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Liu F, Zeng M, Zhou X, Huang F, Song Z. Aspergillus fumigatus escape mechanisms from its harsh survival environments. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:53. [PMID: 38175242 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12952-z] [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] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitous pathogenic mold and causes several diseases, including mycotoxicosis, allergic reactions, and systemic diseases (invasive aspergillosis), with high mortality rates. In its ecological niche, the fungus has evolved and mastered many reply strategies to resist and survive against negative threats, including harsh environmental stress and deficiency of essential nutrients from natural environments, immunity responses and drug treatments in host, and competition from symbiotic microorganisms. Hence, treating A. fumigatus infection is a growing challenge. In this review, we summarized A. fumigatus reply strategies and escape mechanisms and clarified the main competitive or symbiotic relationships between A. fumigatus, viruses, bacteria, or fungi in host microecology. Additionally, we discussed the contemporary drug repertoire used to treat A. fumigatus and the latest evidence of potential resistance mechanisms. This review provides valuable knowledge which will stimulate further investigations and clinical applications for treating and preventing A. fumigatus infections. KEY POINTS: • Harsh living environment was a great challenge for A. fumigatus survival. • A. fumigatus has evolved multiple strategies to escape host immune responses. • A. fumigatus withstands antifungal drugs via intrinsic escape mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Zeng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 402160, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Fujiao Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhangyong Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.
- Molecular Biotechnology Platform, Public Center of Experimental Technology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.
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Thakur R, Shishodia SK, Sharma A, Chauhan A, Kaur S, Shankar J. Accelerating the understanding of Aspergillus terreus: Epidemiology, physiology, immunology and advances. CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2024; 6:100220. [PMID: 38303967 PMCID: PMC10831165 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2024.100220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus species encompass a variety of infections, ranging from invasive aspergillosis to allergic conditions, contingent upon the immune status of the host. In this spectrum, Aspergillus terreus stands out due to its emergence as a notable pathogen and its intrinsic resistance to amphotericin-B. The significance of Aspergillus-associated infections has witnessed a marked increase in the past few decades, particularly with the increasing number of immunocompromised individuals. The exploration of epidemiology, morphological transitions, immunopathology, and novel treatment approaches such as new antifungal drugs (PC945, olorofim) and combinational therapy using antifungal drugs and phytochemicals (Phytochemicals: quercetin, shikonin, artemisinin), also using immunotherapies to modulate immune response has resulted in better outcomes. Furthermore, in the context COVID-19 era and its aftermath, fungal infections have emerged as a substantial challenge for both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals. This is attributed to the use of immune-suppressing therapies during COVID-19 infections and the increase in transplant cases. Consequently, this review aims to provide an updated overview encompassing the epidemiology, germination events, immunopathology, and novel drug treatment strategies against Aspergillus terreus-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raman Thakur
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | | | - Ananya Sharma
- Genomic Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Arjun Chauhan
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Applied Sciences and Humanities, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sumanpreet Kaur
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Jata Shankar
- Genomic Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
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Zhong J, Zhang J, Ma J, Cai W, Li X, Zhang J. Role of Dectin-1 in immune response of macrophages induced by Fonsecaea monophora wild strain and melanin-deficient mutant strain. Mycology 2023; 15:45-56. [PMID: 38558842 PMCID: PMC10976994 DOI: 10.1080/21501203.2023.2249010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Chromoblastomycosis is a chronic granulomatous subcutaneous fungal disease caused mainly by Fonsecaea monophora in southern China. Melanin is an important virulence factor in wild strain (Mel+), and the strains lack of the polyketide synthase gene is a melanin-deficient mutant strain (Mel-). We investigated the effect of melanin in F. monophora on Dectin-1 receptor-mediated immune responses in macrophages. Conidia and tiny hyphae of Mel+ and Mel- were co-cultured with THP-1 macrophages expressing normal or low levels of Dectin-1. Compare the killing rate, phagocytosis rate, and expression levels of the inflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and nitric oxide in each group. The results showed that the killing rate, phagocytosis rate, and pro-inflammatory factor levels of Mel+ infected macrophages with normal expression of Dectin-1 were lower than those of Mel-. And the knockdown of Dectin-1 inhibited the phagocytic rate, killing rate, and proinflammatory factor expression in macrophages infected with Mel+ and Mel-. And there was no significant difference in the above indexes between Mel+ and Mel- groups in Dectin-1 knockdown macrophages. In summary, the study reveals that melanin of F. monophora inhibits the immune response effect of the host by hindering its binding to Dectin-1 on the surface of macrophage, which may lead to persistent fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaojiao Zhong
- Department of Dermatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianchi Ma
- Department of Dermatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenying Cai
- Department of Dermatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiqing Li
- Department of Dermatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junmin Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Melenotte C, Aimanianda V, Slavin M, Aguado JM, Armstrong-James D, Chen YC, Husain S, Van Delden C, Saliba F, Lefort A, Botterel F, Lortholary O. Invasive aspergillosis in liver transplant recipients. Transpl Infect Dis 2023:e14049. [PMID: 36929539 DOI: 10.1111/tid.14049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation is increasing worldwide with underlying pathologies dominated by metabolic and alcoholic diseases in developed countries. METHODS We provide a narrative review of invasive aspergillosis (IA) in liver transplant (LT) recipients. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar for references without language and time restrictions. RESULTS The incidence of IA in LT recipients is low (1.8%), while mortality is high (∼50%). It occurs mainly early (<3 months) after LT. Some risk factors have been identified before (corticosteroid, renal, and liver failure), during (massive transfusion and duration of surgical procedure), and after transplantation (intensive care unit stay, re-transplantation, re-operation). Diagnosis can be difficult and therefore requires full radiological and clinicobiological collaboration. Accurate identification of Aspergillus species is recommended due to the cryptic species, and susceptibility testing is crucial given the increasing resistance of Aspergillus fumigatus to azoles. It is recommended to reduce the dose of tacrolimus (50%) and to closely monitor the trough level when introducing voriconazole, isavuconazole, and posaconazole. Surgery should be discussed on a case-by-case basis. Antifungal prophylaxis is recommended in high-risk patients. Environmental preventative measures should be implemented to prevent outbreaks of nosocomial aspergillosis in LT recipient units. CONCLUSION IA remains a very serious disease in LT patients and should be promptly sought and, if possible, prevented by clinicians when risk factors are identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cléa Melenotte
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Vishukumar Aimanianda
- Institut Pasteur, CNRS, National Reference Center for Invasive Mycoses and Antifungals, Molecular Mycology Unit, UMR2000, Paris, France
| | - Monica Slavin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Center for Infections in Cancer, Sir Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Oncology, Sir Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - José María Aguado
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario "12 de Octubre", Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Yee-Chun Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shahid Husain
- Department of Transplant Infectious Diseases, Multi-Organ Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christian Van Delden
- Transplant Infectious Diseases Unit, University Hospitals Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Faouzi Saliba
- AP-HP Hôpital Paul Brousse, Centre Hépato-Biliaire, Villejuif, France
| | - Agnès Lefort
- Université de Paris, IAME, UMR 1137, INSERM, Paris, France.,Service de Médecine Interne, Hôpital Beaujon, AP-HP, Clichy, France
| | - Francoise Botterel
- EA Dynamyc 7380 UPEC, ENVA, Faculté de Médecine, Créteil, France.,Unité de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Département de Virologie, Bactériologie-Hygiène, Mycologie-Parasitologie, DHU VIC, CHU Henri Mondor, Créteil, France
| | - Olivier Lortholary
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France.,Institut Pasteur, CNRS, National Reference Center for Invasive Mycoses and Antifungals, Molecular Mycology Unit, UMR2000, Paris, France.,Paris University, Necker-Pasteur Center for Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, AP-HP, IHU Imagine, Paris, France
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Reyes EY, Shinohara ML. Host immune responses in the central nervous system during fungal infections. Immunol Rev 2022; 311:50-74. [PMID: 35672656 PMCID: PMC9489659 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infections in the central nervous system (CNS) cause high morbidity and mortality. The frequency of CNS mycosis has increased over the last two decades as more individuals go through immunocompromised conditions for various reasons. Nevertheless, options for clinical interventions for CNS mycoses are still limited. Thus, there is an urgent need to understand the host-pathogen interaction mechanisms in CNS mycoses for developing novel treatments. Although the CNS has been regarded as an immune-privileged site, recent studies demonstrate the critical involvement of immune responses elicited by CNS-resident and CNS-infiltrated cells during fungal infections. In this review, we discuss mechanisms of fungal invasion in the CNS, fungal pathogen detection by CNS-resident cells (microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, neurons), roles of CNS-infiltrated leukocytes, and host immune responses. We consider that understanding host immune responses in the CNS is crucial for endeavors to develop treatments for CNS mycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefany Y. Reyes
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Mari L. Shinohara
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27705, USA
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27705, USA
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Palmieri F, Koutsokera A, Bernasconi E, Junier P, von Garnier C, Ubags N. Recent Advances in Fungal Infections: From Lung Ecology to Therapeutic Strategies With a Focus on Aspergillus spp. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:832510. [PMID: 35386908 PMCID: PMC8977413 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.832510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are estimated to be the main cause of death for more than 1.5 million people worldwide annually. However, fungal pathogenicity has been largely neglected. This is notably the case for pulmonary fungal infections, which are difficult to diagnose and to treat. We are currently facing a global emergence of antifungal resistance, which decreases the chances of survival for affected patients. New therapeutic approaches are therefore needed to face these life-threatening fungal infections. In this review, we will provide a general overview on respiratory fungal infections, with a focus on fungi of the genus Aspergillus. Next, the immunological and microbiological mechanisms of fungal pathogenesis will be discussed. The role of the respiratory mycobiota and its interactions with the bacterial microbiota on lung fungal infections will be presented from an ecological perspective. Finally, we will focus on existing and future innovative approaches for the treatment of respiratory fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Palmieri
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Fabio Palmieri,
| | - Angela Koutsokera
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eric Bernasconi
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pilar Junier
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Christophe von Garnier
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Niki Ubags
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Niki Ubags,
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Wnt-β-Catenin Signaling in Human Dendritic Cells Mediates Regulatory T-Cell Responses to Fungi via the PD-L1 Pathway. mBio 2021; 12:e0282421. [PMID: 34781737 PMCID: PMC8593687 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02824-21] [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] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The signaling pathways activated following interaction between dendritic cells (DCs) and a pathogen determine the polarization of effector T-cell and regulatory T-cell (Treg) responses to the infection. Several recent studies, mostly in the context of bacterial infections, have shown that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays a major role in imparting tolerogenic features in DCs and in promotion of Treg responses. However, the significance of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway’s involvement in regulating the immune response to the fungal species is not known. Using Aspergillus fumigatus, a ubiquitous airborne opportunistic fungal species, we show here that fungi activate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in human DCs and are critical for mediating the immunosuppressive Treg responses. Pharmacological inhibition of this pathway in DCs led to inhibition of maturation-associated molecules and interleukin 10 (IL-10) secretion without affecting the majority of the inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, blockade of Wnt signaling in DCs suppressed DC-mediated Treg responses in CD4+ T cells and downregulated both tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and IL-10 responses in CD8+ T cells. Mechanistically, induction of β-catenin pathway by A. fumigatus required C-type lectin receptors and promoted Treg polarization via the induction of programmed death-ligand 1 on DCs. Further investigation on the identity of fungal molecular patterns has revealed that the cell wall polysaccharides β-(1, 3)-glucan and α-(1, 3)-glucan, but not chitin, possess the capacity to activate the β-catenin pathway. Our data suggest that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a potential therapeutic target to selectively suppress the Treg response and to sustain the protective Th1 response in the context of invasive aspergillosis caused by A. fumigatus.
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Cytokine and Chemokine Responses in Invasive Aspergillosis Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Past Evidence for Future Therapy of Aspergillosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7090753. [PMID: 34575791 PMCID: PMC8468228 DOI: 10.3390/jof7090753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis is a frequent complication in immunocompromised individuals, and it continues to be an important cause of mortality in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In addition to antifungal therapy used for mycoses, immune-modulatory molecules such as cytokines and chemokines can modify the host immune response and exhibit a promising form of antimicrobial therapeutics to combat invasive fungal diseases. Cytokine and chemokine profiles may also be applied as biomarkers during fungal infections and clinical research has demonstrated different activation patterns of cytokines in invasive mycoses such as aspergillosis. In this review, we summarize different aspects of cytokines that have been described to date and provide possible future directions in research on invasive pulmonary aspergillosis following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. These findings suggest that cytokines and chemokines may serve as useful biomarkers to improve diagnosis and monitoring of infection.
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Seelbinder B, Wallstabe J, Marischen L, Weiss E, Wurster S, Page L, Löffler C, Bussemer L, Schmitt AL, Wolf T, Linde J, Cicin-Sain L, Becker J, Kalinke U, Vogel J, Panagiotou G, Einsele H, Westermann AJ, Schäuble S, Loeffler J. Triple RNA-Seq Reveals Synergy in a Human Virus-Fungus Co-infection Model. Cell Rep 2020; 33:108389. [PMID: 33207195 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
High-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) is routinely applied to study diverse biological processes; however, when performed separately on interacting organisms, systemic noise intrinsic to RNA extraction, library preparation, and sequencing hampers the identification of cross-species interaction nodes. Here, we develop triple RNA-seq to simultaneously detect transcriptomes of monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs) infected with the frequently co-occurring pulmonary pathogens Aspergillus fumigatus and human cytomegalovirus (CMV). Comparing expression patterns after co-infection with those after single infections, our data reveal synergistic effects and mutual interferences between host responses to the two pathogens. For example, CMV attenuates the fungus-mediated activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines through NF-κB (nuclear factor κB) and NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T cells) cascades, while A. fumigatus impairs viral clearance by counteracting viral nucleic acid-induced activation of type I interferon signaling. Together, the analytical power of triple RNA-seq proposes molecular hubs in the differential moDC response to fungal/viral single infection or co-infection that contribute to our understanding of the etiology and, potentially, clearance of post-transplant infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Seelbinder
- Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Julia Wallstabe
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Lothar Marischen
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Esther Weiss
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Wurster
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lukas Page
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Löffler
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Lydia Bussemer
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Schmitt
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Wolf
- Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Jörg Linde
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Luka Cicin-Sain
- Department of Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover-Braunschweig Site, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany; Cluster of Excellence RESIST (EXC 2155), Hannover Medical School (MHH) Braunschweig, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Jennifer Becker
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE-Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Cluster of Excellence RESIST (EXC 2155), Hannover Medical School (MHH), 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ulrich Kalinke
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE-Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Cluster of Excellence RESIST (EXC 2155), Hannover Medical School (MHH), 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Jörg Vogel
- Institute of Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Gianni Panagiotou
- Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), 07745 Jena, Germany; Department of Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
| | - Hermann Einsele
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Alexander J Westermann
- Institute of Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sascha Schäuble
- Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Juergen Loeffler
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, 97080 Würzburg, Germany.
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C-Type Lectin Receptors in Antifungal Immunity. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1204:1-30. [PMID: 32152941 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-1580-4_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Most fungal species are harmless to humans and some exist as commensals on mucocutaneous surfaces. Yet many fungi are opportunistic pathogens, causing life-threatening invasive infections when the immune system becomes compromised. The fungal cell wall contains conserved pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), which allow the immune system to distinguish between self (endogenous molecular patterns) and foreign material. Sensing of invasive microbial pathogens is achieved through recognition of PAMPs by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). One of the predominant fungal-sensing PRRs is the C-type lectin receptor (CLR) family. These receptors bind to structures present on the fungal cell wall, eliciting various innate immune responses as well as shaping adaptive immunity. In this chapter, we specifically focus on the four major human fungal pathogens, Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus, Cryptococcus neoformans and Pneumocystis jirovecii, reviewing our current understanding of the CLRs that are involved in their recognition and protection of the host.
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11
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Höft MA, Hoving JC, Brown GD. Signaling C-Type Lectin Receptors in Antifungal Immunity. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2020; 429:63-101. [PMID: 32936383 DOI: 10.1007/82_2020_224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
We are all exposed to fungal organisms daily, and although many of these organisms are not harmful, billions of people a year contract a fungal infection. Most of these infections are not fatal and can be cleared by the host immune response. However, due to an increase in high-risk populations, the global fungal burden has increased, with more than 1.5 million deaths per year caused by invasive fungal infections. The fungal cell wall is an important surface for interacting with the host immune system as it contains pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) which are detected as being foreign by the host pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). C-type lectin receptors are a group of PRRs that play a central role in the protection against invasive fungal infections. Following the recognition of fungal PAMPs, CLRs trigger various innate and adaptive immune responses. In this chapter, we specifically focus on C-type lectin receptors capable of activating downstream signaling pathways, resulting in protective antifungal immune responses. The current roles that these signaling CLRs play in protection against four of the most prevalent fungal infections affecting humans are reviewed. These include Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus, Cryptococcus neoformans and Pneumocystis jirovecii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxine A Höft
- AFGrica Medical Mycology Research Unit, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM) at the University of Cape Town, Werner & Beit South Building, Anzio Road, Observatory, 7925, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - J Claire Hoving
- AFGrica Medical Mycology Research Unit, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM) at the University of Cape Town, Werner & Beit South Building, Anzio Road, Observatory, 7925, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gordon D Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, EX4 4QD, Exeter, UK.
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12
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Pakshir K, Badali H, Nami S, Mirzaei H, Ebrahimzadeh V, Morovati H. Interactions between immune response to fungal infection and microRNAs: The pioneer tuners. Mycoses 2019; 63:4-20. [PMID: 31597205 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Due to their physiological and biological characteristics, numerous fungi are potentially emerging pathogens. Active dynamicity of fungal pathogens causes life-threatening infections annually impose high costs to the health systems. Although immune responses play crucial roles in controlling the fate of fungal infections, immunocompromised patients are at high risk with high mortality. Tuning the immune response against fungal infections might be an effective strategy for controlling and reducing the pathological damages. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known as the master regulators of immune response. These single-stranded tuners (18-23 bp non-coding RNAs) are endogenously expressed by all metazoan eukaryotes and have emerged as the master gene expression controllers of at least 30% human genes. In this review article, following the review of biology and physiology (biogenesis and mechanism of actions) of miRNAs and immune response against fungal infections, the interactions between them were scrutinised. In conclusion, miRNAs might be considered as one of the potential goals in immunotherapy for fungal infections. Undoubtedly, advanced studies in this field, further identifying of miRNA roles in governing the immune response, pave the way for inclusion of miRNA-related immunotherapeutic in the treatment of life-threatening fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyvan Pakshir
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hamid Badali
- Invasive Fungi Research Center, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Fungus Testing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Sanam Nami
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Veghar Ebrahimzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Morovati
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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13
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Abstract
Respiratory fungal infection is a severe clinical problem, especially in patients with compromised immune functions. Aspergillus, Cryptococcus, Pneumocystis, and endemic fungi are major pulmonary fungal pathogens that are able to result in life-threatening invasive diseases. Growing data being reported have indicated that multiple cells and molecules orchestrate the host's response to a fungal infection in the lung. Upon fungal challenge, innate myeloid cells including macrophages, dendritic cells (DC), and recruited neutrophils establish the first line of defense through the phagocytosis and secretion of cytokines. Natural killer cells control the fungal expansion in the lung via the direct and indirect killing of invading organisms. Adaptive immune cells including Th1 and Th17 cells confer anti-fungal activity by producing their signature cytokines, interferon-γ, and IL-17. In addition, lung epithelial cells (LEC) also participate in the resistance against fungal infection by internalization, inflammatory cytokine production, or antimicrobial peptide secretion. In the host cells mentioned above, various molecules with distinct functions modulate the immune defense signaling: Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) such as dectin-1 expressed on the cell surface are involved in fungal recognition; adaptor proteins such as MyD88 and TRAF6 are required for transduction of signals to the nucleus for transcriptional regulation; inflammasomes also play crucial roles in the host's defense against a fungal infection in the lung. Furthermore, transcriptional factors modulate the transcriptions of a series of genes, especially those encoding cytokines and chemokines, which are predominant regulators in the infectious microenvironment, mediating the cellular and molecular immune responses against a fungal infection in the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Li
- The Joint Center for Infection and Immunity, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou, China
- The Joint Center for Infection and Immunity, Institute Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Gen Lu
- The Joint Center for Infection and Immunity, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guangxun Meng
- The Joint Center for Infection and Immunity, Institute Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China
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14
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Zacharias CA, Sheppard DC. The role of Aspergillus fumigatus polysaccharides in host-pathogen interactions. Curr Opin Microbiol 2019; 52:20-26. [PMID: 31121411 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a saprophytic mold that can cause infection in patients with impaired immunity or chronic lung diseases. The polysaccharide-rich cell wall of this fungus is a key point of contact with the host immune system. The availability of purified cell wall polysaccharides and mutant strains deficient in the production of these glycans has revealed that these glycans play an important role in the pathogenesis of A. fumigatus infections. Herein, we review our current understanding of the key polysaccharides present within the A. fumigatus cell wall, and their interactions with host cells and secreted factors during infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin A Zacharias
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada; Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Centre for Translational Biology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Donald C Sheppard
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada; Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Centre for Translational Biology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.
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15
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Belic S, Page L, Lazariotou M, Waaga-Gasser AM, Dragan M, Springer J, Loeffler J, Morton CO, Einsele H, Ullmann AJ, Wurster S. Comparative Analysis of Inflammatory Cytokine Release and Alveolar Epithelial Barrier Invasion in a Transwell ® Bilayer Model of Mucormycosis. Front Microbiol 2019; 9:3204. [PMID: 30671036 PMCID: PMC6332705 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.03204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms of early invasion and epithelial defense in opportunistic mold infections is crucial for the evaluation of diagnostic biomarkers and novel treatment strategies. Recent studies revealed unique characteristics of the immunopathology of mucormycoses. We therefore adapted an alveolar Transwell® A549/HPAEC bilayer model for the assessment of epithelial barrier integrity and cytokine response to Rhizopus arrhizus, Rhizomucor pusillus, and Cunninghamella bertholletiae. Hyphal penetration of the alveolar barrier was validated by 18S ribosomal DNA detection in the endothelial compartment. Addition of dendritic cells (moDCs) to the alveolar compartment led to reduced fungal invasion and strongly enhanced pro-inflammatory cytokine response, whereas epithelial CCL2 and CCL5 release was reduced. Despite their phenotypic heterogeneity, the studied Mucorales species elicited the release of similar cytokine patterns by epithelial and dendritic cells. There were significantly elevated lactate dehydrogenase concentrations in the alveolar compartment and epithelial barrier permeability for dextran blue of different molecular weights in Mucorales-infected samples compared to Aspergillus fumigatus infection. Addition of monocyte-derived dendritic cells further aggravated LDH release and epithelial barrier permeability, highlighting the influence of the inflammatory response in mucormycosis-associated tissue damage. An important focus of this study was the evaluation of the reproducibility of readout parameters in independent experimental runs. Our results revealed consistently low coefficients of variation for cytokine concentrations and transcriptional levels of cytokine genes and cell integrity markers. As additional means of model validation, we confirmed that our bilayer model captures key principles of Mucorales biology such as accelerated growth in a hyperglycemic or ketoacidotic environment or reduced epithelial barrier invasion upon epithelial growth factor receptor blockade by gefitinib. Our findings indicate that the Transwell® bilayer model provides a reliable and reproducible tool for assessing host response in mucormycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Belic
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Lukas Page
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Maria Lazariotou
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Mariola Dragan
- Department of Surgery I, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jan Springer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Juergen Loeffler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Hermann Einsele
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andrew J Ullmann
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Wurster
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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16
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Arias M, Santiago L, Vidal-García M, Redrado S, Lanuza P, Comas L, Domingo MP, Rezusta A, Gálvez EM. Preparations for Invasion: Modulation of Host Lung Immunity During Pulmonary Aspergillosis by Gliotoxin and Other Fungal Secondary Metabolites. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2549. [PMID: 30459771 PMCID: PMC6232612 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary aspergillosis is a severe infectious disease caused by some members of the Aspergillus genus, that affects immunocompetent as well as immunocompromised patients. Among the different disease forms, Invasive Aspergillosis is the one causing the highest mortality, mainly, although not exclusively, affecting neutropenic patients. This genus is very well known by humans, since different sectors like pharmaceutical or food industry have taken advantage of the biological activity of some molecules synthetized by the fungus, known as secondary metabolites, including statins, antibiotics, fermentative compounds or colorants among others. However, during infection, in response to a hostile host environment, the fungal secondary metabolism is activated, producing different virulence factors to increase its survival chances. Some of these factors also contribute to fungal dissemination and invasion of adjacent and distant organs. Among the different secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus spp. Gliotoxin (GT) is the best known and better characterized virulence factor. It is able to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to the disulfide bridge present in its structure. It also presents immunosuppressive activity related with its ability to kill mammalian cells and/or inactivate critical immune signaling pathways like NFkB. In this comprehensive review, we will briefly give an overview of the lung immune response against Aspergillus as a preface to analyse the effect of different secondary metabolites on the host immune response, with a special attention to GT. We will discuss the results reported in the literature on the context of the animal models employed to analyse the role of GT as virulence factor, which is expected to greatly depend on the immune status of the host: why should you hide when nobody is seeking for you? Finally, GT immunosuppressive activity will be related with different human diseases predisposing to invasive aspergillosis in order to have a global view on the potential of GT to be used as a target to treat IA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maykel Arias
- Instituto de Carboquímica ICB-CSIC, Zaragoza, Spain
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Llipsy Santiago
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Fac. Ciencias, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Matxalen Vidal-García
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Servicio de Microbiología - Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Pilar Lanuza
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Fac. Ciencias, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Laura Comas
- Instituto de Carboquímica ICB-CSIC, Zaragoza, Spain
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Fac. Ciencias, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Antonio Rezusta
- Servicio de Microbiología - Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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17
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Validation of a simplified in vitro Transwell ® model of the alveolar surface to assess host immunity induced by different morphotypes of Aspergillus fumigatus. Int J Med Microbiol 2018; 308:1009-1017. [PMID: 30197238 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions between fungal pathogens such as Aspergillus fumigatus with host alveolar epithelium and innate immune cells are crucial in the defense against opportunistic fungal infections. In this study a simplified Transwell® system with a confluent layer of A549 cells acted as a model for the alveolar surface. A. fumigatus and dendritic cells were added to simulate the spatial and cellular complexity in the alveolus. Fungal growth into the lower chamber was validated by galactomannan assays. Addition of moDCs to the upper chamber led to a reduced GM signal and fungal growth, indicating moDC antifungal activity. Minimal cell death was documented by analyses of lactate dehydrogenase concentrations and pro-apoptotic gene expression. Measurement of trans-epithelial dextran blue movement confirmed tightness of the epithelial barrier even in presence of A. fumigatus. Cytokine measurements in supernatants from both chambers of the Transwell® system documented distinct response patterns during early and late stages of epithelial invasion, with A549 cells appearing to make a minimal contribution to cytokine release. Concentrations of cytokines in the lower chamber varied distinctly from the upper chamber, depending on the molecular weight of the cytokines. Low inter-assay variability of fungal biomarkers and cytokines was confirmed, highlighting that in vitro models closely mimicking conditions in the human lung can facilitate reproducible measurement of the dynamics of cytokine release and fungal penetration of host epithelia.
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18
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Weiss E, Ziegler S, Fliesser M, Schmitt AL, Hünniger K, Kurzai O, Morton CO, Einsele H, Loeffler J. First Insights in NK-DC Cross-Talk and the Importance of Soluble Factors During Infection With Aspergillus fumigatus. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2018; 8:288. [PMID: 30177958 PMCID: PMC6110135 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is an infectious disease caused by the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus that mainly affects immunocompromised hosts. To investigate immune cell cross-talk during infection with A. fumigatus, we co-cultured natural killer (NK) cells and dendritic cells (DC) after stimulation with whole fungal structures, components of the fungal cell wall, fungal lysate or ligands for distinct fungal receptors. Both cell types showed activation after stimulation with fungal components and were able to transfer activation signals to the counterpart not stimulated cell type. Interestingly, DCs recognized a broader spectrum of fungal components and thereby initiated NK cell activation when those did not recognize fungal structures. These experiments highlighted the supportive function of DCs in NK cell activation. Furthermore, we focused on soluble DC mediated NK cell activation and showed that DCs stimulated with the TLR2/Dectin-1 ligand zymosan could maximally stimulate the expression of CD69 on NK cells. Thus, we investigated the influence of both receptors for zymosan, Dectin-1 and TLR2, which are highly expressed on DCs but show only minimal expression on NK cells. Specific focus was laid on the question whether Dectin-1 or TLR2 signaling in DCs is important for the secretion of soluble factors leading to NK cell activation. Our results show that Dectin-1 and TLR2 are negligible for NK cell activation. We conclude that besides Dectin-1 and TLR2 other receptors on DCs are able to compensate for the missing signal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Weiss
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, WÜ4i, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Sabrina Ziegler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, WÜ4i, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Mirjam Fliesser
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, WÜ4i, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Schmitt
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, WÜ4i, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hünniger
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany.,Department of Microbiology and Mycology, Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, Julius-Maximilian University, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany.,Department of Microbiology and Mycology, Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, Julius-Maximilian University, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | | | - Hermann Einsele
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, WÜ4i, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Juergen Loeffler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, WÜ4i, Wuerzburg, Germany
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19
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Characterization of monocyte subtypes regarding their phenotype and development in the context of graft-versus-host disease. Transpl Immunol 2018; 50:48-54. [PMID: 29906586 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). In this study, monocyte subtypes were characterized regarding cytokine expression pattern and development in the context of GvHD. Using inflammatory S100 proteins for monocyte stimulation, it could be demonstrated that intermediate monocytes are the main producers of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNFα known to be involved in the development of Th17 cells pointing towards an inflammatory phenotype of this monocyte subtype. Furthermore, novel aspects regarding monocyte subtype development were found. Our data reveal that prednisolone promotes the induction of intermediate monocytes from classical monocytes which correlates with HSP70 expression levels. However, 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 treatment results in the abrogation of the prednisolone-mediated induction of this inflammatory monocyte subset and low HSP70 expression levels. Treatment of classical monocytes with pifithrin-μ, a specific HSP70 inhibitor, also leads to an inhibited induction of intermediate monocytes in the presence of prednisolone. These data point towards a predominant role of HSP70 in the development of intermediate monocytes. Thus, HSP70 might be a promising target for GvHD therapy, especially in combination with glucocorticoids, in order to decrease intermediate monocyte subset levels.
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20
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Goyal S, Castrillón-Betancur JC, Klaile E, Slevogt H. The Interaction of Human Pathogenic Fungi With C-Type Lectin Receptors. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1261. [PMID: 29915598 PMCID: PMC5994417 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungi, usually present as commensals, are a major cause of opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients. Such infections, if not diagnosed or treated properly, can prove fatal. However, in most cases healthy individuals are able to avert the fungal attacks by mounting proper antifungal immune responses. Among the pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) are the major players in antifungal immunity. CLRs can recognize carbohydrate ligands, such as β-glucans and mannans, which are mainly found on fungal cell surfaces. They induce proinflammatory immune reactions, including phagocytosis, oxidative burst, cytokine, and chemokine production from innate effector cells, as well as activation of adaptive immunity via Th17 responses. CLRs such as Dectin-1, Dectin-2, Mincle, mannose receptor (MR), and DC-SIGN can recognize many disease-causing fungi and also collaborate with each other as well as other PRRs in mounting a fungi-specific immune response. Mutations in these receptors affect the host response and have been linked to a higher risk in contracting fungal infections. This review focuses on how CLRs on various immune cells orchestrate the antifungal response and on the contribution of single nucleotide polymorphisms in these receptors toward the risk of developing such infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surabhi Goyal
- Institute for Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Septomics Research Center, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Juan Camilo Castrillón-Betancur
- Septomics Research Center, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,International Leibniz Research School for Microbial and Biomolecular Interactions, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology/Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Esther Klaile
- Septomics Research Center, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Hortense Slevogt
- Septomics Research Center, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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21
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Hünniger K, Kurzai O. Phagocytes as central players in the defence against invasive fungal infection. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2018; 89:3-15. [PMID: 29601862 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2018.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Fungal pathogens cause severe and life-threatening infections worldwide. The majority of invasive infections occurs in immunocompromised patients and is based on acquired as well as congenital defects of innate and adaptive immune responses. In many cases, these defects affect phagocyte functions. Consequently, professional phagocytes - mainly monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and polymorphonuclear neutrophilic granulocytes - have been shown to act as central players in initiating and modulating antifungal immune responses as well as elimination of fungal pathogens. In this review we will summarize our current understanding on the role of these professional phagocytes in invasive fungal infection to emphasize two important aspects. (i) Analyses on the interaction between fungi and phagocytes have contributed to significant new insights into phagocyte biology. Important examples for this include the identification of pattern recognition receptors for β-glucan, a major cell wall component of many fungal pathogens, as well as the identification of genetic polymorphisms that determine individual host responses towards invading fungi. (ii) At the same time it was shown that fungal pathogens have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to counteract the attack of professional phagocytes. These mechanisms range from complete mechanical destruction of phagocytes to exquisite adaptation of some fungi to the hostile intracellular environment, enabling them to grow and replicate inside professional phagocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Hünniger
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Germany; Septomics Research Center, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans-Knoell-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Germany; Septomics Research Center, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans-Knoell-Institute, Jena, Germany.
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22
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Stephen-Victor E, Karnam A, Fontaine T, Beauvais A, Das M, Hegde P, Prakhar P, Holla S, Balaji KN, Kaveri SV, Latgé JP, Aimanianda V, Bayry J. Aspergillus fumigatus Cell Wall α-(1,3)-Glucan Stimulates Regulatory T-Cell Polarization by Inducing PD-L1 Expression on Human Dendritic Cells. J Infect Dis 2017; 216:1281-1294. [PMID: 28968869 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jix469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human dendritic cell (DC) response to α-(1,3)-glucan polysaccharide of Aspergillus fumigatus and ensuing CD4+ T-cell polarization are poorly characterized. Methods α-(1,3)-Glucan was isolated from A. fumigatus conidia and mycelia cell wall. For the analysis of polarization, DCs and autologous naive CD4+ T cells were cocultured. Phenotype of immune cells was analyzed by flow cytometry, and cytokines by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Blocking antibodies were used to dissect the role of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in regulating α-(1,3)-glucan-mediated DC activation and T-cell responses. DCs from TLR2-deficient mice were additionally used to consolidate the findings. Results α-(1,3)-Glucan induced the maturation of DCs and was dependent in part on TLR2. "α-(1,3)-Glucan-educated" DCs stimulated the activation of naive T cells and polarized a subset of these cells into CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs). Mechanistically, Treg stimulation by α-(1,3)-glucan was dependent on the PD-L1 pathway that negatively regulated interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) secretion. Short α-(1,3)-oligosaccharides lacked the capacity to induce maturation of DCs but significantly blocked α-(1,3)-glucan-induced Treg polarization. Conclusions PD-L1 dictates the balance between Treg and IFN-γ responses induced by α-(1,3)-glucan. Our data provide a rationale for the exploitation of immunotherapeutic approaches that target PD-1-PD-L1 to enhance protective immune responses to A. fumigatus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Stephen-Victor
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Sorbonne Universités-Université Pierre et Marie Curie.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers
| | - Anupama Karnam
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Sorbonne Universités-Université Pierre et Marie Curie.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers
| | | | - Anne Beauvais
- Unité des Aspergillus, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Mrinmoy Das
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Sorbonne Universités-Université Pierre et Marie Curie.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers
| | - Pushpa Hegde
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers
| | - Praveen Prakhar
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Sahana Holla
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | | | - Srini V Kaveri
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Sorbonne Universités-Université Pierre et Marie Curie.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers.,Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Jagadeesh Bayry
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Sorbonne Universités-Université Pierre et Marie Curie.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers.,Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
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23
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Hellmann AM, Lother J, Wurster S, Lutz MB, Schmitt AL, Morton CO, Eyrich M, Czakai K, Einsele H, Loeffler J. Human and Murine Innate Immune Cell Populations Display Common and Distinct Response Patterns during Their In Vitro Interaction with the Pathogenic Mold Aspergillus fumigatus. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1716. [PMID: 29270175 PMCID: PMC5723658 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is the main cause of invasive fungal infections occurring almost exclusively in immunocompromised patients. An improved understanding of the initial innate immune response is key to the development of better diagnostic tools and new treatment options. Mice are commonly used to study immune defense mechanisms during the infection of the mammalian host with A. fumigatus. However, little is known about functional differences between the human and murine immune response against this fungal pathogen. Thus, we performed a comparative functional analysis of human and murine dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages, and polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) using standardized and reproducible working conditions, laboratory protocols, and readout assays. A. fumigatus did not provoke identical responses in murine and human immune cells but rather initiated relatively specific responses. While human DCs showed a significantly stronger upregulation of their maturation markers and major histocompatibility complex molecules and phagocytosed A. fumigatus more efficiently compared to their murine counterparts, murine PMNs and macrophages exhibited a significantly stronger release of reactive oxygen species after exposure to A. fumigatus. For all studied cell types, human and murine samples differed in their cytokine response to conidia or germ tubes of A. fumigatus. Furthermore, Dectin-1 showed inverse expression patterns on human and murine DCs after fungal stimulation. These specific differences should be carefully considered and highlight potential limitations in the transferability of murine host–pathogen interaction studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Maria Hellmann
- Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jasmin Lother
- Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Wurster
- Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Manfred B Lutz
- Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Anna Lena Schmitt
- Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Charles Oliver Morton
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthias Eyrich
- Kinderklinik und Poliklinik, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kristin Czakai
- Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Juergen Loeffler
- Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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24
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Immune Recognition of Fungal Polysaccharides. J Fungi (Basel) 2017; 3:jof3030047. [PMID: 29371564 PMCID: PMC5715945 DOI: 10.3390/jof3030047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of fungal infections has dramatically increased in recent years, in large part due to increased use of immunosuppressive medications, as well as aggressive medical and surgical interventions that compromise natural skin and mucosal barriers. There are relatively few currently licensed antifungal drugs, and rising resistance to these agents has led to interest in the development of novel preventative and therapeutic strategies targeting these devastating infections. One approach to combat fungal infections is to augment the host immune response towards these organisms. The polysaccharide-rich cell wall is the initial point of contact between fungi and the host immune system, and therefore, represents an important target for immunotherapeutic approaches. This review highlights the advances made in our understanding of the mechanisms by which the immune system recognizes and interacts with exopolysaccharides produced by four of the most common fungal pathogens: Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, and Histoplasma capsulatum. Work to date suggests that inner cell wall polysaccharides that play an important structural role are the most conserved across diverse members of the fungal kingdom, and elicit the strongest innate immune responses. The immune system senses these carbohydrates through receptors, such as lectins and complement proteins. In contrast, a greater diversity of polysaccharides is found within the outer cell walls of pathogenic fungi. These glycans play an important role in immune evasion, and can even induce anti-inflammatory host responses. Further study of the complex interactions between the host immune system and the fungal polysaccharides will be necessary to develop more effective therapeutic strategies, as well as to explore the use of immunosuppressive polysaccharides as therapeutic agents to modulate inflammation.
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25
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Reinhardt-Heller K, Hirschberg I, Lang P, Vogl T, Handgretinger R, Bethge WA, Holzer U. Increase of Intermediate Monocytes in Graft-versus-Host Disease: Correlation with MDR1 +Th17.1 Levels and the Effect of Prednisolone and 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2017; 23:2057-2064. [PMID: 28807771 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains one of the major complications after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation that is mainly treated with glucocorticoids such as prednisolone. In this study the influence of monocyte subpopulations, prednisolone, and 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1α,25-(OH)2D3) on the induction of a proinflammatory subset of Th17 cells (MDR+Th17.1) characterized by CCR6+CXCR3hiCCR4loCCR10-CD161+ and stable expression of the multidrug resistance protein type 1 (MDR1) was investigated. Our results demonstrate that intermediate monocytes are increased in patients with acute GVHD, promoting the induction of proinflammatory MDR1+Th17.1 cells. Furthermore, prednisolone induces the development of MDR1+Th17.1 cells, whereas 1α,25-(OH)2D3 acts as an anti-inflammatory, leading to diminished percentages of proinflammatory MDR1+Th17.1 cells in the presence of prednisolone after stimulation with the TLR4-ligand S100A8/S100A9. Moreover, 1α,25-(OH)2D3 decreased the expression level of the targets JAK2 and CD74, both associated with T cell activation, in monocytes. Thus, in steroid-resistant GVHD, 1α,25-(OH)2D3 could be an important regulator in monocyte-induced development of proinflammatory MDR1+Th17.1 cells and might therefore be a potential therapeutic agent in combination with glucocorticoids for GVHD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peter Lang
- Children's Hospital, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Vogl
- Institute of Immunology, University of Muenster, Germany
| | | | | | - Ursula Holzer
- Children's Hospital, University of Tuebingen, Germany.
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26
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Dix A, Czakai K, Leonhardt I, Schäferhoff K, Bonin M, Guthke R, Einsele H, Kurzai O, Löffler J, Linde J. Specific and Novel microRNAs Are Regulated as Response to Fungal Infection in Human Dendritic Cells. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:270. [PMID: 28280489 PMCID: PMC5322194 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Within the last two decades, the incidence of invasive fungal infections has been significantly increased. They are characterized by high mortality rates and are often caused by Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus. The increasing number of infections underlines the necessity for additional anti-fungal therapies, which require extended knowledge of gene regulations during fungal infection. MicroRNAs are regulators of important cellular processes, including the immune response. By analyzing their regulation and impact on target genes, novel therapeutic and diagnostic approaches may be developed. Here, we examine the role of microRNAs in human dendritic cells during fungal infection. Dendritic cells represent the bridge between the innate and the adaptive immune systems. Therefore, analysis of gene regulation of dendritic cells is of particular significance. By applying next-generation sequencing of small RNAs, we quantify microRNA expression in monocyte-derived dendritic cells after 6 and 12 h of infection with C. albicans and A. fumigatus as well as treatment with lipopolysaccharides (LPS). We identified 26 microRNAs that are differentially regulated after infection by the fungi or LPS. Three and five of them are specific for fungal infections after 6 and 12 h, respectively. We further validated interactions of miR-132-5p and miR-212-5p with immunological relevant target genes, such as FKBP1B, KLF4, and SPN, on both RNA and protein level. Our results indicate that these microRNAs fine-tune the expression of immune-related target genes during fungal infection. Beyond that, we identified previously undiscovered microRNAs. We validated three novel microRNAs via qRT-PCR. A comparison with known microRNAs revealed possible relations with the miR-378 family and miR-1260a/b for two of them, while the third one features a unique sequence with no resemblance to known microRNAs. In summary, this study analyzes the effect of known microRNAs in dendritic cells during fungal infections and proposes novel microRNAs that could be experimentally verified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Dix
- Systems Biology/Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute Jena, Germany
| | - Kristin Czakai
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ines Leonhardt
- Septomics Research Centre, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute, Friedrich Schiller UniversityJena, Germany; IMGM Laboratories GmbHMartinsried, Germany
| | - Karin Schäferhoff
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Reinhard Guthke
- Systems Biology/Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute Jena, Germany
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg Würzburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Septomics Research Centre, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute, Friedrich Schiller UniversityJena, Germany; Center for Sepsis Control and Care, University HospitalJena, Germany; Institute for Microbiology, University of WuerzburgWuerzburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Löffler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jörg Linde
- Systems Biology/Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute Jena, Germany
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27
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Czakai K, Dittrich M, Kaltdorf M, Müller T, Krappmann S, Schedler A, Bonin M, Dühring S, Schuster S, Speth C, Rambach G, Einsele H, Dandekar T, Löffler J. Influence of Platelet-rich Plasma on the immune response of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells and macrophages stimulated with Aspergillus fumigatus. Int J Med Microbiol 2016; 307:95-107. [PMID: 27965080 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2016.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages (MΦ) are critical for protection against pathogenic fungi including Aspergillus fumigatus. To analyze the role of platelets in the innate immune response, human DCs and MΦs were challenged with A. fumigatus in presence or absence of human platelet rich plasma (PRP). Gene expression analyses and functional investigations were performed. A systems biological approach was used for initial modelling of the DC - A. fumigatus interaction. DCs in a quiescent state together with different corresponding activation states were validated using gene expression data from DCs and MΦ stimulated with A. fumigatus. To characterize the influence of platelets on the immune response of DCs and MΦ to A. fumigatus, we experimentally quantified their cytokine secretion, phagocytic capacity, maturation, and metabolic activity with or without platelets. PRP in combination with A. fumigatus treatment resulted in the highest expression of the maturation markers CD80, CD83 and CD86 in DCs. Furthermore, PRP enhanced the capacity of macrophages and DCs to phagocytose A. fumigatus conidia. In parallel, PRP in combination with the innate immune cells significantly reduced the metabolic activity of the fungus. Interestingly, A. fumigatus and PRP stimulated MΦ showed a significantly reduced gene expression and secretion of IL6 while PRP only reduced the IL-6 secretion of A. fumigatus stimulated DCs. The in silico systems biological model correlated well with these experimental data. Different modules centrally involved in DC function became clearly apparent, including DC maturation, cytokine response and apoptosis pathways. Taken together, the ability of PRP to suppress IL-6 release of human DCs might prevent local excessive inflammatory hemorrhage, tissue infarction and necrosis in the human lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Czakai
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marcus Dittrich
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martin Kaltdorf
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Müller
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sven Krappmann
- Microbiology Institute-Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anette Schedler
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Sybille Dühring
- Deparment of Bioinformatics, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Stefan Schuster
- Deparment of Bioinformatics, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Cornelia Speth
- Hygiene und Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Günter Rambach
- Hygiene und Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Dandekar
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Löffler
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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28
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Role of PTX3 in corneal epithelial innate immunity against Aspergillus fumigatus infection. Exp Eye Res 2016; 167:152-162. [PMID: 27889356 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pentraxin3 (PTX3), a member of long pentraxin family, plays a non-redundant role in human humoral innate immunity. However, whether PTX3 is expressed by corneal epithelial cells and its role during corneal fungi infection has not yet been investigated. To identify the presence of PTX3 in cornea, the possible mechanisms involved in its expression, and also the effects on corneal anti-fungi innate immune response, clinic human corneal tissues and cultured human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) were resorted. PTX3 mRNA and protein were detected in corneal samples and cultured HCECs, which was significantly up-regulated after exposing to Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus). Pretreated with specific inhibitors, only Syk contributed to the regulation of PTX3 expression in Dectin-1/Syk signal axis. Furthermore, among the MAPK members (p38 MAPK, ERK1/2 and JNK), only ERK1/2 and JNK were responsible for A. fumigatus induced PTX3 production. Blocking of endogenous PTX3 by siRNA down-regulated the production of IL-1β at both mRNA and protein levels. Meanwhile, blocking of PTX3 also inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and JNK, but not p38 MAPK. These findings demonstrate that PTX3 is expressed in human corneal epithelial cells and Syk, ERK1/2, JNK signaling pathways play an important role in the regulation of PTX3 induction. PTX3 plays a proinflammatory role in corneal epithelial anti-fungi immune response by affecting the production of IL-1β and activation of some proinflammatory signaling pathways (ERK1/2 and JNK).
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29
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Koutsouras GW, Ramos RL, Martinez LR. Role of microglia in fungal infections of the central nervous system. Virulence 2016; 8:705-718. [PMID: 27858519 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2016.1261789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Most fungi are capable of disseminating into the central nervous system (CNS) commonly being observed in immunocompromised hosts. Microglia play a critical role in responding to these infections regulating inflammatory processes proficient at controlling CNS colonization by these eukaryotic microorganisms. Nonetheless, it is this inflammatory state that paradoxically yields cerebral mycotic meningoencephalitis and abscess formation. As peripheral macrophages and fungi have been investigated aiding our understanding of peripheral disease, ascertaining the key interactions between fungi and microglia may uncover greater abilities to treat invasive fungal infections of the brain. Here, we present the current knowledge of microglial physiology. Due to the existing literature, we have described to greater extent the opportunistic mycotic interactions with these surveillance cells of the CNS, highlighting the need for greater efforts to study other cerebral fungal infections such as those caused by geographically restricted dimorphic and rare fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- George W Koutsouras
- a Department of Biomedical Sciences , NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York Institute of Technology , Old Westbury , NY , USA
| | - Raddy L Ramos
- a Department of Biomedical Sciences , NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York Institute of Technology , Old Westbury , NY , USA
| | - Luis R Martinez
- a Department of Biomedical Sciences , NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York Institute of Technology , Old Westbury , NY , USA
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30
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Li SS, Mody CH. NKp46 Is an NK Cell Fungicidal Pattern Recognition Receptor. Trends Microbiol 2016; 24:929-931. [PMID: 27816327 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2016.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are an important contributor to innate host defense because of their role in direct microbial recognition and killing. Vitenshtein et al. make an important contribution by demonstrating that NK cells kill Candida glabrata using the NK activating receptor, NKp46, which recognizes the Epa adhesins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Shun Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada; The Calvin, Phoebe and Joan Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
| | - Christopher H Mody
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada; The Calvin, Phoebe and Joan Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
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31
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Hefter M, Lother J, Weiß E, Schmitt AL, Fliesser M, Einsele H, Loeffler J. Human primary myeloid dendritic cells interact with the opportunistic fungal pathogenAspergillus fumigatusvia the C-type lectin receptor Dectin-1. Med Mycol 2016; 55:573-578. [DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myw105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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32
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Krüppel-like Factor 4 modulates interleukin-6 release in human dendritic cells after in vitro stimulation with Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida albicans. Sci Rep 2016; 6:27990. [PMID: 27346433 PMCID: PMC4921831 DOI: 10.1038/srep27990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are associated with high mortality rates and are mostly caused by the opportunistic fungi Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida albicans. Immune responses against these fungi are still not fully understood. Dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial players in initiating innate and adaptive immune responses against fungal infections. The immunomodulatory effects of fungi were compared to the bacterial stimulus LPS to determine key players in the immune response to fungal infections. A genome wide study of the gene regulation of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) confronted with A. fumigatus, C. albicans or LPS was performed and Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) was identified as the only transcription factor that was down-regulated in DCs by both fungi but induced by stimulation with LPS. Downstream analysis demonstrated the influence of KLF4 on the interleukine-6 expression in human DCs. Furthermore, KLF4 regulation was shown to be dependent on pattern recognition receptor ligation. Therefore KLF4 was identified as a controlling element in the IL-6 immune response with a unique expression pattern comparing fungal and LPS stimulation.
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33
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Dix A, Czakai K, Springer J, Fliesser M, Bonin M, Guthke R, Schmitt AL, Einsele H, Linde J, Löffler J. Genome-Wide Expression Profiling Reveals S100B as Biomarker for Invasive Aspergillosis. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:320. [PMID: 27047454 PMCID: PMC4800190 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.00320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a devastating opportunistic infection and its treatment constitutes a considerable burden for the health care system. Immunocompromised patients are at an increased risk for IA, which is mainly caused by the species Aspergillus fumigatus. An early and reliable diagnosis is required to initiate the appropriate antifungal therapy. However, diagnostic sensitivity and accuracy still needs to be improved, which can be achieved at least partly by the definition of new biomarkers. Besides the direct detection of the pathogen by the current diagnostic methods, the analysis of the host response is a promising strategy toward this aim. Following this approach, we sought to identify new biomarkers for IA. For this purpose, we analyzed gene expression profiles of hematological patients and compared profiles of patients suffering from IA with non-IA patients. Based on microarray data, we applied a comprehensive feature selection using a random forest classifier. We identified the transcript coding for the S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B) as a potential new biomarker for the diagnosis of IA. Considering the expression of this gene, we were able to classify samples from patients with IA with 82.3% sensitivity and 74.6% specificity. Moreover, we validated the expression of S100B in a real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay and we also found a down-regulation of S100B in A. fumigatus stimulated DCs. An influence on the IL1B and CXCL1 downstream levels was demonstrated by this S100B knockdown. In conclusion, this study covers an effective feature selection revealing a key regulator of the human immune response during IA. S100B may represent an additional diagnostic marker that in combination with the established techniques may improve the accuracy of IA diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Dix
- Systems Biology / Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology Hans-Knöll-Institute Jena, Germany
| | - Kristin Czakai
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jan Springer
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II Würzburg, Germany
| | - Mirjam Fliesser
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Bonin
- IMGM Laboratories Martinsried, Germany (Formerly Department of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany)
| | - Reinhard Guthke
- Systems Biology / Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology Hans-Knöll-Institute Jena, Germany
| | - Anna L Schmitt
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Einsele
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jörg Linde
- Systems Biology / Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology Hans-Knöll-Institute Jena, Germany
| | - Jürgen Löffler
- University Hospital Würzburg, Medical Hospital II Würzburg, Germany
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34
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Ketter P, Yu JJ, Cap AP, Forsthuber T, Arulanandam B. Pentraxin 3: an immune modulator of infection and useful marker for disease severity assessment in sepsis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2016; 12:501-7. [PMID: 26982005 DOI: 10.1586/1744666x.2016.1166957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The acute phase protein pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is a pattern recognition receptor involved in regulation of the host immune response. This relatively newly discovered member of the pentraxin superfamily elicits both immunostimulatory and immunoregulatory functions preventing autoimmune pathology and orchestrated clearance of pathogens through opsonization of damage- and pathogen-associated molecular patterns (DAMP/PAMP). Thus, PTX3 has been described as a possible evolutionary precursor to immunoglobulins. While shown to provide protection against specific bacterial and fungal pathogens, persistent elevation of PTX3 levels following initial onset of infection appear to predict poor patient outcome and may contribute to disease sequelae such as tissue damage and coagulopathy. Measurement of PTX3 following onset of sepsis may improve patient risk assessment and thus be useful in guiding subsequent therapeutic interventions including steroidal anti-inflammatory and altered antibiotic therapies. In this review, we summarize the role of PTX3 in inflammatory syndromes and its utility as a marker of sepsis disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Ketter
- a Blood and Coagulation Program , United States Army Institute of Surgical Research , JBSA-Fort Sam Houston , TX , USA
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- b Department of Biology , University of Texas at San Antonio , San Antonio , TX , USA
| | - Andrew P Cap
- a Blood and Coagulation Program , United States Army Institute of Surgical Research , JBSA-Fort Sam Houston , TX , USA
| | - Thomas Forsthuber
- b Department of Biology , University of Texas at San Antonio , San Antonio , TX , USA
| | - Bernard Arulanandam
- b Department of Biology , University of Texas at San Antonio , San Antonio , TX , USA
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35
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Fliesser M, Wallstein M, Kurzai O, Einsele H, Löffler J. Hypoxia attenuates anti-Aspergillus fumigatusimmune responses initiated by human dendritic cells. Mycoses 2016; 59:503-8. [DOI: 10.1111/myc.12498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam Fliesser
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II; University Hospital; Wuerzburg Germany
| | - Marion Wallstein
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II; University Hospital; Wuerzburg Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Septomics Research Centre; Friedrich Schiller University and Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knoell Institute; Jena Germany
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II; University Hospital; Wuerzburg Germany
| | - Jürgen Löffler
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II; University Hospital; Wuerzburg Germany
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36
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Espinosa V, Rivera A. First Line of Defense: Innate Cell-Mediated Control of Pulmonary Aspergillosis. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:272. [PMID: 26973640 PMCID: PMC4776213 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.00272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycotic infections and their effect on the human condition have been widely overlooked and poorly surveilled by many health organizations even though mortality rates have increased in recent years. The increased usage of immunosuppressive and myeloablative therapies for the treatment of malignant as well as non-malignant diseases has contributed significantly to the increased incidence of fungal infections. Invasive fungal infections have been found to be responsible for at least 1.5 million deaths worldwide. About 90% of these deaths can be attributed to Cryptococcus, Candida, Aspergillus, and Pneumocystis. A better understanding of how the host immune system contains fungal infection is likely to facilitate the development of much needed novel antifungal therapies. Innate cells are responsible for the rapid recognition and containment of fungal infections and have been found to play essential roles in defense against multiple fungal pathogens. In this review we summarize our current understanding of host-fungi interactions with a focus on mechanisms of innate cell-mediated recognition and control of pulmonary aspergillosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Espinosa
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers-The State University of New JerseyNewark, NJ, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers-The State University of New JerseyNewark, NJ, USA
| | - Amariliz Rivera
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers-The State University of New JerseyNewark, NJ, USA; Department of Pediatrics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers-The State University of New JerseyNewark, NJ, USA
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Allergic Inflammation in Aspergillus fumigatus-Induced Fungal Asthma. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2015; 15:59. [PMID: 26288940 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-015-0561-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Although fungi are pervasive in many environments, few cause disease in humans. Of these, Aspergillus fumigatus is particularly well suited to be a pathogen of the human lung. Its physical and biological characteristics combine to provide an organism that can cause tremendous morbidity and high mortality if left unchecked. Luckily, that is rarely the case. However, repeated exposure to inhaled A. fumigatus spores often results in an immune response that carries significant immunopathology, exacerbating asthma and changing the structure of the lung with chronic impacts to pulmonary function. This review focuses on the current understanding of the mechanisms that are associated with fungal exposure, sensitization, and infection in asthmatics, as well as the function of various inflammatory cells associated with severe asthma with fungal sensitization.
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Ravikumar S, Win MS, Chai LYA. Optimizing Outcomes in Immunocompromised Hosts: Understanding the Role of Immunotherapy in Invasive Fungal Diseases. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:1322. [PMID: 26635780 PMCID: PMC4660869 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.01322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A major global concern is the emergence and spread of systemic life-threatening fungal infections in critically ill patients. The increase in invasive fungal infections, caused most commonly by Candida and Aspergillus species, occurs in patients with impaired defenses due to a number of reasons such as underlying disease, the use of chemotherapeutic and immunosuppressive agents, broad-spectrum antibiotics, prosthetic devices and grafts, burns, neutropenia and HIV infection. The high morbidity and mortality associated with these infections is compounded by the limited therapeutic options and the emergence of drug resistant fungi. Hence, creative approaches to bridge the significant gap in antifungal drug development needs to be explored. Here, we review the potential anti-fungal targets for patient-centered therapies and immune-enhancing strategies for the prevention and treatment of invasive fungal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharada Ravikumar
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Medicine Cluster, National University Health System , Singapore, Singapore ; Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore , Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mar Soe Win
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Medicine Cluster, National University Health System , Singapore, Singapore ; Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore , Singapore, Singapore
| | - Louis Yi Ann Chai
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Medicine Cluster, National University Health System , Singapore, Singapore ; Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore , Singapore, Singapore
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Medici NP, Del Poeta M. New insights on the development of fungal vaccines: from immunity to recent challenges. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2015; 110:966-73. [PMID: 26602871 PMCID: PMC4708015 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760150335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are emerging as a major problem in part due to high mortality associated with systemic infections, especially in the case of immunocompromised patients. With the development of new treatments for diseases such as cancer and the acquired immune deficiency syndrome pandemic, the number of immunosuppressed patients has increased and, as a consequence, also the number of invasive fungal infections has increased. Several studies have proposed new strategies for the development of effective fungal vaccines. In addition, better understanding of how the immune system works against fungal pathogens has improved the further development of these new vaccination strategies. As a result, some fungal vaccines have advanced through clinical trials. However, there are still many challenges that prevent the clinical development of fungal vaccines that can efficiently immunise subjects at risk of developing invasive fungal infections. In this review, we will discuss these new vaccination strategies and the challenges that they present. In the future with proper investments, fungal vaccines may soon become a reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha P Medici
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Maurizio Del Poeta
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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Fliesser M, Morton CO, Bonin M, Ebel F, Hünniger K, Kurzai O, Einsele H, Löffler J. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α modulates metabolic activity and cytokine release in anti-Aspergillus fumigatus immune responses initiated by human dendritic cells. Int J Med Microbiol 2015; 305:865-73. [PMID: 26387061 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2015.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The mold Aspergillus fumigatus causes life-threatening infections in immunocompromised patients. Over the past decade, new findings in research have improved our understanding of A. fumigatus-host interactions, including the recent identification of myeloid-expressed hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) as a relevant immune-modulating transcription factor and potential therapeutic target in anti-fungal defense. However, the function of HIF-1α signaling for human anti-A. fumigatus immunity is still poorly understood, including its role in dendritic cells (DCs), which are important regulators of anti-fungal immunity. This study investigated the functional relevance of HIF-1α in the anti-A. fumigatus immune response initiated by human DCs. Hypoxic cell culture conditions were included because hypoxic microenvironments occur during A. fumigatus infections and may influence the host immune response. HIF-1α was stabilized in DCs following stimulation with A. fumigatus under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. This stabilization was partially dependent on dectin-1, the major receptor for A. fumigatus on human DCs. Using siRNA-based HIF-1α silencing combined with genome-wide transcriptional analysis, a modulatory effect of HIF-1α on the anti-fungal immune response of human DCs was identified. Specifically, the difference in the transcriptomes of HIF-1α silenced and non-silenced DCs indicated that HIF-1α contributes to DC metabolism and cytokine release in response to A. fumigatus under normoxic as well as hypoxic conditions. This was confirmed by further down-stream analyses that included metabolite analysis and cytokine profiling of a time-course infection experiment. Thereby, this study revealed a so far undescribed functional relevance of HIF-1α in human DC responses against A. fumigatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam Fliesser
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, University Hospital, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Charles Oliver Morton
- University of Western Sydney, School of Science and Health, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia
| | - Michael Bonin
- Microarray Facility, University Hospital, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Frank Ebel
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwigs Maximilians University, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hünniger
- Septomics Research Centre, Friedrich Schiller University and Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Septomics Research Centre, Friedrich Schiller University and Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, University Hospital, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Löffler
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, University Hospital, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany.
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Margalit A, Kavanagh K. The innate immune response to Aspergillus fumigatus at the alveolar surface. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2015; 39:670-87. [PMID: 25934117 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuv018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is an ubiquitous, saprophytic mould that forms and releases airborne conidia which are inhaled by humans on a daily basis. When the immune system is compromised (e.g. immunosuppressive therapy prior to organ transplantation) or there is pre-existing pulmonary malfunction (e.g. asthma, cystic fibrosis, TB lesions), A. fumigatus exploits weaknesses in the host defenses which can result in the development of saphrophytic, allergic or invasive aspergillosis. If not effectively eliminated by the innate immune response, conidia germinate and form invasive hyphae which can penetrate pulmonary tissues. The innate immune response to A. fumigatus is stage-specific and various components of the host's defenses are recruited to challenge the different cellular forms of the pathogen. In immunocompetent hosts, anatomical barriers (e.g. the mucociliary elevator) and professional phagocytes such as alveolar macrophages (AM) and neutrophils prevent the development of aspergillosis by inhibiting the growth of conidia and hyphae. The recognition of inhaled conidia by AM leads to the intracellular degradation of the spores and the secretion of proinflammatory mediators which recruit neutrophils to assist in fungal clearance. During the later stages of infection, dendritic cells activate a protective A. fumigatus-specific adaptive immune response which is driven by Th1 CD4(+) T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anatte Margalit
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Kevin Kavanagh
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Co. Kildare, Ireland
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Amarsaikhan N, Templeton SP. Co-recognition of β-glucan and chitin and programming of adaptive immunity to Aspergillus fumigatus. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:344. [PMID: 25954267 PMCID: PMC4404911 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.00344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of fungal infections has increased concurrently with increases in immune suppressive therapies and susceptible individuals. Opportunistic fungal pathogens such as Aspergillus fumigatus may exhibit invasive growth and dissemination resulting in a high mortality rate. Herein, we discuss how immune sensing of germination directs innate immune responses and programs adaptive responses that could promote or impair immune protection during periods of heightened susceptibility. In infected individuals, Th1 responses are the most protective, while Th2 responses lead to poor disease outcomes. In particular, the roles of β-glucan and chitin co-recognition in shaping Th1- and Th2-type immunity to fungal infection are explored. We discuss how fungal responses to environmental stresses could result in decreased immune protection from infection, particularly in response to anti-fungal drugs that target β-glucan synthesis. Furthermore, we consider how experimental modulation of host-pathogen interactions might elucidate the mechanisms of protective and detrimental immunity and the potential of current and future studies to promote the development of improved treatments for patients that respond poorly to existing therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nansalmaa Amarsaikhan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine - Terre Haute , Terre Haute, IN, USA
| | - Steven P Templeton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine - Terre Haute , Terre Haute, IN, USA
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43
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Zhu W, Zhu N, Bai D, Miao J, Zou S. The crosstalk between Dectin1 and TLR4 via NF-κB subunits p65/RelB in mammary epithelial cells. Int Immunopharmacol 2014; 23:417-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2014.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Revised: 09/03/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Lother J, Breitschopf T, Krappmann S, Morton CO, Bouzani M, Kurzai O, Gunzer M, Hasenberg M, Einsele H, Loeffler J. Human dendritic cell subsets display distinct interactions with the pathogenic mould Aspergillus fumigatus. Int J Med Microbiol 2014; 304:1160-8. [PMID: 25200858 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2014.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2014] [Revised: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 08/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The mould Aspergillus fumigatus is primarily an opportunistic pathogen of immunocompromised patients. Once fungal spores have been inhaled they encounter cells of the innate immune system, which include dendritic cells (DCs). DCs are the key antigen-presenting cells of the immune system and distinct subtypes, which differ in terms of origin, morphology and function. This study has systematically compared the interactions between A. fumigatus and myeloid DCs (mDCs), plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) and monocyte-derived DCs (moDCs). Analyses were performed by time-lapse video microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, plating assays, flow cytometry, 25-plex ELISA and transwell assays. The three subsets of DCs displayed distinct responses to the fungus with mDCs and moDCs showing the greatest similarities. mDCs and moDCs both produced rough convolutions and occasionally phagocytic cups upon exposure to A. fumigatus whereas pDCs maintained a smooth appearance. Both mDCs and moDCs phagocytosed conidia and germ tubes, while pDCs did not phagocytose any fungi. Analysis of cytokine release and maturation markers revealed specific differences in pro- and anti-inflammatory patterns between the different DC subsets. These distinct characteristics between the DC subsets highlight their differences and suggest specific roles of moDCs, mDCs and pDCs during their interaction with A. fumigatus in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Lother
- Laboratory WÜ4i, Medical Clinic and Policlinic II, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tanja Breitschopf
- Laboratory WÜ4i, Medical Clinic and Policlinic II, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sven Krappmann
- Microbiology Institute - Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - C Oliver Morton
- University of Western Sydney, School of Science and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria Bouzani
- Laboratory WÜ4i, Medical Clinic and Policlinic II, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Septomics Research Center, Friedrich-Schiller-University and Leibniz-Institute for Natural Products Research and Infection Biology - Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Matthias Gunzer
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Imaging, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Mike Hasenberg
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Imaging, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Laboratory WÜ4i, Medical Clinic and Policlinic II, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Juergen Loeffler
- Laboratory WÜ4i, Medical Clinic and Policlinic II, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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Das Gupta M, Fliesser M, Springer J, Breitschopf T, Schlossnagel H, Schmitt AL, Kurzai O, Hünniger K, Einsele H, Löffler J. Aspergillus fumigatus induces microRNA-132 in human monocytes and dendritic cells. Int J Med Microbiol 2014; 304:592-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2014.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Revised: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/19/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Morton CO, Fliesser M, Dittrich M, Mueller T, Bauer R, Kneitz S, Hope W, Rogers TR, Einsele H, Loeffler J. Gene expression profiles of human dendritic cells interacting with Aspergillus fumigatus in a bilayer model of the alveolar epithelium/endothelium interface. PLoS One 2014; 9:e98279. [PMID: 24870357 PMCID: PMC4037227 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0098279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The initial stages of the interaction between the host and Aspergillus fumigatus at the alveolar surface of the human lung are critical in the establishment of aspergillosis. Using an in vitro bilayer model of the alveolus, including both the epithelium (human lung adenocarcinoma epithelial cell line, A549) and endothelium (human pulmonary artery epithelial cells, HPAEC) on transwell membranes, it was possible to closely replicate the in vivo conditions. Two distinct sub-groups of dendritic cells (DC), monocyte-derived DC (moDC) and myeloid DC (mDC), were included in the model to examine immune responses to fungal infection at the alveolar surface. RNA in high quantity and quality was extracted from the cell layers on the transwell membrane to allow gene expression analysis using tailored custom-made microarrays, containing probes for 117 immune-relevant genes. This microarray data indicated minimal induction of immune gene expression in A549 alveolar epithelial cells in response to germ tubes of A. fumigatus. In contrast, the addition of DC to the system greatly increased the number of differentially expressed immune genes. moDC exhibited increased expression of genes including CLEC7A, CD209 and CCL18 in the absence of A. fumigatus compared to mDC. In the presence of A. fumigatus, both DC subgroups exhibited up-regulation of genes identified in previous studies as being associated with the exposure of DC to A. fumigatus and exhibiting chemotactic properties for neutrophils, including CXCL2, CXCL5, CCL20, and IL1B. This model closely approximated the human alveolus allowing for an analysis of the host pathogen interface that complements existing animal models of IA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mirjam Fliesser
- Universität Wuerzburg, Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, WÜ4i, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Marcus Dittrich
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Mueller
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Ruth Bauer
- Universität Wuerzburg, Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, WÜ4i, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Kneitz
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - William Hope
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Richard Rogers
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Sir Patrick Research Laboratory, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Universität Wuerzburg, Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, WÜ4i, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Juergen Loeffler
- Universität Wuerzburg, Medizinische Klinik & Poliklinik II, WÜ4i, Wuerzburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Semmlinger A, Fliesser M, Waaga-Gasser AM, Dragan M, Morton CO, Einsele H, Loeffler J. Fever-range temperature modulates activation and function of human dendritic cells stimulated with the pathogenic mould Aspergillus fumigatus. Med Mycol 2014; 52:438-44. [PMID: 24713403 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myu005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In immunocompromised patients, invasive aspergillosis (IA) is the most frequent disease caused by the pathogenic mould Aspergillus fumigatus. Fever is one of the most common yet nonspecific clinical symptoms of IA. To evaluate the role of hyperthermia in the innate immune response to A. fumigatus in vitro, human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) were stimulated with germ tubes of A. fumigatus or the fungal cell wall component zymosan at 37°C or 40°C, followed by characterization of specific DC functions. While maturation of DCs was enhanced and DC phagocytic capacity was reduced at 40°C, we observed that DC viability and cytokine release were unaffected. Thus, our results suggest that hyperthermia has substantial impacts on DC function in vitro, which might also influence the course and outcome of IA in immunocompromised patients.
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Stimulating surface molecules, Th1-polarizing cytokines, proven trafficking--a new protocol for the generation of clinical-grade dendritic cells. Cytotherapy 2013; 15:492-506. [PMID: 23480952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2012.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2012] [Revised: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Dendritic cells (DC) have been vigorously investigated as an immunological basis for therapeutic vaccination against cancer and infections, even among patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. METHODS Effective induction of cell-mediated immunity strongly depends on the ability of DC to (i) migrate to the draining lymphoid organs mediated by chemokine receptors, (ii) prime T cells through high expression of costimulatory molecules and major histocompatibility complexes and (iii) secret Th1-polarizing cytokines such as Interleukin-12 (IL-12). However, there is no protocol to generate fully matured and functional DC according to methodical requirements of current good manufacturing practice (CGMP) guidelines. RESULTS We established a protocol conforming to CGMP standards that permits the generation of fully matured and functional DC on the basis of cell culture in adherence bags with the use of serum-free media with a maturation cocktail, containing tumor necrosis factor-alpha/Interferon-alpha/polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid. Our DC superiorly display three critical features for an effective induction of cell-mediated immunity without evidence of exhaustion, along with its ability to prime infectious or tumor-specific T cells in a short-term cell culture. CONCLUSIONS Our newly developed protocol offers an attractive method to produce fully matured Th1-polarizing DC with proven migratory and stimulatory capacity for any clinical application according to CGMP standards.
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Gresnigt MS, Becker KL, Smeekens SP, Jacobs CWM, Joosten LAB, van der Meer JWM, Netea MG, van de Veerdonk FL. Aspergillus fumigatus-induced IL-22 is not restricted to a specific Th cell subset and is dependent on complement receptor 3. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2013; 190:5629-39. [PMID: 23645883 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1202601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Th cell responses induced by Aspergillus fumigatus have been extensively investigated in mouse models. However, the requirements for differentiation and the characteristics of A. fumigatus-induced human Th cell subsets remain poorly defined. We demonstrate that A. fumigatus induces Th1 and Th17 subsets in human PBMCs. Moreover, we show that the cytokine IL-22 is not restricted to a specific Th subset, in contrast to IL-17A. The pattern recognition and cytokine pathways that skew these Aspergillus-induced Th cell responses are TLR4- and IL-1-, IL-23-, and TNF-α-dependent. These pathways are of specific importance for production of the cytokines IL-17A and IL-22. Additionally, our data reveal that the dectin-1/Syk pathway is redundant and that TLR2 has an inhibitory effect on Aspergillus-induced IL-17A and IL-22 production. Notably, blocking complement receptor (CR)3 significantly reduced Aspergillus-induced Th1 and Th17 responses, and this was independent on the activation of the complement system. CR3 is a known receptor for β-1,3-glucan; however, blocking CR3 had significant effects on Th cell responses induced by heat-killed Aspergillus conidia, which have minimal β-glucan expression on their cell surface. Collectively, these data characterize the human Th cell subsets induced by Aspergillus, demonstrate that the capability to produce IL-22 is not restricted to a specific T cell subset, and provide evidence that CR3 might play a significant role in the adaptive host defense against Aspergillus, although the ligand and its action remain to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Gresnigt
- Department of Medicine, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Immunological aspects of Candida and Aspergillus systemic fungal infections. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2013; 2013:102934. [PMID: 23401680 PMCID: PMC3564277 DOI: 10.1155/2013/102934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Accepted: 01/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) have a high risk of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) even after neutrophil regeneration. Immunological aspects might play a very important role in the IFI development in these patients. Some data are available supporting the identification of high-risk patients with IFI for example patients receiving stem cells from TLR4 haplotype S4 positive donors. Key defense mechanisms against IFI include the activation of neutrophils, the phagocytosis of germinating conidia by dendritic cells, and the fight of the cells of the innate immunity such as monocytes and natural killer cells against germlings and hyphae. Furthermore, immunosuppressive drugs interact with immune effector cells influencing the specific fungal immune defense and antimycotic drugs might interact with immune response. Based on the current knowledge on immunological mechanism in Aspergillus fumigatus, the first approaches of an immunotherapy using human T cells are in development. This might be an option for the future of aspergillosis patients having a poor prognosis with conventional treatment.
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