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Genome characterization of Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII strain PG12DES from Italy

Summary

Researchers in Italy studied a fungal strain that causes skin infections, particularly ringworm and related conditions. This strain is spreading globally and can potentially be transmitted through sexual contact. The study found that the Italian strain is closely related to another strain found in Moldova and is susceptible to currently used antifungal medications. Understanding this fungus at the genetic level helps doctors monitor its spread and identify if it develops resistance to treatments.

Background

Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII) is an emerging dermatophyte causing ringworm infections with potential sexual transmission, particularly among men who have sex with men. The strain has been reported in multiple countries including France, Germany, and the USA, suggesting worldwide spread. Understanding the genomic characteristics of this pathogen is important for monitoring resistance patterns and epidemiology.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the genome of a clinical T. mentagrophytes genotype VII strain (PG12DES) isolated from Italy to provide insights into virulence factors, antifungal susceptibility, and phylogenetic relationships with other strains.

Results

PG12DES harbored virulence factors including MEP-1, MEP-2, MEP-3, MEP-4, SUB-6, and ZAF-A, with MEP-5 absent or truncated. The strain was susceptible to all tested antifungal drugs including terbinafine, with a wild-type SQLE gene. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close clonal relationship to a T. mentagrophytes strain isolated in Moldova in 2017, with an OrthoANIu value of 99.83%.

Conclusion

This study provides comprehensive genomic characterization of a TMVII clinical strain from Italy and reinforces the worldwide spread of this emergent genotype. The findings highlight the importance of genomic monitoring to track TMVII epidemiology and rapidly identify novel resistance traits.
  • Published in:Medical Mycology,
  • Study Type:Genome Characterization Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40577043, DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myaf054
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