AfumID

AfumID analyzes and characterizes Aspergillus fumigatus isolates using STRAf microsatellite profiles at nine loci to assess genetic relatedness and the global distribution of azole-resistance alleles TR34/L98H and TR46/Y121F/T289A in the cyp51A gene.

Key Features:

• Microsatellite Profiling: Utilizes STRAf analysis at nine microsatellite loci specific to Aspergillus fumigatus for precise isolate genotyping.
• Hierarchical Clustering and Multivariate Analysis: Employs hierarchical clustering and multivariate analysis to categorize isolates into two broad clades.
• Global Distribution Mapping: Identifies and maps the structured global distribution of cyp51A resistance alleles TR34/L98H and TR46/Y121F/T289A across clinical and environmental isolates.
• Genetic Diversity Assessment: Calculates diversity indices that reveal reduced genetic variability in azole-resistant isolates consistent with selective sweeps.

Scientific Applications:

• Epidemiological Studies: Maps the global distribution of resistant strains to aid tracking of spread and sources of outbreaks.
• Public Health Surveillance: Supports monitoring of azole-resistant Aspergillus fumigatus as an international public health threat.
• Research on Resistance Mechanisms: Facilitates studies of evolutionary dynamics of resistance, including the influence of agricultural azole use.
• Strategic Planning for Fungicide Use: Informs strategies for azole deployment in clinical and agricultural settings by revealing diversity and distribution patterns.

Methodology:

Microsatellite profiling at nine STRAf loci, hierarchical clustering, multivariate analysis, calculation of diversity indices, and mapping of cyp51A TR34/L98H and TR46/Y121F/T289A allele distribution.