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Dermatophytes adaptation to the human host exemplified by Microsporum canis

Summary

Researchers studied how fungi that normally infect cats and dogs are adapting to infect humans. By comparing the genes of zoophilic (animal-loving) and anthropophilic (human-loving) Microsporum species, they found that human-adapted strains have developed specific proteins that help them survive in the acidic environment of human skin. These fungi have evolved special enzymes for breaking down keratin and tolerating the lipid-rich, acidic conditions of human skin better than their animal-loving relatives.

Background

Dermatophytes are keratinophilic fungi causing cutaneous infections in humans and animals with a global prevalence of 20-25%. The zoophilic species Microsporum canis predominantly affects domestic felines and canines but has recently shown increased association with human adaptation, representing an ecological transition from zoophilic to anthropophilic lifestyles.

Objective

This study conducted comparative genome analysis and adaptive expression validation of 12 relevant genes to elucidate the evolutionary mechanisms underlying the transition from zoophilic to anthropophilic Microsporum species, focusing on protein domain differences and ecological correlations.

Results

High genomic similarity was observed among the three Microsporum species with significant differences in protein domains. Anthropophilic species showed expanded MFS and Zn2Cys6 transcription factors. Twelve genes from protease and CAZy subfamilies demonstrated strong ecological correlations with zoophilic or anthropophilic lifestyles. Anthropophilic strains exhibited higher tolerance to acidic pH and enhanced keratinase activity in lipid-rich environments.

Conclusion

The study reveals inherent evolutionary dynamics and adaptive mechanisms in dermatophytes, demonstrating that anthropophilic Microsporum species have evolved specific protease and carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes for human host adaptation. These findings provide valuable insights into pathogenicity mechanisms and may inform strategies for managing dermatophyte infections.
  • Published in:Mycology,
  • Study Type:Comparative Genomic Analysis,
  • Source: PMID: 40937138, DOI: 10.1080/21501203.2025.2461720
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