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[Electron microscopic aspects of opportunistic fungi after pretreatment]
Abstract:
The ultrastructive of Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger was studied when treated in vitro with 0.001, 0.01 and 0.1% econazole nitrate and econazole base. The very first morphological alterations appear faster than in normal-growing fungus and consist in a convoluted cytoplasmic membrane, large mesosomes and lomasomes and an extensive vacuolization. Acid phosphatase is found in the mesosomes and lomasomes and also in the center of the vacuoles. This is an early sign of fungus degradation.
Insights
Econazole nitrate and base treatments rapidly altered Aspergillus fungal ultrastructure, causing membrane convolution and vacuolization. These changes, marked by acid phosphatase, indicate early fungal degradation.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Biochemistry
- Antifungal Research
Background:
- Aspergillus species are common molds with significant clinical and industrial impact.
- Understanding fungal cell wall and membrane integrity is crucial for developing effective antifungal agents.
- Econazole is a known antifungal agent, but its detailed ultrastructural effects on Aspergillus require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro ultrastructural effects of econazole nitrate and econazole base on Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus niger.
- To identify early morphological changes indicative of fungal cell damage caused by econazole.
- To determine the localization of acid phosphatase during econazole-induced fungal degradation.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of Aspergillus species to varying concentrations (0.001%, 0.01%, 0.1%) of econazole nitrate and econazole base in vitro.
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to examine the ultrastructure of treated fungal cells.
- Histochemical staining to detect the presence and location of acid phosphatase.
Main Results:
- Rapid appearance of morphological alterations in treated Aspergillus species compared to controls.
- Observed ultrastructural changes include convoluted cytoplasmic membranes, enlarged mesosomes and lomasomes, and extensive vacuolization.
- Acid phosphatase was localized within mesosomes, lomasomes, and vacuoles, suggesting its role in the degradation process.
Conclusions:
- Econazole, in both nitrate and base forms, induces significant and rapid ultrastructural damage in Aspergillus species.
- The observed morphological changes and acid phosphatase localization are early indicators of fungal cell degradation.
- These findings contribute to understanding the mechanism of action of econazole against Aspergillus.