Biofilm study of Microsporum canis and the correlation with virulence and pathogenicity

• Grant number: 24/20941-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: February 01, 2025
• End date: January 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy
• Principal Investigator: Maria José Soares Mendes Giannini
• Grantee: Júlia Hatsue Araújo Sato
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCFAR). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Araraquara. Araraquara , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 23/03556-1 - Study of the pathogenesis of mono/polymicrobial dermatophytes biofilms in ex vivo models and application of control strategies., AP.R

Abstract

Dermatophytoses are fungal infections caused by filamentous fungi that affect keratinized structures such as skin, hair, and nails. Microsporum canis, a zoophilic species, is of particular importance due to its ability to infect humans and companion animals, such as dogs and cats. The ability of these fungi to form biofilms has been associated with resistance to antifungal treatments and recurrence of infections. Biofilms facilitate fungal adherence to biotic and abiotic surfaces, increasing pathogen virulence. These structures represent a significant virulence factor for this dermatophyte, especially in persistent and hard-to-treat infections. However, many aspects of the characteristics of these biofilms and their role in fungus-host interactions remain unknown. Additionally, with the growing problem of antifungal resistance to terbinafine and fluconazole, there is an urgent need to better understand the virulence factors of this dermatophyte to develop more effective therapeutic strategies. The objective of this work is to characterize the biofilm and evaluate the infection caused by Microsporum canis using ex vivo hair models. This study will examine aspects such as biomass production, metabolic activity, and the extracellular matrix composition of the biofilms, as well as the host response to these biofilms compared to planktonic cells. Furthermore, sensitivity assays with antifungal compounds will be conducted to identify more effective treatments. The study aims to contribute to public health by providing data to support the development of new antifungal treatments, considering the recalcitrance and recurrence of dermatophytoses.