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Gonçalves SM, Pereira I, Feys S, Cunha C, Chamilos G, Hoenigl M, Wauters J, van de Veerdonk FL, Carvalho A. Integrating genetic and immune factors to uncover pathogenetic mechanisms of viral-associated pulmonary aspergillosis. mBio 2024; 15:e0198223. [PMID: 38651925 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01982-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis is a severe fungal infection primarily affecting immunocompromised patients. Individuals with severe viral infections have recently been identified as vulnerable to developing invasive fungal infections. Both influenza-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (IAPA) and COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) are linked to high mortality rates, emphasizing the urgent need for an improved understanding of disease pathogenesis to unveil new molecular targets with diagnostic and therapeutic potential. The recent establishment of animal models replicating the co-infection context has offered crucial insights into the mechanisms that underlie susceptibility to disease. However, the development and progression of human viral-fungal co-infections exhibit a significant degree of interindividual variability, even among patients with similar clinical conditions. This observation implies a significant role for host genetics, but information regarding the genetic basis for viral-fungal co-infections is currently limited. In this review, we discuss how genetic factors known to affect either antiviral or antifungal immunity could potentially reveal pathogenetic mechanisms that predispose to IAPA or CAPA and influence the overall disease course. These insights are anticipated to foster further research in both pre-clinical models and human patients, aiming to elucidate the complex pathophysiology of viral-associated pulmonary aspergillosis and contributing to the identification of new diagnostic and therapeutic targets to improve the management of these co-infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel M Gonçalves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães/Braga, Portugal
| | - Inês Pereira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães/Braga, Portugal
| | - Simon Feys
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, Department of General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Cristina Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães/Braga, Portugal
| | - Georgios Chamilos
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Joost Wauters
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, Department of General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães/Braga, Portugal
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Suárez JAG, Calumby RJN, Silva DP, Barbosa VT, Maranhão FCA, Moreira IF, Melhem MSC, Moreira RTF. Neonatal innate immunity response in invasive candidiasis. BRAZ J BIOL 2024; 84:e275155. [PMID: 38808781 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.275155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by Candida spp. are frequent in critically hospitalized patients, especially among premature neonates, representing one of the most common healthcare-related infections. Although there is considerable production of current knowledge about the mechanisms of immune response, aspects involved in the newborn's innate defense are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to describe the innate immune mechanisms involved in the defense of neonates against invasive candidiasis. This is an integrative literature review from the Scopus, Scifinder, Medline, Web of Science databases and the electronic libraries ScienceDirect and Scielo, in the period between 2002 and 2020, with rescue based on primary descriptor Immunity Innate plus secondary descriptors Candidiasis Invasive AND Infant Newborn. We have observed the involvement of various mechanisms in the neonatal response against invasive candidiasis, including the recognition, signaling, recruitment, and initiation of an effective immune response. These mechanisms encompass the presence of antimicrobial peptides, phagocytosis, synthesis of reactive oxygen species, inflammatory mediators, and complex cell signaling systems mediated by Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs). With this study, it is expected to contribute to the expansion of knowledge about the immunological mechanisms involved in the innate immune response of the newborn against disseminated infections caused by Candida species, and in the same sense, highlight the importance of this knowledge as a reflex in the decrease in mortality in the neonatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A G Suárez
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto - UFOP, Ouro Preto, MG, Brasil
| | - R J N Calumby
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - D P Silva
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - V T Barbosa
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - F C A Maranhão
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - I F Moreira
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - M S C Melhem
- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul - UFMS, Faculdade de Medicina, Programa de Pós Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - R T F Moreira
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul - UFMS, Faculdade de Medicina, Programa de Pós Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
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3
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Saghir SA, Ansari RA. HLA gene variations and mycotoxin toxicity: Four case reports. Mycotoxin Res 2024; 40:159-173. [PMID: 38198040 DOI: 10.1007/s12550-023-00517-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Mycotoxins are produced by certain molds that can cause many health effects. We present four human cases of prolonged consistent mycotoxins exposure linked to genetic variations in human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles. The HLA-DR/DQ isotype alleles are linked to mycotoxins susceptibility due to the lack of proper immune response; individuals with these alleles are poor eliminators of mycotoxins from their system. Four subjects with variations in their HLA-DR alleles were exposed to mycotoxins from living in mold-infested houses and experienced persistent mold-related symptoms long after moving out from the mold-infested houses and only exposed to the levels of molds found in the ambient air. From one of the subjects, two urine samples were collected ~ 18 months apart after the cessation of exposure. Urinary elimination rate was extremely slow for two of the mycotoxins (ochratoxin A [OTA] and mycophenolic acid [MPA]) detected in both samples. In 18 months, decline in OTA level was only ~ 3-fold (estimated t½ of ~ 311 days) and decline in MPA level was ~ 11-fold (estimated t½ of ~ 160 days), which was ~ 10- and ~ 213-fold slower than expected in individuals without HLA-DR alleles, respectively. We estimated that ~ 4.3 and ~ 2.2 years will be required for OTA and MPA to reach < LLQ in urine, respectively. Three other subjects with variations in HLA-DR alleles were members of a family who lived in a mold-infested house for 4 years. They kept experiencing mold-related issues >2 years after moving to a non-mold-infested house. Consistent exposure was confirmed by the presence of several mycotoxins in urine >2 years after the secession of higher than background (from outdoor ambient air) exposure. This was consistent with the extremely slow elimination of mycotoxins from their system. Variations in HLA-DR alleles can, consequently, make even short periods of exposure to chronic exposure scenarios with related adverse health effects. It is, therefore, important to determine genetic predisposition as a reason for prolonged/lingering mold-related symptoms long after the cessation of higher than background exposure. Increased human exposure to mycotoxins is expected from increased mold infestation that is anticipated due to rising CO2, temperature, and humidity from the climate change with possibly increased adverse health effects, especially in individuals with genetic susceptibility to mold toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakil Ahmed Saghir
- ToxInternational Inc, Hilliard, OH, USA.
- Mold Law Group, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan Univ, Karachi, Pakistan.
- Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology, College of Science, University of the Philippines-Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines.
| | - Rais Ahmed Ansari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Health Professions Division, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
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Wu S, Guo W, Li B, Zhou H, Meng H, Sun J, Li R, Guo D, Zhang X, Li R, Qu W. Progress of polymer-based strategies in fungal disease management: Designed for different roles. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1142029. [PMID: 37033476 PMCID: PMC10073610 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1142029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal diseases have posed a great challenge to global health, but have fewer solutions compared to bacterial and viral infections. Development and application of new treatment modalities for fungi are limited by their inherent essential properties as eukaryotes. The microorganism identification and drug sensitivity analyze are limited by their proliferation rates. Moreover, there are currently no vaccines for prevention. Polymer science and related interdisciplinary technologies have revolutionized the field of fungal disease management. To date, numerous advanced polymer-based systems have been developed for management of fungal diseases, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring. In this review, we provide an overview of current needs and advances in polymer-based strategies against fungal diseases. We high light various treatment modalities. Delivery systems of antifungal drugs, systems based on polymers' innate antifungal activities, and photodynamic therapies each follow their own mechanisms and unique design clues. We also discuss various prevention strategies including immunization and antifungal medical devices, and further describe point-of-care testing platforms as futuristic diagnostic and monitoring tools. The broad application of polymer-based strategies for both public and personal health management is prospected and integrated systems have become a promising direction. However, there is a gap between experimental studies and clinical translation. In future, well-designed in vivo trials should be conducted to reveal the underlying mechanisms and explore the efficacy as well as biosafety of polymer-based products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Wu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wenlai Guo
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Huidong Zhou
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongqi Meng
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Junyi Sun
- Changchun American International School, Changchun, China
| | - Ruiyan Li
- Orthpoeadic Medical Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Orhtopeadics, Changchun, China
| | - Deming Guo
- Orthpoeadic Medical Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Orhtopeadics, Changchun, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Rui Li, ; Wenrui Qu,
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Rui Li, ; Wenrui Qu,
| | - Wenrui Qu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Rui Li, ; Wenrui Qu,
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Gonçalves SM, Cunha C, Carvalho A. Understanding the genetic basis of immune responses to fungal infection. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2022; 20:987-996. [PMID: 35385368 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2022.2063839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fungal infections represent a global public health problem that affect millions of people. Despite remarkable advances achieved over the last decades, available diagnostic and therapeutic tools remain insufficient for the optimal management of these diseases. The clinical course of fungal infection is highly variable, and evidence accumulated from patients with rare mutations and cohort-based studies suggests that the trajectory of disease is largely defined by patient genetics and its impact on immune responses. Therefore, there is an urgent need to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which which genetic variants influence the risk, progression, and outcome of fungal infection. AREAS COVERED In this review, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of the genetic factors that influence antifungal immune responses based on candidate gene studies and genome-wide approaches performed in different experimental and clinical models. EXPERT OPINION Research on genetics of susceptibility to infection is expected to lead to a detailed knowledge framework for the pathogenesis of human fungal infections and unveil novel targets and pathways amenable to clinical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel M Gonçalves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Cristina Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
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Agarwal R, Muthu V, Sehgal IS, Dhooria S, Prasad KT, Aggarwal AN. Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis. Clin Chest Med 2022; 43:99-125. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccm.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Naik B, Ahmed SMQ, Laha S, Das SP. Genetic Susceptibility to Fungal Infections and Links to Human Ancestry. Front Genet 2021; 12:709315. [PMID: 34490039 PMCID: PMC8417537 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.709315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the ages, fungi have associated with different parts of the human body and established symbiotic associations with their host. They are mostly commensal unless there are certain not so well-defined factors that trigger the conversion to a pathogenic state. Some of the factors that induce such transition can be dependent on the fungal species, environment, immunological status of the individual, and most importantly host genetics. In this review, we discuss the different aspects of how host genetics play a role in fungal infection since mutations in several genes make hosts susceptible to such infections. We evaluate how mutations modulate the key recognition between the pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMP) and the host pattern recognition receptor (PRR) molecules. We discuss the polymorphisms in the genes of the immune system, the way it contributes toward some common fungal infections, and highlight how the immunological status of the host determines fungal recognition and cross-reactivity of some fungal antigens against human proteins that mimic them. We highlight the importance of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with several of the receptor coding genes and discuss how it affects the signaling cascade post-infection, immune evasion, and autoimmune disorders. As part of personalized medicine, we need the application of next-generation techniques as a feasible option to incorporate an individual’s susceptibility toward invasive fungal infections based on predisposing factors. Finally, we discuss the importance of studying genomic ancestry and reveal how genetic differences between the human race are linked to variation in fungal disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharati Naik
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Sumayyah M Q Ahmed
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Suparna Laha
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Shankar Prasad Das
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
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Nucera F, Lo Bello F, Shen SS, Ruggeri P, Coppolino I, Di Stefano A, Stellato C, Casolaro V, Hansbro PM, Adcock IM, Caramori G. Role of Atypical Chemokines and Chemokine Receptors Pathways in the Pathogenesis of COPD. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:2577-2653. [PMID: 32819230 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327999200819145327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) represents a heightened inflammatory response in the lung generally resulting from tobacco smoking-induced recruitment and activation of inflammatory cells and/or activation of lower airway structural cells. Several mediators can modulate activation and recruitment of these cells, particularly those belonging to the chemokines (conventional and atypical) family. There is emerging evidence for complex roles of atypical chemokines and their receptors (such as high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), antimicrobial peptides, receptor for advanced glycosylation end products (RAGE) or toll-like receptors (TLRs)) in the pathogenesis of COPD, both in the stable disease and during exacerbations. Modulators of these pathways represent potential novel therapies for COPD and many are now in preclinical development. Inhibition of only a single atypical chemokine or receptor may not block inflammatory processes because there is redundancy in this network. However, there are many animal studies that encourage studies for modulating the atypical chemokine network in COPD. Thus, few pharmaceutical companies maintain a significant interest in developing agents that target these molecules as potential antiinflammatory drugs. Antibody-based (biological) and small molecule drug (SMD)-based therapies targeting atypical chemokines and/or their receptors are mostly at the preclinical stage and their progression to clinical trials is eagerly awaited. These agents will most likely enhance our knowledge about the role of atypical chemokines in COPD pathophysiology and thereby improve COPD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Nucera
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences (BIOMORF), University of Messina, Pugliatti Square 1, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Federica Lo Bello
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences (BIOMORF), University of Messina, Pugliatti Square 1, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Sj S Shen
- Faculty of Science, Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute, University of Technology, Ultimo, Sydney, Australia
| | - Paolo Ruggeri
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences (BIOMORF), University of Messina, Pugliatti Square 1, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Irene Coppolino
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences (BIOMORF), University of Messina, Pugliatti Square 1, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Antonino Di Stefano
- Division of Pneumology, Cyto- Immunopathology Laboratory of the Cardio-Respiratory System, Clinical Scientific Institutes Maugeri IRCCS, Veruno, Italy
| | - Cristiana Stellato
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, Salerno Medical School, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Casolaro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, Salerno Medical School, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Phil M Hansbro
- Faculty of Science, Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute, University of Technology, Ultimo, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ian M Adcock
- Airway Disease Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gaetano Caramori
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences (BIOMORF), University of Messina, Pugliatti Square 1, 98122 Messina, Italy
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d'Enfert C, Kaune AK, Alaban LR, Chakraborty S, Cole N, Delavy M, Kosmala D, Marsaux B, Fróis-Martins R, Morelli M, Rosati D, Valentine M, Xie Z, Emritloll Y, Warn PA, Bequet F, Bougnoux ME, Bornes S, Gresnigt MS, Hube B, Jacobsen ID, Legrand M, Leibundgut-Landmann S, Manichanh C, Munro CA, Netea MG, Queiroz K, Roget K, Thomas V, Thoral C, Van den Abbeele P, Walker AW, Brown AJP. The impact of the Fungus-Host-Microbiota interplay upon Candida albicans infections: current knowledge and new perspectives. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2021; 45:fuaa060. [PMID: 33232448 PMCID: PMC8100220 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuaa060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a major fungal pathogen of humans. It exists as a commensal in the oral cavity, gut or genital tract of most individuals, constrained by the local microbiota, epithelial barriers and immune defences. Their perturbation can lead to fungal outgrowth and the development of mucosal infections such as oropharyngeal or vulvovaginal candidiasis, and patients with compromised immunity are susceptible to life-threatening systemic infections. The importance of the interplay between fungus, host and microbiota in driving the transition from C. albicans commensalism to pathogenicity is widely appreciated. However, the complexity of these interactions, and the significant impact of fungal, host and microbiota variability upon disease severity and outcome, are less well understood. Therefore, we summarise the features of the fungus that promote infection, and how genetic variation between clinical isolates influences pathogenicity. We discuss antifungal immunity, how this differs between mucosae, and how individual variation influences a person's susceptibility to infection. Also, we describe factors that influence the composition of gut, oral and vaginal microbiotas, and how these affect fungal colonisation and antifungal immunity. We argue that a detailed understanding of these variables, which underlie fungal-host-microbiota interactions, will present opportunities for directed antifungal therapies that benefit vulnerable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe d'Enfert
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Ann-Kristin Kaune
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Ashgrove Road West, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Leovigildo-Rey Alaban
- BIOASTER Microbiology Technology Institute, 40 avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
- Université de Paris, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Sayoni Chakraborty
- Microbial Immunology Research Group, Emmy Noether Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, and the Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Neugasse 25, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Nathaniel Cole
- Gut Microbiology Group, Rowett Institute, University of Aberdeen, Ashgrove Road West, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Margot Delavy
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
- Université de Paris, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Daria Kosmala
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
- Université de Paris, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Benoît Marsaux
- ProDigest BV, Technologiepark 94, B-9052 Gent, Belgium
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET), Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ricardo Fróis-Martins
- Immunology Section, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, Zürich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Moran Morelli
- Mimetas, Biopartner Building 2, J.H. Oortweg 19, 2333 CH Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Diletta Rosati
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marisa Valentine
- Microbial Immunology Research Group, Emmy Noether Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, and the Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Zixuan Xie
- Gut Microbiome Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119–129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yoan Emritloll
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Peter A Warn
- Magic Bullet Consulting, Biddlecombe House, Ugbrook, Chudleigh Devon, TQ130AD, UK
| | - Frédéric Bequet
- BIOASTER Microbiology Technology Institute, 40 avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
| | - Marie-Elisabeth Bougnoux
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Stephanie Bornes
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMRF0545, 20 Côte de Reyne, 15000 Aurillac, France
| | - Mark S Gresnigt
- Microbial Immunology Research Group, Emmy Noether Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, and the Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Microbial Immunology Research Group, Emmy Noether Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, and the Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Ilse D Jacobsen
- Microbial Immunology Research Group, Emmy Noether Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, and the Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Mélanie Legrand
- Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, USC 2019 INRA, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Salomé Leibundgut-Landmann
- Immunology Section, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, Zürich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Chaysavanh Manichanh
- Gut Microbiome Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119–129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carol A Munro
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Ashgrove Road West, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Karla Queiroz
- Mimetas, Biopartner Building 2, J.H. Oortweg 19, 2333 CH Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Karine Roget
- NEXBIOME Therapeutics, 22 allée Alan Turing, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Vincent Thomas
- BIOASTER Microbiology Technology Institute, 40 avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
| | - Claudia Thoral
- NEXBIOME Therapeutics, 22 allée Alan Turing, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Alan W Walker
- Gut Microbiology Group, Rowett Institute, University of Aberdeen, Ashgrove Road West, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Alistair J P Brown
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, Department of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
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10
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Chu S, McCormick TS, Lazarus HM, Leal LO, Ghannoum MA. Invasive fungal disease and the immunocompromised host including allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant recipients: Improved understanding and new strategic approach with sargramostim. Clin Immunol 2021; 228:108731. [PMID: 33892201 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2021.108731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In hosts with damaged or impaired immune systems such as those undergoing hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) or intensive chemotherapy, breakthrough fungal infections can be fatal. Risk factors for breakthrough infections include severe neutropenia, use of corticosteroids, extended use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and intensive care unit admission. An individual's cumulative state of immunosuppression directly contributes to the likelihood of experiencing increased infection risk. Incidence of invasive fungal infection (IFI) after HCT may be up to 5-8%. Early intervention may improve IFI outcomes, although many infections are resistant to standard therapies (voriconazole, caspofungin, micafungin, amphotericin B, posaconazole or itraconazole, as single agents or in combination). We review herein several contributing factors that may contribute to the net state of immunosuppression in recipients of HCT. We also review a new approach for IFI utilizing adjunctive therapy with sargramostim, a yeast-derived recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (rhu GM-CSF).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherman Chu
- Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Northwest (COMP), Lebanon, OR, USA.
| | - Thomas S McCormick
- Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Hillard M Lazarus
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Luis O Leal
- Partner Therapeutics, Inc., 19 Muzzey St, Lexington, MA, USA.
| | - Mahmoud A Ghannoum
- Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Center for Medical Mycology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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11
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Yanagisawa K, Wichukchinda N, Tsuchiya N, Yasunami M, Rojanawiwat A, Tanaka H, Saji H, Ogawa Y, Handa H, Pathipvanich P, Ariyoshi K, Sawanpanyalert P. Deficiency of mannose-binding lectin is a risk of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in a natural history cohort of people living with HIV/AIDS in Northern Thailand. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242438. [PMID: 33362211 PMCID: PMC7757797 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) plays a pivotal role in innate immunity; however, its impact on susceptibility to opportunistic infections (OIs) has not yet been examined in a natural history cohort of people living with HIV/AIDS. Methods We used archived samples to analyze the association between MBL expression types and risk of major OIs including Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP), cryptococcosis, talaromycosis, toxoplasmosis, and tuberculosis in a prospective cohort in Northern Thailand conducted from 1 July 2000 to 15 October 2002 before the national antiretroviral treatment programme was launched. Results Of 632 patients, PCP was diagnosed in 96 (15.2%) patients, including 45 patients with new episodes during the follow-up period (1006.5 person-years). The total history of PCP was significantly associated with low MBL expression type: high/intermediate (81/587, 13.8%), low (10/33, 30.3%) and deficient (5/12, 41.7%) (p = 0.001), whereas the history of other OIs showed no relation with any MBL expression type. Kaplan–Meier analysis (n = 569; log-rank p = 0.011) and Cox’s proportional hazards model revealed that deficient genotype dramatically increased the risk of PCP, which is independent upon sex, age, CD4 count, HIV-1 viral load and hepatitis B and C status (adjusted hazard ratio 7.93, 95% confidence interval 2.19–28.67, p = 0.002). Conclusions Deficiency of MBL expression is a strong risk factor determining the incidence of PCP but not other major OIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunio Yanagisawa
- Department of Hematology, Gunma University Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
- Infection Control and Prevention Center, Gunma University Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
| | | | - Naho Tsuchiya
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Michio Yasunami
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Saga-Ken Medical Centre Koseikan, Saga, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Yoshiyuki Ogawa
- Department of Hematology, Gunma University Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Handa
- Department of Hematology, Gunma University Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
| | | | - Koya Ariyoshi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- * E-mail:
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12
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Paul AA, Hoffman KL, Hagan JL, Sampath V, Petrosino JF, Pammi M. Fungal cutaneous microbiome and host determinants in preterm and term neonates. Pediatr Res 2020; 88:225-233. [PMID: 31816621 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-019-0719-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neonatal cutaneous mycobiome has not been characterized in preterm infants. Invasive fungal infections in preterm neonates are associated with high mortality. The immaturity of the preterm skin predisposes neonates to invasive infection by skin colonizers. We report the clinical and host determinants that influence the skin mycobiome. METHODS Skin swabs from the antecubital fossa, forehead, and gluteal region of 15 preterm and 15 term neonates were obtained during the first 5 weeks of life. The mycobiome was sequenced using the conserved pan-fungal ITS2 region. Blood samples were used to genotype immune modulating genes. Clinical metadata was collected to determine the clinical predictors of the abundance and diversity of the skin mycobiome. RESULTS The neonatal mycobiome is characterized by few taxa. Alpha diversity of the mycobiome is influenced by antibiotic exposure, the forehead body site, and the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) environment. Beta diversity varies with mode of delivery, diet, and body site. The host determinants of the cutaneous microbiome include single-nucleotide polymorphisms in TLR4, NLRP3,CARD8, and NOD2. CONCLUSION The neonatal cutaneous mycobiome is composed of few genera and is influenced by clinical factors and host genetics, the understanding of which will inform preventive strategies against invasive fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anshu A Paul
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kristi L Hoffman
- Alkek Center for Microbiome and Metagenomics Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Joseph L Hagan
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Venkatesh Sampath
- Department of Pediatrics, Section: Neonatology, Children's Mercy Hospital, University of Missouri, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Joseph F Petrosino
- Alkek Center for Microbiome and Metagenomics Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mohan Pammi
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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13
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Bao F, Fu X, Yu G, Wang Z, Liu H, Zhang F. Mannose-Binding Lectin and Mannose-Binding Lectin-Associated Serine Protease-2 Genotypes and Serum Levels in Patients with Sporotrichosis. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 101:1322-1324. [PMID: 31549610 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.19-0470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) and MBL-associated serine protease-2 (MASP-2) are important proteins in the lectin pathway of the immune system. Mannose-binding lectin and MASP-2 deficiencies have been reported to be responsible for various fungal infections. We investigated the association of MBL and MASP-2 variants with sporotrichosis in a Chinese population and revealed one rare heterozygous mutation in a disseminated cutaneous patient without immunosuppressive conditions (MASP2, p.156_159dupCHNH). We also found that sporotrichosis patients had decreased levels of MBL and MASP-2 in their serum samples compared with controls. Our findings linked, for the first time, MASP-2 deficiencies with susceptibility to Sporothrix sp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Bao
- Shandong Provincial Key Lab for Dermatovenereology, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases, Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Xi'an Fu
- Shandong Provincial Key Lab for Dermatovenereology, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases, Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Gongqi Yu
- Shandong Provincial Key Lab for Dermatovenereology, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases, Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Zhenzhen Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Lab for Dermatovenereology, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases, Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Shandong Provincial Key Lab for Dermatovenereology, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases, Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Furen Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Lab for Dermatovenereology, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases, Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
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14
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Complete clinical remission of invasive Candida infection with CARD9 deficiency after G-CSF treatment. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 70:101417. [PMID: 32113042 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2020.101417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Caspase-associated recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (CARD9) deficiency is an autosomal-recessive primary immunodeficiency characterized by susceptibility to recurrent Candida infections, and its diagnosis and treatment is challenging. The present study aims to investigate the genetic characteristic and treatment strategy of a Chinese pediatric patient with CARD9 deficiency. In the present study, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed to screen the causal variants in a Chinese pediatric patient who exhibited an invasive Candida infection in the abdominal cavity and central nervous system. After the disease-causing gene being confirmed, the patient was treated with a combination of G-CSF and antifungal agents. DNA sequencing revealed a homozygous insertion mutation (c.819-820insG) in exon 6 of the CARD9 gene, which led to downstream amino acids conversion on codon 274 (p.D274fsX60). Th17 cell populations and cytokine levels showed decreased levels. The treatment regimen successfully resolved the patient's symptoms, and he remained symptom-free after more than 1 year of follow-up. This study described an invasive Candida infection in a pediatric patient and WES identified an insertion variant of the CARD9 gene. A combination of G-CSF and antifungal agents was highly effective in treating the invasive fungal infection accompanied by CARD9-induced immunodeficiency.
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15
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The interplay among Th17 and T regulatory cells in the immune dysregulation of chronic dermatophytic infection. Microb Pathog 2019; 139:103921. [PMID: 31830582 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2019.103921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The delineation of the pathogenic interaction between the host skin immune responses and dermatophytes has remained indigent. The obscure enigma in host-dermatophyte immunopathogenic interactions is the T regulatory (Treg) and T-helper (Th) 17 cell role in maintaining immune homeostasis. We attempted to understand the regulation and recognition of lineage-specific response in chronic dermatophytic skin infection patients. The percentages of Th17 (CD4+CD161+IL23R+) and Treg (CD4+CD25+FoxP3+) cell subpopulations in the peripheral circulation of thirty chronic dermatophytic skin infection patients and twenty healthy individuals was determined. The serum cytokine levels were estimated for disease correlation. The mean duration of the disease was 10.68 ± 8.72 months, with Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex as the major pathogen. Total serum IgE level of patients was significantly higher compared to healthy controls (305 ± 117 vs 98.53 ± 54.55 IU/ml; p < 0.01). Expression of Th17 and Treg cell markers on CD4+ T cells was significantly elevated in patients than controls (p < 0.05). Comparatively, serum interleukin (IL)-4 and interferon (IFN)-γ levels were increased, with low IL-10 levels in patients. Our data envisages a complex immune dysfunction in chronic dermatophytosis, arising either as a result of dermatophyte exposure or paradoxical precedence of disease establishment. Designing new treatment strategies and preventing recurrences are challenges for future research.
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16
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Antunes D, Cunha C, Carvalho A. Genetic Regulation of the Host-Fungus Interaction in the Pathogenesis of Aspergillosis. CURRENT FUNGAL INFECTION REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s12281-019-00344-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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17
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Abstract
Pneumonia is a highly prevalent disease with considerable morbidity and mortality. However, diagnosis and therapy still rely on antiquated methods, leading to the vast overuse of antimicrobials, which carries risks for both society and the individual. Furthermore, outcomes in severe pneumonia remain poor. Genomic techniques have the potential to transform the management of pneumonia through deep characterization of pathogens as well as the host response to infection. This characterization will enable the delivery of selective antimicrobials and immunomodulatory therapy that will help to offset the disorder associated with overexuberant immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir Gautam
- Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Center for Pulmonary Infection Research and Treatment, Yale University, 300 Cedar Street, TACS441, New Haven, CT 06520-8057, USA
| | - Lokesh Sharma
- Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Center for Pulmonary Infection Research and Treatment, Yale University, 300 Cedar Street, TACS441, New Haven, CT 06520-8057, USA
| | - Charles S Dela Cruz
- Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Center for Pulmonary Infection Research and Treatment, Yale University, 300 Cedar Street, TACS441, New Haven, CT 06520-8057, USA.
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18
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Cunha C, Carvalho A. Genetic defects in fungal recognition and susceptibility to invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. Med Mycol 2019; 57:S211-S218. [PMID: 30816966 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myy057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The interindividual variability in the onset and clinical course of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) raises fundamental questions about its actual pathogenesis. Clinical and epidemiological studies have reported only a few examples of monogenic defects, however an expanding number of common polymorphisms associated with IPA has been identified. Understanding how genetic variation regulates the immune response to Aspergillus provides critical insights into the human immunobiology of IPA by pinpointing directly relevant immune molecules and interacting pathways. Most of the genetic defects reported to increase susceptibility to infection were described or suggested to impair fungal recognition by the innate immune system. In this review, we discuss the contribution of host genetic variation in pattern recognition receptors to the development of IPA. An improved understanding of the molecular and cellular processes that regulate human susceptibility to IPA is ultimately expected to pave the way toward personalized medical interventions based on host-directed risk stratification and individualized immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
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19
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Alonso R, Pisa D, Carrasco L. Searching for Bacteria in Neural Tissue From Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:171. [PMID: 30863279 PMCID: PMC6399391 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite great efforts in the investigation, the exact etiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a matter of intensive research. We recently advanced the idea that ALS might be caused by fungal infection. Indeed, fungal yeast and hyphal structures can be directly visualized in neural tissue of ALS patients, and a number of fungal species have been identified in the central nervous system (CNS). In the present work, we tested the possibility that bacterial infections can accompany these mycoses. Our findings establish the presence of bacterial DNA in different regions of the CNS from all ALS patients examined. Specifically, we used PCR and next generation sequencing (NGS) to precisely determine the bacterial species present in ALS tissue. Consistent with these findings, immunohistochemistry analysis of CNS sections using specific anti-bacterial antibodies identified prokaryotic cells in neural tissue. Finally, we assayed for the repeat expansion of the hexanucleotide repeat GGGGCC in C9orf72, which is considered the most common genetic cause of ALS in patients, using DNA extracted from ALS CNS tissue. We failed to find this repeated sequence in any of the eleven patients analyzed. Our results indicate that bacterial DNA and prokaryotic cells are present in CNS tissue, leading to the concept that both fungal and bacterial infections coexist in patients with ALS. These observations lay the groundwork for the use of appropriate therapies to eradicate the polymicrobial infections in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Alonso
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (CSIC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Diana Pisa
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (CSIC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Carrasco
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (CSIC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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20
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Castanedo-Vazquez D, Bosque-Varela P, Sainz-Pelayo A, Riancho J. Infectious agents and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: another piece of the puzzle of motor neuron degeneration. J Neurol 2018; 266:27-36. [PMID: 29845377 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-018-8919-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons (MN). This fatal disease is characterized by progressive muscle wasting and lacks an effective treatment. ALS pathogenesis has not been elucidated yet. In a small proportion of ALS patients, the disease has a familial origin, related to mutations in specific genes, which directly result in MN degeneration. By contrast, the vast majority of cases are though to be sporadic, in which genes and environment interact leading to disease in genetically predisposed individuals. Lately, the role of the environment has gained relevance in this field and an extensive list of environmental conditions have been postulated to be involved in ALS. Among them, infectious agents, particularly viruses, have been suggested to play an important role in the pathogenesis of the disease. These agents could act by interacting with some crucial pathways in MN degeneration, such as gene processing, oxidative stress or neuroinflammation. In this article, we will review the main studies about the involvement of microorganisms in ALS, subsequently discussing their potential pathogenic effect and integrating them as another piece in the puzzle of ALS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pilar Bosque-Varela
- Service of Neurology, University Hospital Marques de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | | | - Javier Riancho
- Service of Neurology, Hospital Sierrallana-IDIVAL, Torrelavega, Spain. .,CIBERNED, Madrid, Spain.
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21
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Campos CF, van de Veerdonk FL, Gonçalves SM, Cunha C, Netea MG, Carvalho A. Host Genetic Signatures of Susceptibility to Fungal Disease. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2018; 422:237-263. [PMID: 30043341 DOI: 10.1007/82_2018_113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Our relative inability to predict the development of fungal disease and its clinical outcome raises fundamental questions about its actual pathogenesis. Several clinical risk factors are described to predispose to fungal disease, particularly in immunocompromised and severely ill patients. However, these alone do not entirely explain why, under comparable clinical conditions, only some patients develop infection. Recent clinical and epidemiological studies have reported an expanding number of monogenic defects and common polymorphisms associated with fungal disease. By directly implicating genetic variation in the functional regulation of immune mediators and interacting pathways, these studies have provided critical insights into the human immunobiology of fungal disease. Most of the common genetic defects reported were described or suggested to impair fungal recognition by the innate immune system. Here, we review common genetic variation in pattern recognition receptors and its impact on the immune response against the two major fungal pathogens Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus. In addition, we discuss potential strategies and opportunities for the clinical translation of genetic information in the field of medical mycology. These approaches are expected to transfigure current clinical practice by unleashing an unprecedented ability to personalize prophylaxis, therapy and monitoring for fungal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia F Campos
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Samuel M Gonçalves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Cristina Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal. .,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
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22
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Alonso R, Pisa D, Fernández-Fernández AM, Rábano A, Carrasco L. Fungal infection in neural tissue of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neurobiol Dis 2017; 108:249-260. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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23
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Armstrong-James D, Brown GD, Netea MG, Zelante T, Gresnigt MS, van de Veerdonk FL, Levitz SM. Immunotherapeutic approaches to treatment of fungal diseases. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2017; 17:e393-e402. [PMID: 28774700 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(17)30442-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2016] [Revised: 11/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Fungal infections cause morbidity worldwide and are associated with an unacceptably high mortality despite the availability of antifungal drugs. The incidence of mycoses is rising because of the HIV pandemic and because immunomodulatory drugs are increasingly used to treat autoimmune diseases and cancer. New classes of antifungal drugs have only been partly successful in improving the prognosis for patients with fungal infection. Adjunctive host-directed therapy is therefore believed to be the only option to further improve patient outcomes. Recent advances in the understanding of complex interactions between fungi and host have led to the design and exploration of novel therapeutic strategies in cytokine therapy, vaccines, and cellular immunotherapy, each of which might become viable adjuncts to existing antifungal regimens. In this report, we discuss immunotherapeutic approaches-the rationale behind their design, the challenges in their use, and the progress that is so urgently needed to overcome the devastating effect of fungal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darius Armstrong-James
- Fungal Pathogens Laboratory, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, UK.
| | - Gordon D Brown
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands; Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Teresa Zelante
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Mark S Gresnigt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands; Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands; Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Stuart M Levitz
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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24
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Langlais D, Fodil N, Gros P. Genetics of Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases: Overlapping Discoveries from Association and Exome-Sequencing Studies. Annu Rev Immunol 2017; 35:1-30. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-immunol-051116-052442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David Langlais
- McGill University Research Centre on Complex Traits, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1, Canada;, ,
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Nassima Fodil
- McGill University Research Centre on Complex Traits, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1, Canada;, ,
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Philippe Gros
- McGill University Research Centre on Complex Traits, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1, Canada;, ,
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1, Canada
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25
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Jain C, Das S, Ramachandran VG, Saha R, Bhattacharya SN, Dar S. Malassezia Yeast and Cytokine Gene Polymorphism in Atopic Dermatitis. J Clin Diagn Res 2017; 11:DC01-DC05. [PMID: 28511379 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2017/23948.9474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a recurrent chronic condition associated with microorganism and their interaction with the susceptible host. Malassezia yeast is a known commensal which is thought to provoke the recurrent episodes of symptoms in atopic dermatitis patients. Malassezia immunomodulatory properties along with defective skin barrier in such host, results in disease manifestation. Here, we studied Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) in IL10 and IFN γ genes of the host and its relation with susceptibility to Malassezia infection. AIM To isolate Malassezia yeast from AD patients and compare the genetic susceptibility of the host by correlating the cytokine gene polymorphism with the control subjects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Study was conducted from January 2012 to January 2013. It was a prospective observational study done in Department of Microbiology and Department of Dermatology and Venereology in University College of Medical Sciences and GTB Hospital, Delhi. Sample size comprised of 38 cases each of AD. Skin scrapings were used for fungal culture on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and Modified Dixon Agar (MDA) and isolated were identified as per conventional phenotypic methods. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples collected from all study subjects. Cytokine genotyping was carried out by Amplification Refractory Mutations System- Polymerase Chain Reaction (ARMS-PCR) with sequence specific primers. Three SNPs (IL10-1082A/G; IL10-819/592C/T; IFN-γ+874A/T) in two cytokine genes were assessed in all the patients and healthy controls. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS Chi-Square Test or Fisher's-Exact Test and Bonferroni's correction. RESULTS In AD group, Malassezia yeasts were cultured in 24 out of 38 samples and thus the identification rate was 63.1 percent as compared to healthy group, 52.6 percent (20/38). Significant difference in allele, or genotype distribution were observed in IL10-819/592C/T and IFN-γ+874A/T gene polymorphism in AD group. CONCLUSION Higher isolation rate in cases as compared to control group highlights the implication of Malassezia in AD. Association between specific cytokine gene polymorphism and clinical outcome was found to be significant in study group. The result of cytokine gene polymorphism in the present study demonstrated susceptibility of host to Malassezia infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charu Jain
- Senior Resident, Department of Microbiology, UCMS and GTB Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Shukla Das
- Professor, Department of Microbiology, UCMS and GTB Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - V G Ramachandran
- Professor, Department of Microbiology, UCMS and GTB Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Rumpa Saha
- Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology, UCMS and GTB Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - S N Bhattacharya
- Professor and Head, Department of Dermatology and Venerology, UCMS and GTB Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Sajad Dar
- PhD Student, Department of Microbiology, UCMS and GTB Hospital, Delhi, India
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Carvalho A, Goldman GH. Editorial: An Omics Perspective on Fungal Infection: Toward Next-Generation Diagnosis and Therapy. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:85. [PMID: 28184220 PMCID: PMC5266709 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of MinhoBraga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Gustavo H Goldman
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
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Izumikawa K. Recent advances in chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. Respir Investig 2016; 54:85-91. [PMID: 26879477 DOI: 10.1016/j.resinv.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a slowly progressing pulmonary syndrome caused by Aspergillus spp. Specific knowledge regarding the disease entity, diagnosis method, and management is needed. This review focuses on the recent advances in our understanding of CPA. A new clinical disease entity of chronic progressive pulmonary aspergillosis consisting of chronic necrotizing pulmonary aspergillosis and chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis is proposed. Although newer antifungals are not available, evidence describing the treatment of CPA is accumulating. Longer administration of azoles is required for a better prognosis, but there is a risk of inducing azole resistance. Therapeutic drug monitoring and patient education are required. Establishing a drug-susceptibility test that can be performed in the general laboratory and the referral center are also important. Although the number of publications regarding CPA is growing, there are still many unanswered questions. Additional evidence and translational research regarding diagnosis, management, and drug resistance are urgently needed to improve the outcome of CPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichi Izumikawa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan.
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Sanclemente G, Moreno A, Navasa M, Lozano F, Cervera C. Genetic variants of innate immune receptors and infections after liver transplantation. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:11116-11130. [PMID: 25170199 PMCID: PMC4145753 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i32.11116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 05/14/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection is the leading cause of complication after liver transplantation, causing morbidity and mortality in the first months after surgery. Allograft rejection is mediated through adaptive immunological responses, and thus immunosuppressive therapy is necessary after transplantation. In this setting, the presence of genetic variants of innate immunity receptors may increase the risk of post-transplant infection, in comparison with patients carrying wild-type alleles. Numerous studies have investigated the role of genetic variants of innate immune receptors and the risk of complication after liver transplantation, but their results are discordant. Toll-like receptors and mannose-binding lectin are arguably the most important studied molecules; however, many other receptors could increase the risk of infection after transplantation. In this article, we review the published studies analyzing the impact of genetic variants in the innate immune system on the development of infectious complications after liver transplantation.
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Mikulska M, Novelli A, Aversa F, Cesaro S, de Rosa FG, Girmenia C, Micozzi A, Sanguinetti M, Viscoli C. Voriconazole in clinical practice. J Chemother 2013; 24:311-27. [DOI: 10.1179/1973947812y.0000000051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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30
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Costa TA, Bazan SB, Feriotti C, Araújo EF, Bassi ÊJ, Loures FV, Calich VLG. In pulmonary paracoccidioidomycosis IL-10 deficiency leads to increased immunity and regressive infection without enhancing tissue pathology. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2512. [PMID: 24205424 PMCID: PMC3812093 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cellular immunity is the main defense mechanism in paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), the most important systemic mycosis in Latin America. Th1 immunity and IFN-γ activated macrophages are fundamental to immunoprotection that is antagonized by IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine. Both in human and experimental PCM, several evidences indicate that the suppressive effect of IL-10 causes detrimental effects to infected hosts. Because direct studies have not been performed, this study was aimed to characterize the function of IL-10 in pulmonary PCM. Methodology/Principal Findings Wild type (WT) and IL-10−/− C57BL/6 mice were used to characterize the role of IL-10 in the innate and adaptive immunity against Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (Pb) infection. We verified that Pb-infected peritoneal macrophages from IL-10−/− mice presented higher phagocytic and fungicidal activities than WT macrophages, and these activities were associated with elevated production of IFN-γ, TNF-α, nitric oxide (NO) and MCP-1. For in vivo studies, IL-10−/− and WT mice were i.t. infected with 1×106 Pb yeasts and studied at several post-infection periods. Compared to WT mice, IL-10−/− mice showed increased resistance to P. brasiliensis infection as determined by the progressive control of pulmonary fungal loads and total clearance of fungal cells from dissemination organs. This behavior was accompanied by enhanced delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions, precocious humoral immunity and controlled tissue pathology resulting in increased survival times. In addition, IL-10−/− mice developed precocious T cell immunity mediated by increased numbers of lung infiltrating effector/memory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. The inflammatory reactions and the production of Th1/Th2/Th17 cytokines were reduced at late phases of infection, paralleling the regressive infection of IL-10−/− mice. Conclusions/Significance Our work demonstrates for the first time that IL-10 plays a detrimental effect to pulmonary PCM due to its suppressive effect on the innate and adaptive immunity resulting in progressive infection and precocious mortality of infected hosts. Paracoccidioidomycosis, the most important deep mycosis from Latin America, is acquired by inhalation of fungal spores. The pulmonary infection can remain as a quiescent infection or evolve to overt, life-threatening disease. Immunoprotection is mainly mediated by Th1 lymphocytes secreting IFN- γ, the most important macrophage activating cytokine. It is well established that the severe forms of infection are associated with elevated production of anti-inflammatory or suppressive cytokines such as IL-10. However, direct approaches investigating the role of this cytokine in pulmonary paracoccidioidomycosis were never employed. This led us to investigate the innate and adaptive aspects of immunity in pulmonary paracoccidioidomycosis using IL-10-deficient mice in comparison with their IL-10-normal counterparts. We verified that IL-10 absence leads to a regressive disease, resulting in reduced mortality rates of infected mice. This better disease outcome was associated with precocious and enhanced mechanisms of innate and adaptive immunity that allow the control of fungal growth without excessive inflammatory reactions and harmful tissue pathology. These evidences on the detrimental effects of IL-10 to pulmonary paracoccidioidomycosis suggest that therapeutic measures aimed to control IL-10 production or activity could exert a protective effect to this severe fungal pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tânia A. Costa
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia B. Bazan
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Claudia Feriotti
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eliseu F. Araújo
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ênio J. Bassi
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Flávio V. Loures
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vera L. G. Calich
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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31
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Babayan SA, Allen JE, Taylor DW. Future prospects and challenges of vaccines against filariasis. Parasite Immunol 2012; 34:243-53. [PMID: 22150082 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2011.01350.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Filarial infections remain a major public health and socio-economic problem across the tropics, despite considerable effort to reduce disease burden or regionally eliminate the infection with mass drug administration programmes. The sustainability of these programmes is now open to question owing to a range of issues, not least of which is emerging evidence for drug resistance. Vaccination, if developed appropriately, remains the most cost-effective means of long-term disease control. The rationale for the feasibility of vaccination against filarial parasites including onchocerciasis (river blindness, Onchocerca volvulus) and lymphatic filariasis (Wuchereria bancrofti or Brugia malayi) is founded on evidence from both humans and animal models for the development of protective immunity. Nonetheless, enormous challenges need to be faced in terms of overcoming parasite-induced suppression without inducing pathology as well as the need to both recognize and tackle evolutionary and ecological obstacles to successful vaccine development. Nonetheless, new technological advances in addition to systems biology approaches offer hope that optimal immune responses can be induced that will prevent infection, disease and/or transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon A Babayan
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, and Centre for Immunity, Infection & Evolution, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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32
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Nanjappa SG, Heninger E, Wüthrich M, Gasper DJ, Klein BS. Tc17 cells mediate vaccine immunity against lethal fungal pneumonia in immune deficient hosts lacking CD4+ T cells. PLoS Pathog 2012; 8:e1002771. [PMID: 22829762 PMCID: PMC3400565 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1002771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2012] [Accepted: 05/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccines may help reduce the growing incidence of fungal infections in immune-suppressed patients. We have found that, even in the absence of CD4+ T-cell help, vaccine-induced CD8+ T cells persist and confer resistance against Blastomyces dermatitidis and Histoplasma capsulatum. Type 1 cytokines contribute to that resistance, but they also are dispensable. Although the role of T helper 17 cells in immunity to fungi is debated, IL-17 producing CD8+ T cells (Tc17 cells) have not been investigated. Here, we show that Tc17 cells are indispensable in antifungal vaccine immunity in hosts lacking CD4+ T cells. Tc17 cells are induced upon vaccination, recruited to the lung on pulmonary infection, and act non-redundantly in mediating protection in a manner that requires neutrophils. Tc17 cells did not influence type I immunity, nor did the lack of IL-12 signaling augment Tc17 cells, indicating a distinct lineage and function. IL-6 was required for Tc17 differentiation and immunity, but IL-1R1 and Dectin-1 signaling was unexpectedly dispensable. Tc17 cells expressed surface CXCR3 and CCR6, but only the latter was essential in recruitment to the lung. Although IL-17 producing T cells are believed to be short-lived, effector Tc17 cells expressed low levels of KLRG1 and high levels of the transcription factor TCF-1, predicting their long-term survival and stem-cell like behavior. Our work has implications for designing vaccines against fungal infections in immune suppressed patients. Systemic fungal infections have emerged as a public health problem, especially for patients with suppressed immunity. At present, there are no vaccines against fungi, partly because it is hard to elicit strong immunity in immune suppressed patients. We have found however that residual elements of T cell immunity can be harnessed by vaccination even in immune suppressed hosts. We show here that immune suppressed mice lacking T helper cells can still be vaccinated successfully against lethal fungal pneumonia. A population of T cytotoxic IL-17-producing cells (Tc17 cells) is instrumental and indispensible in vaccine protection. We describe here mechanisms that explain how these cells are induced to mature in Tc17 cells, persist for long periods in the body providing “immune memory”, recruit to the site of infection, and clear the tissue of fungi. Our work sheds new light on potent T cells that can be harnessed by vaccine strategies against fungal infection in vulnerable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Som Gowda Nanjappa
- The Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
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Cunha C, Carvalho A. Host genetics and invasive fungal diseases: towards improved diagnosis and therapy? Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2012; 10:257-9. [PMID: 22397557 DOI: 10.1586/eri.12.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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34
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Carvalho A, Cunha C, Iannitti RG, Casagrande A, Bistoni F, Aversa F, Romani L. Host defense pathways against fungi: the basis for vaccines and immunotherapy. Front Microbiol 2012; 3:176. [PMID: 22590466 PMCID: PMC3349272 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2012.00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2012] [Accepted: 04/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal vaccines have long been a goal in the fields of immunology and microbiology to counter the high mortality and morbidity rates owing to fungal diseases, particularly in immunocompromised patients. However, the design of effective vaccination formulations for durable protection to the different fungi has lagged behind due to the important differences among fungi and their biology and our limited understanding of the complex host–pathogen interactions and immune responses. Overcoming these challenges is expected to contribute to improved vaccination strategies aimed at personalized efficacy across distinct target patient populations. This likely requires the integration of multifaceted approaches encompassing advanced immunology, systems biology, immunogenetics, and bioinformatics in the fields of fungal and host biology and their reciprocal interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agostinho Carvalho
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Perugia Perugia, Italy
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35
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Cunha C, Aversa F, Bistoni G, Casagrande A, Rodrigues F, Romani L, Carvalho A. Immunogenetic profiling to predict risk of invasive fungal diseases: where are we now? Immunol Invest 2012; 40:723-34. [PMID: 21985302 DOI: 10.3109/08820139.2011.586395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Invasive fungal diseases remain nowadays life-threatening conditions affecting multiple clinical settings. The onset of these diseases is dependent on numerous factors, of which the "immunocompromised" phenotype of the patients is the more often acknowledged. However, and despite comparable immune dysfunction, not all patients are ultimately susceptible to disease, suggesting that additional risk factors, likely of genetic nature, may also be important. In the last years, genetic variants in several immune-related genes have also been proposed as major determinants of the susceptibility pattern of high-risk patients to invasive fungal diseases. Altogether, these findings highlighted the crucial significance of the individual genetic make-up in defining susceptibility to infection, providing a compelling rationale for the introduction of the immunogenetic profile as a risk prediction measure that may ultimately help to guide clinicians in the use of prophylaxis and preemptive fungal therapy in high-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Cunha
- Microbiology Section, Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Perugia,Via del Giochetto, Perugia, Italy
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36
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Carvalho A, Cunha C, Romani L. Immunity and tolerance to infections in experimental hematopoietic transplantation. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2011; 24:435-42. [PMID: 21925096 DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2011.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Resistance and tolerance are two types of host defense mechanisms that increase fitness in response to fungi. Several genetic polymorphisms in pattern recognition receptors, most remarkably Toll-like receptors (TLRs), have been described to influence resistance and tolerance to aspergillosis in distinct clinical settings. TLRs on dendritic cells pivotally contribute in determining the balance between immunopathology and protective immunity to the fungus. Epithelial cells also contribute to this balance via selected TLRs converging on indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). Studies in experimental hematopoietic transplantation confirmed the dichotomy of pathways leading to resistance and tolerance to the fungus providing new insights on the relative contribution of the hematopoietic/nonhematopoietic compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agostinho Carvalho
- Microbiology Section, Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, Perugia, Italy
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Abstract
Fungal diseases have emerged as significant causes of morbidity and mortality, particularly in immune-compromised individuals, prompting greater interest in understanding the mechanisms of host resistance to these pathogens. Consequently, the past few decades have seen a tremendous increase in our knowledge of the innate and adaptive components underlying the protective (and nonprotective) mechanisms of antifungal immunity. What has emerged from these studies is that phagocytic cells are essential for protection and that defects in these cells compromise the host's ability to resist fungal infection. This review covers the functions of phagocytes in innate antifungal immunity, along with selected examples of the strategies that are used by fungal pathogens to subvert these defenses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon D Brown
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Section of Immunology and Infection, Division of Applied Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, United Kingdom.
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38
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Chronic aspergillus infections of the respiratory tract: diagnosis, management and antifungal resistance. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2011; 23:584-9. [PMID: 20827190 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0b013e32833ed694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a relatively rare, slowly progressive pulmonary syndrome due to Aspergillus spp. that requires specific knowledge in terms of disease entity, diagnosis, management and azole resistance. This review focuses on the recent understanding of CPA entity and the emergence of azole resistance in CPA. RECENT FINDINGS Due to complexities related to patients' background and limited pathological evidence, the disease entity of CPA was incomprehensive and numerous names were previously used. The disease entities and nomenclature of subtypes of CPA have recently been proposed, though previous literature had grouped several different forms of CPA together. Recent advances in the methodology of susceptibility testing have indicated increasing azole resistance in Aspergillus spp. CPA is potentially involved in producing azole resistance and associated with poor response to azoles. SUMMARY As there are few publications regarding CPA, there are still many unanswered questions. However, updating of disease entity will promote the clinical and basic research in this field. Moreover, the emergence of antifungal drug resistance of Aspergillus is becoming a major concern. Thus, more evidence and research regarding drug resistance are required to improve the outcome of CPA.
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Lozano VF, Lins TC, Teixeira MM, Vieira RG, Blotta MHSL, Goes AM, Silva ICR, Pereira RW, Bocca AL, Felipe MSS. Polymorphism analysis of the CTLA-4 gene in paracoccidioidomycosis patients. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2011; 106:220-6. [DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762011000200017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2010] [Accepted: 01/10/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anamelia L Bocca
- Universidade Católica de Brasília; Universidade de Brasília, Brasil
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40
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Cunha C, Romani L, Carvalho A. Cracking the Toll-like receptor code in fungal infections. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2011; 8:1121-37. [PMID: 20954879 DOI: 10.1586/eri.10.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Innate control of fungal infection requires the specific recognition of invariant fungal molecular structures by a variety of innate immune receptors, including Toll-like receptors. In addition to the role in inducing protective immune responses, Toll-like receptor engagement may paradoxically favor fungal infections, by inducing inflammatory pathology and impairing antifungal immunity. Although the dissection of complex genetic traits modulating susceptibility to fungal infections is complex, the contribution of host genetics may hold the key to elucidating new risk factors for these severe, often fatal diseases. Understanding host-pathogen interactions at the innate immune interface will eventually lead to the development of new therapeutics and genetic markers in fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Cunha
- Microbiology Section, Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06126 Perugia, Italy
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41
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Cunha C, Rodrigues F, Zelante T, Aversa F, Romani L, Carvalho A. Genetic susceptibility to aspergillosis in allogeneic stem-cell transplantation. Med Mycol 2010; 49 Suppl 1:S137-43. [PMID: 20718605 DOI: 10.3109/13693786.2010.508797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a major threat to positive outcomes for allogeneic stem-cell transplantation (allo-SCT) patients. Despite presenting similar degrees of immunosuppression, not all individuals at-risk ultimately develop infection. Therefore, the traditional view of neutropenia as a key risk factor for aspergillosis needs to be accommodated within new conceptual advances on host immunity and its relationship to infection. Polymorphisms in innate immune genes, such as those encoding TLRs, cytokines and cytokine receptors, have recently been associated with susceptibility to IA in allo-SCT recipients. This suggests that understanding host-pathogen interactions at the level of host genetic susceptibility will allow the formulation of new targeted and patient-tailored antifungal therapeutics, including improved donor screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Cunha
- Microbiology Section, Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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42
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Marakalala MJ, Kerrigan AM, Brown GD. Dectin-1: a role in antifungal defense and consequences of genetic polymorphisms in humans. Mamm Genome 2010; 22:55-65. [PMID: 20700596 PMCID: PMC3026934 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-010-9277-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2010] [Accepted: 07/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The clinical relevance of fungal infections has increased dramatically in recent decades as a consequence of the rise of immunocompromised populations, and efforts to understand the underlying mechanisms of protective immunity have attracted renewed interest. Here we review Dectin-1, a pattern recognition receptor involved in antifungal immunity, and discuss recent discoveries of polymorphisms in the gene encoding this receptor which result in human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohlopheni J Marakalala
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, Division of Immunology, CLS, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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43
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Loeffler J, Ok M, Morton OC, Mezger M, Einsele H. Genetic Polymorphisms in the Cytokine and Chemokine System: Their Possible Importance in Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2010; 341:83-96. [DOI: 10.1007/82_2010_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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