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Naik B, Sasikumar J, Das SP. From Skin and Gut to the Brain: The Infectious Journey of the Human Commensal Fungus Malassezia and Its Neurological Consequences. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04270-w. [PMID: 38871941 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04270-w] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The human mycobiome encompasses diverse communities of fungal organisms residing within the body and has emerged as a critical player in shaping health and disease. While extensive research has focused on the skin and gut mycobiome, recent investigations have pointed toward the potential role of fungal organisms in neurological disorders. Among those fungal organisms, the presence of the commensal fungus Malassezia in the brain has created curiosity because of its commensal nature and primary association with the human skin and gut. This budding yeast is responsible for several diseases, such as Seborrheic dermatitis, Atopic dermatitis, Pityriasis versicolor, Malassezia folliculitis, dandruff, and others. However recent findings surprisingly show the presence of Malassezia DNA in the brain and have been linked to diseases like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Multiple sclerosis, and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The exact role of Malassezia in these disorders is unknown, but its ability to infect human cells, travel through the bloodstream, cross the blood-brain barrier, and reside along with the lipid-rich neuronal cells are potential mechanisms responsible for pathogenesis. This also includes the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, disruption of the blood-brain barrier, gut-microbe interaction, and accumulation of metabolic changes in the brain environment. In this review, we discuss these key findings from studies linking Malassezia to neurological disorders, emphasizing the complex and multifaceted nature of these cases. Furthermore, we discuss potential mechanisms through which Malassezia might contribute to the development of neurological conditions. Future investigations will open up new avenues for our understanding of the fungal gut-brain axis and how it influences human behavior. Collaborative research efforts among microbiologists, neuroscientists, immunologists, and clinicians hold promise for unraveling the enigmatic connections between human commensal Malassezia and neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharati Naik
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Jayaprakash Sasikumar
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Shankar Prasad Das
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India.
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2
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Rodinkova V, Yuriev S, Mokin V, Kryvopustova M, Shmundiak D, Bortnyk M, Kryzhanovskyi Y, Kurchenko A. Bayesian analysis suggests independent development of sensitization to different fungal allergens. World Allergy Organ J 2024; 17:100908. [PMID: 38800499 PMCID: PMC11126528 DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2024.100908] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Fungi are known for their ability to cause allergies, but data on individual sensitization to them are insufficient. The purpose of the study was to carry out a comprehensive analysis of the fungal allergens' sensitization profile in the Ukrainian population and to determine both population and individual sensitivity to these allergens. Methods We utilized a set of ALEX allergy test data from 20,033 inhabitants of 17 regions of Ukraine from 1 to 89 years conducted in 2020-2022. A complex of programs in the Python language was developed and Bayesian network analysis was applied to determine the sensitivity combinations in individual patients to various fungal components. Results Sensitivity to Alt a 1 dominated and was observed in 79.39% of patients, and 62.17% of them were sensitive solely to Alt a 1. Exclusive sensitivity to Mala s 6 was second in individual patient profiles with a frequency of 4.06%. Combined sensitivity to Alt a 1 - Asp f 3 was third with a share of 3.28%. Pen ch and Cla h extracts stimulated the production of the lowest median sIgE levels. The highest median sIgE levels were for Alt a 1, Mala s 11 and Asp f 6, respectively. Median sIgE levels increased in adults compared to children for all components of Aspergillus fumigatus, as well as for Mala s 5 and Mala s 11. In the rest of the cases, they decreased in adults compared to children. The sensitization rates to fungi in general and specifically to Alternaria were lower in the western parts of Ukraine, especially in the Carpathian region, situated within the Broad-leaved Forest zone. The results of Bayesian modeling revealed that in the case of Alt a 1, the simultaneous absence of sensitivity to Cla h 8, Mala s 11, Mala s 5 and Mala s 6 molecules could condition the presence of sensitization to the major Alternaria allergen with a probability of 92.42%. In all other cases, there was a high probability of absence of sensitivity to particular allergen against the background of absence of sensitivity to other ones, which may indicate the independent development of sensitization to different fungal allergens. Conclusions Sensitivity to Alt a 1 dominated in the studied population with a lower rate in the western regions. The highest median sIgE levels were induced by Alt a 1, Mala s 11 and Asp f 6. Bayesian Analysis suggest a high probability of the independent development of sensitization to different fungal allergens. The idea that sensitization to one allergen may be protective against sensitization to another one(s) requires further clinical study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Rodinkova
- Department of Pharmacy, National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, Vinnytsia, Ukraine
| | - Serhii Yuriev
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Bohomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Medical Centre, DIVERO, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Vitalii Mokin
- Department of System Analysis and Information Technologies, Vinnytsia National Technical University, Vinnytsia, Ukraine
| | - Mariia Kryvopustova
- Medical Centre, DIVERO, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Department of Pediatrics No 2, Bohomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Dmytro Shmundiak
- Department of System Analysis and Information Technologies, Vinnytsia National Technical University, Vinnytsia, Ukraine
| | - Mykyta Bortnyk
- Department of Pharmacy, National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, Vinnytsia, Ukraine
- Vasyl’ Stus Donetsk National University, Vinnytsia, Ukraine
| | - Yevhenii Kryzhanovskyi
- Department of System Analysis and Information Technologies, Vinnytsia National Technical University, Vinnytsia, Ukraine
| | - Andrii Kurchenko
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Bohomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Medical Centre, DIVERO, Kyiv, Ukraine
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3
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Corzo Leon DE, Scheynius A, MacCallum DM, Munro CA. Malassezia sympodialis Mala s 1 allergen is a potential KELCH protein that cross reacts with human skin. FEMS Yeast Res 2023; 23:foad028. [PMID: 37188635 PMCID: PMC10281499 DOI: 10.1093/femsyr/foad028] [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: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Malassezia are the dominant commensal yeast species of the human skin microbiota and are associated with inflammatory skin diseases, such as atopic eczema (AE). The Mala s 1 allergen of Malassezia sympodialis is a β-propeller protein, inducing both IgE and T-cell reactivity in AE patients. We demonstrate by immuno-electron microscopy that Mala s 1 is mainly located in the M. sympodialis yeast cell wall. An anti-Mala s 1 antibody did not inhibit M. sympodialis growth suggesting Mala s 1 may not be an antifungal target. In silico analysis of the predicted Mala s 1 protein sequence identified a motif indicative of a KELCH protein, a subgroup of β-propeller proteins. To test the hypothesis that antibodies against Mala s 1 cross-react with human skin (KELCH) proteins we examined the binding of the anti-Mala s 1 antibody to human skin explants and visualized binding in the epidermal skin layer. Putative human targets recognized by the anti-Mala s 1 antibody were identified by immunoblotting and proteomics. We propose that Mala s 1 is a KELCH-like β-propeller protein with similarity to human skin proteins. Mala s 1 recognition may trigger cross-reactive responses that contribute to skin diseases associated with M. sympodialis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora E Corzo Leon
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Annika Scheynius
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, and Sachs' Children and Youth Hospital, Södersjukhuset, SE-118 83 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Donna M MacCallum
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Carol A Munro
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
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4
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Tao R, Li R, Wang R. Dysbiosis of skin mycobiome in atopic dermatitis. Mycoses 2021; 65:285-293. [PMID: 34817898 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory skin disease with an increasing prevalence worldwide. The aetiology and pathogenesis of AD have not been fully elucidated. Previous studies have suggested the role of fungi as a triggering factor in the development AD. Here we conducted a systematic review to investigate the skin mycobiome profiles in AD and to address whether there is an association between fungal dysbiosis and AD. We searched Medline/PubMed, Embase and Web of Science for research studies published in English between January 1st, 2010 and April 21st, 2021. A total of 11 human studies and 3 animal studies were included in this analysis. Fungal dysbiosis was observed in AD lesions with a depleted amount of Malassezia and a higher abundance of filamentous fungi. A positive correlation between Candida and Staphylococcus was also demonstrated in AD. We supposed that specific species of Malassezia spp. and Candida spp. may play a role in the pathogenesis of AD by interacting with the pathogenic bacteria. Topical application of emollients could improve the skin barrier function and restore the skin fungal flora by increasing the amount of Malassezia. Further studies focusing on the complex interplay between specific skin fungi and the host can provide better insight into the role of microorganisms in the pathogenesis of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Tao
- Department of Dermatology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune Diseases, Beijing, China.,Research Center for Medical Mycology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ruoyu Li
- Department of Dermatology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune Diseases, Beijing, China.,Research Center for Medical Mycology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ruojun Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune Diseases, Beijing, China.,Research Center for Medical Mycology, Peking University, Beijing, China
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Vijaya Chandra SH, Srinivas R, Dawson TL, Common JE. Cutaneous Malassezia: Commensal, Pathogen, or Protector? Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 10:614446. [PMID: 33575223 PMCID: PMC7870721 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.614446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The skin microbial community is a multifunctional ecosystem aiding prevention of infections from transient pathogens, maintenance of host immune homeostasis, and skin health. A better understanding of the complex milieu of microbe-microbe and host-microbe interactions will be required to define the ecosystem's optimal function and enable rational design of microbiome targeted interventions. Malassezia, a fungal genus currently comprising 18 species and numerous functionally distinct strains, are lipid-dependent basidiomycetous yeasts and integral components of the skin microbiome. The high proportion of Malassezia in the skin microbiome makes understanding their role in healthy and diseased skin crucial to development of functional skin health knowledge and understanding of normal, healthy skin homeostasis. Over the last decade, new tools for Malassezia culture, detection, and genetic manipulation have revealed not only the ubiquity of Malassezia on skin but new pathogenic roles in seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, Crohn's disease, and pancreatic ductal carcinoma. Application of these tools continues to peel back the layers of Malassezia/skin interactions, including clear examples of pathogenicity, commensalism, and potential protective or beneficial activities creating mutualism. Our increased understanding of host- and microbe-specific interactions should lead to identification of key factors that maintain skin in a state of healthy mutualism or, in turn, initiate pathogenic changes. These approaches are leading toward development of new therapeutic targets and treatment options. This review discusses recent developments that have expanded our understanding of Malassezia's role in the skin microbiome, with a focus on its multiple roles in health and disease as commensal, pathogen, and protector.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ramasamy Srinivas
- Skin Research Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Thomas L Dawson
- Skin Research Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Drug Discovery, College of Pharmacy, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - John E Common
- Skin Research Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
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6
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Caraballo L, Valenta R, Puerta L, Pomés A, Zakzuk J, Fernandez-Caldas E, Acevedo N, Sanchez-Borges M, Ansotegui I, Zhang L, van Hage M, Abel-Fernández E, Karla Arruda L, Vrtala S, Curin M, Gronlund H, Karsonova A, Kilimajer J, Riabova K, Trifonova D, Karaulov A. The allergenic activity and clinical impact of individual IgE-antibody binding molecules from indoor allergen sources. World Allergy Organ J 2020; 13:100118. [PMID: 32373267 PMCID: PMC7195550 DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2020.100118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A large number of allergens have been discovered but we know little about their potential to induce inflammation (allergenic activity) and symptoms. Nowadays, the clinical importance of allergens is determined by the frequency and intensity of their IgE antibody binding (allergenicity). This is a rather limited parameter considering the development of experimental allergology in the last 20 years and the criteria that support personalized medicine. Now it is known that some allergens, in addition to their IgE antibody binding properties, can induce inflammation through non IgE mediated pathways, which can increase their allergenic activity. There are several ways to evaluate the allergenic activity, among them the provocation tests, the demonstration of non-IgE mediated pathways of inflammation, case control studies of IgE-binding frequencies, and animal models of respiratory allergy. In this review we have explored the current status of basic and clinical research on allergenic activity of indoor allergens and confirm that, for most of them, this important property has not been investigated. However, during recent years important advances have been made in the field, and we conclude that for at least the following, allergenic activity has been demonstrated: Der p 1, Der p 2, Der p 5 and Blo t 5 from HDMs; Per a 10 from P. americana; Asp f 1, Asp f 2, Asp f 3, Asp f 4 and Asp f 6 from A. fumigatus; Mala s 8 and Mala s 13 from M. sympodialis; Alt a 1 from A. alternata; Pen c 13 from P. chrysogenum; Fel d 1 from cats; Can f 1, Can f 2, Can f 3, Can f 4 and Can f 5 from dogs; Mus m 1 from mice and Bos d 2 from cows. Defining the allergenic activity of other indoor IgE antibody binding molecules is necessary for a precision-medicine-oriented management of allergic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Caraballo
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
- Corresponding author. Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia.
| | - Rudolf Valenta
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- NRC Institute of Immunology FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Leonardo Puerta
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | - Anna Pomés
- Indoor Biotechnologies, Inc. Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Josefina Zakzuk
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | | | - Nathalie Acevedo
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | - Mario Sanchez-Borges
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Department, Centro Médico Docente La Trinidad, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Ignacio Ansotegui
- Department of Allergy & Immunology Hospital Quironsalud Bizkaia, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Luo Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Marianne van Hage
- Department of Medicine Solna, Division of Immunology and Allergy, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Abel-Fernández
- Inmunotek, Madrid, Spain and University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, USA
| | - L. Karla Arruda
- Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Susanne Vrtala
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mirela Curin
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hans Gronlund
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonina Karsonova
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Jonathan Kilimajer
- Inmunotek, Madrid, Spain and University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, USA
| | - Ksenja Riabova
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria Trifonova
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander Karaulov
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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7
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Nowicka D, Nawrot U. Contribution of Malassezia spp. to the development of atopic dermatitis. Mycoses 2019; 62:588-596. [DOI: 10.1111/myc.12913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Danuta Nowicka
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology Wrocław Medical University Wrocław Poland
| | - Urszula Nawrot
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Parasitology Wrocław Medical University Wrocław Poland
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8
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Glatz M, Bosshard P, Schmid-Grendelmeier P. The Role of Fungi in Atopic Dermatitis. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2017; 37:63-74. [PMID: 27886911 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2016.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
There is little doubt that Malassezia spp plays a role in atopic dermatitis because it may interact with the local skin immune responses and barrier function, and sensitization against this skin-colonizing yeast can correlate with disease activity. Also, antifungal therapy shows beneficial effects in some patients. However, the pathogenetic mechanism and mutual interaction between Malassezia spp and atopic dermatitis still remain partly unclear and need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Glatz
- Allergy Unit, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Gloriastrasse 31, Zurich 8091, Switzerland; Christine-Kühne Center for Allergy Research and Education CK-CARE, Herman-Burchard-Strasse 1, 7265 Davos Wolfgang, Switzerland.
| | - Philipp Bosshard
- Mycology Laboratory, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Gloriastrasse 31, Zurich 8091, Switzerland
| | - Peter Schmid-Grendelmeier
- Allergy Unit, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Gloriastrasse 31, Zurich 8091, Switzerland; Christine-Kühne Center for Allergy Research and Education CK-CARE, Herman-Burchard-Strasse 1, 7265 Davos Wolfgang, Switzerland
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9
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Hiragun T, Hiragun M, Ishii K, Kan T, Hide M. Sweat allergy: Extrinsic or intrinsic? J Dermatol Sci 2017; 87:3-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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10
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Glatz M, Bosshard PP, Hoetzenecker W, Schmid-Grendelmeier P. The Role of Malassezia spp. in Atopic Dermatitis. J Clin Med 2015; 4:1217-28. [PMID: 26239555 PMCID: PMC4484996 DOI: 10.3390/jcm4061217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Revised: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Malassezia spp. is a genus of lipophilic yeasts and comprises the most common fungi on healthy human skin. Despite its role as a commensal on healthy human skin, Malassezia spp. is attributed a pathogenic role in atopic dermatitis. The mechanisms by which Malassezia spp. may contribute to the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis are not fully understood. Here, we review the latest findings on the pathogenetic role of Malassezia spp. in atopic dermatitis (AD). For example, Malassezia spp. produces a variety of immunogenic proteins that elicit the production of specific IgE antibodies and may induce the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, Malassezia spp. induces auto-reactive T cells that cross-react between fungal proteins and their human counterparts. These mechanisms contribute to skin inflammation in atopic dermatitis and therefore influence the course of this disorder. Finally, we discuss the possible benefit of an anti-Malassezia spp. treatment in patients with atopic dermatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Glatz
- Allergy Unit, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Gloriastrasse 31, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Philipp P Bosshard
- Allergy Unit, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Gloriastrasse 31, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Wolfram Hoetzenecker
- Allergy Unit, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Gloriastrasse 31, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Peter Schmid-Grendelmeier
- Allergy Unit, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Gloriastrasse 31, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland.
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11
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Crameri R. Structural aspects of fungal allergens. Semin Immunopathol 2014; 37:117-21. [PMID: 25413498 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-014-0458-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Despite the increasing number of solved crystal structures of allergens, the key question why some proteins are allergenic and the vast majority is not remains unanswered. The situation is not different for fungal allergens which cover a wide variety of proteins with different chemical properties and biological functions. They cover enzymes, cell wall, secreted, and intracellular proteins which, except cross-reactive allergens, does not show any evidence for structural similarities at least at the three-dimensional level. However, from a diagnostic point of view, pure allergens biotechnologically produced by recombinant technology can provide us, in contrast to fungal extracts which are hardly producible as standardized reagents, with highly pure perfectly standardized diagnostic reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reto Crameri
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zürich, Davos, Switzerland,
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12
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Crameri R, Garbani M, Rhyner C, Huitema C. Fungi: the neglected allergenic sources. Allergy 2014; 69:176-85. [PMID: 24286281 DOI: 10.1111/all.12325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Allergic diseases are considered the epidemics of the twentieth century estimated to affect more than 30% of the population in industrialized countries with a still increasing incidence. During the past two decades, the application of molecular biology allowed cloning, production and characterization of hundreds of recombinant allergens. In turn, knowledge about molecular, chemical and biologically relevant allergens contributed to increase our understanding of the mechanisms underlying IgE-mediated type I hypersensitivity reactions. It has been largely demonstrated that fungi are potent sources of allergenic molecules covering a vast variety of molecular structures including enzymes, toxins, cell wall components and phylogenetically highly conserved cross-reactive proteins. Despite the large knowledge accumulated and the compelling evidence for an involvement of fungal allergens in the pathophysiology of allergic diseases, fungi as a prominent source of allergens are still largely neglected in basic research as well as in clinical practice. This review aims to highlight the impact of fungal allergens with focus on asthma and atopic dermatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Crameri
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF); University of Zürich; Davos Switzerland
| | - M. Garbani
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF); University of Zürich; Davos Switzerland
| | - C. Rhyner
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF); University of Zürich; Davos Switzerland
| | - C. Huitema
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF); University of Zürich; Davos Switzerland
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13
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Gehrmann U, Qazi KR, Johansson C, Hultenby K, Karlsson M, Lundeberg L, Gabrielsson S, Scheynius A. Nanovesicles from Malassezia sympodialis and host exosomes induce cytokine responses--novel mechanisms for host-microbe interactions in atopic eczema. PLoS One 2011; 6:e21480. [PMID: 21799736 PMCID: PMC3142114 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Accepted: 06/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intercellular communication can occur via the release of membrane vesicles. Exosomes are nanovesicles released from the endosomal compartment of cells. Depending on their cell of origin and their cargo they can exert different immunoregulatory functions. Recently, fungi were found to produce extracellular vesicles that can influence host-microbe interactions. The yeast Malassezia sympodialis which belongs to our normal cutaneous microbial flora elicits specific IgE- and T-cell reactivity in approximately 50% of adult patients with atopic eczema (AE). Whether exosomes or other vesicles contribute to the inflammation has not yet been investigated. Objective To investigate if M. sympodialis can release nanovesicles and whether they or endogenous exosomes can activate PBMC from AE patients sensitized to M. sympodialis. Methods Extracellular nanovesicles isolated from M. sympodialis, co-cultures of M. sympodialis and dendritic cells, and from plasma of patients with AE and healthy controls (HC) were characterised using flow cytometry, sucrose gradient centrifugation, Western blot and electron microscopy. Their ability to stimulate IL-4 and TNF-alpha responses in autologous CD14, CD34 depleted PBMC was determined using ELISPOT and ELISA, respectively. Results We show for the first time that M. sympodialis releases extracellular vesicles carrying allergen. These vesicles can induce IL-4 and TNF-α responses with a significantly higher IL-4 production in patients compared to HC. Exosomes from dendritic cell and M. sympodialis co-cultures induced IL-4 and TNF-α responses in autologous CD14, CD34 depleted PBMC of AE patients and HC while plasma exosomes induced TNF-α but not IL-4 in undepleted PBMC. Conclusions Extracellular vesicles from M. sympodialis, dendritic cells and plasma can contribute to cytokine responses in CD14, CD34 depleted and undepleted PBMC of AE patients and HC. These novel observations have implications for understanding host-microbe interactions in the pathogenesis of AE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulf Gehrmann
- Clinical Allergy Research Unit, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Smole U, Wagner S, Balazs N, Radauer C, Bublin M, Allmaier G, Hoffmann-Sommergruber K, Breiteneder H. Bet v 1 and its homologous food allergen Api g 1 stimulate dendritic cells from birch pollen-allergic individuals to induce different Th-cell polarization. Allergy 2010; 65:1388-96. [PMID: 20557297 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2010.02407.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bet v 1 is the most relevant sensitizing protein for birch pollen (BP)-allergic individuals. Its homologues from plant foods are mainly involved in allergic reactions caused by IgE cross reactivity. We aimed to evaluate the polarizing effect of dendritic cells (DCs) pulsed with Bet v 1, Mal d 1, Api g 1 or Dau c 1 on Th-cell responses. METHODS Immature DCs were generated from peripheral blood monocytes of BP-allergic and healthy donors by culture with GM-CSF and IL-4 and subsequently pulsed with allergens in combination with maturation factors. Cell surface markers were analysed by FACS. Mature DCs were co-cultured with autologous Th cells and T-cell proliferation and cytokine profiles were determined. RESULTS In co-culture, mature allergen-pulsed DCs induced autologous Th cells of BP-allergic donors to proliferate significantly more than those of healthy individuals. Exposure of DCs from BP-allergic donors to Bet v 1 resulted in a robust Th2 skewing with significantly higher quantities of IL-5 and elevated IL-13 compared to maturation factors. In contrast, Api g 1-primed DCs from BP allergics significantly enhanced the production of the Th1 cytokine IFN-γ and significantly down-regulated IL-13 compared to maturation factors. In healthy donors, no significant cytokine production could be detected. CONCLUSION Bet v 1 in contrast to homologous food allergens seems to possess distinct molecular features that enable it to condition DCs from BP-allergic donors to induce allergen-specific T-cell proliferation and Th2 polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Smole
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center of Pathophysiology, Infectiology, and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Vienna, Austria
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15
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Smole U, Balazs N, Hoffmann-Sommergruber K, Radauer C, Hafner C, Wallner M, Ferreira F, Grössinger R, de Jong EC, Wagner S, Breiteneder H. Differential T-cell responses and allergen uptake after exposure of dendritic cells to the birch pollen allergens Bet v 1.0101, Bet v 1.0401 and Bet v 1.1001. Immunobiology 2009; 215:903-9. [PMID: 20005001 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2009.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2009] [Revised: 11/06/2009] [Accepted: 11/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1 is present in pollen as a mixture of at least 14 isoforms that share high sequence and structural identities. These isoforms possess either a high or a low IgE-binding capacity which defines them as allergenic or hypoallergenic. Recently, we could demonstrate that only the allergenic isoform Bet v 1.0101 was able to induce an IgE response in birch pollen allergic individuals. The hypoallergenic isoforms Bet v 1.0401 and Bet v 1.1001 were unable to induce IgE synthesis. T-helper cell responses against allergens are characterised by increased levels of Th2 cytokines. Therefore, we examined extent and polarisation of the Th cell response and the kinetics of the allergen uptake after exposure of dendritic cells (DCs) to these isoforms. Monocyte-derived DCs (MDDCs) from birch pollen allergic and non-atopic individuals stimulated with Bet v 1.0101, Bet v 1.0401 or Bet v 1.1001 in combination with the maturation factors TNF-α and IL-1β resulted in a mature DC phenotype as measured by costimulatory molecule up-regulation. Only Bet v 1.0101-stimulated MDDCs from allergic subjects enhanced proliferation of autologous Th cells and the expression of the Th2 cytokines IL-5 and IL-13. Immature MDDCs of allergic individuals internalised equivalent amounts of the allergenic Bet v 1.0101 and the hypoallergenic Bet v 1.0401. In contrast, the uptake of the hypoallergenic Bet v 1.0401 by immature MDDCs of non-atopic individuals was significantly higher. These results provide evidence that DCs discriminate between allergens and highly related hypoallergens. This process may have an impact on the early phase of sensitisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Smole
- Department of Pathophysiology, Centre for Physiology, Pathophysiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Vilhelmsson M, Glaser AG, Martinez DB, Schmidt M, Johansson C, Rhyner C, Berndt KD, Scheynius A, Crameri R, Achour A, Zargari A. Mutational analysis of amino acid residues involved in IgE-binding to the Malassezia sympodialis allergen Mala s 11. Mol Immunol 2008; 46:294-303. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2008.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2008] [Revised: 07/22/2008] [Accepted: 07/23/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Zeller S, Glaser AG, Vilhelmsson M, Rhyner C, Crameri R. Immunoglobulin-E-mediated reactivity to self antigens: a controversial issue. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2007; 145:87-93. [PMID: 17823538 DOI: 10.1159/000108133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin E (IgE) reactivity to self antigens is well established in vitro by ELISA, inhibition ELISA, Western blot analyses and T cell proliferation experiments. In vivo, IgE-binding self antigens are able to elicit strong type I reactions in sensitized individuals and, in the case of human manganese superoxide dismutase, to elicit eczematous reactions on healthy skin areas of patients suffering from atopic eczema. The reactions against self antigens sharing structural homology with environmental allergens can be plausibly explained by molecular mimicry between common B cell epitopes. For the second class of IgE-binding self antigens without sequence homology to known allergens, it is still unclear if the structures are able to induce a B cell switch to IgE production, or if the reactivity is due to sequence similarity shared with not yet detected environmental allergens. However, in all cases, cross-reactivity is never complete, indicating either a lower affinity of IgE antibodies to self allergens than to the homologous environmental allergens or the presence of additional B cell epitopes on the surface of the environmental allergens, or both. Increasing evidence shows that self allergens could play a decisive role in the exacerbation of long-lasting atopic diseases. However, the only observation supporting a clinical role of IgE-mediated autoreactivity is confined to the fact that IgE levels against self antigens correlate with disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Zeller
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, Davos, Switzerland
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