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Updated: May 23, 2025
Label-Free Quantitative Proteomics Workflow for Discovery-Driven Host-Pathogen Interactions
Published on: October 20, 2020
Revealing the dynamics of fungal disease with proteomics
Mariana Sa1, Mayara da Silva1, Brianna Ball1
1Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada. jgeddesm@uoguelph.ca.
Abstract:
The occurrence and distribution of new and re-emerging fungal pathogens, along with rates of antifungal resistance, are rising across the globe, and correspondingly, so are our awareness and call for action to address this public health concern. To effectively detect, monitor, and treat fungal infections, biological insights into the mechanisms that regulate pathogenesis, influence survival, and promote resistance are urgently needed. Mass spectrometry-based proteomics is a high-resolution technique that enables the identification and quantification of proteins across diverse biological systems to better understand the biology driving phenotypes. In this review, we highlight dynamic and innovative applications of proteomics to characterize three critical fungal pathogens (i.e., Candida spp., Cryptococcus spp., and Aspergillus spp.) causing disease in humans. We present strategies to investigate the host-pathogen interface, virulence factor production, and protein-level drivers of antifungal resistance. Through these studies, new opportunities for biomarker development, drug target discovery, and immune system remodeling are discussed, supporting the use of proteomics to combat a plethora of fungal diseases threatening global health.
Insights
Rising fungal infections and antifungal resistance demand new strategies. Proteomics offers a powerful approach to understand fungal pathogens and develop novel treatments for global health.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Public Health
Background:
- Global increase in fungal pathogens and antifungal resistance poses a significant public health threat.
- Understanding fungal pathogenesis, survival mechanisms, and resistance is crucial for effective treatment and control.
- Mass spectrometry-based proteomics provides high-resolution protein identification and quantification for biological insights.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review innovative proteomics applications for studying key human fungal pathogens: Candida, Cryptococcus, and Aspergillus species.
- To explore how proteomics can elucidate host-pathogen interactions, virulence factors, and antifungal resistance mechanisms.
- To discuss the potential of proteomics in identifying biomarkers, drug targets, and immune modulation strategies.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing mass spectrometry-based proteomics to identify and quantify proteins in fungal pathogens.
- Applying proteomic strategies to investigate host-pathogen interfaces.
- Analyzing protein-level determinants of virulence and antifungal drug resistance.
Main Results:
- Proteomics enables detailed characterization of critical fungal pathogens.
- Identified protein-level mechanisms underlying fungal pathogenesis and survival.
- Revealed key protein targets associated with antifungal resistance.
Conclusions:
- Proteomics is a versatile tool for advancing our understanding of fungal diseases.
- This approach facilitates the discovery of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
- Proteomic insights support the development of strategies to combat global fungal infections.
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