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Characterization of pseudacyclins A-E, a suite of cyclic peptides produced by Pseudallescheria boydii

Katerina Pavlaskova1, Jan Nedved, Marek Kuzma

  • 1Institute of Microbiology, Videnska 1083, 142 20 Prague 4, Czech Republic.

Journal of Natural Products
|June 1, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Pseudallescheria boydii produces novel cyclic peptides called pseudacyclins. These fungal peptides found on spores may serve as early indicators for Pseudallescheria infections.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Natural Product Chemistry
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Pseudallescheria boydii sensu lato is an emerging fungal pathogen.
  • Infections can be fatal in immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and characterize novel compounds produced by P. boydii isolates.
  • To investigate the potential of these compounds as biomarkers for fungal infections.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and identification of P. boydii from human and animal sources.
  • Characterization of cyclic peptides using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry.
  • Quantification of pseudacyclins on fungal spores.

Main Results:

  • Two P. boydii isolates were identified as producers of cyclic peptides.
  • Five unique nonribosomal peptides, named pseudacyclins, were characterized.
  • The most abundant pseudacyclin was quantified on fungal spores.

Conclusions:

  • Pseudacyclins are novel secondary metabolites produced by P. boydii.
  • The presence of pseudacyclins on inhaled spores suggests their potential as early diagnostic indicators for Pseudallescheria infections.

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