphotericin B, flucytosine and various azoles. However, treatment failures continue to occur for a variety of reasons including direct antifungal drug resistance. Issues and mechanisms for antifungal drug resistance in Cryptococcus neoformans are reviewed. Furthermore, approaches and strategies for prevention and treatment of antifungal drug resistance are identified and these include host immune modulation, dose optimization, prophylaxis/empirical regimens, improved drug delivery systems such as lipid preparations of amphotericin B, surgery, combination antifungal treatments and development of new antifungal agents. Copyright 1999 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.
Journal Article↗
Itraconazole therapy for white piedra affecting scalp hair.
BACKGROUND: Treatment of white piedra remains an area of therapeutic frustration. Several topical and systemic antifungal agents have failed to eradicate the fungus and prevent disease recurrence. Itraconazole is a safe and effective systemic antifungal agent for various superficial and deep mycotic infections of the skin and hair. In vitro studies have shown significant antifungal activity against Trichosporon beigelii. OBJECTIVE: Our study was intended to assess the efficacy of itraconazole in the treatment of uncomplicated white piedra affecting the scalp hair. METHODS: The study was designed as an open trial involving 12 female patients with white piedra of the scalp hair. They were administered oral itraconazole 100 mg once daily until culture negativity was achieved; they were then followed up for 3 months. RESULTS: Eleven patients (91.67%) showed disease remission after 8 weeks of treatment. One patient (8.33%) showed no improvement, and the disease recurred in 2 patients (16.67%) after completion of therapy. No significant side effects were noted.
Adolescent↗
The b mating-type locus of Ustilago maydis contains variable and constant regions.
The b locus of the phytopathogenic fungus Ustilago maydis encodes a multiallelic recognition function that controls the ability of the fungus to form a dikaryon and complete the sexual stage of the life cycle. The b locus has at least 25 alleles and any combination of two different alleles, brought together by mating between haploid cells, allows the fungus to cause disease and undergo sexual development within the plant. An open reading frame of 410 amino acids has been shown to specify a polypeptide responsible for the activity of the b1 allele, and comparisons of the predicted amino acid sequences for 6 b alleles allowed identification of variable and constant regions within the coding region of the gene. Haploid strains carrying a null mutation at the b locus, created by gene disruption, are viable but fail to interact with formerly compatible strains to give an infectious dikaryon. Analysis of mutants carrying a null allele indicated that the products of different alleles of the b locus combine to form a new regulatory activity and that this activity directly or indirectly turns on the pathway leading to sexual development and pathogenesis.
Alleles↗
Implication of Gibberellins in Head Smut (Sporisorium reilianum) of Sorghum bicolor.
The head smut fungus, Sporisorium reilianum ([Kuhn] Landon and Fullerton), was shown to reduce plant height in infected Sorghum bicolor ([L.] Moench) plants. The major reductions occurred in the internodes nearest the panicle and were more severe in naturally infected than in inoculated plants. Less affected plants developed reproductively sterile panicles, and eventually smutted panicles developed phyllodied growths which progressed into leafy shoots. Extracts of smutted, sterile, and healthy (control) panicles of field-grown plants exhibited gibberellin (GA)-like activity in the dwarf rice bioassay. When extracts were purified and assayed with deuterium-labeled GA standards by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry-selected ion monitoring (GC-MS-SIM), GA(1), GA(3), GA(19), GA(20), and GA(53) were detected based on coelution with the standards, identical Kovats retention index values, and matching ion masses and relative abundances for three major ions. In addition, based on published Kovats retention index values, ion masses, and relative abundance values, GA(4), GA(7), GA(8), GA(14), GA(29), and GA(44) were tentatively identified. Quantitative analysis revealed that panicles of healthy control plants contained from 60 to 100% higher total concentrations of GAs than panicles of smutted plants. These comparisons were most striking for the early 13-hydroxylation pathway precursors GA(53), GA(44), and GA(19) but not for GA(20). Extracts of S. reilianum sporidia and culture medium exhibited GA-like bioactivity, and GA(1) and GA(3) were detected based on GC-MS-SIM assay with (2)H-labeled internal standards. Quantitative analysis of these GAs showed increasing concentrations from 4 to 7 to 10 days of culture and a decline at 20 days. This is the first GC-MS-SIM detection of GAs in a non-Ascomycete fungus, and the disease symptoms and quantitative data suggested that fungal infection may interfere with biosynthesis of GAs by the host plant.
Journal Article↗
Demethylchlortetracycline and griseofulvin as examples of specific treatment for mycosis fungoides.
Long-term control of mycosis fungoides in the tumour stage was achieved in one patient by daily demethylchlortetracycline therapy. On two occasions widespread nodules and tumours completely involuted within 1 month of initiating this therapy. A second patient showed complete resolution of his plaque stage mycosis fungoides after the institution of oral griseofulvin therapy for a chronic fungus infection. The disease reappeared upon stopping the griseofulvin and involuted upon its resumption. The observations are interpreted as evidence that reduction or eradication of a persistent bacterial or fungal antigen may have a remarkable ameliorative effect in selected mycosis fungoides patients.
Demeclocycline↗
Evaluation of Polymyxa betae Keskin Contaminated by Beet Necrotic Yellow Vein Virus in Soil.
The fungus Polymyxa betae Keskin belongs to the family Plasmodiophoraceae and lives in the soil as an obligatory parasite of the roots of the Chenopodiaceae. When contaminated by beet necrotic yellow vein virus, this viruliferous fungus causes a serious disease of sugar beet known as rhizomania, whereas the infection by the fungus alone (aviruliferous fungus) causes only slight damage to the plant with little economic consequence. The manifestation of rhizomania in sugar beet is directly related to the concentration of infecting units of viruliferous P. betae present in the soil. (One infecting unit is a group of one or more sporosori that liberate zoospores capable of visibly infecting a plant.) By using current methods of analysis, it is possible to estimate the total quantity of P. betae present in the soil, but one cannot distinguish quantitatively the infecting units of aviruliferous from viruliferous P. betae. A new method has been developed based on the technique of the most probable number and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to estimate the concentration of infecting units of viruliferous P. betae in soil. The method is suitable for the routine analysis of numerous soil samples and allows one to estimate the concentration of viable forms of the fungus P. betae, whether or not contaminated by beet necrotic yellow vein virus, present in a soil affected by rhizomania or presumed healthy. The analyses performed with this method are economical and use a reagent kit and equipment in wide use.
Journal Article↗
Macrophages in resistance to candidiasis.
Candida albicans, an increasingly common opportunistic pathogenic fungus, frequently causes disease in immunodeficient but not immunocompetent hosts. Clarifying the role of the phagocytic cells that participate in resistance to candidiasis not only is basic to understanding how the host copes with this dimorphic pathogen but also will expedite the development of innovative prophylactic and therapeutic approaches for treating the multiple clinical presentations that candidiasis encompasses. In this review, we present evidence that a diverse population of mononuclear phagocytes, in different states of activation and differentiation and from a variety of host species, can phagocytize C. albicans blastoconidia via an array of opsonic and nonopsonic mechanisms and can kill C. albicans blastoconidia and hyphae by means of oxygen-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Reactive nitrogen intermediates should now be added to the well-established candidacidal reactive oxygen intermediates of macrophages. Furthermore, what were thought to be two independent pathways, i.e., nitric oxide and superoxide anion, have now been shown to combine to form a potent macrophage candidacidal molecule, peroxynitrite. In contrast to monocytes and neutrophils, which are important in resistance to early stages of C. albicans infections, more differentiated macrophages activated by cytokines such as gamma interferon participate in the acquired resistance of hosts with C. albicans-specific, cell-mediated immunity. Evidence presented in this review demonstrates that mononuclear phagocytes, in some instances in the absence of other professional phagocytes such as neutrophils, play an import role in resistance to systemic and mucosal candidiasis.
Candidiasis↗