Production of secreted hemolysins by Paracoccidioides is influenced by different culture conditions

Abstract

Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is an endemic systemic mycosis in Latin America and is caused by thermo dimorphic fungi P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii. Several fungal species may produce hemolysins, exotoxins able to destroy cells and erythrocytes membranes, mechanism that allows the acquisition of iron ion, required for metabolic pathways. This study was designed based on the hypothesis that the culture of P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii on different days and different media may influence the hemolysins production. CFAs (cell-free antigen) obtained from SDA and S-BHI media and exoantigens obtained from RPMI and BHI media, both obtained in a 3-day interval over a period of 30 days, showed different hemolytic profiles, however P.brasiliensis showed greater hemolytic capability compared to P. lutzii. Future studies are needed in order to better characterize these virulence factors.