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Updated: Mar 20, 2026
Author Spotlight: Unraveling the Interplay Between Trichoderma stromaticum and the Mammalian Immune System
Published on: October 20, 2023
Virulence and Experimental Treatment of Trichoderma longibrachiatum, a Fungus Refractory to Treatment
Katihuska Paredes1, Javier Capilla2, Emilio Mayayo3
1Unitat de Microbiologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Tarragona, Spain.
Abstract:
Different inocula of Trichoderma longibrachiatum were tested in a murine model, and only the highest one (1 × 10(7) CFU/animal) killed all of the mice at day 15 postinfection, with spleen and liver the most affected organs. The efficacies of amphotericin B deoxycholate, liposomal amphotericin B, voriconazole, and micafungin were evaluated in the same model, with very poor results. Our study demonstrated the low virulence but high resistance to antifungal compounds of this fungus.
Insights
Trichoderma longibrachiatum showed low virulence in mice but high resistance to antifungal drugs. The highest fungal inoculum (1 × 10^7 CFU/animal) was lethal, primarily affecting the spleen and liver.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Emerging fungal infections pose a significant threat.
- Trichoderma species are increasingly recognized for their clinical relevance.
- Understanding the pathogenicity and drug resistance of Trichoderma longibrachiatum is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the virulence of Trichoderma longibrachiatum in a murine model.
- To assess the efficacy of common antifungal agents against this fungus.
- To characterize the pathogenic potential and antifungal resistance profile of T. longibrachiatum.
Main Methods:
- Murine model of infection with varying inocula of Trichoderma longibrachiatum.
- Administration of amphotericin B deoxycholate, liposomal amphotericin B, voriconazole, and micafungin.
- Monitoring of animal survival and assessment of affected organs (spleen and liver).
Main Results:
- The highest inoculum (1 × 10^7 CFU/animal) resulted in 100% mortality by day 15 postinfection.
- Spleen and liver were identified as the primary target organs for infection.
- All tested antifungal drugs demonstrated very poor efficacy against the fungus.
Conclusions:
- Trichoderma longibrachiatum exhibits low intrinsic virulence.
- The fungus demonstrates significant resistance to established antifungal compounds.
- This highlights the need for novel therapeutic strategies against T. longibrachiatum infections.
