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Human adaptation and diversification in the Microsporum canis complex
Xin Zhou1,2, Sarah A Ahmed1,3, Chao Tang1
1Center of Expertise in Mycology of Radboud University Medical Center, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
IMA Fungus
|July 24, 2023
Summary
The Microsporum canis complex, a common cause of fungal infections in pets and people, shows evolutionary adaptation. Molecular and physical traits suggest zoophilic M. canis evolved towards anthropophilic species.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- The Microsporum canis complex includes zoophilic M. canis and anthropophilic M. audouinii and M. ferrugineum.
- These species are significant zoonotic pathogens causing dermatophytosis globally in cats and humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the evolutionary relationships within the Microsporum canis complex.
- To investigate the host shift process from zoophilic to anthropophilic fungal species.
Main Methods:
- Phylogenetic analysis and population structure analysis.
- Multispecies coalescent analyses, MAT idiomorph distribution, and sexual crosses.
- Macromorphology, physicochemical properties, and enzymatic activities (lipase, keratinolysis, urea, DNase).
Main Results:
- Twelve genotypes were identified within the complex.
- M. canis possesses MAT1-1, while anthropophilic species have MAT1-2. Sexual reproduction occurred between M. canis and M. audouinii.
- Zoophilic M. canis showed higher growth rates and enzymatic activities (lipase, keratinolysis, urea) than anthropophilic strains; M. ferrugineum had higher DNase activity.
Conclusions:
- Physicochemical properties and molecular data support the adaptation of zoophilic M. canis to anthropophilic species.
- M. audouinii appears to be an intermediate species in this evolutionary process.
- Optimal growth occurred at 28°C, with macroconidia development favored at 22°C.
Keywords:
DermatophytesHost shiftMAT idiomorph distributionPhylogenyPhysicochemical featuresTinea capitisMore Related Videos
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