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Hemolytic and Co-Hemolytic Activity of Trichophyton indotineae and Related Dermatophytes Isolated from Chronic and
Oğuzhan Bingöl1, Deniz Alkaya2, Aylin Döğen2
1Division of Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Çukurova University, Adana, Türkiye.
Abstract:
Dermatophyte infections have evolved in both clinical presentation and etiological profiles, with chronic, recurrent, and widespread forms becoming increasingly prevalent and therapeutically challenging over the past decade. These infections are predominantly caused by Trichophyton indotineae (ITS genotype VIII), a member of the Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex. The virulence mechanisms of T. indotineae remain poorly understood. To elucidate potential pathogenic factors, we investigated hemolytic and co-hemolytic (CAMP-like) activities in dermatophytes associated with recalcitrant dermatophytosis. A total of 127 isolates (117 T. indotineae, 5 T. rubrum, 3 T. tonsurans, and 2 Microsporum canis) were examined using Columbia agar supplemented with 5% ovine (COA) or equine erythrocytes (CEA). Hemolysis was more consistently observed on COA (119 isolates) than on CEA (44 isolates) following 7-day incubation at 27 °C. Additional incubation at 36 °C up to 7 days was required to enhance hemolysis detection on CEA. Overall, 93.7% of isolates exhibited hemolytic activity, whereas only 3.1% demonstrated co-hemolytic activity. Among T. indotineae isolates, 97.4% were hemolytic. These findings underscore the importance of characterizing virulence traits in dermatophytes. Additional studies are needed to clarify the role of hemolysis in chronic and recalcitrant infections, with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets.
Insights
Most dermatophyte infections, particularly those caused by Trichophyton indotineae, exhibit hemolytic activity. This virulence factor is common in recalcitrant dermatophytosis, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Dermatophyte infections are increasingly chronic and difficult to treat.
- Trichophyton indotineae is the primary cause of these challenging infections.
- The virulence factors of T. indotineae are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate hemolytic and co-hemolytic activities in dermatophytes causing recalcitrant dermatophytosis.
- To understand the role of these activities in the pathogenesis of T. indotineae infections.
- To identify potential novel therapeutic targets for fungal skin infections.
Main Methods:
- Examined 127 dermatophyte isolates (117 T. indotineae, 5 T. rubrum, 3 T. tonsurans, 2 M. canis).
- Used Columbia agar supplemented with ovine (COA) or equine erythrocytes (CEA).
- Incubated plates at 27°C and 36°C for up to 7 days to detect hemolysis.
Main Results:
- 93.7% of all isolates showed hemolytic activity.
- Hemolysis was more readily detected on COA than CEA.
- 97.4% of T. indotineae isolates were hemolytic, while only 3.1% exhibited co-hemolytic activity.
Conclusions:
- Hemolytic activity is a common virulence trait among dermatophytes, especially T. indotineae.
- Further research is needed to link hemolysis to chronic and recalcitrant fungal skin infections.
- Characterizing virulence factors like hemolysis may lead to new treatment strategies.
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