Proteomic Differences between Azole-Susceptible and -Resistant Aspergillus fumigatus Strains

Abstract

Background: Azole-resistance is increasingly reported in Aspergillus fumigatus infections. It remains challenging to rapidly assess antifungal susceptibility to initiate the appropriate therapy. The aim of this study was to map the proteomic differences of azole-susceptible and -resistant strains. Methods: Proteomic studies were performed with ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass-spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Results: UPLC-MS/MS detected 7899 peptides, of which 1792 peptides had a significantly different abundance (p < 0.05) between resistant and susceptible strains. The discriminating proteins were identified and provide an interesting tool for future research into A. fumigatus resistance. Conclusions: UPLC-MS/MS provided proof-of-concept that the proteome of azole-resistant A. fumigatus is diverse enough to serve as a diagnostic tool.