One-health pathogens in the Aspergillus viridinutans complex

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• One Health

Background:

• Cryptic species within Aspergillus section Fumigati are recognized as significant pathogens in both human and animal health.
• The Aspergillus viridinutans complex (AVC) has expanded to include 10 species, with six identified as pathogenic.
• These pathogenic AVC species cause severe invasive syndromes, including chronic pulmonary aspergillosis in humans and disseminated infections in companion animals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the history, phylogenetic relationships, and characteristics of the Aspergillus viridinutans complex.
• To explore the environmental distribution, secondary metabolite production, and clinical significance of AVC species.
• To provide insights into the antifungal susceptibility patterns of AVC, relevant for one-health practitioners.

Main Methods:

• Phylogenetic analysis to delineate species within the AVC.
• Review of existing literature on clinical cases and environmental isolates.
• Antifungal susceptibility testing to determine minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs).

Main Results:

• The AVC includes six pathogenic species causing invasive diseases in humans, cats, and dogs.
• AVC infections are often chronic and less responsive to antifungal therapy compared to Aspergillus fumigatus.
• Higher MICs of antifungal drugs are characteristic of AVC species.

Conclusions:

• The Aspergillus viridinutans complex represents a growing threat in both human and veterinary medicine.
• Effective management requires a comprehensive understanding of AVC's phylogeny, clinical impact, and drug resistance.
• This review highlights the importance of a one-health approach for addressing infections caused by these emerging fungal pathogens.