Análise proteômica do fungo Paracoccidioides durante o processo infeccioso em macrófagos

Abstract

Paracoccidioides is a fungal human pathogen that causes systemic mycosis paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM). Infection occurs via inhalation of fungal propagules by the host and macrophages are important in the initial contention of the fungus through innate mechanisms. In this study, analysis of proteomic profile of yeast cells of Paracoccidioides, isolate Pb18, recovered from infection in macrophages J774 A1 so as to identify molecules that are expressed in this condition and could represent targets for new antifungal therapies. The analysis of differential protein expression could be detected 181 proteins with induction of expression and decreased expression was observed in 245 proteins in Pb18. The data show up regulation of proteins involved in the processes on the alternative carbon metabolism such as gluconeogenesis, beta-oxidation of fatty acids and amino acids catabolism. Proteins with decreased levels of expression include those related to protein synthesis and glycolysis. Aditionally proteins involved in oxidative stress response and cell defense exhibit increased levels of expression such as superoxide dismutase, heat shock proteins, cytochrome c peroxidase and thioredoxins. A mutant was generated to assess the importance of the enzyme cytochrome c peroxidase during infection suggesting involvement in a complex system of protection against oxidative stress, reinforcing role in the survival of the fungus. The proteomic profile of Paracoccididioides sp in response to internalization in macrophages, first described, reflects significant remodeling of fungal metabolism against oxidative stress and highlighting the versatility of the fungus to adapt to the hostile environment of the macrophage seeking new strategies survival.