Activity of Azole and Non-Azole Substances Against Aspergillus fumigatus in Clinical and Environmental Samples to

Isabella Sanseverino1, Diletta Scaccabarozzi1, Marcos Cuesta Sanz1

  • 1European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Via E. Fermi 2749, 21027 Ispra, Italy.

Insights

This study investigated antifungal resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus, finding azoles show varied activity while most non-azoles are ineffective. Understanding this resistance is crucial for developing new antifungal treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Antimicrobial Resistance
  • Fungal Genetics

Background:

  • Aspergillus fumigatus exhibits azole resistance, a significant concern in medicine and agriculture.
  • The TR34/L98H mutation in the cyp51A gene is a key genetic driver of this resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of azole and non-azole compounds on Aspergillus fumigatus.
  • To investigate antifungal susceptibility in clinical and environmental isolates.

Main Methods:

  • In vitro testing of sixteen compounds against Aspergillus fumigatus.
  • Sequencing of the cyp51 gene in clinical and environmental isolates.

Main Results:

  • Azole compounds demonstrated differential activity against wild-type Aspergillus fumigatus, with Tetraconazole showing less effect.
  • Most non-azole compounds lacked activity, with exceptions like Pyrisoxazole and Amisulbrom.
  • Mutant strains from clinical and environmental sources showed similar antifungal susceptibility patterns.

Conclusions:

  • The TR34/L98H mutation influences antifungal resistance similarly across different Aspergillus fumigatus sample types.
  • Findings contribute to understanding the complex relationship between Aspergillus fumigatus and antifungal resistance mechanisms.

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