Involvement of Dihydrolipoyl Dehydrogenase in the Phagocytosis and Killing of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis by Macrophages

Author(s)

Landgraf, Taise N. ; Costa, Marcelo V. ; Oliveira, Aline F. ; Ribeiro, Wander C. ; Panunto-Castelo, Ademilson ; Fernandes, Fabricio F.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY; v. 8, SEP 20 2017.
• Web of Science Citations: 0

Abstract

Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Paracoccidioides lutzii are fungi causing paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), an autochthonous systemic mycosis found in Latin America. These microorganisms contain a multitude of molecules that may be associated with the complex interaction of the fungus with the host. Here, we identify the enzyme dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase (DLD) as an exoantigen from P. brasiliensis (Pb18\_Dld) by mass spectrometry. Interestingly, the DLD gene expression in yeast form showed higher expression levels than those in mycelial form and transitional phases. Pb18\_Dld gene was cloned, and the recombinant protein (rPb18\_Dld) was expressed and purified for subsequent studies and production of antibodies. Immunogold labeling and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the Pb18\_Dld is also localized in mitochondria and cytoplasm of P. brasiliensis. Moreover, when macrophages were stimulated with rPb18Dld, there was an increase in the phagocytic and microbicidal activity of these cells, as compared with non-stimulated cells. These findings suggest that Pb18\_Dld can be involved in the pathogen-host interaction, opening possibilities for studies of this protein in PCM. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 16/00629-4 - Characterization of enzymatic and lectin domains and the effects on innate immunity cell receptors
• Grantee: Fabrício Freitas Fernandes
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 12/08552-0 - Identification of antigens from Paracoccidioides brasiliensis with immunotherapeutic potential for the treatment of paracoccidioidomycosis.
• Grantee: Taise Natali Landgraf
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 13/12278-3 - Screening of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis antigens with potential immunotherapeutic application in paracoccidioidomicose
• Grantee: Ademilson Panunto-Castelo
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants