Scanning and transmission electron microscopy: study of effects of econazole on Microsporum canis
Mycopathologia
|September 1, 1985
Abstract:
Microsporum canis is a frequent dermatophyte in France, and causes tinea and herpes circinatus in children. This work shows the superficial and ultrastructural alterations induced by Econazole nitrate on this fungus.
Insights
Econazole nitrate causes superficial and ultrastructural changes in Microsporum canis, a common cause of fungal infections like tinea in children. This study details these effects on the fungus.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Dermatophytosis
- Antifungal Research
Background:
- Microsporum canis is a prevalent dermatophyte in France.
- It is a common cause of superficial fungal infections, including tinea and herpes circinatus, particularly in pediatric populations.
- Understanding the effects of antifungal agents on this pathogen is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the superficial and ultrastructural alterations induced by Econazole nitrate on Microsporum canis.
- To provide detailed morphological insights into the action of Econazole nitrate at a cellular level.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of Microsporum canis cultures to Econazole nitrate.
- Microscopic examination, including light and electron microscopy, to observe morphological changes.
- Analysis of both superficial and ultrastructural alterations.
Main Results:
- Econazole nitrate induced significant superficial changes in Microsporum canis morphology.
- Ultrastructural analysis revealed distinct alterations in fungal cell components following treatment.
- Specific changes observed included alterations in cell wall integrity and internal structures.
Conclusions:
- Econazole nitrate demonstrably affects the morphology of Microsporum canis.
- The observed superficial and ultrastructural changes provide a basis for understanding its antifungal mechanism.
- These findings contribute to the knowledge of Econazole nitrate's efficacy against dermatophytes.
Related Concept Videos
Scanning Electron Microscopy
A scanning electron microscope (SEM) is used to study the surface features of a sample by using an electron beam that scans the sample surface in a two-dimensional manner. Typically, areas between ~1 centimeter to 5 micrometers in width can be imaged. SEM can be used to image bacteria, viruses, tissues as well as larger samples like insects. Conventional SEM gives a magnification ranging from 20X to 30,000X and spatial resolution of 50 to 100 nanometers.
Fundamental Principles
Accelerated...
Fundamental Principles
Accelerated...
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
Microsporidia are a group of obligate intracellular fungi that were initially classified as protists but were later reclassified based on phylogenetic, molecular, and structural evidence linking them to the Chytridiomycota. These unicellular, non-motile organisms are highly specialized parasites that infect a wide range of animal hosts, including humans. They have evolved extensive genomic and metabolic reductions, making them highly dependent on their hosts for survival.Morphology and Genomic...


