RESUMEN
With the development of techniques for rapid microbial identification, MALDI-TOF MS has become an important tool for clinical identification of fungi. Problems such as the applicability and standardization of protein extraction methods have hindered the development of MALDI-TOF MS technology in the fungal field. This paper analyzed the complex structure of fungal cell walls, introduced the protein extraction methods recommended by MALDI-TOF MS commercial mass spectrometry systems, discussed the protein extraction methods for the identification of various genera of yeast-like fungi and filamentous fungi by MALDI-TOF MS, such as direct smear method, formic acid acetonitrile extraction method and magnetic bead grinding method, and summarized the current status and drawbacks of protein extraction methods in fungal identification by MALDI-TOF MS with a view to providing theoretical reference for subsequent research.
RESUMEN
Objective: Invasive pulmonary candidiasis is a disease with high incidence, difficult treatment, poor prognosis, and high mortality. The present study analyzed the influence of cinnamaldehyde on 1,3-β-D-glucans in the cell wall of Candida albicans in order to provide a theoretical basis for the research of antifungal drugs. Methods: An immunosuppressed BALB/c mouse model with invasive pulmonary candidiasis was established by nasal perfusion of 50 µL of C. albicans suspension (107 cfu/mL). 1,3-β-D-glucans examination and electron microscopy were carried out. Fluconazole was used as the control. Results: Cinnamaldehyde was administered at a dose of 240 mg/kg/d for 14 consecutive days, and the measured value of 1,3-β-D-glucans was (1160.62 ± 89.65) pg/mL, whereas that of fluconazole was (4285.87 ± 215.62) pg/mL. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Electron microscopy observation indicated that the 2−3 layers outside the cell wall of C. albicans (1,3-β-D-glucans layer) were rough, deformed, and incomplete, although the cell membrane was clear and intact. Conclusion: Cinnamaldehyde demonstrated special efficacy on 1,3-β-D-glucans in the cell wall of C. albicans.
RESUMEN
Chitin is one of the most important component in fungal cell wall.Biosynthesis of chitin is a complex processes and needs several chitin synthase isoenzymes.The knowledge of structure,function and regulation of chitin synthases is mainly derived from the study of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.In contrast with the 3 chitin synthases in S.cerevisiae,7 were found in most filamentous fungi.In this review the classification and function of chitin synthases are summerized,and progress in the studies on chitin synthases of filamentous fungi which are of theoretical or medical or agricultural importance,including Aspergillus nidulans,Aspergillus fumigatus and Ustilago maydis are emphasized.Recent ad-vance of research on chitin synthase as antifungal target is also discussed.