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Angers I, Akik W, Beauchamp A, King IL, Lands LC, Qureshi ST. Card9 Broadly Regulates Host Immunity against Experimental Pulmonary Cryptococcus neoformans 52D Infection. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:434. [PMID: 38921420 PMCID: PMC11204891 DOI: 10.3390/jof10060434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitous soil-associated fungus Cryptococcus neoformans causes pneumonia that may progress to fatal meningitis. Recognition of fungal cell walls by C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) has been shown to trigger the host immune response. Caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (Card9) is an intracellular adaptor that is downstream of several CLRs. Experimental studies have implicated Card9 in host resistance against C. neoformans; however, the mechanisms that are associated with susceptibility to progressive infection are not well defined. To further characterize the role of Card9 in cryptococcal infection, Card9em1Sq mutant mice that lack exon 2 of the Card9 gene on the Balb/c genetic background were created using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing technology and intratracheally infected with C. neoformans 52D. Card9em1Sq mice had significantly higher lung and brain fungal burdens and shorter survival after C. neoformans 52D infection. Susceptibility of Card9em1Sq mice was associated with lower pulmonary cytokine and chemokine production, as well as reduced numbers of CD4+ lymphocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, and dendritic cells in the lungs. Histological analysis and intracellular cytokine staining of CD4+ T cells demonstrated a Th2 pattern of immunity in Card9em1Sq mice. These findings demonstrate that Card9 broadly regulates the host inflammatory and immune response to experimental pulmonary infection with a moderately virulent strain of C. neoformans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Angers
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (I.A.); (W.A.); (A.B.); (I.L.K.); (L.C.L.)
| | - Wided Akik
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (I.A.); (W.A.); (A.B.); (I.L.K.); (L.C.L.)
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Annie Beauchamp
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (I.A.); (W.A.); (A.B.); (I.L.K.); (L.C.L.)
| | - Irah L. King
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (I.A.); (W.A.); (A.B.); (I.L.K.); (L.C.L.)
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Larry C. Lands
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (I.A.); (W.A.); (A.B.); (I.L.K.); (L.C.L.)
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Salman T. Qureshi
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (I.A.); (W.A.); (A.B.); (I.L.K.); (L.C.L.)
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
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2
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Ding M, Nielsen K. Inbred Mouse Models in Cryptococcus neoformans Research. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:426. [PMID: 38921412 PMCID: PMC11204852 DOI: 10.3390/jof10060426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Animal models are frequently used as surrogates to understand human disease. In the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus species complex, several variations of a mouse model of disease were developed that recapitulate different aspects of human disease. These mouse models have been implemented using various inbred and outbred mouse backgrounds, many of which have genetic differences that can influence host response and disease outcome. In this review, we will discuss the most commonly used inbred mouse backgrounds in C. neoformans infection models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kirsten Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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3
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Meya DB, Williamson PR. Cryptococcal Disease in Diverse Hosts. N Engl J Med 2024; 390:1597-1610. [PMID: 38692293 DOI: 10.1056/nejmra2311057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- David B Meya
- From the Infectious Diseases Institute and the Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda (D.B.M.); the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (D.B.M.); and the Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (P.R.W.)
| | - Peter R Williamson
- From the Infectious Diseases Institute and the Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda (D.B.M.); the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (D.B.M.); and the Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (P.R.W.)
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4
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McHale TC, Boulware DR, Kasibante J, Ssebambulidde K, Skipper CP, Abassi M. Diagnosis and management of cryptococcal meningitis in HIV-infected adults. Clin Microbiol Rev 2023; 36:e0015622. [PMID: 38014977 PMCID: PMC10870732 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00156-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, especially in people with advanced HIV disease. Cryptococcal meningitis is responsible for nearly 20% of all deaths related to advanced HIV disease, with the burden of disease predominantly experienced by people in resource-limited countries. Major advancements in diagnostics have introduced low-cost, easy-to-use antigen tests with remarkably high sensitivity and specificity. These tests have led to improved diagnostic accuracy and are essential for screening campaigns to reduce the burden of cryptococcosis. In the last 5 years, several high-quality, multisite clinical trials have led to innovations in therapeutics that have allowed for simplified regimens, which are better tolerated and result in less intensive monitoring and management of medication adverse effects. One trial found that a shorter, 7-day course of deoxycholate amphotericin B is as effective as the longer 14-day course and that flucytosine is an essential partner drug for reducing mortality in the acute phase of disease. Single-dose liposomal amphotericin B has also been found to be as effective as a 7-day course of deoxycholate amphotericin B. These findings have allowed for simpler and safer treatment regimens that also reduce the burden on the healthcare system. This review provides a detailed discussion of the latest evidence guiding the clinical management and special circumstances that make cryptococcal meningitis uniquely difficult to treat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C. McHale
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - David R. Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - John Kasibante
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Caleb P. Skipper
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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5
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Wasserman S, Harrison TS. Tuberculous Meningitis - New Approaches Needed. N Engl J Med 2023; 389:1425-1426. [PMID: 37819958 DOI: 10.1056/nejme2310262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sean Wasserman
- From the Institute for Infection and Immunity, St. George's, University of London, London
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- From the Institute for Infection and Immunity, St. George's, University of London, London
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6
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Yoon H, Nakouzi AS, Duong VA, Hung LQ, Binh TQ, Tung NLN, Day JN, Pirofski LA. Shared and unique antibody and B cell profiles in HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals with cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. Med Mycol 2023; 61:myad102. [PMID: 37771088 PMCID: PMC10599321 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad102] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Host non-T cell markers to aid in the diagnosis of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) have not been identified. In this case-control study, we characterized antibody and B cell profiles in HIV-negative and HIV-positive Vietnamese individuals of the Kinh ethnicity recently diagnosed with CM and controls. The study included 60 HIV-negative with no known immunocompromising condition and 60 HIV-positive individuals, with 30 CM cases and 30 controls in each group. Participants were matched by age, sex, HIV serostatus, and CD4 count in the HIV-positive group. Plasma immunoglobulin (Ig) levels, including IgG1, IgG2, IgM, and IgA, Cryptococcus spp. glucuronoxylomannan (GXM)- and laminarin (branched ${\rm{\beta }}$-[1-3]-glucan)-binding IgG, IgM, IgA levels, and peripheral blood B cell subsets were measured. Logistic regression, principal component, and mediation analyses were conducted to assess associations between antibody, B cell levels, and CM. The results showed that GXM-IgG levels were higher and IgG1 and IgG2 were lower in CM cases than controls, regardless of HIV status. In HIV-negative individuals, IgG2 mediated an inverse association between CD19+CD27+CD43+CD5- (B-1b-like) cells and CM. In HIV-positive individuals, lower levels of IgA, laminarin-IgA, and CD19+CD27+IgM+IgD- (IgM+ memory B) cells were each associated with CM. The shared and distinct antibody and B cell profiles identified in HIV-negative and HIV-positive CM cases may inform the identification of non-T-cell markers of CM risk or unsuspected disease, particularly in HIV-negative individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunah Yoon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
| | - Antonio S Nakouzi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
| | - Van Anh Duong
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, 764 Vo Van Kiet, Ho Chi Minh City Q5, Vietnam
| | - Le Quoc Hung
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tran Quang Binh
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Le Nhu Tung
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, 764 Vo Van Kiet, Ho Chi Minh City Q5, Vietnam
| | - Jeremy N Day
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, 764 Vo Van Kiet, Ho Chi Minh City Q5, Vietnam
- Department of Microbiology and Infection, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Liise-anne Pirofski
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
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7
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Jackson KM, Ding M, Nielsen K. Importance of Clinical Isolates in Cryptococcus neoformans Research. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:364. [PMID: 36983532 PMCID: PMC10056780 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The human pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus neoformans is a global health concern. Previous research in the field has focused on studies using reference strains to identify virulence factors, generate mutant libraries, define genomic structures, and perform functional studies. In this review, we discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using reference strains to study C. neoformans, describe how the study of clinical isolates has expanded our understanding of pathogenesis, and highlight how studies using clinical isolates can further develop our understanding of the host-pathogen interaction during C. neoformans infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kirsten Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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8
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Panda AK, Hazra S, Anthony A, Kushwaha S. Cryptococcal infection causing longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis in an immunocompetent individual: Case report and literature review. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1171572. [PMID: 37122302 PMCID: PMC10133556 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1171572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal CNS infections in immunocompetent individuals are occasionally reported in literature. The spinal manifestations of cryptococcal CNS infections are epidural abscess, chronic arachnoiditis, intramedullary granuloma, myelitis and vasculitis. We report a rare case of CNS cryptococcal infection presenting as a longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) in an immunocompetent male. This report highlights cryptococcus as an important etiology among infectious causes in acute LETM patients in-spite of the immunocompetent status of the patient and the utility of CRAG (cryptococcal antigen) for diagnosis in such patients. We also present a literature review of all reported cases of cryptococcal myelitis.
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9
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Mo L, Su G, Su H, Huang W, Luo X, Tao C. Effect of IL-10 in the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS patients with cryptococcal meningitis. Mol Cell Biochem 2023; 478:1-11. [PMID: 35708865 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04488-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the role of IL-10 in the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS patients with cryptococcal meningitis (CM).Patients were assigned into 4 groups (n = 40/group): group A (HIV/AIDS with CM), group B (HIV/AIDS with tuberculosis), group C (HIV/AIDS), and group D (CM). The levels of IL-10 and associated indicators were measured and the correlations were analyzed by Pearson correlation and partial correlation method. In plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), no significant difference was observed on IL-10 level between group A and other groups (P > 0.050). R values for IL-10 and relevant indicators in blood were as follows (P < 0.050): group A, IFN-γ (-0.377), IL-12 (0.743), IL-4 (0.881), and IL-6 (0.843); group B, IL-12 (0.740), IL-4 (0.573), and IL-6 (0.900); group C, IL-12 (0.402) and IL-4 (0.896); group D, IL-12 (0.575), IL-4 (0.852), and CD8 (0.325). R values for IL-10 and related indicators in CSF were as follows (P < 0.050): group A, TNF-α (0.664), IL-4 (0.852), white blood cells (WBCs, 0.321) and total protein (TP, 0.330); group B, TNF-α (0.566), IL-4 (0.702), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH, 0.382); group D, IFN-γ (0.807) and IL-4 (0.441). IL-10 level was positively correlated with IL-4, IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, WBC, and TP in blood or CSF, and negatively correlated with IFN-γ in blood, suggesting that IL-10 affected both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory activities in the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS with CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lida Mo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanning Fourth People's Hospital, Guangxi AIDS Clinical Treatment Center (Nanning), Nanning Infectious Disease Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530023, China
| | - Guosheng Su
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Wuhou District, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, People's Hospital of Guangxi-ASEAN Economic and Technological Development Zone, The Tenth People's Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, 530105, Guangxi, China
| | - Hanzhen Su
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanning Fourth People's Hospital, Guangxi AIDS Clinical Treatment Center (Nanning), Nanning Infectious Disease Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530023, China
| | - Wanhong Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanning Fourth People's Hospital, Guangxi AIDS Clinical Treatment Center (Nanning), Nanning Infectious Disease Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530023, China
| | - Xiaolu Luo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanning Fourth People's Hospital, Guangxi AIDS Clinical Treatment Center (Nanning), Nanning Infectious Disease Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530023, China.
| | - Chuanmin Tao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Wuhou District, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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Skipper CP, Hullsiek KH, Stadelman A, Williams DA, Ssebambulidde K, Okafor E, Tugume L, Nuwagira E, Akampurira A, Musubire AK, Abassi M, Muzoora C, Rhein J, Boulware DR, Meya DB. Sterile Cerebrospinal Fluid Culture at Cryptococcal Meningitis Diagnosis Is Associated with High Mortality. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 9:46. [PMID: 36675867 PMCID: PMC9866844 DOI: 10.3390/jof9010046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus is the leading cause of AIDS-related meningitis in sub-Saharan Africa. The clinical implications of a sterile cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture among individuals diagnosed with cryptococcal meningitis using CSF cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) are unclear. We prospectively enrolled 765 HIV-positive Ugandans with first-episode cryptococcal meningitis from November 2010 to May 2017. All persons were treated with amphotericin-based induction therapy. We grouped participants by tertile of baseline CSF quantitative Cryptococcus culture burden and compared clinical characteristics, CSF immune profiles, and 18-week mortality. We found 55 (7%) CSF CrAg-positive participants with sterile CSF cultures. Compared to the non-sterile groups, participants with sterile CSF cultures had higher CD4 counts, lower CSF opening pressures, and were more frequently receiving ART. By 18 weeks, 47% [26/55] died in the sterile culture group versus 35% [83/235] in the low culture tertile, 46% [107/234] in the middle tertile, and 56% [135/241] in the high tertile (p < 0.001). The sterile group had higher levels of CSF interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), IFN-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, G-CSF, GM-CSF, and chemokine CXCL2 compared with non-sterile groups. Despite persons with sterile CSF cultures having higher CD4 counts, lower CSF opening pressures, and CSF cytokine profiles associated with better Cryptococcus control (e.g., IFN-γ predominant), mortality was similar to those with higher fungal burdens. This unexpected finding challenges the traditional paradigm that increasing CSF fungal burdens are associated with increased mortality but is consistent with a damage-response framework model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb P Skipper
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | | | - Anna Stadelman
- School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Darlisha A Williams
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | | | - Elizabeth Okafor
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - Edwin Nuwagira
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara 1410, Uganda
| | - Andrew Akampurira
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - Abdu K Musubire
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - Conrad Muzoora
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara 1410, Uganda
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - David R Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - David B Meya
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
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11
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Cryptococcal Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome: From Clinical Studies to Animal Experiments. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122419. [PMID: 36557672 PMCID: PMC9780901 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is an encapsulated pathogenic fungus that initially infects the lung but can migrate to the central nervous system (CNS), resulting in meningoencephalitis. The organism causes the CNS infection primarily in immunocompromised individuals including HIV/AIDS patients, but also, rarely, in immunocompetent individuals. In HIV/AIDS patients, limited inflammation in the CNS, due to impaired cellular immunity, cannot efficiently clear a C. neoformans infection. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can rapidly restore cellular immunity in HIV/AIDS patients. Paradoxically, ART induces an exaggerated inflammatory response, termed immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), in some HIV/AIDS patients co-infected with C. neoformans. A similar excessive inflammation, referred to as post-infectious inflammatory response syndrome (PIIRS), is also frequently seen in previously healthy individuals suffering from cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. Cryptococcal IRIS and PIIRS are life-threatening complications that kill up to one-third of affected people. In this review, we summarize the inflammatory responses in the CNS during HIV-associated cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. We overview the current understanding of cryptococcal IRIS developed in HIV/AIDS patients and cryptococcal PIIRS occurring in HIV-uninfected individuals. We also describe currently available animal models that closely mimic aspects of cryptococcal IRIS observed in HIV/AIDS patients.
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12
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Li S, Yang X, Moog C, Wu H, Su B, Zhang T. Neglected mycobiome in HIV infection: Alterations, common fungal diseases and antifungal immunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1015775. [PMID: 36439143 PMCID: PMC9684632 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1015775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection might have effects on both the human bacteriome and mycobiome. Although many studies have focused on alteration of the bacteriome in HIV infection, only a handful of studies have also characterized the composition of the mycobiome in HIV-infected individuals. Studies have shown that compromised immunity in HIV infection might contribute to the development of opportunistic fungal infections. Despite effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), opportunistic fungal infections continue to be a major cause of HIV-related mortality. Human immune responses are known to play a critical role in controlling fungal infections. However, the effect of HIV infection on innate and adaptive antifungal immunity remains unclear. Here, we review recent advances in understanding of the fungal microbiota composition and common fungal diseases in the setting of HIV. Moreover, we discuss innate and adaptive antifungal immunity in HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory for HIV/AIDS Research, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Sino-French Joint Laboratory for Research on Humoral Immune Response to HIV Infection, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaodong Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for HIV/AIDS Research, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Sino-French Joint Laboratory for Research on Humoral Immune Response to HIV Infection, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Christiane Moog
- Laboratoire d’ImmunoRhumatologie Moléculaire, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM) UMR_S 1109, Institut thématique interdisciplinaire (ITI) de Médecine de Précision de Strasbourg, Transplantex NG, Faculté de Médecine, Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire OMICARE, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Vaccine Research Institute (VRI), Créteil, France
| | - Hao Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for HIV/AIDS Research, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Sino-French Joint Laboratory for Research on Humoral Immune Response to HIV Infection, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Su
- Beijing Key Laboratory for HIV/AIDS Research, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Sino-French Joint Laboratory for Research on Humoral Immune Response to HIV Infection, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for HIV/AIDS Research, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Sino-French Joint Laboratory for Research on Humoral Immune Response to HIV Infection, Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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13
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Case report: a special case of cryptococcal infection-related inflammatory syndrome in a non-HIV infected and non-transplant patient. BMC Neurol 2022; 22:247. [PMID: 35794548 PMCID: PMC9258111 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-022-02773-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) is a severe infection of central nervous system with high mortality and morbidity. Infection-related inflammatory syndrome is a rare complication of CM. Herein, we report a case of CM complicated by infection-related inflammatory syndrome. Case presentation A 42-year-old man with chronic hepatitis B presented with a 3-day history of aphasia and left hemiparesis at an outside medical facility. The brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed symmetric and confluent hyperintense signal abnormalities mainly located in the basal ganglia, internal capsule, external capsule, periventricular, corona radiata, frontal and temporal lobes. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examinations revealed elevated leukocyte and protein. India ink staining was positive for Cryptococcus. CSF culture and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) confirmed Cryptococcus neoformans. Initial response was observed with intravenous fluconazole (400 mg per day). However, 11 days later, he developed impaired consciousness and incontinence of urine and feces. A repeat brain MRI showed the lesions were progressive and enlarged. The patient was referred to our department at this point of time. Repeat CSF analysis (India ink staining, culture and mNGS) re-confirmed Cryptococcus. However, clinical worsening after initial improvement, laboratory examinations and brain MRI findings suggested a diagnosis of infection-related inflammatory syndrome. Therefore, a combination of corticosteroids and antifungal therapy was initiated. At follow-up, a complete neurological recovery without any relapse was documented. The repeat brain MRI showed complete resolution of the previous lesions. Conclusions This case demonstrated that cryptococcal inflammatory syndromes must be suspected in cases of CM if an otherwise unexplained clinical deterioration is observed after initial recovery. The same can happen even before the primary infection is controlled. Thus, timely identification and prompt treatment is vital to reduce the mortality and disability of CM. The administration of corticosteroids in combination with antifungal therapy is an effective strategy in such cases. Graphical abstract Clinical course and treatment process of the patient. Hemiparalysis and aphasia improved after the initiation of antifungal treatment. However, the patient developed impaired consciousness companied by deterioration of brain MRI findings. He was treated with adjunctive glucocorticoid taper therapy consisting of dexamethasone (20 mg/day, intravenously) for 1 week followed by oral prednisone 1 mg/kg/day, tapered based on clinical and radiological response, along with amphotericin B (0.6 mg/kg/day, intravenously), voriconazole (400 mg/day in 2 divided doses, intravenously), and 5-flucytosine (100 mg/kg/day in 4 divided doses, orally). Two weeks later, his symptoms improved significantly. After discharge, he began oral voriconazole for consolidation and maintenance therapy for 8 weeks and 9 months respectively. He recovered without any neurological sequelae at 6-month follow-up. Note: MRI = magnetic resonance imaging.![]() Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12883-022-02773-4.
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14
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Liu J, Liu J, Qin BE, Yao S, Wang A, Yang L, Su Z, Xu X, Jiang Y, Peng F. Post-Infectious Inflammatory Response Syndrome in an HIV-Negative Immunocompetent Elderly Patient With Cryptococcal Meningitis: A Case Report and Literature Review. Front Immunol 2022; 13:823021. [PMID: 35281037 PMCID: PMC8904365 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.823021] [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: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a previously healthy 82-year-old male with cryptococcal meningitis (CM) who represented neurological deterioration due to post-infectious inflammatory response syndrome (PIIRS) occurring in 4 months after initial antifungal therapy. He was treated with corticosteroids for 2 months and recovered clinically. However, the clinical manifestation, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results got worse again on the next day after corticosteroid withdrawal. The analysis of inflammatory cytokines and culture on CSF, as well as brain MRI, still suggested a diagnosis of PIIRS. Therefore, corticosteroid therapy was used again and he subsequently obtained a complete resolution of symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyu Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bang-E Qin
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shiqi Yao
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Anni Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhihui Su
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fuhua Peng
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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15
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Nanfuka V, Mkhoi ML, Gakuru J, Kwizera R, Baluku JB, Bongomin F, Meya DB. Symptomatic Cryptococcal Meningitis with Negative Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid Cryptococcal Antigen Tests. HIV AIDS-RESEARCH AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2021; 13:861-865. [PMID: 34512034 PMCID: PMC8420644 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s328084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Cryptococcal meningitis is a leading cause of mortality in advanced HIV disease. A positive cerebrospinal fluid cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) test defines cryptococcal meningitis. Herein, we present a patient with serum and cerebrospinal fluid CrAg negative cryptococcal meningitis, despite a positive cerebrospinal fluid India ink examination and quantitative culture. Case Details A 56-year-old HIV-positive Ugandan woman, with an undetectable HIV RNA viral load and CD4+ T-cell count of 766 cells per microlitre presented with signs and symptoms consistent with cryptococcal meningitis. Her serum and cerebrospinal fluid CrAg tests were negative despite having a positive cerebrospinal fluid India ink and quantitative culture. On day 1, she was commenced on intravenous amphotericin B deoxycholate (1mg/kg) for 3 days (considering 10 CFU growth of Cryptococcus spp) in combination with oral flucytosine (100mg/kg) for 7 days and then fluconazole 1200mg once daily for the next 11 days. By day 7, she was symptom free and quantitative cerebrospinal fluid culture was negative for Cryptococcus spp. She was discharged on day 9. At 10 weeks (day +40) and 18 weeks (day +72), she was well and adherent to her antiretroviral therapy and on maintenance phase of cryptococcal meningitis on fluconazole at a dose of 400mg once daily. Conclusion This report alerts clinicians managing patients with HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis to four uncommon clinical scenarios; first, the possibility of negative serum and cerebrospinal fluid CrAg lateral flow assay results in the context of low cerebrospinal fluid fungal burden in a symptomatic patient. Second, possible occurrence of cryptococcal meningitis in a patient with high CD4 T-cell lymphocyte counts. Third, an early seroconversion of cryptococcal antigenaemia following effective fluconazole therapy. Fourth, an early symptomatic relapse of cryptococcal meningitis albeit negative serum CrAg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivien Nanfuka
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Kiruddu National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mkhoi L Mkhoi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Mark Wainberg Fellowship Programme, Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Health Sciences, University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Jane Gakuru
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Richard Kwizera
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Felix Bongomin
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Kiruddu National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda.,Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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16
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Nascimento E, Barião PHG, Kress MRVZ, Vilar FC, Santana RDC, Gaspar GG, Martinez R. Cryptococcosis by Cryptococcus neoformans/Cryptococcus gattii Species Complexes in non-HIV-Infected Patients in Southeastern Brazil. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2021; 54:e01692021. [PMID: 34495255 PMCID: PMC8437442 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0169-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The clinical manifestations of cryptococcosis are usually associated with the infecting agents Cryptococcus neoformans (CN) and C. gattii (CG) species complexes and the host. In this study, non-HIV-infected patients, at a university hospital in southeastern Brazil, had epidemiological and clinical data associated with cryptococcal disease and isolated Cryptococcus species: CN - 24 patients and CG - 12 patients. METHODS: The comparison was comprised of demographic data, predisposing factors, clinical and laboratory manifestations, and outcomes of cryptococcosis patients treated between 2000 and 2016. Immunocompetent and immunosuppressed patients were also compared, irrespective of the infecting species. Cryptococcus spp. were genotyped by PCR-RFLP analysis of the URA5 gene. RESULTS: Infections by the CN species complex (100% VNI genotype) were associated with drug immunosuppression and fungemia, and patients infected with the CG species complex (83% VG II and 17% VGI genotypes) had more evident environmental exposure and higher humoral response. CN and CG affected patients with or without comorbidities. CONCLUSIONS: Diabetes mellitus, other chronic non-infectious diseases, and alcoholism were likely predisposing factors for infection by both CN and CG species. Immunocompetent patients, independent of the infecting Cryptococcus species complexes, showed a higher occurrence of meningitis and a trend toward less fungal dissemination and longer survival than immunosuppressed hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Nascimento
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Clínica Médica, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Patrícia Helena Grizante Barião
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Marcia Regina von Zeska Kress
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Fernando Crivelenti Vilar
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Clínica Médica, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Rodrigo de Carvalho Santana
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Clínica Médica, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Gilberto Gambero Gaspar
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Clínica Médica, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Roberto Martinez
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Clínica Médica, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
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17
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Xu J, Ganguly A, Zhao J, Ivey M, Lopez R, Osterholzer JJ, Cho CS, Olszewski MA. CCR2 Signaling Promotes Brain Infiltration of Inflammatory Monocytes and Contributes to Neuropathology during Cryptococcal Meningoencephalitis. mBio 2021; 12:e0107621. [PMID: 34311579 PMCID: PMC8406332 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01076-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) is a leading cause of central nervous system (CNS) infection-related mortality worldwide, with surviving patients often developing neurological deficiencies. While CNS inflammation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of CM, little is known about the relative contribution of the specific inflammatory/immune pathways to CNS pathology versus fungal clearance. Increased cerebrospinal fluid level of C-C chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) ligand CCL2 is associated with disease deterioration in patients with CM. Using a murine model, we investigated the role of the CCR2 pathway in the development of CNS inflammation and pathology during CM. We found that CCR2-deficient mice exhibited improved 28-day survival and alleviated neurological disease scores despite a brain fungal burden higher than that of the WT mice. Reduced CM pathology in CCR2-deficient mice was accompanied by markedly decreased neuronal cell death around cryptococcal microcysts and restored expression of genes involved in neurotransmission, connectivity, and neuronal cell structure in the brains. Results show that CCR2 axis is the major pathway recruiting CD45hiCD11b+Ly6C+ inflammatory monocyte to the brain and indirectly modulates the accumulation of CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells. In particular, CCR2 axis promotes recruitment of interferon gamma (IFN-γ)-producing CD4+ T cells and classical activation of myeloid cells. In this context, CCR2 deletion limits the immune network dysregulation we see in CM and attenuates neuropathology. Thus, the CCR2 axis is a potential target for interventions aimed to limit inflammatory CNS pathology in CM patients. IMPORTANCE Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) causes nearly 200,000 deaths worldwide each year, and survivors frequently develop long-lasting neurological sequelae. The high rate of mortality and neurologic sequelae in CM patients indicate that antifungal therapies alone are often insufficient to control disease progression. Here, we reveal that CM disease progression in mice is accompanied by inflammatory monocytes infiltration at the periphery of the infected foci that overlap locally perturbed neuronal function and death. Importantly, we identified that CCR2 signaling is a critical pathway driving neuroinflammation, especially inflammatory monocyte recruitment, as well as CNS pathology and mortality in CM mice. Our results imply that targeting the CCR2 pathway may be beneficial as a therapy complementary to antifungal drug treatment, helping to reduce CNS damage and mortality in CM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Xu
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anutosh Ganguly
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Hepatopancreatobiliary and Advanced Gastrointestinal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jessica Zhao
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Michel Ivey
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rafael Lopez
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - John J. Osterholzer
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Clifford S. Cho
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Hepatopancreatobiliary and Advanced Gastrointestinal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Michal A. Olszewski
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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18
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Romani L, Williamson PR, Di Cesare S, Di Matteo G, De Luca M, Carsetti R, Figà-Talamanca L, Cancrini C, Rossi P, Finocchi A. Cryptococcal Meningitis and Post-Infectious Inflammatory Response Syndrome in a Patient With X-Linked Hyper IgM Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Front Immunol 2021; 12:708837. [PMID: 34335625 PMCID: PMC8320724 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.708837] [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: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The hyper IgM syndromes are a rare group of primary immunodeficiency. The X-linked Hyper IgM syndrome (HIGM), due to a gene defect in CD40L, is the commonest variant; it is characterized by an increased susceptibility to a narrow spectrum of opportunistic infection. A few cases of HIGM patients with Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) have been described in the literature. Herein we report the case of a young male diagnosed in infancy with HIGM who developed CM complicated by a post-infectious inflammatory response syndrome (PIIRS), despite regular immunoglobulin replacement therapy and appropriate antimicrobial prophylaxis. The patient was admitted because of a headache and CM was diagnosed through detection of Cryptococcus neoformans in the cerebrospinal fluid. Despite the antifungal therapy resulting to negative CSF culture, the patient exhibited persistent headaches and developed diplopia. An analysis of inflammatory cytokines on CSF, as well as the brain MRI, suggested a diagnosis of PIIRS. Therefore, a prolonged corticosteroids therapy was started obtaining a complete resolution of symptoms without any relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenza Romani
- Unit of Immune and Infectious Diseases, Bambino Gesu' Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Peter Richard Williamson
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Silvia Di Cesare
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Gigliola Di Matteo
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Maia De Luca
- Unit of Immune and Infectious Diseases, Bambino Gesu' Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Carsetti
- B Cell Physiopathology Unit, Immunology Research Area, Bambino Gesu' Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Figà-Talamanca
- Neuroradiology Unit, Imaging Department, Bambino Gesu' Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Cancrini
- Unit of Immune and Infectious Diseases, Bambino Gesu' Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Rossi
- Unit of Immune and Infectious Diseases, Bambino Gesu' Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Finocchi
- Unit of Immune and Infectious Diseases, Bambino Gesu' Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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19
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A preliminary study on the characteristics of Th1/Th2 immune response in cerebrospinal fluid of AIDS patients with cryptococcal meningitis. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:500. [PMID: 34051748 PMCID: PMC8164222 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06138-z] [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: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptococcal Meningitis (CM) is a common opportunistic infection in the late stage of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Despite the wide use of effective antiretroviral and antifungal therapy in AIDS patients, CM is still a major morbidity and mortality cause. Understanding the immune response in cryptococcal infection may help to improve the treatment strategies. Methods We established a prospective cohort of twelve AIDS patients with CM (HIV + CM+) admitted to the hospital from 2019 to 2020. All patients were examined at the baseline, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks thereafter. The level of 19 cytokines in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were recorded to analyze the characteristics and dynamic changes of Th1/Th2 immune response. Meanwhile, six AIDS patients without CM (HIV + CM-) and seventeen healthy subjects (HIV-CM-) were included as control groups for CSF assessment. Results The HIV+ CM+ group had higher CSF IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12 (P40), IL-15, IL-18, CCL2 levels but lower IL-4 when compared with the HIV-CM- group at baseline. And they also had a higher level of IL-12 (P40) and IL-17A compared with HIV + CM- patients. Except one patient dropped out of the study, eleven HIV + CM+ patients received induction antifungal therapy and regular CSF testing, and the mortality rate was 9.1% (1/11) and 18.2% (2/11) respectively at week 2 and week 4. Compared with baseline CSF cytokines, IL-2, IL-13, IL-17A, and VEGF-A decreased in week 2, and the VEGF-A levels further decreased in week 4. But there was no difference in the levels of all cytokines between survivors and the dead. Conclusion No evidence of Th1/Th2 imbalance was found in AIDS patients with CM. However, the CSF cytokine network may provide new clues for the treatment of AIDS patients with CM. Trial registration This trial was prospectively registered in 2019.7.16. The registered number is ChiCTR1900024565. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-021-06138-z.
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20
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Cryptococcus neoformans -Infected Macrophages Release Proinflammatory Extracellular Vesicles: Insight into Their Components by Multi-omics. mBio 2021; 12:mBio.00279-21. [PMID: 33785616 PMCID: PMC8092229 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00279-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans causes cryptococcal meningitis, which is frequent in patients with HIV/AIDS, especially in less-developed countries. The incidence of cryptococcal meningitis is close to 1 million each year globally. Cryptococcus neoformans causes deadly mycosis in immunocompromised individuals. Macrophages are key cells fighting against microbes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-to-cell communication mediators. The roles of EVs from infected host cells in the interaction with Cryptococcus remain uninvestigated. Here, EVs from viable C. neoformans-infected macrophages reduced fungal burdens but led to shorter survival of infected mice. In vitro, EVs induced naive macrophages to an inflammatory phenotype. Transcriptome analysis showed that EVs from viable C. neoformans-infected macrophages activated immune-related pathways, including p53 in naive human and murine macrophages. Conserved analysis demonstrated that basic cell biological processes, including cell cycle and division, were activated by infection-derived EVs from both murine and human infected macrophages. Combined proteomics, lipidomics, and metabolomics of EVs from infected macrophages showed regulation of pathways such as extracellular matrix (ECM) receptors and phosphatidylcholine. This form of intermacrophage communication could serve to prepare cells at more distant sites of infection to resist C. neoformans infection.
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21
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Yoon HA, Riska PF, Jain R, Morales C, Pirofski LA. Unexpected case of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis in a patient with long-standing well-controlled HIV infection. Med Mycol Case Rep 2021; 32:14-16. [PMID: 33552883 PMCID: PMC7851412 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) classically occurs in individuals with advanced HIV infection, solid organ transplants, or other immunocompromising conditions. We report a case of fatal CM in a 78-year-old woman with well-controlled HIV infection who had delayed diagnosis, persistently elevated intracranial pressure and pleocytosis of the cerebrospinal fluid. Initial suspicion for CM was low due to her relatively high CD4+ T cell counts, which likely contributed to greater inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Ah Yoon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Paul F Riska
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Ruchika Jain
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Cariane Morales
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Liise-Anne Pirofski
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
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22
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Yoon HA, Felsen U, Wang T, Pirofski LA. Cryptococcus neoformans infection in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-infected and HIV-uninfected patients at an inner-city tertiary care hospital in the Bronx. Med Mycol 2021; 58:434-443. [PMID: 31342058 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myz082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans causes life-threatening meningoencephalitis. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is the most significant predisposing condition, but persons with other immunodeficiency states as well as phenotypically normal persons develop cryptococcosis. We retrospectively reviewed medical records of all patients with a diagnosis of cryptococcosis between 2005 and 2017 at our inner-city medical center in the Bronx, an epicenter of AIDS in New York City, and analyzed demographic data, clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, treatment, and mortality for these patients. In sum, 63% of the cases over this 12-year period occurred in HIV-infected patients. And 61% of the HIV-infected patients were non-adherent with antiretroviral therapy, 10% were newly diagnosed with AIDS, and 4% had unmasking cryptococcus-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. The majority were Hispanic or black in ethnicity/race. HIV-uninfected patients (47/126) were older (P < .0001), and the majority had an immunocompromising condition. They were less likely to have a headache (P = .0004) or fever (P = .03), had prolonged time to diagnosis (P = .04), higher cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) glucose levels (P = .001), less CSF culture positivity (P = .03), and a higher 30-day mortality (P = .03). Cases in HIV-uninfected patients were often unsuspected during their initial evaluation, leading to a delay in infectious diseases consultation, which was associated with mortality (P = .03). Our study indicates that HIV infection remains the most important predisposing factor for cryptococcosis despite availability of antiretroviral therapy and highlights potential missed opportunities for earlier diagnosis and differences in clinical and prognostic factors between HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Ah Yoon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Uriel Felsen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Liise-Anne Pirofski
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
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23
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Cresswell FV, Davis AG, Sharma K, Basu Roy R, Ganiem AR, Kagimu E, Solomons R, Wilkinson RJ, Bahr NC, Thuong NTT. Recent Developments in Tuberculous Meningitis Pathogenesis and Diagnostics. Wellcome Open Res 2021; 4:164. [PMID: 33364436 PMCID: PMC7739117 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15506.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is poorly understood, but contemporary molecular biology technologies have allowed for recent improvements in our understanding of TBM. For instance, neutrophils appear to play a significant role in the immunopathogenesis of TBM, and either a paucity or an excess of inflammation can be detrimental in TBM. Further, severity of HIV-associated immunosuppression is an important determinant of inflammatory response; patients with the advanced immunosuppression (CD4+ T-cell count of <150 cells/μL) having higher CSF neutrophils, greater CSF cytokine concentrations and higher mortality than those with CD4+ T-cell counts > 150 cells/μL. Host genetics may also influence outcomes with LT4AH genotype predicting inflammatory phenotype, steroid responsiveness and survival in Vietnamese adults with TBM. Whist in Indonesia, CSF tryptophan level was a predictor of survival, suggesting tryptophan metabolism may be important in TBM pathogenesis. These varying responses mean that we must consider whether a "one-size-fits-all" approach to anti-bacillary or immunomodulatory treatment in TBM is truly the best way forward. Of course, to allow for proper treatment, early and rapid diagnosis of TBM must occur. Diagnosis has always been a challenge but the field of TB diagnosis is evolving, with sensitivities of at least 70% now possible in less than two hours with GeneXpert MTB/Rif Ultra. In addition, advanced molecular techniques such as CRISPR-MTB and metagenomic next generation sequencing may hold promise for TBM diagnosis. Host-based biomarkers and signatures are being further evaluated in childhood and adult TBM as adjunctive biomarkers as even with improved molecular assays, cases are still missed. A better grasp of host and pathogen behaviour may lead to improved diagnostics, targeted immunotherapy, and possibly biomarker-based, patient-specific treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona V Cresswell
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Angharad G. Davis
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Kusum Sharma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
| | - Robindra Basu Roy
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Enock Kagimu
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
| | - Regan Solomons
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Robert J. Wilkinson
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
| | - Nathan C Bahr
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
| | | | - Tuberculous Meningitis International Research Consortium
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Marr KA, Sun Y, Spec A, Lu N, Panackal A, Bennett J, Pappas P, Ostrander D, Datta K, Zhang SX, Williamson PR. A Multicenter, Longitudinal Cohort Study of Cryptococcosis in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-negative People in the United States. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 70:252-261. [PMID: 30855688 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptococcosis is increasingly recognized in people without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). METHODS A multicenter, prospective cohort study was performed in 25 US centers. Consenting patients were prospectively followed for ≤2 years. Neurological morbidities were assessed with longitudinal event depiction and functional scores (Montreal Cognitive Assessment [MoCA]). Risks of death were analyzed using Cox regression. RESULTS One hundred forty-five subjects were enrolled. Most were male (95; 65.5%) and had immunosuppression (120; 82.8%), including solid organ transplant (SOT; 33.8%), autoimmunity (15.9%), and hematologic malignancies (11.7%). Disease involved the central nervous system (CNS) in 71 subjects (49%). Fever was uncommon, documented in 40 (27.8%) subjects, and absence was associated with diagnostic delay (mean: 48.2 vs 16.5 days; P = .007). Abnormal MoCA scores (<26) were predictive of CNS disease; low scores (<22) were associated with poor long-term cognition. Longitudinal event depiction demonstrated frequent complications in people with CNS disease; 25 subjects (35.2%) required >1 lumbar puncture and 8 (11.3%) required ventriculostomies. In multivariable models, older age (>60 years) was associated with higher risks of death (hazard ratio [HR], 2.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-4.38; P = .036), and lower risks were noted with underlying hematologic malignancy (HR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.09-0.98; P = .05) and prior SOT (HR, 0.153; 95% CI, 0.05-0.44; P = .001). CONCLUSIONS Despite aggressive antifungal therapies, outcomes of CNS cryptococcosis in people without HIV are characterized by substantial long-term neurological sequelae. Studies are needed to understand mechanism(s) of cognitive decline and to enable better treatment algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kieren A Marr
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yifei Sun
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University, New York
| | - Andrej Spec
- Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Na Lu
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Anil Panackal
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - John Bennett
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Peter Pappas
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Darin Ostrander
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kausik Datta
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sean X Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Peter R Williamson
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Anjum S, Dean O, Kosa P, Magone MT, King KA, Fitzgibbon E, Kim HJ, Zalewski C, Murphy E, Billioux BJ, Chisholm J, Brewer CC, Krieger C, Elsegeiny W, Scott TL, Wang J, Hunsberger S, Bennett JE, Nath A, Marr KA, Bielekova B, Wendler D, Hammoud DA, Williamson P. Outcomes in Previously Healthy Cryptococcal Meningoencephalitis Patients treated with Pulse - Taper Corticosteroids for Post-infectious Inflammatory Syndrome. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 73:e2789-e2798. [PMID: 33383587 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) is a major cause of mortality in immunosuppressed patients and previously healthy individuals. In the latter, a post-infectious inflammatory response syndrome (PIIRS) is associated with poor clinical response despite antifungal therapy and negative CSF cultures. Data on effective treatment are limited. METHODS Between March 2015 and March 2020, 15 consecutive previously healthy patients with CM and PIIRS were treated with adjunctive pulse corticosteroid taper therapy (PCT) consisting of intravenous methylprednisolone 1 gm daily for 1 week followed by oral prednisone 1 mg/kg/d, tapered based on clinical and radiological response plus oral fluconazole. Montreal Cognitive Assessments (MOCA), Karnofsky Performance scores, MRI brain scanning, ophthalmic and audiologic exams, CSF parameters including cellular and soluble immune responses were compared at PIIRS diagnosis and after methylprednisolone completion. RESULTS The median time from antifungal treatment to steroid initiation was 6 weeks. The most common symptoms at PIIRS diagnosis were altered mental status and vision changes. All patients demonstrated significant improvements in MOCA and Karnofsky scores at 1 month (p<0.0003), which was accompanied by improvements in CSF glucose, WBC, protein, cellular and soluble inflammatory markers 1 week after receiving corticosteroids (CS) (p<0.003). All patients with papilledema and visual field deficits also exhibited improvement (p<0.0005). Five out of 7 patients who underwent audiological testing demonstrated hearing improvement. Brain MRI showed significant improvement of radiological findings (p=0.001). CSF cultures remained negative. CONCLUSIONS PCT in this small cohort of PIIRS was associated with improvements in CM-related complications with minimal toxicity in the acute setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seher Anjum
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Owen Dean
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Peter Kosa
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - M Teresa Magone
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kelly A King
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Edmond Fitzgibbon
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - H Jeff Kim
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Chris Zalewski
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Elizabeth Murphy
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Bridgette Jeanne Billioux
- Section of Infections of the Nervous System, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer Chisholm
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Carmen C Brewer
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Chantal Krieger
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Waleed Elsegeiny
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Terri L Scott
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Clinical Monitoring Research Program Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | | | - John E Bennett
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Avindra Nath
- Section of Infections of the Nervous System, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kieren A Marr
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bibiana Bielekova
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Dima A Hammoud
- Center for Infectious Disease Imaging (CIDI), Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Peter Williamson
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
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de Campos GY, Oliveira RA, Oliveira-Brito PKM, Roque-Barreira MC, da Silva TA. Pro-inflammatory response ensured by LPS and Pam3CSK4 in RAW 264.7 cells did not improve a fungistatic effect on Cryptococcus gattii infection. PeerJ 2020; 8:e10295. [PMID: 33304649 PMCID: PMC7698691 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The macrophage lineage is characterized by plasticity due to the acquisition of distinct functional phenotypes, and two major subsets are evaluated; classical M1 activation (strong microbicidal activity) and alternative M2 activation (immunoregulatory functions). The M1 subset expresses inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), which is a primary marker to identify these cells, whereas M2 macrophages are characterized by expression of Arginase-1, found in inflammatory zone 1 (Fizz1), chitinase-like molecule (Ym-1), and CD206. The micro-environmental stimuli and signals in tissues are critical in the macrophage polarization. Toll-like receptors (TLR) ligands, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), palmitoyl-3-cysteine-serine-lysine-4 (Pam3CSK4), and ArtinM (mannose-binding lectin) are inductors of M1 subset. The impact of TLR2 and TLR4 signals to fight against Cryptococcus gattii infection is unknown, which is a fungal pathogen that preferentially infects the lung of immunocompetent individuals. The macrophages initiate an immune response to combat the C. gattii, then we evaluated in RAW 264.7 cell the effect of TLR2 and TLR4 agonists on the macrophage polarization dynamic and the impact on the growth of C. gattii. Methods and Results We demonstrated that P3C4, LPS, and ArtinM induced an increase in the levels of iNOS transcripts in RAW 264.7 cells, whereas the relative expression of arginase-1, Ym-1, and Fizz1 was significantly increased in the presence of IL-4 alone. The effects of TLR2 and TLR4 agonists on repolarization from the M2 to M1 subset was evaluated, and the first stimulus was composed of IL-4 and, after 24 h of incubation, the cells were submitted to a second stimulus of P3C4, LPS, ArtinM, or Medium. These TLR agonists induced the production of TNF-α in polarized RAW 264.7 cells to the M2 subset, moreover the measurement of M1/M2 markers using qRT-PCR demonstrated that a second stimulus with LPS for 24 h induced a significant augmentation of levels of iNOS mRNA. This impact of TLR2 and TLR4 agonists in the activation of the RAW 264.7 macrophage was assayed in the presence of C. gattii, the macrophages stimulated with TLR2 and TLR4 agonists for 24 h and co-cultured with C. gattii, as a second stimulus, reached high levels of TNF-α even after incubation with different concentrations of C. gattii. The activation of RAW 264.7 cells induced by TLR2 and TLR4 agonists favored the phagocytosis of C. gattii and inhibited the growth of yeast in the early period of infection. However, RAW 264.7 cells incubated with C. gattii in the presence of TLR2 and TLR4 agonists did not result a significant difference in the colony forming unit (CFU) assay in the early period of C. gattii infection, compared to negative control. Conclusion Polarized RAW 264.7 cells to the M1 subset with TLR2 and TLR4 agonists did not inhibit the growth of C. gattii, whereas robust immunity was identified that could dysregulate host tolerance to this pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Yamazaki de Campos
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raquel Amorim Oliveira
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Kellen Martins Oliveira-Brito
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Roque-Barreira
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thiago Aparecido da Silva
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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27
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Okurut S, Boulware DR, Olobo J, Meya DB. Landmark clinical observations and immunopathogenesis pathways linked to HIV and Cryptococcus fatal central nervous system co-infection. Mycoses 2020; 63:840-853. [PMID: 32472727 PMCID: PMC7416908 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis remains one of the leading causes of death among HIV-infected adults in the fourth decade of HIV era in sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to 10%-20% of global HIV-related deaths. Despite widespread use and early induction of ART among HIV-infected adults, incidence of cryptococcosis remains significant in those with advanced HIV disease. Cryptococcus species that causes fatal infection follows systemic spread from initial environmental acquired infection in lungs to antigenaemia and fungaemia in circulation prior to establishment of often fatal disease, cryptococcal meningitis in the CNS. Cryptococcus person-to-person transmission is uncommon, and deaths related to blood infection without CNS involvement are rare. Keen to the persistent high mortality associated with HIV-cryptococcal meningitis, seizures are common among a third of the patients, altered mental status is frequent, anaemia is prevalent with ensuing brain hypoxia and at autopsy, brain fibrosis and infarction are evident. In addition, fungal burden is 3-to-4-fold higher in those with seizures. And high immune activation together with exacerbated inflammation and elevated PD-1/PD-L immune checkpoint expression is immunomodulated phenotypes elevated in CSF relative to blood. Lastly, though multiple Cryptococcus species cause disease in this setting, observations are mostly generalised to cryptococcal infection/meningitis or regional dominant species (C neoformans or gattii complex) that may limit our understanding of interspecies differences in infection, progression, treatment or recovery outcome. Together, these factors and underlying mechanisms are hypotheses generating for research to find targets to prevent infection or adequate therapy to prevent persistent high mortality with current optimal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Okurut
- Research DepartmentInfectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
- Department of MicrobiologySchool of Biomedical SciencesCollege of Health SciencesMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - David R. Boulware
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International MedicineDepartment of MedicineUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMinnesota
| | - Joseph Olobo
- Department of Immunology and Molecular BiologySchool of Biomedical SciencesCollege of Health SciencesMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - David B. Meya
- Research DepartmentInfectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International MedicineDepartment of MedicineUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMinnesota
- Department of MedicineSchool of MedicineCollege of Health SciencesMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
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28
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Cresswell FV, Davis AG, Sharma K, Basu Roy R, Ganiem AR, Kagimu E, Solomons R, Wilkinson RJ, Bahr NC, Thuong NTT. Recent Developments in Tuberculous Meningitis Pathogenesis and Diagnostics. Wellcome Open Res 2020; 4:164. [PMID: 33364436 PMCID: PMC7739117 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15506.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is poorly understood, but contemporary molecular biology technologies have allowed for recent improvements in our understanding of TBM. For instance, neutrophils appear to play a significant role in the immunopathogenesis of TBM, and either a paucity or an excess of inflammation can be detrimental in TBM. Further, severity of HIV-associated immunosuppression is an important determinant of inflammatory response; patients with the advanced immunosuppression (CD4+ T-cell count of <150 cells/μL) having higher CSF neutrophils, greater CSF cytokine concentrations and higher mortality than those with CD4+ T-cell counts > 150 cells/μL. Host genetics may also influence outcomes with LT4AH genotype predicting inflammatory phenotype, steroid responsiveness and survival in Vietnamese adults with TBM. Whist in Indonesia, CSF tryptophan level was a predictor of survival, suggesting tryptophan metabolism may be important in TBM pathogenesis. These varying responses mean that we must consider whether a "one-size-fits-all" approach to anti-bacillary or immunomodulatory treatment in TBM is truly the best way forward. Of course, to allow for proper treatment, early and rapid diagnosis of TBM must occur. Diagnosis has always been a challenge but the field of TB diagnosis is evolving, with sensitivities of at least 70% now possible in less than two hours with GeneXpert MTB/Rif Ultra. In addition, advanced molecular techniques such as CRISPR-MTB and metagenomic next generation sequencing may hold promise for TBM diagnosis. Host-based biomarkers and signatures are being further evaluated in childhood and adult TBM as adjunctive biomarkers as even with improved molecular assays, cases are still missed. A better grasp of host and pathogen behaviour may lead to improved diagnostics, targeted immunotherapy, and possibly biomarker-based, patient-specific treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona V Cresswell
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Angharad G. Davis
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Kusum Sharma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
| | - Robindra Basu Roy
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Enock Kagimu
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
| | - Regan Solomons
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Robert J. Wilkinson
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
| | - Nathan C Bahr
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
| | | | - Tuberculous Meningitis International Research Consortium
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) presents the medical community with a significant challenge. COVID-19 is an entirely new disease with disparate clinical manifestations that are difficult to reconcile with a single pathogenic principle. Here, we explain how the flexible paradigm of the "damage-response framework" (DRF) of microbial pathogenesis can organize the varied manifestations of COVID-19 into a synthesis that accounts for differences in susceptibility of vulnerable populations as well as for differing manifestations of COVID-19 disease. By focusing on mechanisms of host damage, particularly immune-mediated damage, the DRF provides a lens to understand COVID-19 pathogenesis and to consider how potential therapies could alter the outcome of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liise-Anne Pirofski
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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30
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Chonwerawong M, Ferrand J, Chaudhry HM, Higgins C, Tran LS, Lim SS, Walker MM, Bhathal PS, Dev A, Moore GT, Sievert W, Jenkins BJ, D'Elios MM, Philpott DJ, Kufer TA, Ferrero RL. Innate Immune Molecule NLRC5 Protects Mice From Helicobacter-induced Formation of Gastric Lymphoid Tissue. Gastroenterology 2020; 159:169-182.e8. [PMID: 32169428 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2020.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Helicobacter pylori induces strong inflammatory responses that are directed at clearing the infection, but if not controlled, these responses can be harmful to the host. We investigated the immune-regulatory effects of the innate immune molecule, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptors (NLR) family CARD domain-containing 5 (NLRC5), in patients and mice with Helicobacter infection. METHODS We obtained gastric biopsies from 30 patients in Australia. We performed studies with mice that lack NLRC5 in the myeloid linage (Nlrc5møKO) and mice without Nlrc5 gene disruption (controls). Some mice were gavaged with H pylori SS1 or Helicobacter felis; 3 months later, stomachs, spleens, and sera were collected, along with macrophages derived from bone marrow. Human and mouse gastric tissues and mouse macrophages were analyzed by histology, immunohistochemistry, immunoblots, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. THP-1 cells (human macrophages, controls) and NLRC5-/- THP-1 cells (generated by CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing) were incubated with Helicobacter and gene expression and production of cytokines were analyzed. RESULTS Levels of NLRC5 messenger RNA were significantly increased in gastric tissues from patients with H pylori infection, compared with patients without infection (P < .01), and correlated with gastritis severity (P < .05). H pylori bacteria induced significantly higher levels of chemokine and cytokine production by NLRC5-/- THP-1 macrophages than by control THP-1 cells (P < .05). After 3 months of infection with H felis, Nlrc5mø-KO mice developed gastric hyperplasia (P < .0001), splenomegaly (P < .0001), and increased serum antibody titers (P < .01), whereas control mice did not. Nlrc5mø-KO mice with chronic H felis infection had increased numbers of gastric B-cell follicles expressing CD19 (P < .0001); these follicles had features of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. We identified B-cell-activating factor as a protein that promoted B-cell hyperproliferation in Nlrc5mø-KO mice. CONCLUSIONS NLRC5 is a negative regulator of gastric inflammation and mucosal lymphoid formation in response to Helicobacter infection. Aberrant NLRC5 signaling in macrophages can promote B-cell lymphomagenesis during chronic Helicobacter infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Chonwerawong
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jonathan Ferrand
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hassan Mohammad Chaudhry
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chloe Higgins
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia
| | - Le Son Tran
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia
| | - San Sui Lim
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marjorie M Walker
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia; Department of Pathology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Prithi S Bhathal
- Department of Pathology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anouk Dev
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gregory T Moore
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Victoria, Australia
| | - William Sievert
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Victoria, Australia; Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Brendan J Jenkins
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mario M D'Elios
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Dana J Philpott
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thomas A Kufer
- University of Hohenheim, Institute of Nutritional Medicine, Department of Immunology, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Richard L Ferrero
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia.
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Xu J, Neal LM, Ganguly A, Kolbe JL, Hargarten JC, Elsegeiny W, Hollingsworth C, He X, Ivey M, Lopez R, Zhao J, Segal B, Williamson PR, Olszewski MA. Chemokine receptor CXCR3 is required for lethal brain pathology but not pathogen clearance during cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaba2502. [PMID: 32596454 PMCID: PMC7299622 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aba2502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) is the major cause of infection-related neurological death, typically seen in immunocompromised patients. However, T cell-driven inflammatory response has been increasingly implicated in lethal central nervous system (CNS) immunopathology in human patients and murine models. Here, we report marked up-regulation of the chemokine receptor CXCR3 axis in human patients and mice with CM. CXCR3 deletion in mice improves survival, diminishes neurological deficits, and limits neuronal damage without suppressing fungal clearance. CD4+ T cell accumulation and TH1 skewing are reduced in the CNS but not spleens of infected CXCR3-/- mice. Adoptive transfer of WT, but not CXCR3-/- CD4+ T cells, into CXCR3-/- mice phenocopies the pathology of infected WT mice. Collectively, we found that CXCR3+CD4+ T cells drive lethal CNS pathology but are not required for fungal clearance during CM. The CXCR3 pathway shows potential as a therapeutic target or for biomarker discovery to limit CNS inflammatory damages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Xu
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lori M. Neal
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Anutosh Ganguly
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jessica L. Kolbe
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jessica C. Hargarten
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Waleed Elsegeiny
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Christopher Hollingsworth
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Xiumiao He
- School of Marine Sciences and Biotechnology, Guangxi University for Nationalities, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Mike Ivey
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rafael Lopez
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jessica Zhao
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Benjamin Segal
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Institute, The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Peter R. Williamson
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michal A. Olszewski
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Research Service, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Fidel PL, Yano J, Esher SK, Noverr MC. Applying the Host-Microbe Damage Response Framework to Candida Pathogenesis: Current and Prospective Strategies to Reduce Damage. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6010035. [PMID: 32168864 PMCID: PMC7151217 DOI: 10.3390/jof6010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Disease is a complex outcome that can occur as a result of pathogen-mediated damage, host-mediated damage or both. This has led to the revolutionary concept of the damage response framework (DRF) that defines microbial virulence as a function of host immunity. The DRF outlines six scenarios (classes) of host damage or beneficial outcomes, depending on the microbe and the strength of the immune response. Candida albicans is uniquely adapted to its human host and can exist as either a commensal, colonizing various anatomical sites without causing notable damage, or as a pathogen, with the ability to cause a diverse array of diseases, ranging from mucosal to invasive systemic infections that result in varying levels of microbe-mediated and/or host-mediated damage. We recently categorized six different forms of candidiasis (oropharyngeal, hematogenous, intra-abdominal, gastrointestinal, denture stomatitis, and vulvovaginitis) into independent DRF classes, supporting a contemporary view of unique mechanisms of pathogenesis for these Candida infections. In this review, we summarize the evidence for the pathogenesis of these various forms of candidiasis in the context of the DRF with the further intent to provide insights into strategies to achieve a level of host response or outcome otherwise, that limits host damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul L. Fidel
- Center of Excellence in Oral and Craniofacial Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-504-941-8425
| | - Junko Yano
- Center of Excellence in Oral and Craniofacial Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA;
| | - Shannon K. Esher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.K.E.); (M.C.N.)
| | - Mairi C. Noverr
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.K.E.); (M.C.N.)
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Antimicrobial Therapy in the Context of the Damage-Response Framework: the Prospect of Optimizing Therapy by Reducing Host Damage. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2020; 64:AAC.01800-19. [PMID: 31740558 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01800-19] [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: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
By design, antimicrobial agents act directly on microbial targets. These drugs aim to eliminate microbes and are remarkably effective against susceptible organisms. Nonetheless, some patients succumb to infectious diseases despite appropriate antimicrobial therapy. Today, with very few exceptions, physicians select antimicrobial therapy based on its activity against the targeted organism without consideration of how the regimen affects patients' immune responses. An important concept to emerge in the past few decades is that immune responses to microbes can be detrimental by enhancing host damage, which can translate into clinical disease. A central tenet of the damage-response framework (DRF) of microbial pathogenesis is that the relevant outcome of host-microbe interaction is the damage that occurs in the host, which can be due to microbial factors, host factors, or both. Given that host damage can make patients sick, reducing it should be a goal of treating infectious diseases. Inflammation and damage that stem from the host response to an infectious disease can increase during therapy with some antimicrobial agents and decrease during therapy with others. When a patient cannot eliminate a microbe with their own immune response, antimicrobial therapy is essential for microbial elimination, and yet it can affect the inflammatory response. In this essay, we discuss antimicrobial therapy in the context of the DRF and propose that consideration of the DRF may help tailor therapy to a patient's need to augment or reduce inflammation.
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The damage response framework and infection prevention: From concept to bedside. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2020; 41:337-341. [PMID: 31915082 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2019.354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hospital-acquired infections remain a common cause of morbidity and mortality despite advances in infection prevention through use of bundles, environmental cleaning, antimicrobial stewardship, and other best practices. Current prevention strategies and further hospital-acquired infection reduction are limited by lack of recognition of the role that host-microbe interactions play in susceptibility and by the inability to analyze multiple risk factors in real time to accurately predict the likelihood of a hospital-acquired infection before it occurs and to inform medical decision making. Herein, we examine the value of incorporating the damage-response framework and host attributes that determine susceptibility to infectious diseases known by the acronym MISTEACHING (ie, microbiome, immunity, sex, temperature, environment, age, chance, history, inoculum, nutrition, genetics) into infection prevention strategies using machine learning to drive decision support and patient-specific interventions.
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Tugume L, Rhein J, Hullsiek KH, Mpoza E, Kiggundu R, Ssebambulidde K, Schutz C, Taseera K, Williams DA, Abassi M, Muzoora C, Musubire AK, Meintjes G, Meya DB, Boulware DR. HIV-Associated Cryptococcal Meningitis Occurring at Relatively Higher CD4 Counts. J Infect Dis 2020; 219:877-883. [PMID: 30325463 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptococcal meningitis can occur in persons with less-apparent immunosuppression. We evaluated clinical characteristics and outcomes of persons with HIV-related Cryptococcus presenting with higher CD4 counts. METHODS We enrolled 736 participants from 2 prospective cohorts in Uganda and South Africa from November 2010 to May 2017. We compared participants with CD4 <50, 50-99, or ≥100 cells/μL by clinical characteristics, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters, and 18-week survival. RESULTS Among first episode of cryptococcosis, 9% presented with CD4 ≥100 cells/μL. Participants with CD4 ≥100 cells/μL presented more often with altered mental status (52% vs 39%; P = .03) despite a 10-fold lower initial median CSF fungal burden of 7850 (interquartile range [IQR] 860-65500) versus 79000 (IQR 7400-380000) colony forming units/mL (P < .001). Participants with CD4 ≥100 cells/μL had higher median CSF levels of interferon-gamma, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and IL-13, and lower monocyte chemokine, CCL2 (P < .01 for each). Death within 18 weeks occurred in 47% with CD4 <50, 35% with CD4 50-99, and 40% with CD4 ≥100 cells/μL (P = .04). CONCLUSION HIV-infected individuals developing cryptococcal meningitis with CD4 ≥100 cells/μL presented more frequently with altered mental status despite having 10-fold lower fungal burden and with greater Th2 (IL-13) immune response. Higher CD4 count was protective despite an increased propensity for immune-mediated damage, consistent with damage-response framework. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT01075152 and NCT01802385.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | | | - Edward Mpoza
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Reuben Kiggundu
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Darlisha A Williams
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | | | - Abdu K Musubire
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | | | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
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Campuzano A, Castro-Lopez N, Martinez AJ, Olszewski MA, Ganguly A, Leopold Wager C, Hung CY, Wormley FL. CARD9 Is Required for Classical Macrophage Activation and the Induction of Protective Immunity against Pulmonary Cryptococcosis. mBio 2020; 11:e03005-19. [PMID: 31911495 PMCID: PMC6946806 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03005-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (CARD9) is a critical adaptor molecule triggered by the interaction of C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) with carbohydrate motifs found in fungi. Consequently, clinical and animal studies indicate that CARD9 is an important regulator of protective immunity against fungal pathogens. Previous studies suggest that CARD9 is important for the induction of protection against Cryptococcus neoformans, an opportunistic fungal pathogen that causes life-threatening infections of the central nervous system in immunocompromised patients. However, the effect of CARD9 deficiency on the induction of protective immune responses against C. neoformans is unknown. Immunization with a C. neoformans mutant that overexpresses the transcription factor zinc finger 2, denoted LW10, results in protection against an otherwise lethal challenge with wild-type (WT) C. neoformans Our results showed that CARD9 is essential for the induction of vaccine-mediated immunity against C. neoformans infection. We observed significant decreases in interleukin-17 (IL-17) production and significant increases in Th2-type cytokine (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) production in CARD9-deficient mice after inoculation with strain LW10. While leukocyte infiltration to the lungs of CARD9-deficient mice was similar in LW10 and WT C. neoformans-infected mice, macrophages derived from CARD9-deficient mice inherently skewed toward an M2 activation phenotype, were unable to contain the growth of LW10, and failed to produce nitric oxide in response to infection with LW10 or stimulation with lipopolysaccharide. These results suggest that CARD9-mediated signaling is required for M1 macrophage activation and fungicidal activity necessary for the induction of vaccine-mediated immunity against C. neoformansIMPORTANCECryptococcus neoformans is a fungal pathogen that is found throughout the environment and can cause life-threatening infections of the lung and central nervous system in severely immunocompromised individuals. Caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (CARD9) is a critical molecule that is activated after interactions of C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) found on the surfaces of specific immune cells, with carbohydrate structures associated with fungi. Patients with defects in CARD9 are significantly more susceptible to a multitude of fungal infections. C. neoformans contains several carbohydrate structures that interact with CLRs on immune cells and activate CARD9. Consequently, these studies evaluated the necessity of CARD9 for the induction of protective immunity against C. neoformans infection. These results are important, as they advance our understanding of cryptococcal pathogenesis and host factors necessary for the induction of protective immunity against C. neoformans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Althea Campuzano
- Department of Biology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Natalia Castro-Lopez
- Department of Biology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Amanda J Martinez
- Department of Biology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Michal A Olszewski
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Michigan Medicine University, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Research Service, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anutosh Ganguly
- VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Research Service, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Chrissy Leopold Wager
- Department of Biology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Chiung-Yu Hung
- Department of Biology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Floyd L Wormley
- Department of Biology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
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Seddon JA, Tugume L, Solomons R, Prasad K, Bahr NC. The current global situation for tuberculous meningitis: epidemiology, diagnostics, treatment and outcomes. Wellcome Open Res 2019; 4:167. [PMID: 32118118 PMCID: PMC7029758 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15535.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) results from dissemination of M. tuberculosis to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and meninges. Ischaemia, hydrocephalus and raised intracranial pressure frequently result, leading to extensive brain injury and neurodisability. The global burden of TBM is unclear and it is likely that many cases are undiagnosed, with many treated cases unreported. Untreated, TBM is uniformly fatal, and even if treated, mortality and morbidity are high. Young age and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are potent risk factors for TBM, while Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination is protective, particularly in young children. Diagnosis of TBM usually relies on characteristic clinical symptoms and signs, together with consistent neuroimaging and CSF parameters. The ability to confirm the TBM diagnosis via CSF isolation of M. tuberculosis depends on the type of diagnostic tests available. In most cases, the diagnosis remains unconfirmed. GeneXpert MTB/RIF and the next generation Xpert Ultra offer improved sensitivity and rapid turnaround times, and while roll-out has scaled up, availability remains limited. Many locations rely only on acid fast bacilli smear, which is insensitive. Treatment regimens for TBM are based on evidence for pulmonary tuberculosis treatment, with little consideration to CSF penetration or mode of drug action required. The World Health Organization recommends a 12-month treatment course, although data on which to base this duration is lacking. New treatment regimens and drug dosages are under evaluation, with much higher dosages of rifampicin and the inclusion of fluoroquinolones and linezolid identified as promising innovations. The inclusion of corticosteroids at the start of treatment has been demonstrated to reduce mortality in HIV-negative individuals but whether they are universally beneficial is unclear. Other host-directed therapies show promise but evidence for widespread use is lacking. Finally, the management of TBM within health systems is sub-optimal, with drop-offs at every stage in the care cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Seddon
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, W2 1PG, UK
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Regan Solomons
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kameshwar Prasad
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Nathan C Bahr
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Kansas, Kansas City, KS, USA
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Rudman J, Evans RJ, Johnston SA. Are macrophages the heroes or villains during cryptococcosis? Fungal Genet Biol 2019; 132:103261. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2019.103261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Cresswell FV, Davis AG, Sharma K, Basu Roy R, Ganiem AR, Kagimu E, Solomons R, Wilkinson RJ, Bahr NC, Thuong NTT. Recent Developments in Tuberculous Meningitis Pathogenesis and Diagnostics. Wellcome Open Res 2019; 4:164. [PMID: 33364436 PMCID: PMC7739117 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15506.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is poorly understood, but contemporary molecular biology technologies have allowed for recent improvements in our understanding of TBM. For instance, neutrophils appear to play a significant role in the immunopathogenesis of TBM, and either a paucity or an excess of inflammation can be detrimental in TBM. Further, severity of HIV-associated immunosuppression is an important determinant of inflammatory response; patients with the advanced immunosuppression (CD4+ T-cell count of <150 cells/μL) having higher CSF neutrophils, greater CSF cytokine concentrations and higher mortality than those with CD4+ T-cell counts > 150 cells/μL. Host genetics may also influence outcomes with LT4AH genotype predicting inflammatory phenotype, steroid responsiveness and survival in Vietnamese adults with TBM. Whist in Indonesia, CSF tryptophan level was a predictor of survival, suggesting tryptophan metabolism may be important in TBM pathogenesis. These varying responses mean that we must consider whether a "one-size-fits-all" approach to anti-bacillary or immunomodulatory treatment in TBM is truly the best way forward. Of course, to allow for proper treatment, early and rapid diagnosis of TBM must occur. Diagnosis has always been a challenge but the field of TB diagnosis is evolving, with sensitivities of at least 70% now possible in less than two hours with GeneXpert MTB/Rif Ultra. In addition, advanced molecular techniques such as CRISPR-MTB and metagenomic next generation sequencing may hold promise for TBM diagnosis. Host-based biomarkers and signatures are being further evaluated in childhood and adult TBM as adjunctive biomarkers as even with improved molecular assays, cases are still missed. A better grasp of host and pathogen behaviour may lead to improved diagnostics, targeted immunotherapy, and possibly biomarker-based, patient-specific treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona V Cresswell
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Angharad G. Davis
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Kusum Sharma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
| | - Robindra Basu Roy
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Enock Kagimu
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
| | - Regan Solomons
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Robert J. Wilkinson
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
| | - Nathan C Bahr
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
| | | | - Tuberculous Meningitis International Research Consortium
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Coelho C, Camacho E, Salas A, Alanio A, Casadevall A. Intranasal Inoculation of Cryptococcus neoformans in Mice Produces Nasal Infection with Rapid Brain Dissemination. mSphere 2019; 4:e00483-19. [PMID: 31391283 PMCID: PMC6686232 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00483-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is an important fungal pathogen, causing life-threatening pneumonia and meningoencephalitis. Brain dissemination of C. neoformans is thought to be a consequence of an active infection in the lung which then extravasates to other sites. Brain invasion results from dissemination via either transport by free yeast cells in the bloodstream or Trojan horse transport within mononuclear phagocytes. We assessed brain dissemination in three mouse models of infection: intravenous, intratracheal, and intranasal models. All three modes of infection resulted in dissemination of C. neoformans to the brain in less than 3 h. Further, C. neoformans was detected in the entirety of the upper respiratory tract and the ear canals of mice. In recent years, intranasal infection has become a popular mechanism to induce pulmonary infection because it avoids surgery, but our findings show that instillation of C. neoformans produces cryptococcal nasal infection. These findings imply that immunological studies using intranasal infection should assume that the initial sites of infection of infection are brain, lung, and upper respiratory tract, including the nasal airways.IMPORTANCECryptococcus neoformans causes an estimated 181, 000 deaths each year, mostly associated with untreated HIV/AIDS. C. neoformans has a ubiquitous worldwide distribution. Humans become infected from exposure to environmental sources, after which the fungus lays dormant within the human body. Upon AIDS-induced immunosuppression or therapy-induced immunosuppression (required for organ transplant recipients or those suffering from autoimmune disorders), cryptococcal disease reactivates and causes life-threatening meningitis and pneumonia. This study showed that upon contact with the host, C. neoformans can quickly (a few hours) reach the host brain and also colonizes the nose of infected animals. Therefore, this work paves the way to better knowledge of how C. neoformans travels through the host body. Understanding how C. neoformans infects, disseminates, and survives within the host is critically required so that we can prevent infections and the disease caused by this deadly fungus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Coelho
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
- Department of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Camacho
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Antonio Salas
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Alexandre Alanio
- Institut Pasteur, Molecular Mycology Unit, CNRS UMR2000, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Groupe Hospitalier Lariboisière, Saint-Louis, Fernand Widal, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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41
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Beardsley J, Sorrell TC, Chen SCA. Central Nervous System Cryptococcal Infections in Non-HIV Infected Patients. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5030071. [PMID: 31382367 PMCID: PMC6787755 DOI: 10.3390/jof5030071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) cryptococcosis in non-HIV infected patients affects solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients, patients with malignancy, rheumatic disorders, other immunosuppressive conditions and immunocompetent hosts. More recently described risks include the use of newer biologicals and recreational intravenous drug use. Disease is caused by Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii species complex; C. gattii is endemic in several geographic regions and has caused outbreaks in North America. Major virulence determinants are the polysaccharide capsule, melanin and several ‘invasins’. Cryptococcal plb1, laccase and urease are essential for dissemination from lung to CNS and crossing the blood–brain barrier. Meningo-encephalitis is common but intracerebral infection or hydrocephalus also occur, and are relatively frequent in C. gattii infection. Complications include neurologic deficits, raised intracranial pressure (ICP) and disseminated disease. Diagnosis relies on culture, phenotypic identification methods, and cryptococcal antigen detection. Molecular methods can assist. Preferred induction antifungal therapy is a lipid amphotericin B formulation (amphotericin B deoxycholate may be used in non-transplant patients) plus 5-flucytosine for 2–6 weeks depending on host type followed by consolidation/maintenance therapy with fluconazole for 12 months or longer. Control of raised ICP is essential. Clinicians should be vigilant for immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Beardsley
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2145, Australia
| | - Tania C Sorrell
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2145, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, Sydney 2145, Australia
| | - Sharon C-A Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital and the Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2145, Australia.
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42
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Skipper C, Abassi M, Boulware DR. Diagnosis and Management of Central Nervous System Cryptococcal Infections in HIV-Infected Adults. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5030065. [PMID: 31330959 PMCID: PMC6787675 DOI: 10.3390/jof5030065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis persists as a significant source of morbidity and mortality in persons with HIV/AIDS, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite increasing access to antiretrovirals, persons presenting with advanced HIV disease remains common, and Cryptococcus remains the most frequent etiology of adult meningitis. We performed a literature review and herein present the most up-to-date information on the diagnosis and management of cryptococcosis. Recent advances have dramatically improved the accessibility of timely and affordable diagnostics. The optimal initial antifungal management has been newly updated after the completion of a landmark clinical trial. Beyond antifungals, the control of intracranial pressure and mitigation of toxicities remain hallmarks of effective treatment. Cryptococcal meningitis continues to present challenging complications and continued research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb Skipper
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - David R Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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43
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Trevijano-Contador N, Pirofski L. Antibody immunity and natural resistance to cryptococcosis. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2019; 6:50-54. [PMID: 31134140 DOI: 10.1007/s40475-019-00174-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The encapsulated fungus Cryptococcus neoformans (Cn) causes cryptococcal meningitis (CM). There are ~180,000 deaths per year worldwide attributed to CM, which is the most common cause of meningitis in adults with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. HIV infection with advanced immunodeficiency is the most important predisposing risk factor for CM, highlighting the critical role that T cell mediated immunity plays in disease prevention. Numerous studies in the past decade demonstrate that antibody immunity also plays a role in resistance to CM, although its role has taken more time to establish. In mice, B cells reduce early dissemination from lungs to brain, and naïve mouse IgM can enhance fungal containment in the lungs. In concert with these findings, human studies show that patients with CM have lower IgM memory B cell levels and/or different serological profiles than controls. In this article, we review recent data on the role that B cells and/or antibody-based immunity play in host defense against Cn and natural resistance to CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Trevijano-Contador
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - L Pirofski
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA.poly
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44
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Shourian M, Qureshi ST. Resistance and Tolerance to Cryptococcal Infection: An Intricate Balance That Controls the Development of Disease. Front Immunol 2019; 10:66. [PMID: 30761136 PMCID: PMC6361814 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a ubiquitous environmental yeast and a leading cause of invasive fungal infection in humans. The most recent estimate of global disease burden includes over 200,000 cases of cryptococcal meningitis each year. Cryptococcus neoformans expresses several virulence factors that may have originally evolved to protect against environmental threats, and human infection may be an unintended consequence of these acquired defenses. Traditionally, C. neoformans has been viewed as a purely opportunistic pathogen that targets severely immune compromised hosts; however, during the past decade the spectrum of susceptible individuals has grown considerably. In addition, the closely related strain Cryptococcus gattii has recently emerged in North America and preferentially targets individuals with intact immunity. In parallel to the changing epidemiology of cryptococcosis, an increasing role for host immunity in the pathogenesis of severe disease has been elucidated. Initially, the HIV/AIDS epidemic revealed the capacity of C. neoformans to cause host damage in the absence of adaptive immunity. Subsequently, the development and clinical implementation of highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) led to recognition of an immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) in a subset of HIV+ individuals, demonstrating the pathological role of host immunity in disease. A post-infectious inflammatory syndrome (PIIRS) characterized by abnormal T cell-macrophage activation has also been documented in HIV-negative individuals following antifungal therapy. These novel clinical conditions illustrate the highly complex host-pathogen relationship that underlies severe cryptococcal disease and the intricate balance between tolerance and resistance that is necessary for effective resolution. In this article, we will review current knowledge of the interactions between cryptococci and mammalian hosts that result in a tolerant phenotype. Future investigations in this area have potential for translation into improved therapies for affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitra Shourian
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Salman T Qureshi
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
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45
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The 'Amoeboid Predator-Fungal Animal Virulence' Hypothesis. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5010010. [PMID: 30669554 PMCID: PMC6463022 DOI: 10.3390/jof5010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The observation that some aspects of amoeba-fungal interactions resemble animal phagocytic cell-fungal interactions, together with the finding that amoeba passage can enhance the virulence of some pathogenic fungi, has stimulated interest in the amoeba as a model system for the study of fungal virulence. Amoeba provide a relatively easy and cheap model system where multiple variables can be controlled for the study of fungi-protozoal (amoeba) interactions. Consequently, there have been significant efforts to study fungal⁻amoeba interactions in the laboratory, which have already provided new insights into the origin of fungal virulence as well as suggested new avenues for experimentation. In this essay we review the available literature, which highlights the varied nature of amoeba-fungal interactions and suggests some unsolved questions that are potential areas for future investigation. Overall, results from multiple independent groups support the 'amoeboid predator⁻fungal animal virulence hypothesis', which posits that fungal cell predation by amoeba can select for traits that also function during animal infection to promote their survival and thus contribute to virulence.
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46
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Abstract
Fungal diseases became a major medical problem in the second half of the 20th century when advances in modern medicine together with the HIV epidemic resulted in large numbers of individuals with impaired immunity. Fungal diseases are difficult to manage because they tend to be chronic, hard to diagnose, and difficult to eradicate with antifungal drugs. This essay considers the future of medical mycology in the 21st century, extrapolating from current trends. In the near horizon, the prevalence of fungal diseases is likely to increase, as there will be more hosts with impaired immunity and drug resistance will inevitably increase after selection by antifungal drug use. We can expect progress in the development of new drugs, diagnostics, vaccines, and immunotherapies. In the far horizon, humanity may face new fungal diseases in association with climate change. Some current associations between chronic diseases and fungal infections could lead to the establishment of fungi as causative agents, which will greatly enhance their medical importance. All trends suggest that the importance of fungal diseases will increase in the 21st century, and enhanced human preparedness for this scourge will require more research investment in this group of infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
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47
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Pirofski LA, Casadevall A. The Damage-Response Framework as a Tool for the Physician-Scientist to Understand the Pathogenesis of Infectious Diseases. J Infect Dis 2018; 218:S7-S11. [PMID: 30124977 PMCID: PMC6093430 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The Damage-Response Framework (DRF) is a powerful tool to inform research in infectious diseases. It can integrate clinical observation with microbiology and immunology to incorporate the role of the host response into the outcome of microbial pathogenesis. Although the role that microbial factors may play in the pathogenesis of infectious diseases is well recognized, the DRF brings the indispensable role of the host response to the fore. For example, inflammation may induce microbial control, but it can also produce host damage. On the other hand, insufficient inflammation may fail to induce sufficient microbial control. Each scenario may lead to the diagnosis of an infectious disease. Given the central role that the host response plays in the pathogenesis of infectious diseases, new strategies for treatment need to consider the nature of the host response as well as microbial factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liise-anne Pirofski
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York,Correspondence: L.-a. Pirofski, MD, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461 ()
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
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48
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Posteraro P, Vacca K, Celi M, De Angelis G, Vella A, Sanguinetti M, Posteraro B. Fatal fulminant cryptococcemia complicating sarcoidosis: Is it to be expected? Med Mycol Case Rep 2018; 22:42-44. [PMID: 30148060 PMCID: PMC6106708 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2018.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcosis may be a life-threatening complication of sarcoidosis. We describe a case of cryptococcemia that rapidly progressed toward fatality without apparent other sites of infection. We discuss on the importance of serum cryptococcal polysaccharide antigen testing for identifying at-risk patients who might benefit from timely diagnosis and treatment of cryptococcosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Posteraro
- GVM Ospedale San Carlo di Nancy, Laboratorio di Analisi Cliniche e Microbiologiche, Via Aurelia 275, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Katia Vacca
- GVM Ospedale San Carlo di Nancy, Unità di Medicina, Via Aurelia 275, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Celi
- GVM Ospedale San Carlo di Nancy, Unità di Medicina, Via Aurelia 275, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia De Angelis
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Istituto di Microbiologia, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Vella
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Istituto di Microbiologia, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Sanguinetti
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Istituto di Microbiologia, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Brunella Posteraro
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Istituto di Patologia Medica e Semeiotica Medica, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
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49
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Casadevall A, Coelho C, Alanio A. Mechanisms of Cryptococcus neoformans-Mediated Host Damage. Front Immunol 2018; 9:855. [PMID: 29760698 PMCID: PMC5936990 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is not usually considered a cytotoxic fungal pathogen but there is considerable evidence that this microbe can damage host cells and tissues. In this essay, we review the evidence that C. neoformans damages host cells and note that the mechanisms involved are diverse. We consider C. neoformans-mediated host damage at the molecular, cellular, tissue, and organism level. Direct mechanisms of cytotoxicity include lytic exocytosis, organelle dysfunction, phagolysosomal membrane damage, and cytoskeletal alterations. Cytotoxicity contributes to pathogenesis by interfering with immune effector cell function and disrupting endothelial barriers thus allowing dissemination. When C. neoformans-mediated and immune-mediated host damage is sufficient to affect homeostasis, cryptococcosis occurs at the organism level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Carolina Coelho
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Alexandre Alanio
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Institut Pasteur, Molecular Mycology Unit, CNRS UMR2000, Paris, France
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Groupe Hospitalier Lariboisière, Saint-Louis, Fernand Widal, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
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50
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Garelnabi M, May RC. Variability in innate host immune responses to cryptococcosis. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2018; 113:e180060. [PMID: 29668826 PMCID: PMC5909084 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760180060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcosis is an invasive fungal disease caused by Cryptococcus neoformans and the closely related species C. gattii. The severe form of the disease, cryptococcal meningitis (CM), is rapidly fatal without treatment. Although typically a disease of immunocompromised (especially HIV-positive) individuals, there is growing awareness of cryptococcal disease amongst non-immunocompromised patients. Whilst substantial progress has been made in understanding the pathogenicity of C. neoformans in HIV patients, prospective data on cryptococcosis outside the context of HIV remains lacking. Below we review how innate immune responses vary between hosts depending on immunological status, and discuss risk factors and predictors of disease outcome in different groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Garelnabi
- School of Biosciences, Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Robin C May
- School of Biosciences, Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
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