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Liu F, Zeng M, Zhou X, Huang F, Song Z. Aspergillus fumigatus escape mechanisms from its harsh survival environments. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:53. [PMID: 38175242 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12952-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitous pathogenic mold and causes several diseases, including mycotoxicosis, allergic reactions, and systemic diseases (invasive aspergillosis), with high mortality rates. In its ecological niche, the fungus has evolved and mastered many reply strategies to resist and survive against negative threats, including harsh environmental stress and deficiency of essential nutrients from natural environments, immunity responses and drug treatments in host, and competition from symbiotic microorganisms. Hence, treating A. fumigatus infection is a growing challenge. In this review, we summarized A. fumigatus reply strategies and escape mechanisms and clarified the main competitive or symbiotic relationships between A. fumigatus, viruses, bacteria, or fungi in host microecology. Additionally, we discussed the contemporary drug repertoire used to treat A. fumigatus and the latest evidence of potential resistance mechanisms. This review provides valuable knowledge which will stimulate further investigations and clinical applications for treating and preventing A. fumigatus infections. KEY POINTS: • Harsh living environment was a great challenge for A. fumigatus survival. • A. fumigatus has evolved multiple strategies to escape host immune responses. • A. fumigatus withstands antifungal drugs via intrinsic escape mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Zeng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 402160, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Fujiao Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhangyong Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.
- Molecular Biotechnology Platform, Public Center of Experimental Technology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.
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Qu Y, Feng Y, Bian S, Yang Y, Li D, Liu W, Shi D. Low toxicity contributes to Sporothrix globosa invade the skin of patients in low-epidemic areas of China. Mycoses 2024; 67:e13724. [PMID: 38584320 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13724] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess the clinical characteristics of sporotrichosis in low-endemic areas of China, including the prevalence geography, genotypic traits of patients, clinical manifestations, and strain virulence and drug sensitivities. The objective is to improve the currently used clinical management strategies for sporotrichosis. METHODS Retrospective data were collected from patients diagnosed with sporotrichosis through fungal culture identification. The isolates from purified cultures underwent identification using CAL (Calmodulin) gene sequencing. Virulence of each strain was assessed using a Galleria mellonella (G. mellonella) larvae infection model. In vitro susceptibility testing against commonly used clinical antifungal agents for sporotrichosis was conducted following CLSI criteria. RESULTS In our low-endemic region for sporotrichosis, the majority of cases (23) were observed in middle-aged and elderly women with a history of trauma, with a higher incidence during winter and spring. All clinical isolates were identified as Sporothrix globosa (S. globosa). The G. mellonella larvae infection model indicated independent and dose-dependent virulence among strains, with varying toxicity levels demonstrated by the degree of melanization of the G. mellonella. Surprisingly, lymphocutaneous types caused by S. globosa exhibited lower in vitro virulence but were more common in affected skin. In addition, all S.globosa strains displayed high resistances to fluconazole, while remaining highly susceptible to terbinafine, itraconazole and amphotericin B. CONCLUSION Given the predominance of elderly women engaged in agricultural labour in our region, which is a low-epidemic areas, they should be considered as crucial targets for sporotrichosis monitoring. S. globosa appears to be the sole causative agent locally. However, varying degrees of melanization in larvae were observed among these isolates, indicating a divergence in their virulence. Itraconazole, terbinafine and amphotericin B remain viable first-line antifungal options for treating S.globosa infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Qu
- Department of Dermatology, Weihai Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, China
| | - Yahui Feng
- Labotory of Medical Mycology, Jining No.1 People's Hospital, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Shaodong Bian
- Labotory of Medical Mycology, Jining No.1 People's Hospital, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Yang Yang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Dongmei Li
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Weida Liu
- Department of Medical Mycology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Institute of Dermatology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dongmei Shi
- Labotory of Medical Mycology, Jining No.1 People's Hospital, Jining, Shandong, China
- Department of Dermatology, Jining No.1 People's Hospital, Jining, Shandong, China
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Nasiri-Jahrodi A, Barati M, Namdar Ahmadabad H, Badali H, Morovati H. A comprehensive review on the role of T cell subsets and CAR-T cell therapy in Aspergillus fumigatus infection. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:110763. [PMID: 38350795 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the immune response to Aspergillus fumigatus, a common cause of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in immunocompromised individuals, is critical for developing effective treatments. Tcells play a critical role in the immune response to A. fumigatus, with different subsets having distinct functions. Th1 cells are important for controlling fungal growth, while Th2 cells can exacerbate infection. Th17 cells promote the clearance of fungi indirectly by stimulating the production of various antimicrobial peptides from epithelial cells and directly by recruiting and activating neutrophils. Regulatory T cells have varied functions in A.fumigatus infection. They expand after exposure to A. fumigatus conidia and prevent organ injury and fungal sepsis by downregulating inflammation and inhibiting neutrophils or suppressing Th17 cells. Regulatory T cells also block Th2 cells to stop aspergillosis allergies. Immunotherapy with CAR T cells is a promising treatment for fungal infections, including A. fumigatus infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the immune response to A. fumigatus and to develop effective immunotherapies with CAR-T cells for this infection. This literature review explores the role of Tcell subsets in A.fumigatus infection, and the effects of CAR-T cell therapy on this fungal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abozar Nasiri-Jahrodi
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Mehdi Barati
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran.
| | - Hasan Namdar Ahmadabad
- Vector-borne Diseases Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran.
| | - Hamid Badali
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Hamid Morovati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Thakur R, Shishodia SK, Sharma A, Chauhan A, Kaur S, Shankar J. Accelerating the understanding of Aspergillus terreus: Epidemiology, physiology, immunology and advances. CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2024; 6:100220. [PMID: 38303967 PMCID: PMC10831165 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2024.100220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus species encompass a variety of infections, ranging from invasive aspergillosis to allergic conditions, contingent upon the immune status of the host. In this spectrum, Aspergillus terreus stands out due to its emergence as a notable pathogen and its intrinsic resistance to amphotericin-B. The significance of Aspergillus-associated infections has witnessed a marked increase in the past few decades, particularly with the increasing number of immunocompromised individuals. The exploration of epidemiology, morphological transitions, immunopathology, and novel treatment approaches such as new antifungal drugs (PC945, olorofim) and combinational therapy using antifungal drugs and phytochemicals (Phytochemicals: quercetin, shikonin, artemisinin), also using immunotherapies to modulate immune response has resulted in better outcomes. Furthermore, in the context COVID-19 era and its aftermath, fungal infections have emerged as a substantial challenge for both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals. This is attributed to the use of immune-suppressing therapies during COVID-19 infections and the increase in transplant cases. Consequently, this review aims to provide an updated overview encompassing the epidemiology, germination events, immunopathology, and novel drug treatment strategies against Aspergillus terreus-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raman Thakur
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | | | - Ananya Sharma
- Genomic Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Arjun Chauhan
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Applied Sciences and Humanities, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sumanpreet Kaur
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Jata Shankar
- Genomic Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
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Earle K, Valero C, Conn DP, Vere G, Cook PC, Bromley MJ, Bowyer P, Gago S. Pathogenicity and virulence of Aspergillus fumigatus. Virulence 2023; 14:2172264. [PMID: 36752587 PMCID: PMC10732619 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2172264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary infections caused by the mould pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus are a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Compromised lung defences arising from immunosuppression, chronic respiratory conditions or more recently, concomitant viral or bacterial pulmonary infections are recognised risks factors for the development of pulmonary aspergillosis. In this review, we will summarise our current knowledge of the mechanistic basis of pulmonary aspergillosis with a focus on emerging at-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayleigh Earle
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Clara Valero
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel P. Conn
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - George Vere
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter C. Cook
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Michael J. Bromley
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Paul Bowyer
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sara Gago
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Goughenour KD, Nair AS, Xu J, Olszewski MA, Wozniak KL. Dendritic Cells: Multifunctional Roles in Host Defenses to Cryptococcus Infections. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1050. [PMID: 37998856 PMCID: PMC10672120 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111050] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are an increasingly growing public health concern, and Cryptococcus is one of the most problematic fungal organisms causing substantial mortality and morbidity worldwide. Clinically, this high incidence of cryptococcosis is most commonly seen in immunocompromised patients, especially those who lack an adaptive T cell response, such as HIV/AIDS patients. However, patients with other underlying immunodeficiencies are also at an increased risk for cryptococcosis. The adaptive immune response, in particular the Th1/Th17 T-cell-mediated responses, to pulmonary Cryptococcus infections are required for host protection. Dendritic cells (DCs), encompassing multiple subsets identified to date, are recognized as the major professional antigen-presenting cell (APC) subset essential for the initiation and execution of T-cell immunity. Apart from their prominent role in orchestration of the adaptive arm of the immune defenses, DCs are fully armed cells from the innate immune system capable of the recognition, uptake, and killing of the fungal cells. Thus, DCs serve as a critical point for the endpoint outcomes of either fungal control or unrestrained fungal infection. Multiple studies have shown that DCs are required for anti-cryptococcal defense in the lungs. In addition, the role of DCs in Cryptococcus gattii infections is just starting to be elucidated. C. gattii has recently risen to prominence with multiple outbreaks in the US and Canada, demonstrating increased virulence in non-immunocompromised individuals. C. gattii infection fails to generate an inflammatory immune response or a protective Th1/Th17 T cell response, at least in part, through a lack of proper DC function. Here we summarize the multiple roles of DCs, including subsets of DCs in both mouse and human models, the roles of DCs during cryptococcal infection, and mechanisms by cryptococcal cells to attempt to undermine these host defenses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristie D. Goughenour
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ayesha S. Nair
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Jintao Xu
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Michal A. Olszewski
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Karen L. Wozniak
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
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Tischer-Zimmermann S, Salzer E, Bitencourt T, Frank N, Hoffmann-Freimüller C, Stemberger J, Maecker-Kolhoff B, Blasczyk R, Witt V, Fritsch G, Paster W, Lion T, Eiz-Vesper B, Geyeregger R. Rapid and sustained T cell-based immunotherapy against invasive fungal disease via a combined two step procedure. Front Immunol 2023; 14:988947. [PMID: 37090716 PMCID: PMC10114046 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.988947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Aspergillus fumigatus (Asp) infections constitute a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In the context of insufficient host immunity, antifungal drugs show only limited efficacy. Faster and increased T-cell reconstitution correlated with a favorable outcome and a cell-based therapy approach strongly indicated successful clearance of fungal infections. Nevertheless, complex and cost- or time-intensive protocols hampered their implementation into clinical application. Methods To facilitate the clinical-scale manufacturing process of Aspergillus fumigatus-specific T cells (ATCs) and to enable immediate (within 24 hours) and sustained (12 days later) treatment of patients with invasive aspergillosis (IA), we adapted and combined two complementary good manufacturing practice (GMP)-compliant approaches, i) the direct magnetic enrichment of Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) secreting ATCs using the small-scale Cytokine Secretion Assay (CSA) and ii) a short-term in vitro T-cell culture expansion (STE), respectively. We further compared stimulation with two standardized and commercially available products: Asp-lysate and a pool of overlapping peptides derived from different Asp-proteins (PepMix). Results For the fast CSA-based approach we detected IFN-γ+ ATCs after Asp-lysate- as well as PepMix-stimulation but with a significantly higher enrichment efficiency for stimulation with the Asp-lysate when compared to the PepMix. In contrast, the STE approach resulted in comparably high ATC expansion rates by using Asp-lysate or PepMix. Independent of the stimulus, predominantly CD4+ helper T cells with a central-memory phenotype were expanded while CD8+ T cells mainly showed an effector-memory phenotype. ATCs were highly functional and cytotoxic as determined by secretion of granzyme-B and IFN-γ. Discussion For patients with IA, the immediate adoptive transfer of IFN-γ+ ATCs followed by the administration of short-term in vitro expanded ATCs from the same donor, might be a promising therapeutic option to improve the clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Tischer-Zimmermann
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Engineering, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Salzer
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Anna Children’s Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Laboratory for Pediatric Immunology, Willem-Alexander Children’s Hospital, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Nelli Frank
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Julia Stemberger
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Britta Maecker-Kolhoff
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
| | - Rainer Blasczyk
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Engineering, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Volker Witt
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Anna Children’s Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerhard Fritsch
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Paster
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Lion
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Britta Eiz-Vesper
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Engineering, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
- *Correspondence: Britta Eiz-Vesper,
| | - René Geyeregger
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Anna Children’s Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Liu KW, Grau MS, Jones JT, Wang X, Vesely EM, James MR, Gutierrez-Perez C, Cramer RA, Obar JJ. Postinfluenza Environment Reduces Aspergillus fumigatus Conidium Clearance and Facilitates Invasive Aspergillosis In Vivo. mBio 2022; 13:e0285422. [PMID: 36377895 PMCID: PMC9765436 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02854-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a human fungal pathogen that is most often avirulent in immunecompetent individuals because the innate immune system is efficient at eliminating fungal conidia. However, recent clinical observations have shown that severe influenza A virus (IAV) infection can lead to secondary A. fumigatus infections with high mortality. Little is currently known about how IAV infection alters the innate antifungal immune response. Here, we established a murine model of IAV-induced A. fumigatus (IAV-Af) superinfection by inoculating mice with IAV followed 6 days later by A. fumigatus conidia challenge. We observed increased mortality in the IAV-Af-superinfected mice compared to mice challenged with either IAV or A. fumigatus alone. A. fumigatus conidia were able to germinate and establish a biofilm in the lungs of the IAV-Af superinfection group, which was not seen following fungal challenge alone. While we did not observe any differences in inflammatory cell recruitment in the IAV-Af superinfection group compared to single-infection controls, we observed defects in Aspergillus conidial uptake and killing by both neutrophils and monocytes after IAV infection. pHrodo Green zymosan bioparticle (pHrodo-zymosan) and CM-H2DCFDA [5-(and-6)-chloromethyl-2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate] staining, indicators of phagolysosome maturation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, respectively, revealed that the fungal killing defect was due in part to reduced phagolysosome maturation. Collectively, our data demonstrate that the ability of neutrophils and monocytes to kill and clear Aspergillus conidia is strongly reduced in the pulmonary environment of an IAV-infected lung, which leads to invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and increased overall mortality in our mouse model, recapitulating what is observed clinically in humans. IMPORTANCE Influenza A virus (IAV) is a common respiratory virus that causes seasonal illness in humans, but can cause pandemics and severe infection in certain patients. Since the emergence of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic strains, there has been an increase in clinical reports of IAV-infected patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) developing secondary pulmonary aspergillosis. These cases of flu-Aspergillus superinfections are associated with worse clinical outcomes than secondary bacterial infections in the setting of IAV. To date, we have a limited understanding of the cause(s) of secondary fungal infections in immunocompetent hosts. IAV-induced modulation of cytokine production and innate immune cellular function generates a unique immune environment in the lung, which could make the host vulnerable to a secondary fungal infection. Our work shows that defects in phagolysosome maturation in neutrophils and monocytes after IAV infection impair the ability of these cells to kill A. fumigatus, thus leading to increased fungal germination and growth and subsequent invasive aspergillosis. Our work lays a foundation for future mechanistic studies examining the exact immune modulatory events occurring in the respiratory tract after viral infection leading to secondary fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ko-Wei Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Madeleine S. Grau
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Jane T. Jones
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Elisa M. Vesely
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Matthew R. James
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Cecilia Gutierrez-Perez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Robert A. Cramer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Joshua J. Obar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
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Ma X, Liu Z, Yu Y, Jiang Y, Wang C, Zuo Z, Ling S, He M, Cao S, Wen Y, Zhao Q, Wu R, Huang X, Zhong Z, Peng G, Gu Y. Microsporum gypseum Isolated from Ailuropoda melanoleuca Provokes Inflammation and Triggers Th17 Adaptive Immunity Response. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231912037. [PMID: 36233337 PMCID: PMC9570494 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231912037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Microsporum gypseum causes dermatomycoses in giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). This study aimed to investigate the immune response of M. gypseum following deep infection. The degree of damage to the heart, liver, spleen, lungs, and kidneys was evaluated using tissue fungal load, organ index, and histopathological methods. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) detected the mRNA expression of receptors and cytokines in the lung, and immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometry, were used to assess immune cells in the lung. The results indicated that conidia mainly colonized the lungs and caused serious injury with M. gypseum infection. Furthermore, dectin-1, TLR-2, and TLR-4 played a role in recognizing M. gypseum cells. Numerous inflammatory cells, mainly macrophages, dendritic cells, polymorphonuclear neutrophils, and inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, and IL-23), were activated in the early stages of infection. With the high expression of IL-22, IL-17A, and IL-17F, the Th17 pathway exerted an adaptive immune response to M. gypseum infection. These results can potentially aid in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases caused by M. gypseum in giant pandas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Ma
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yan Yu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yaozhang Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Chengdong Wang
- China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, Chengdu 611800, China
| | - Zhicai Zuo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Shanshan Ling
- China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, Chengdu 611800, China
| | - Ming He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, Chengdu 611800, China
| | - Sanjie Cao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yiping Wen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Qin Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Rui Wu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xiaobo Huang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Zhijun Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Guangneng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yu Gu
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-18190681226
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Furlong-Silva J, Cook PC. Fungal-mediated lung allergic airway disease: The critical role of macrophages and dendritic cells. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010608. [PMID: 35834490 PMCID: PMC9282651 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungi are abundant in the environment, causing our lungs to be constantly exposed to a diverse range of species. While the majority of these are cleared effectively in healthy individuals, constant exposure to spores (especially Aspergillus spp.) can lead to the development of allergic inflammation that underpins and worsen diseases such as asthma. Despite this, the precise mechanisms that underpin the development of fungal allergic disease are poorly understood. Innate immune cells, such as macrophages (MΦs) and dendritic cells (DCs), have been shown to be critical for mediating allergic inflammation to a range of different allergens. This review will focus on the crucial role of MΦ and DCs in mediating antifungal immunity, evaluating how these immune cells mediate allergic inflammation within the context of the lung environment. Ultimately, we aim to highlight important future research questions that will lead to novel therapeutic strategies for fungal allergic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Furlong-Silva
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Charles Cook
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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11
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Palmieri F, Koutsokera A, Bernasconi E, Junier P, von Garnier C, Ubags N. Recent Advances in Fungal Infections: From Lung Ecology to Therapeutic Strategies With a Focus on Aspergillus spp. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:832510. [PMID: 35386908 PMCID: PMC8977413 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.832510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are estimated to be the main cause of death for more than 1.5 million people worldwide annually. However, fungal pathogenicity has been largely neglected. This is notably the case for pulmonary fungal infections, which are difficult to diagnose and to treat. We are currently facing a global emergence of antifungal resistance, which decreases the chances of survival for affected patients. New therapeutic approaches are therefore needed to face these life-threatening fungal infections. In this review, we will provide a general overview on respiratory fungal infections, with a focus on fungi of the genus Aspergillus. Next, the immunological and microbiological mechanisms of fungal pathogenesis will be discussed. The role of the respiratory mycobiota and its interactions with the bacterial microbiota on lung fungal infections will be presented from an ecological perspective. Finally, we will focus on existing and future innovative approaches for the treatment of respiratory fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Palmieri
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Fabio Palmieri,
| | - Angela Koutsokera
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eric Bernasconi
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pilar Junier
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Christophe von Garnier
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Niki Ubags
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Niki Ubags,
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12
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Ortiz SC, Pennington K, Thomson DD, Bertuzzi M. Novel Insights into Aspergillus fumigatus Pathogenesis and Host Response from State-of-the-Art Imaging of Host-Pathogen Interactions during Infection. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:264. [PMID: 35330266 PMCID: PMC8954776 DOI: 10.3390/jof8030264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus spores initiate more than 3,000,000 chronic and 300,000 invasive diseases annually, worldwide. Depending on the immune status of the host, inhalation of these spores can lead to a broad spectrum of disease, including invasive aspergillosis, which carries a 50% mortality rate overall; however, this mortality rate increases substantially if the infection is caused by azole-resistant strains or diagnosis is delayed or missed. Increasing resistance to existing antifungal treatments is becoming a major concern; for example, resistance to azoles (the first-line available oral drug against Aspergillus species) has risen by 40% since 2006. Despite high morbidity and mortality, the lack of an in-depth understanding of A. fumigatus pathogenesis and host response has hampered the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the clinical management of fungal infections. Recent advances in sample preparation, infection models and imaging techniques applied in vivo have addressed important gaps in fungal research, whilst questioning existing paradigms. This review highlights the successes and further potential of these recent technologies in understanding the host-pathogen interactions that lead to aspergillosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien C. Ortiz
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Core Technology Facility, Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Grafton Street, Manchester M13 9NT, UK; (S.C.O.); (K.P.)
| | - Katie Pennington
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Core Technology Facility, Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Grafton Street, Manchester M13 9NT, UK; (S.C.O.); (K.P.)
| | - Darren D. Thomson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK;
| | - Margherita Bertuzzi
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Core Technology Facility, Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Grafton Street, Manchester M13 9NT, UK; (S.C.O.); (K.P.)
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13
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Wnt-β-Catenin Signaling in Human Dendritic Cells Mediates Regulatory T-Cell Responses to Fungi via the PD-L1 Pathway. mBio 2021; 12:e0282421. [PMID: 34781737 PMCID: PMC8593687 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02824-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The signaling pathways activated following interaction between dendritic cells (DCs) and a pathogen determine the polarization of effector T-cell and regulatory T-cell (Treg) responses to the infection. Several recent studies, mostly in the context of bacterial infections, have shown that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays a major role in imparting tolerogenic features in DCs and in promotion of Treg responses. However, the significance of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway’s involvement in regulating the immune response to the fungal species is not known. Using Aspergillus fumigatus, a ubiquitous airborne opportunistic fungal species, we show here that fungi activate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in human DCs and are critical for mediating the immunosuppressive Treg responses. Pharmacological inhibition of this pathway in DCs led to inhibition of maturation-associated molecules and interleukin 10 (IL-10) secretion without affecting the majority of the inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, blockade of Wnt signaling in DCs suppressed DC-mediated Treg responses in CD4+ T cells and downregulated both tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and IL-10 responses in CD8+ T cells. Mechanistically, induction of β-catenin pathway by A. fumigatus required C-type lectin receptors and promoted Treg polarization via the induction of programmed death-ligand 1 on DCs. Further investigation on the identity of fungal molecular patterns has revealed that the cell wall polysaccharides β-(1, 3)-glucan and α-(1, 3)-glucan, but not chitin, possess the capacity to activate the β-catenin pathway. Our data suggest that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a potential therapeutic target to selectively suppress the Treg response and to sustain the protective Th1 response in the context of invasive aspergillosis caused by A. fumigatus.
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14
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Kastelberg B, Ayubi T, Tubau-Juni N, Leber A, Hontecillas R, Bassaganya-Riera J, Kale SD. Nlrx1-Regulated Defense and Metabolic Responses to Aspergillus fumigatus Are Morphotype and Cell Type Specific. Front Immunol 2021; 12:749504. [PMID: 34790195 PMCID: PMC8591139 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.749504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Nlr family member X1 (Nlrx1) is an immuno-metabolic hub involved in mediating effective responses to virus, bacteria, fungi, cancer, and auto-immune diseases. We have previously shown that Nlrx1 is a critical regulator of immune signaling and mortality in several models of pulmonary fungal infection using the clinically relevant fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. In the absence of Nlrx1, hosts produce an enhanced Th2 response primarily by CD103+ dendritic cell populations resulting in enhanced mortality via immunopathogenesis as well as enhanced fungal burden. Here, we present our subsequent efforts showcasing loss of Nlrx1 resulting in a decreased ability of host cells to process A. fumigatus conidia in a cell-type-specific manner by BEAS-2B airway epithelial cells, alveolar macrophages, bone marrow-derived macrophages, but not bone marrow-derived neutrophils. Furthermore, loss of Nlrx1 results in a diminished ability to generate superoxide and/or generic reactive oxygen species during specific responses to fungal PAMPs, conidia, and hyphae. Analysis of glycolysis and mitochondrial function suggests that Nlrx1 is needed to appropriately shut down glycolysis in response to A. fumigatus conidia and increase glycolysis in response to hyphae in BEAS-2B cells. Blocking glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) via 2-DG and NADPH production through glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase inhibitor resulted in significantly diminished conidial processing in wild-type BEAS-2B cells to the levels of Nlrx1-deficient BEAS-2B cells. Our findings suggest a need for airway epithelial cells to generate NADPH for reactive oxygen species production in response to conidia via PPP. In context to fungal pulmonary infections, our results show that Nlrx1 plays significant roles in host defense via PPP modulation of several aspects of metabolism, particularly glycolysis, to facilitate conidia processing in addition to its critical role in regulating immune signaling.
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15
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Cytokine and Chemokine Responses in Invasive Aspergillosis Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Past Evidence for Future Therapy of Aspergillosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7090753. [PMID: 34575791 PMCID: PMC8468228 DOI: 10.3390/jof7090753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis is a frequent complication in immunocompromised individuals, and it continues to be an important cause of mortality in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In addition to antifungal therapy used for mycoses, immune-modulatory molecules such as cytokines and chemokines can modify the host immune response and exhibit a promising form of antimicrobial therapeutics to combat invasive fungal diseases. Cytokine and chemokine profiles may also be applied as biomarkers during fungal infections and clinical research has demonstrated different activation patterns of cytokines in invasive mycoses such as aspergillosis. In this review, we summarize different aspects of cytokines that have been described to date and provide possible future directions in research on invasive pulmonary aspergillosis following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. These findings suggest that cytokines and chemokines may serve as useful biomarkers to improve diagnosis and monitoring of infection.
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16
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Abstract
Invasive fungal disease continues to be a cause of significant life-threatening morbidity and mortality in humans, particularly in those with a diminished immune system, such as with haematological malignancies. The mainstay of treating such life-threatening fungal infection has been antifungal drugs, including azoles, echinocandins and macrocyclic polyenes. However, like antibiotic resistance, antifungal resistance is beginning to emerge, potentially jeopardizing the effectiveness of these molecules in the treatment of fungal disease. One strategy to avoid this is the development of fungal vaccines. However, the inability to provoke a sufficient immune response in the most vulnerable immunocompromised groups has hindered translation from bench to bedside. This review will assess the latest available data and will investigate potential Aspergillus antigens and feasible vaccine techniques, particularly for vaccination of high-risk groups, including immunocompromised and immunosuppressed populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- H T Pattison
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - B C Millar
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK.,Laboratory for Disinfection and Pathogen Elimination Studies, Northern Ireland Public Health Laboratory, Nightingale (Belfast City) Hospital, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - J E Moore
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK.,Laboratory for Disinfection and Pathogen Elimination Studies, Northern Ireland Public Health Laboratory, Nightingale (Belfast City) Hospital, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
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17
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Evaluating the Role of STAT3 in CD4 + T Cells in Susceptibility to Invasive Aspergillosis. Infect Immun 2021; 89:IAI.00035-21. [PMID: 33526558 PMCID: PMC8091102 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00035-21] [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: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to determine whether T cell-specific STAT3 deletion influences the immune response to Aspergillus in the immunosuppressed context in CD4Stat3−/− mice. Immunosuppressed and nonimmunosuppressed CD4Stat3−/− mice and littermate Stat3flox/flox (Stat3fl/fl) mice were infected with Aspergillus fumigatus in an aerosol chamber, and the weight, activity, appearance, and respiratory rate of the mice were monitored daily for 21 days to evaluate their survival. Aspergillus infection was confirmed by lung fungal culture counts, histology, and a galactomannan test. We aimed to determine whether T cell-specific STAT3 deletion influences the immune response to Aspergillus in the immunosuppressed context in CD4Stat3−/− mice. Immunosuppressed and nonimmunosuppressed CD4Stat3−/− mice and littermate Stat3flox/flox (Stat3fl/fl) mice were infected with Aspergillus fumigatus in an aerosol chamber, and the weight, activity, appearance, and respiratory rate of the mice were monitored daily for 21 days to evaluate their survival. Aspergillus infection was confirmed by lung fungal culture counts, histology, and a galactomannan test. Cytokines were measured at 3 days postinfection in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and serum. Immunosuppressed CD4Stat3−/− mice began succumbing to infection by day 4, and by day 7, only 30% of mice survived. Immunosuppressed Stat3fl/fl mice started to succumb to the disease on day 5, and 40% of mice remained by day 7. The nonimmunosuppressed control Stat3fl/fl and CD4Stat3−/− mice maintained their weight over the study period, without any evidence of infection by A. fumigatus by histology. In the BAL fluid, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), IL-17A, and IL-22 levels were elevated in Stat3fl/fl immunosuppressed mice compared to immunosuppressed CD4Stat3−/− mice at 3 days postinfection. STAT3 in CD4+ T cells modulates the production of cytokines in the IL-17 pathway in immunosuppressed mice. However, it has no meaningful effect on the clearance of Aspergillus or the concomitant increase in susceptibility to Aspergillus infection.
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18
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Antifungal Effect of All- trans Retinoic Acid against Aspergillus fumigatus In Vitro and in a Pulmonary Aspergillosis In Vivo Model. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021; 65:AAC.01874-20. [PMID: 33361288 PMCID: PMC8092556 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01874-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is the most common opportunistic fungal pathogen and causes invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA), with high mortality among immunosuppressed patients. The fungistatic activity of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) has been recently described in vitro. Aspergillus fumigatus is the most common opportunistic fungal pathogen and causes invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA), with high mortality among immunosuppressed patients. The fungistatic activity of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) has been recently described in vitro. We evaluated the efficacy of ATRA in vivo and its potential synergistic interaction with other antifungal drugs. A rat model of IPA and in vitro experiments were performed to assess the efficacy of ATRA against Aspergillus in association with classical antifungal drugs and in silico studies used to clarify its mechanism of action. ATRA (0.5 and 1 mM) displayed a strong fungistatic activity in Aspergillus cultures, while at lower concentrations, synergistically potentiated fungistatic efficacy of subinhibitory concentration of amphotericin B (AmB) and posaconazole (POS). ATRA also enhanced macrophagic phagocytosis of conidia. In a rat model of IPA, ATRA reduced mortality similarly to posaconazole. Fungistatic efficacy of ATRA alone and synergistically with other antifungal drugs was documented in vitro, likely by inhibiting fungal heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) expression and Hsp90-related genes. ATRA treatment reduced mortality in a model of IPA in vivo. Those findings suggest ATRA as a suitable fungistatic agent that can also reduce dosage and adverse reactions of classical antifungal drugs and add to the development of new therapeutic strategies against IPA and systemic fungal infections.
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19
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Zu J, Yao L, Song Y, Cui Y, Guan M, Chen R, Zhen Y, Li S. Th2 Biased Immunity With Altered B Cell Profiles in Circulation of Patients With Sporotrichosis Caused by Sporothrix globosa. Front Immunol 2020; 11:570888. [PMID: 33281813 PMCID: PMC7691245 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.570888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous mycotic infection, and Sporothrixglobosa is one of the causative agents with a worldwide distribution, notably in Asia. However, the immune profile in human sporotrichosis caused by S. globosa still remains obscure. Here, we demonstrated enhanced Th2 response in circulation with significant increases in Th2 frequency, Th2/Tregs as well as IL-4 seretion in patients. Elevated IL-17A+Th17 percentage was accompanied with reduced IL-17A level in serum, which may imply a dysfunction of this CD4+T subset in S. globosa infection. In addition, Th2 percentage, the ratios of Th2/Tregs and Th17/Tregs were all raised in patients with fixed cutaneous form, while only Th2/Tregs displayed increment in lymphocutaneous form. Meanwhile, the percentage of double negative B cells was significantly increased and positively correlated with Th2 and Tregs in whole patients. Except naïve B cells, all memory B cells together with Th2 cells increased in patients with short duration (less than 6 months), which may suggest a collaboration of T cells with altered B cell profile in human sporotrichosis caused by S. globosa. In consistent with the changes of IFN-γ+Th1, IL-4+Th2 and IL-17A+Th17 in patients with short duration, the percentages of these effector T cells all expanded when cocultured with S. globosa yeast cells in vitro. These data shed light on the potential involvement of peripheral T and B cell immunity against this mycotic infection and indicated that different immune responses existed in different stages of sporotrichosis; meanwhile different immune profile may contribute to different clinical manifestations of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjiao Zu
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lei Yao
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yang Song
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yan Cui
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Mengqi Guan
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ruili Chen
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yu Zhen
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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20
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Galactomannan Produced by Aspergillus fumigatus: An Update on the Structure, Biosynthesis and Biological Functions of an Emblematic Fungal Biomarker. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6040283. [PMID: 33198419 PMCID: PMC7712326 DOI: 10.3390/jof6040283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The galactomannan (GM) that is produced by the human fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus is an emblematic biomarker in medical mycology. The GM is composed of two monosaccharides: mannose and galactofuranose. The furanic configuration of galactose residues, absent in mammals, is responsible for the antigenicity of the GM and has favoured the development of ELISA tests to diagnose aspergillosis in immunocompromised patients. The GM that is produced by A. fumigatus is a unique fungal polysaccharide containing a tetramannoside repeat unit and having three different forms: (i) membrane bound through a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchor, (ii) covalently linked to β-1,3-glucans in the cell wall, or (iii) released in the culture medium as a free polymer. Recent studies have revealed the crucial role of the GM during vegetative and polarized fungal growth. This review highlights these recent data on its biosynthetic pathway and its biological functions during the saprophytic and pathogenic life of this opportunistic human fungal pathogen.
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21
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Kastelberg B, Tubau-Juni N, Ayubi T, Leung A, Leber A, Hontecillas R, Bassaganya-Riera J, Kale SD. NLRX1 is a key regulator of immune signaling during invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008854. [PMID: 32956405 PMCID: PMC7529209 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic fungal pathogen of immunocompromised patient populations. Mortality is thought to be context-specific and occurs via both enhanced fungal growth and immunopathogenesis. NLRX1 is a negative regulator of immune signaling and metabolic pathways implicated in host responses to microbes, cancers, and autoimmune diseases. Our study indicates loss of Nlrx1 results in enhanced fungal burden, pulmonary inflammation, immune cell recruitment, and mortality across immuno-suppressed and immuno-competent models of IPA using two clinically derived isolates (AF293, CEA10). We observed that the heightened mortality is due to enhanced recruitment of CD103+ dendritic cells (DCs) that produce elevated amounts of IL-4 resulting in a detrimental Th2-mediated immune response. Adoptive transfer of Nlrx1-/- CD103+ DCs in neutropenic NRG mice results in enhanced mortality that can be ablated using IL-4 neutralizing antibodies. In vitro analysis of CD103+ DCs indicates loss of Nlrx1 results in enhanced IL-4 production via elevated activation of the JNK/JunB pathways. Interestingly, loss of Nlrx1 also results in enhanced recruitment of monocytes and neutrophils. Chimeras of irradiated Nlrx1-/- mice reconstituted with wild type bone marrow have enhanced neutrophil recruitment and survival during models of IPA. This enhanced immune cell recruitment in the absence of Nlrx1 is mediated by excessive production of CXCL8/IL-8 family of chemokines and IL-6 via early and enhanced activation of P38 in response to A. fumigatus conidia as shown in BEAS-2B airway epithelial cells. In summary, our results point strongly towards the cell-specific and contextual function of Nlrx1 during invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and may lead to novel therapeutics to reduce Th2 responses by CD103+ DCs or heightened recruitment of neutrophils. Fungal infections are mitigated and controlled in part by a robust immune response and generation of reactive oxygen species. In certain instances, the immune response may become harmful to the host. Nlrx1 is a known negative regulator of inflammatory aspects of the immune system in response to viruses, bacteria, and cancers. In this study we describe the novel importance of Nlrx1 in controlling and fighting fungal infections in two different host cell populations through two distinct mechanisms. Nlrx1 may function as a future target to mitigate inflammation and immunopathogenesis during fungal pulmonary infection as well as enhance beneficial neutrophil recruitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Kastelberg
- Nutritional Immunology and Molecular Medicine Institute, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Nuria Tubau-Juni
- Nutritional Immunology and Molecular Medicine Institute, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Tariq Ayubi
- Nutritional Immunology and Molecular Medicine Institute, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Austin Leung
- Nutritional Immunology and Molecular Medicine Institute, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Andrew Leber
- Nutritional Immunology and Molecular Medicine Institute, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Raquel Hontecillas
- Nutritional Immunology and Molecular Medicine Institute, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Josep Bassaganya-Riera
- Nutritional Immunology and Molecular Medicine Institute, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Shiv D. Kale
- Nutritional Immunology and Molecular Medicine Institute, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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22
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Blickensdorf M, Timme S, Figge MT. Hybrid Agent-Based Modeling of Aspergillus fumigatus Infection to Quantitatively Investigate the Role of Pores of Kohn in Human Alveoli. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1951. [PMID: 32903715 PMCID: PMC7438790 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The healthy state of an organism is constantly threatened by external cues. Due to the daily inhalation of hundreds of particles and pathogens, the immune system needs to constantly accomplish the task of pathogen clearance in order to maintain this healthy state. However, infection dynamics are highly influenced by the peculiar anatomy of the human lung. Lung alveoli that are packed in alveolar sacs are interconnected by so called Pores of Kohn. Mainly due to the lack of in vivo methods, the role of Pores of Kohn in the mammalian lung is still under debate and partly contradicting hypotheses remain to be investigated. Although it was shown by electron microscopy that Pores of Kohn may serve as passageways for immune cells, their impact on the infection dynamics in the lung is still unknown under in vivo conditions. In the present study, we apply a hybrid agent-based infection model to quantitatively compare three different scenarios and discuss the importance of Pores of Kohn during infections of Aspergillus fumigatus. A. fumigatus is an airborne opportunistic fungus with rising incidences causing severe infections in immunocompromised patients that are associated with high mortality rates. Our hybrid agent-based model incorporates immune cell dynamics of alveolar macrophages – the resident phagocytes in the lung – as well as molecular dynamics of diffusing chemokines that attract alveolar macrophages to the site of infection. Consequently, this model allows a quantitative comparison of three different scenarios and to study the importance of Pores of Kohn. This enables us to demonstrate how passaging of alveolar macrophages and chemokine diffusion affect A. fumigatus infection dynamics. We show that Pores of Kohn alter important infection clearance mechanisms, such as the spatial distribution of macrophages and the effect of chemokine signaling. However, despite these differences, a lack of passageways for alveolar macrophages does impede infection clearance only to a minor extend. Furthermore, we quantify the importance of recruited macrophages in comparison to resident macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Blickensdorf
- Research Group Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany.,Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Sandra Timme
- Research Group Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Marc Thilo Figge
- Research Group Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany.,Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
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23
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Holme JA, Øya E, Afanou AKJ, Øvrevik J, Eduard W. Characterization and pro-inflammatory potential of indoor mold particles. INDOOR AIR 2020; 30:662-681. [PMID: 32078193 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A number of epidemiological studies find an association between indoor air dampness and respiratory health effects. This is often suggested to be linked to enhanced mold growth. However, the role of mold is obviously difficult to disentangle from other dampness-related exposure including microbes as well as non-biological particles and chemical pollutants. The association may partly be due to visible mycelial growth and a characteristic musty smell of mold. Thus, the potential role of mold exposure should be further explored by evaluating information from experimental studies elucidating possible mechanistic links. Such studies show that exposure to spores and hyphal fragments may act as allergens and pro-inflammatory mediators and that they may damage airways by the production of toxins, enzymes, and volatile organic compounds. In the present review, we hypothesize that continuous exposure to mold particles may result in chronic low-grade pro-inflammatory responses contributing to respiratory diseases. We summarize some of the main methods for detection and characterization of fungal aerosols and highlight in vitro research elucidating how molds may induce toxicity and pro-inflammatory reactions in human cell models relevant for airway exposure. Data suggest that the fraction of fungal hyphal fragments in indoor air is much higher than that of airborne spores, and the hyphal fragments often have a higher pro-inflammatory potential. Thus, hyphal fragments of prevalent mold species with strong pro-inflammatory potential may be particularly relevant candidates for respiratory diseases associated with damp/mold-contaminated indoor air. Future studies linking of indoor air dampness with health effects should assess the toxicity and pro-inflammatory potential of indoor air particulate matter and combined this information with a better characterization of biological components including hyphal fragments from both pathogenic and non-pathogenic mold species. Such studies may increase our understanding of the potential role of mold exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jørn A Holme
- Department of Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Elisabeth Øya
- Department of Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Medicines Access, Norwegian Medicines Agency, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anani K J Afanou
- Group of Occupational Toxicology, STAMI National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Johan Øvrevik
- Department of Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Wijnand Eduard
- Group of Occupational Toxicology, STAMI National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
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24
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Heung LJ. Monocytes and the Host Response to Fungal Pathogens. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:34. [PMID: 32117808 PMCID: PMC7031161 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Monocytes and their derivatives, including macrophages and dendritic cells, play diverse roles in the response to fungal pathogens. Sensing of fungi by monocytes triggers signaling pathways that mediate direct effects like phagocytosis and cytokine production. Monocytes can also present fungal antigens to elicit adaptive immune responses. These monocyte-mediated pathways may be either beneficial or harmful to the host. In some instances, fungi have developed mechanisms to evade the consequences of monocyte activation and subvert these cells to promote disease. Thus, monocytes are critically involved in mediating the outcomes of these often highly fatal infections. This review will highlight the roles of monocytes in the immune response to some of the major fungi that cause invasive human disease, including Aspergillus, Cryptococcus, Candida, Histoplasma, Blastomyces, and Coccidioides, and discuss potential strategies to manipulate monocyte responses in order to enhance anti-fungal immunity in susceptible hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena J Heung
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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25
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Kimura TFE, Romera LMD, de Almeida SR. Fonsecaea pedrosoi Conidia Induces Activation of Dendritic Cells and Increases CD11c + Cells in Regional Lymph Nodes During Experimental Chromoblastomycosis. Mycopathologia 2020; 185:245-256. [PMID: 32008205 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-020-00429-w] [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: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The chromoblastomycosis is a subcutaneous mycosis with a high morbidity rate, Fonsecaea pedrosoi being the largest etiologic agent of this mycosis, usually confined to the skin and subcutaneous tissues. Rarely people get the cure, because the therapies shown to be deficient and few studies report the host-parasite relationship. Dendritic cells (DCs) are specialized in presenting antigens to naïve T lymphocytes inducing primary immune responses. Therefore, we propose to study the migratory capacity of DCs after infection with conidia of F. pedrosoi. The phenotype of DCs was evaluated using cells obtained from footpad and lymph nodes of BALB/c mice after 12, 24 and 72 h of infection. After 24 and 72 h of infection, we found a significant decrease in DCs in footpad and a significant increase in the lymph nodes after 72 h. The expression of surface markers and co-stimulatory molecules were reduced in cells obtained from footpad. To better assess the migratory capacity of DCs migration from footpad, CFSE-stained conidia were injected subcutaneously. We found that after 12 and 72 h, CD11c+ cells were increased in regional lymph nodes, leading us to believe that DCs (CD11c+) were able to phagocytic conidia present in footpad and migrated to regional lymph nodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Telma Fátima Emidio Kimura
- Laboratory of Mycology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Scienses, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lavínia Maria Dal'Mas Romera
- Laboratory of Mycology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Scienses, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Sandro Rogério de Almeida
- Laboratory of Mycology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Scienses, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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26
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Maffei R, Maccaferri M, Arletti L, Fiorcari S, Benatti S, Potenza L, Luppi M, Marasca R. Immunomodulatory effect of ibrutinib: Reducing the barrier against fungal infections. Blood Rev 2019; 40:100635. [PMID: 31699465 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2019.100635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor ibrutinib is increasingly used in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Moreover, very promising results have been reported in other B-cell malignancies, including primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). Although well-tolerated in the majority of patients, ibrutinib demonstrates in some cases troublesome toxicities, including invasive fungal infections (IFIs). In the present review, we summarize clinical manifestations of IFIs in patients treated with ibrutinib, generally characterized by an early onset, mild clinical manifestations, asymptomatic/low symptomatic pulmonary localization and high incidence of central nervous system (CNS) involvement. IFI risk appears particularly increased in patients receiving ibrutinib associated with other immune modulator agents, especially with steroids or immune-chemotherapy. Moreover, the immunomodulatory effect of ibrutinib is described, pointing the attention on the involvement of specific molecules targeted by ibrutinib in innate and adaptive response to fungal infection. Overall, the findings indicate the ibrutinib may rapidly impair innate immune cell functions, while concomitantly restoring an effective protective potential of adaptive immune compartment. A correct awareness, especially when other predisposing factors are present, is warranted about the potential risk of IFIs in ibrutinib-treated patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossana Maffei
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Respiratory Diseases, A.O.U of Modena Policlinico, Italy.
| | - Monica Maccaferri
- Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Respiratory Diseases, A.O.U of Modena Policlinico, Italy
| | - Laura Arletti
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Fiorcari
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Benatti
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Leonardo Potenza
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Mario Luppi
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Marasca
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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27
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Afanou AK, Straumfors A, Eduard W. Fungal aerosol composition in moldy basements. INDOOR AIR 2019; 29:780-790. [PMID: 31106451 PMCID: PMC6851693 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Experimental aerosolization studies revealed that fungal fragments including small fragments in the submicrometer size are released from fungal cultures and have been suggested to represent an important fraction of overall fungal aerosols in indoor environments. However, their prevalence indoors and outdoors remains poorly characterized. Moldy basements were investigated for airborne fungal particles including spores, submicron fragments, and larger fragments. Particles were collected onto poly-L-lysine-coated polycarbonate filters and qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using immunogold labeling combined with field emission scanning electron microscopy. We found that the total fungal aerosol levels including spores, submicrometer, and larger fragments in the moldy basements (median: 80 × 103 m-3 ) were not different from that estimated in control basements (63 × 103 m-3 ) and outdoor (90 × 103 m-3 ). However, mixed effect modeling of the fungal aerosol composition revealed that the fraction of fragments increased significantly in moldy basements, versus the spore fraction that increased significantly in outdoor air. These findings provide new insight on the compositional variation of mixed fungal aerosols in indoor as compared to outdoor air. Our results also suggest that further studies, aiming to investigate the role of fungal aerosols in the fungal exposure-disease relationships, should consider the mixed composition of various types of fungal particles.
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28
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Afanou KA, Eduard W, Laier Johnsen HB, Straumfors A. Fungal Fragments and Fungal Aerosol Composition in Sawmills. Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 62:559-570. [PMID: 29846519 PMCID: PMC5972573 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxy022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Assessment of exposure to fungi has commonly been limited to fungal spore measurements that have shown associations between fungi and development or exacerbation of different airway diseases. Because large numbers of submicronic fragments can be aerosolized from fungal cultures under laboratory conditions, it has been suggested that fungal exposure is more complex and higher than that commonly revealed by spore measurements. However, the assessment of fungal fragments in complex environmental matrix remain limited due to methodological challenges. With a recently developed immunolabeling method for field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), we could assess the complex composition of fungal aerosols present in personal thoracic samples collected from two Norwegian sawmills. We found that large fungal fragments (length >1 µm) dominated the fungal aerosols indicating that the traditional monitoring approach of spores severely underestimate fungal exposure. The composition of fungal aerosols comprised in average 9% submicronic fragments, 62% large fragments, and 29% spores. The average concentrations of large and submicronic fragments (0.2–1 µm) were 3 × 105 and 0.6 × 105 particles m−3, respectively, and correlated weakly with spores (1.4 × 105 particles m−3). The levels of fragments were 2.6 times higher than the average spore concentration that was close to the proposed hazardous level of 105 spores per m3. The season influenced significantly the fungal aerosol concentrations but not the composition. Furthermore, the ratio of spores in the heterogeneous fungal aerosol composition was significantly higher in saw departments as compared to sorting of green timber departments where the fungal fragments were most prevalent. Being the dominating particles of fungal aerosols in sawmills, fungal fragments should be included in exposure-response studies to elucidate their importance for health impairments. Likewise, the use of fungal aerosol composition in such studies should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komlavi Anani Afanou
- Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, STAMI National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Wijnand Eduard
- Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, STAMI National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Helle Birgit Laier Johnsen
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology, STAMI National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Straumfors
- Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, STAMI National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
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29
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Mirkov I, Popov Aleksandrov A, Lazovic B, Glamoclija J, Kataranovski M. Usefulness of animal models of aspergillosis in studying immunity against Aspergillus infections. J Mycol Med 2019; 29:84-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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30
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Chauvin D, Hust M, Schütte M, Chesnay A, Parent C, Moreira GMSG, Arroyo J, Sanz AB, Pugnière M, Martineau P, Chandenier J, Heuzé-Vourc'h N, Desoubeaux G. Targeting Aspergillus fumigatus Crf Transglycosylases With Neutralizing Antibody Is Relevant but Not Sufficient to Erase Fungal Burden in a Neutropenic Rat Model. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:600. [PMID: 30972049 PMCID: PMC6443627 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.00600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is an airborne opportunistic fungal pathogen responsible for severe infections. Among them, invasive pulmonary aspergillosis has become a major concern as mortality rates exceed 50% in immunocompromised hosts. In parallel, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis frequently encountered in cystic fibrosis patients, is also a comorbidity factor. Current treatments suffer from high toxicity which prevents their use in weakened subjects, resulting in impaired prognostic. Because of their low toxicity and high specificity, anti-infectious therapeutic antibodies could be a new alternative to conventional therapeutics. In this study, we investigated the potential of Chitin Ring Formation cell wall transglycosylases of A. fumigatus to be therapeutic targets for therapeutic antibodies. We demonstrated that the Crf target was highly conserved, regardless of the pathophysiological context; whereas the CRF1 gene was found to be 100% conserved in 92% of the isolates studied, Crf proteins were expressed in 98% of the strains. In addition, we highlighted the role of Crf proteins in fungal growth, using a deletion mutant for CRF1 gene, for which a growth decrease of 23.6% was observed after 48 h. It was demonstrated that anti-Crf antibodies neutralized the enzymatic activity of recombinant Crf protein, and delayed fungal growth by 12.3% in vitro when added to spores. In a neutropenic rat model of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, anti-Crf antibodies elicited a significant recruitment of neutrophils, macrophages and T CD4 lymphocytes but it was not correlated with a decrease of fungal burden in lungs and improvement in survival. Overall, our study highlighted the potential relevance of targeting Crf cell wall protein (CWP) with therapeutic antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Chauvin
- INSERM, Centre d'Étude des Pathologies Respiratoires, U1100, Tours, France.,Department Faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Michael Hust
- Institut für Biochemie, Biotechnologie und Bioinformatik, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Mark Schütte
- Institut für Biochemie, Biotechnologie und Bioinformatik, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Adélaïde Chesnay
- INSERM, Centre d'Étude des Pathologies Respiratoires, U1100, Tours, France.,Department Faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France.,Service de Parasitologie - Mycologie - Médecine Tropicale, CHU de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Christelle Parent
- INSERM, Centre d'Étude des Pathologies Respiratoires, U1100, Tours, France.,Department Faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France
| | | | - Javier Arroyo
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Belén Sanz
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Martine Pugnière
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Pierre Martineau
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Jacques Chandenier
- INSERM, Centre d'Étude des Pathologies Respiratoires, U1100, Tours, France.,Department Faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France.,Service de Parasitologie - Mycologie - Médecine Tropicale, CHU de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Nathalie Heuzé-Vourc'h
- INSERM, Centre d'Étude des Pathologies Respiratoires, U1100, Tours, France.,Department Faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Guillaume Desoubeaux
- INSERM, Centre d'Étude des Pathologies Respiratoires, U1100, Tours, France.,Department Faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France.,Service de Parasitologie - Mycologie - Médecine Tropicale, CHU de Tours, Tours, France
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31
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Hyphae fragments from A. fumigatus sensitize lung cells to silica particles (Min-U-Sil): Increased release of IL-1β. Toxicol In Vitro 2018; 55:1-10. [PMID: 30414920 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to particulate matter (PM), such as mineral particles and biological particles/components may be linked to aggravation of respiratory diseases, including asthma. Here we report that exposure to Aspergillus fumigatus hyphae fragments (AFH) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced both mRNA synthesis and release of pro-inflammatory interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) in both human THP-1 monocytes (THP-1 Mo) and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-differentiated THP-1 monocytes (THP-1 macrophages; THP-1 Ma); while Min-U-Sil alone enhanced the release of IL-1β only in THP-1 Ma. Co-exposure to LPS or AFH with Min-U-Sil caused a synergistic release of IL-1β when compared to single exposures. In contrast, Min-U-Sil did not markedly change LPS- and AFH-induced release of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). The combined exposures did not increase the LPS- and AFH-induced expression of IL-1β mRNA. Notably, the AFH- and LPS-induced IL-1β responses with and without co-exposure to Min-U-Sil in THP-1 Mo were found to be caspase-dependent as shown by inhibition with zYVAD-fmk. Furthermore, co-exposure with AFH and Min-U-Sil resulted in similar synergistic releases of IL-1β in primary human airway macrophages (AM; sputum), peripheral blood monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) and in the human bronchial epithelial cell line (BEAS-2B). In conclusion, AFH induce both the synthesis and release of IL-1β. However, Min-U-Sil further enhanced the cleavage of the induced pro-IL-1β.
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32
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Arias M, Santiago L, Vidal-García M, Redrado S, Lanuza P, Comas L, Domingo MP, Rezusta A, Gálvez EM. Preparations for Invasion: Modulation of Host Lung Immunity During Pulmonary Aspergillosis by Gliotoxin and Other Fungal Secondary Metabolites. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2549. [PMID: 30459771 PMCID: PMC6232612 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary aspergillosis is a severe infectious disease caused by some members of the Aspergillus genus, that affects immunocompetent as well as immunocompromised patients. Among the different disease forms, Invasive Aspergillosis is the one causing the highest mortality, mainly, although not exclusively, affecting neutropenic patients. This genus is very well known by humans, since different sectors like pharmaceutical or food industry have taken advantage of the biological activity of some molecules synthetized by the fungus, known as secondary metabolites, including statins, antibiotics, fermentative compounds or colorants among others. However, during infection, in response to a hostile host environment, the fungal secondary metabolism is activated, producing different virulence factors to increase its survival chances. Some of these factors also contribute to fungal dissemination and invasion of adjacent and distant organs. Among the different secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus spp. Gliotoxin (GT) is the best known and better characterized virulence factor. It is able to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to the disulfide bridge present in its structure. It also presents immunosuppressive activity related with its ability to kill mammalian cells and/or inactivate critical immune signaling pathways like NFkB. In this comprehensive review, we will briefly give an overview of the lung immune response against Aspergillus as a preface to analyse the effect of different secondary metabolites on the host immune response, with a special attention to GT. We will discuss the results reported in the literature on the context of the animal models employed to analyse the role of GT as virulence factor, which is expected to greatly depend on the immune status of the host: why should you hide when nobody is seeking for you? Finally, GT immunosuppressive activity will be related with different human diseases predisposing to invasive aspergillosis in order to have a global view on the potential of GT to be used as a target to treat IA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maykel Arias
- Instituto de Carboquímica ICB-CSIC, Zaragoza, Spain
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Llipsy Santiago
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Fac. Ciencias, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Matxalen Vidal-García
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Servicio de Microbiología - Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Pilar Lanuza
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Fac. Ciencias, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Laura Comas
- Instituto de Carboquímica ICB-CSIC, Zaragoza, Spain
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Fac. Ciencias, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Antonio Rezusta
- Servicio de Microbiología - Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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33
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Validation of a simplified in vitro Transwell ® model of the alveolar surface to assess host immunity induced by different morphotypes of Aspergillus fumigatus. Int J Med Microbiol 2018; 308:1009-1017. [PMID: 30197238 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions between fungal pathogens such as Aspergillus fumigatus with host alveolar epithelium and innate immune cells are crucial in the defense against opportunistic fungal infections. In this study a simplified Transwell® system with a confluent layer of A549 cells acted as a model for the alveolar surface. A. fumigatus and dendritic cells were added to simulate the spatial and cellular complexity in the alveolus. Fungal growth into the lower chamber was validated by galactomannan assays. Addition of moDCs to the upper chamber led to a reduced GM signal and fungal growth, indicating moDC antifungal activity. Minimal cell death was documented by analyses of lactate dehydrogenase concentrations and pro-apoptotic gene expression. Measurement of trans-epithelial dextran blue movement confirmed tightness of the epithelial barrier even in presence of A. fumigatus. Cytokine measurements in supernatants from both chambers of the Transwell® system documented distinct response patterns during early and late stages of epithelial invasion, with A549 cells appearing to make a minimal contribution to cytokine release. Concentrations of cytokines in the lower chamber varied distinctly from the upper chamber, depending on the molecular weight of the cytokines. Low inter-assay variability of fungal biomarkers and cytokines was confirmed, highlighting that in vitro models closely mimicking conditions in the human lung can facilitate reproducible measurement of the dynamics of cytokine release and fungal penetration of host epithelia.
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34
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García Carnero LC, Lozoya Pérez NE, González Hernández SE, Martínez Álvarez JA. Immunity and Treatment of Sporotrichosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2018; 4:jof4030100. [PMID: 30127270 PMCID: PMC6162376 DOI: 10.3390/jof4030100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 08/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Species of the Sporothrix complex are the etiological agents of sporotrichosis, an important subcutaneous mycosis with several clinical forms and an increasing incidence around the world that affects humans and other mammals. The immunological mechanisms involved in the prevention and control of this mycosis are not entirely understood. Many reports have suggested that cell-mediated immunity has an essential role in the development of the disease, being the primary response controlling it, while only recent data supports that the humoral response is essential for the appropriate control. This mycosis is a challenge for diagnosis since the culture and isolation of the organism are time-consuming and complicated; reasons that have led to the study of fungus antigenic molecules capable of generating a detectable humoral response. The treatment for this disease includes the use of several antifungal drugs like itraconazole, amphotericin B, caspofungin, fluconazole, and the combination between them among others such as the extract of Vismia guianensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cristina García Carnero
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P., Guanajuato Gto. 36050, Mexico.
| | - Nancy Edith Lozoya Pérez
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P., Guanajuato Gto. 36050, Mexico.
| | - Sandra Elizabeth González Hernández
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P., Guanajuato Gto. 36050, Mexico.
| | - José Ascención Martínez Álvarez
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P., Guanajuato Gto. 36050, Mexico.
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Jahreis S, Böttcher S, Hartung S, Rachow T, Rummler S, Dietl AM, Haas H, Walther G, Hochhaus A, von Lilienfeld-Toal M. Human MAIT cells are rapidly activated by Aspergillus
spp. in an APC-dependent manner. Eur J Immunol 2018; 48:1698-1706. [DOI: 10.1002/eji.201747312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Jahreis
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II; Hematology and Oncology; Jena University Hospital; Jena Germany
- Infections in Hematology and Oncology; Leibniz-Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology; Jena Germany
| | - Sarah Böttcher
- Infections in Hematology and Oncology; Leibniz-Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology; Jena Germany
| | - Susann Hartung
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II; Hematology and Oncology; Jena University Hospital; Jena Germany
- Infections in Hematology and Oncology; Leibniz-Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology; Jena Germany
| | - Tobias Rachow
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II; Hematology and Oncology; Jena University Hospital; Jena Germany
| | - Silke Rummler
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine; University Hospital Jena; Jena Germany
| | - Anna-Maria Dietl
- Division of Molecular Biology; Biocenter; Medical University of Innsbruck; Innsbruck Austria
| | - Hubertus Haas
- Division of Molecular Biology; Biocenter; Medical University of Innsbruck; Innsbruck Austria
| | - Grit Walther
- National Reference Center for Invasive Fungal Infections (NRZMyk); Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology; Hans Knöll Institute; Jena Germany
| | - Andreas Hochhaus
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II; Hematology and Oncology; Jena University Hospital; Jena Germany
| | - Marie von Lilienfeld-Toal
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II; Hematology and Oncology; Jena University Hospital; Jena Germany
- Infections in Hematology and Oncology; Leibniz-Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology; Jena Germany
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Bartemes KR, Kita H. Innate and adaptive immune responses to fungi in the airway. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2018; 142:353-363. [PMID: 30080527 PMCID: PMC6083885 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2018.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Fungi are ubiquitous outdoors and indoors. Exposure, sensitization, or both to fungi are strongly associated with development of asthma and allergic airway diseases. Furthermore, global climate change will likely increase the prevalence of fungi and enhance their antigenicity. Major progress has been made during the past several years regarding our understanding of antifungal immunity. Fungi contain cell-wall molecules, such as β-glucan and chitin, and secrete biologically active proteases and glycosidases. Airway epithelial cells and innate immune cells, such as dendritic cells, are equipped with cell-surface molecules that react to these fungal products, resulting in production of cytokines and proinflammatory mediators. As a result, the adaptive arm of antifungal immunity, including TH1-, TH2-, and TH17-type CD4+ T cells, is established, reinforcing protection against fungal infection and causing detrimental immunopathology in certain subjects. We are only in the beginning stages of understanding the complex biology of fungi and detailed mechanisms of how they activate the immune response that can protect against or drive diseases in human subjects. Here we describe our current understanding with an emphasis on airway allergic immune responses. The gaps in our knowledge and desirable future directions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen R Bartemes
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, and the Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn
| | - Hirohito Kita
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, and the Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.
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37
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Rai G, Ansari MA, Dar SA, Datt S, Gupta N, Sharma S, Haque S, Ramachandran VG, Mazumdar A, Rudramurthy S, Chakrabarti A, Das S. Serum Cytokine Profile in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyposis Infected by Aspergillus flavus. Ann Lab Med 2018; 38:125-131. [PMID: 29214756 PMCID: PMC5736671 DOI: 10.3343/alm.2018.38.2.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fungi, especially Aspergillus flavus, can cause chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis and modulate host innate immune components. The objective of this study was to examine the serum levels of T helper (Th) cell subset Th1, Th2, and Th17 cytokines and total IgE in patients having chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis and Aspergillus flavus infection. Methods A case-control study including 40 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis and 20 healthy controls was conducted. Aspergillus flavus infection was confirmed by standard potassium hydroxide (KOH) testing, culture, and PCR. Serum samples of all patients and controls were analyzed for various cytokines (interleukins [IL]-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-17, IL-21, IL-27, TGF-β) and total IgE by ELISA. Data from patients with Aspergillus flavus infection and healthy volunteers were compared using the independent t-test and non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test. Results Aspergillus flavus infection was found in 31 (77.5%) patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis. IL-1β, IL-17, IL-21, and TGF-β serum levels were significantly higher in these patients than in controls; however, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-27 levels were lower. Compared with nine (22.5%) patients without Aspergillus flavus infection, IL-17 level was higher while IL-2 level was lower in patients with Aspergillus flavus infection. Total IgE was significantly higher in patients with Aspergillus flavus infection than in controls. Conclusions High levels of IL-17 and its regulatory cytokines in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis infected by Aspergillus flavus raise a concern about effective disease management and therapeutic recovery. Surgical removal of the nasal polyp being the chief management option, the choice of post-operative drugs may differ in eosinophilic vs. non-eosinophilic nasal polyposis. The prognosis is likely poor, warranting extended care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gargi Rai
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Mohammad Ahmad Ansari
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Sajad Ahmad Dar
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India.,Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing & Allied Health Sciences, University of Jazan, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shyama Datt
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Neelima Gupta
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Sonal Sharma
- Department of Pathology, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing & Allied Health Sciences, University of Jazan, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia (A Central University), New Delhi, India
| | | | - Arpeeta Mazumdar
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Shivprakash Rudramurthy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Arunaloke Chakrabarti
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Shukla Das
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India.
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38
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Banfalvi G. Improved and adopted murine models to combat pulmonary aspergillosis. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2018; 102:6865-6875. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-018-9161-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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39
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Fernandes J, Hamidi F, Leborgne R, Beau R, Castier Y, Mordant P, Boukkerou A, Latgé JP, Pretolani M. Penetration of the Human Pulmonary Epithelium by Aspergillus fumigatus Hyphae. J Infect Dis 2018; 218:1306-1313. [DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Julien Fernandes
- INSERM UMR1152, Physiopathologie et Epidémiologie des Maladies Respiratoires, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, Faculté de Médecine, site Bichat, France
- Laboratory of Excellence INFLAMEX, Université Sorbonne Paris-Cité, France
- Département Hospitalo-Universitaire FIRE, Paris, France
| | - Fatima Hamidi
- INSERM UMR1152, Physiopathologie et Epidémiologie des Maladies Respiratoires, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, Faculté de Médecine, site Bichat, France
- Laboratory of Excellence INFLAMEX, Université Sorbonne Paris-Cité, France
- Département Hospitalo-Universitaire FIRE, Paris, France
| | - Remi Leborgne
- ImagoSeine Electron Microscopy Facility, Institut Jacques Monod, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 7592, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, France
| | - Remi Beau
- Unité des Aspergillus, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Yves Castier
- INSERM UMR1152, Physiopathologie et Epidémiologie des Maladies Respiratoires, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, Faculté de Médecine, site Bichat, France
- Laboratory of Excellence INFLAMEX, Université Sorbonne Paris-Cité, France
- Département Hospitalo-Universitaire FIRE, Paris, France
- Service de Chirurgie Thoracique, Groupement Hospitalier Universitaire Nord Bichat-Claude Bernard, Assistance Publique des Hopitaux de Paris, France
| | - Pierre Mordant
- INSERM UMR1152, Physiopathologie et Epidémiologie des Maladies Respiratoires, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, Faculté de Médecine, site Bichat, France
- Laboratory of Excellence INFLAMEX, Université Sorbonne Paris-Cité, France
- Département Hospitalo-Universitaire FIRE, Paris, France
- Service de Chirurgie Thoracique, Groupement Hospitalier Universitaire Nord Bichat-Claude Bernard, Assistance Publique des Hopitaux de Paris, France
| | - Amira Boukkerou
- INSERM UMR1152, Physiopathologie et Epidémiologie des Maladies Respiratoires, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, Faculté de Médecine, site Bichat, France
- Laboratory of Excellence INFLAMEX, Université Sorbonne Paris-Cité, France
- Département Hospitalo-Universitaire FIRE, Paris, France
| | | | - Marina Pretolani
- INSERM UMR1152, Physiopathologie et Epidémiologie des Maladies Respiratoires, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, Faculté de Médecine, site Bichat, France
- Laboratory of Excellence INFLAMEX, Université Sorbonne Paris-Cité, France
- Département Hospitalo-Universitaire FIRE, Paris, France
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40
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Tamassia N, Arruda-Silva F, Calzetti F, Lonardi S, Gasperini S, Gardiman E, Bianchetto-Aguilera F, Gatta LB, Girolomoni G, Mantovani A, Vermi W, Cassatella MA. A Reappraisal on the Potential Ability of Human Neutrophils to Express and Produce IL-17 Family Members In Vitro: Failure to Reproducibly Detect It. Front Immunol 2018; 9:795. [PMID: 29719541 PMCID: PMC5913333 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neutrophils are known to perform a series of effector functions that are crucial for the innate and adaptive responses, including the synthesis and secretion of a variety of cytokines. In light of the controversial data in the literature, the main objective of this study was to more in-depth reevaluate the capacity of human neutrophils to express and produce cytokines of the IL-17 family in vitro. By reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR, protein measurement via commercial ELISA, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF), flow cytometry, immunoblotting, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), and ChIP-seq experiments, we found that highly pure (>99.7%) populations of human neutrophils do not express/produce IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-17AF, or IL-17B mRNA/protein upon incubation with a variety of agonists. Similar findings were observed by analyzing neutrophils isolated from active psoriatic patients. In contrast with published studies, IL-17A and IL-17F mRNA expression/production was not even found when neutrophils were incubated with extremely high concentrations of IL-6 plus IL-23, regardless of their combination with inactivated hyphae or conidia from Aspergillus fumigatus. Consistently, no deposition of histone marks for active (H3K27Ac) and poised (H3K4me1) genomic regulatory elements was detected at the IL-17A and IL-17F locus of resting and IL-6 plus IL-23-stimulated neutrophils, indicating a closed chromatin conformation. Concurrent experiments revealed that some commercial anti-IL-17A and anti-IL-17B antibodies (Abs), although staining neutrophils either spotted on cytospin slides or present in inflamed tissue samples by IHC/IF, do not recognize intracellular protein having the molecular weight corresponding to IL-17A or IL-17B, respectively, in immunoblotting experiments of whole neutrophil lysates. By contrast, the same Abs were found to more specifically recognize other intracellular proteins of neutrophils, suggesting that their ability to positively stain neutrophils in cytospin preparations and, eventually, tissue samples derives from IL-17A- or IL-17B-independent detections. In sum, our data confirm and extend, also at epigenetic level, previous findings on the inability of highly purified populations of human neutrophils to express/produce IL-17A, IL-17B, and IL-17F mRNAs/proteins in vitro, at least under the experimental conditions herein tested. Data also provide a number of justifications explaining, in part, why it is possible to false positively detect IL-17A+-neutrophils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Tamassia
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Fabio Arruda-Silva
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Federica Calzetti
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Silvia Lonardi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Section of Pathology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Sara Gasperini
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Gardiman
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Luisa Benerini Gatta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Section of Pathology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giampiero Girolomoni
- Department of Medicine, Section of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alberto Mantovani
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy.,The William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - William Vermi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Section of Pathology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco A Cassatella
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Hünniger K, Kurzai O. Phagocytes as central players in the defence against invasive fungal infection. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2018; 89:3-15. [PMID: 29601862 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2018.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Fungal pathogens cause severe and life-threatening infections worldwide. The majority of invasive infections occurs in immunocompromised patients and is based on acquired as well as congenital defects of innate and adaptive immune responses. In many cases, these defects affect phagocyte functions. Consequently, professional phagocytes - mainly monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and polymorphonuclear neutrophilic granulocytes - have been shown to act as central players in initiating and modulating antifungal immune responses as well as elimination of fungal pathogens. In this review we will summarize our current understanding on the role of these professional phagocytes in invasive fungal infection to emphasize two important aspects. (i) Analyses on the interaction between fungi and phagocytes have contributed to significant new insights into phagocyte biology. Important examples for this include the identification of pattern recognition receptors for β-glucan, a major cell wall component of many fungal pathogens, as well as the identification of genetic polymorphisms that determine individual host responses towards invading fungi. (ii) At the same time it was shown that fungal pathogens have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to counteract the attack of professional phagocytes. These mechanisms range from complete mechanical destruction of phagocytes to exquisite adaptation of some fungi to the hostile intracellular environment, enabling them to grow and replicate inside professional phagocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Hünniger
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Germany; Septomics Research Center, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans-Knoell-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Germany; Septomics Research Center, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans-Knoell-Institute, Jena, Germany.
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42
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Peron G, de Lima Thomaz L, Camargo da Rosa L, Thomé R, Cardoso Verinaud LM. Modulation of dendritic cell by pathogen antigens: Where do we stand? Immunol Lett 2018; 196:91-102. [PMID: 29427742 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Revised: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are essential players in the activation of T cells and in the development of adaptive immune response towards invading pathogens. Upon antigen (Ag) recognition of Pathogen Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs) by their receptors (PRRs), DCs are activated and acquire an inflammatory profile. DCs have the ability to direct the profile of helper T (Th) cells towards Th1, Th2, Th17, Th9 and regulatory (Treg) cells. Each subset of Th cells presents a unique gene expression signature and is endowed with the ability to conduct or suppress effector cells in inflammation. Pathogens target DCs during infection. Many studies demonstrated that antigens and molecules derived from pathogens have the ability to dampen DC maturation and activation, leading these cells to a permissive state or tolerogenic profile (tolDCs). Although tolDCs may represent a hindrance in infection control, they could be positively used to modulate inflammatory disorders, such as autoimmune diseases. In this review, we focus on discussing findings that use pathogen-antigen modulated DCs and tolDCs in prophylactics and therapeutics approaches for vaccination against infectious diseases or inflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Peron
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil.
| | - Livia de Lima Thomaz
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Larissa Camargo da Rosa
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Rodolfo Thomé
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Liana Maria Cardoso Verinaud
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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43
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Kumaresan PR, da Silva TA, Kontoyiannis DP. Methods of Controlling Invasive Fungal Infections Using CD8 + T Cells. Front Immunol 2018; 8:1939. [PMID: 29358941 PMCID: PMC5766637 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) cause high rates of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Pattern-recognition receptors present on the surfaces of innate immune cells recognize fungal pathogens and activate the first line of defense against fungal infection. The second line of defense is the adaptive immune system which involves mainly CD4+ T cells, while CD8+ T cells also play a role. CD8+ T cell-based vaccines designed to prevent IFIs are currently being investigated in clinical trials, their use could play an especially important role in acquired immune deficiency syndrome patients. So far, none of the vaccines used to treat IFI have been approved by the FDA. Here, we review current and future antifungal immunotherapy strategies involving CD8+ T cells. We highlight recent advances in the use of T cells engineered using a Sleeping Beauty vector to treat IFIs. Recent clinical trials using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy to treat patients with leukemia have shown very promising results. We hypothesized that CAR T cells could also be used to control IFI. Therefore, we designed a CAR that targets β-glucan, a sugar molecule found in most of the fungal cell walls, using the extracellular domain of Dectin-1, which binds to β-glucan. Mice treated with D-CAR+ T cells displayed reductions in hyphal growth of Aspergillus compared to the untreated group. Patients suffering from IFIs due to primary immunodeficiency, secondary immunodeficiency (e.g., HIV), or hematopoietic transplant patients may benefit from bioengineered CAR T cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pappanaicken R. Kumaresan
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Thiago Aparecido da Silva
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Dimitrios P. Kontoyiannis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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44
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Øya E, Afanou AKJ, Malla N, Uhlig S, Rolen E, Skaar I, Straumfors A, Winberg JO, Bang BE, Schwarze PE, Eduard W, Holme JA. Characterization and pro-inflammatory responses of spore and hyphae samples from various mold species. INDOOR AIR 2018; 28:28-39. [PMID: 28922584 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Mold particles from Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium chrysogenum, Aspergillus versicolor, and Stachybotrys chartarum have been linked to respiratory-related diseases. We characterized X-ray-inactivated spores and hyphae fragments from these species by number of particles, morphology, and mycotoxin, β-glucan and protease content/activity. The pro-inflammatory properties of mold particles were examined in human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) and THP-1 monocytes and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-differentiated THP-1. Spores from P. chrysogenum and S. chartarum contained some hyphae fragments, whereas the other preparations contained either spores or hyphae. Each mold species produced mainly one gelatin-degrading protease that was either of the metallo- or serine type, while one remains unclassified. Mycotoxin levels were generally low. Detectable levels of β-glucans were found mainly in hyphae particle preparations. PMA-differentiated THP-1 macrophages were by far the most sensitive model with effects in the order of 10 ng/cm2 . Hyphae preparations of A. fumigatus and P. chrysogenum were more potent than respective spore preparations, whereas the opposite seems to be true for A. versicolor and S. chartarum. Hyphae fragments of A. fumigatus, P. chrysogenum, and A. versicolor enhanced the release of metalloprotease (proMMP-9) most markedly. In conclusion, species, growth stage, and characteristics are all important factors for pro-inflammatory potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Øya
- Department of Air and Noise, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - A K J Afanou
- Department for the Chemical and Biological Work Environment, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - N Malla
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - S Uhlig
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Oslo, Norway
| | - E Rolen
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Oslo, Norway
| | - I Skaar
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Oslo, Norway
| | - A Straumfors
- Department for the Chemical and Biological Work Environment, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - J O Winberg
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - B E Bang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - P E Schwarze
- Department of Air and Noise, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - W Eduard
- Department for the Chemical and Biological Work Environment, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - J A Holme
- Department of Air and Noise, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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45
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Stephen-Victor E, Karnam A, Fontaine T, Beauvais A, Das M, Hegde P, Prakhar P, Holla S, Balaji KN, Kaveri SV, Latgé JP, Aimanianda V, Bayry J. Aspergillus fumigatus Cell Wall α-(1,3)-Glucan Stimulates Regulatory T-Cell Polarization by Inducing PD-L1 Expression on Human Dendritic Cells. J Infect Dis 2017; 216:1281-1294. [PMID: 28968869 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jix469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human dendritic cell (DC) response to α-(1,3)-glucan polysaccharide of Aspergillus fumigatus and ensuing CD4+ T-cell polarization are poorly characterized. Methods α-(1,3)-Glucan was isolated from A. fumigatus conidia and mycelia cell wall. For the analysis of polarization, DCs and autologous naive CD4+ T cells were cocultured. Phenotype of immune cells was analyzed by flow cytometry, and cytokines by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Blocking antibodies were used to dissect the role of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in regulating α-(1,3)-glucan-mediated DC activation and T-cell responses. DCs from TLR2-deficient mice were additionally used to consolidate the findings. Results α-(1,3)-Glucan induced the maturation of DCs and was dependent in part on TLR2. "α-(1,3)-Glucan-educated" DCs stimulated the activation of naive T cells and polarized a subset of these cells into CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs). Mechanistically, Treg stimulation by α-(1,3)-glucan was dependent on the PD-L1 pathway that negatively regulated interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) secretion. Short α-(1,3)-oligosaccharides lacked the capacity to induce maturation of DCs but significantly blocked α-(1,3)-glucan-induced Treg polarization. Conclusions PD-L1 dictates the balance between Treg and IFN-γ responses induced by α-(1,3)-glucan. Our data provide a rationale for the exploitation of immunotherapeutic approaches that target PD-1-PD-L1 to enhance protective immune responses to A. fumigatus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Stephen-Victor
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Sorbonne Universités-Université Pierre et Marie Curie.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers
| | - Anupama Karnam
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Sorbonne Universités-Université Pierre et Marie Curie.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers
| | | | - Anne Beauvais
- Unité des Aspergillus, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Mrinmoy Das
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Sorbonne Universités-Université Pierre et Marie Curie.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers
| | - Pushpa Hegde
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers
| | - Praveen Prakhar
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Sahana Holla
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | | | - Srini V Kaveri
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Sorbonne Universités-Université Pierre et Marie Curie.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers.,Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Jagadeesh Bayry
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale.,Sorbonne Universités-Université Pierre et Marie Curie.,Equipe - Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers.,Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
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46
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Maldonado S, Fitzgerald-Bocarsly P. Antifungal Activity of Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells and the Impact of Chronic HIV Infection. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1705. [PMID: 29255464 PMCID: PMC5723005 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the effectiveness of combined antiretroviral therapy, people living with HIV can control viral replication and live longer lifespans than ever. However, HIV-positive individuals still face challenges to their health and well-being, including dysregulation of the immune system resulting from years of chronic immune activation, as well as opportunistic infections from pathogenic fungi. This review focuses on one of the key players in HIV immunology, the plasmacytoid dendritic cell (pDC), which links the innate and adaptive immune response and is notable for being the body’s most potent producer of type-I interferons (IFNs). During chronic HIV infection, the pDC compartment is greatly dysregulated, experiencing a substantial depletion in number and compromise in function. This immune dysregulation may leave patients further susceptible to opportunistic infections. This is especially important when considering a new role for pDCs currently emerging in the literature: in addition to their role in antiviral immunity, recent studies suggest that pDCs also play an important role in antifungal immunity. Supporting this new role, pDCs express C-type lectin receptors including dectin-1, dectin-2, dectin-3, and mannose receptor, and toll-like receptors-4 and -9 that are involved in recognition, signaling, and response to a wide variety of fungal pathogens, including Aspergillus fumigatus, Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida albicans, and Pneumocystis jirovecii. Accordingly, pDCs have been demonstrated to recognize and respond to certain pathogenic fungi, measured via activation, cytokine production, and fungistatic activity in vitro, while in vivo mouse models indicated a strikingly vital role for pDCs in survival against pulmonary Aspergillus challenge. Here, we discuss the role of the pDC compartment and the dysregulation it undergoes during chronic HIV infection, as well as what is known so far about the role and mechanisms of pDC antifungal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Maldonado
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies, Newark, NJ, United States.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Patricia Fitzgerald-Bocarsly
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies, Newark, NJ, United States.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
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47
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Dewi IMW, van de Veerdonk FL, Gresnigt MS. The Multifaceted Role of T-Helper Responses in Host Defense against Aspergillus fumigatus. J Fungi (Basel) 2017; 3:E55. [PMID: 29371571 PMCID: PMC5753157 DOI: 10.3390/jof3040055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitous opportunistic fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus rarely causes infections in immunocompetent individuals. A healthy functional innate immune system plays a crucial role in preventing Aspergillus-infection. This pivotal role for the innate immune system makes it a main research focus in studying the pathogenesis of aspergillosis. Although sometimes overshadowed by the innate immune response, the adaptive immune response, and in particular T-helper responses, also represents a key player in host defense against Aspergillus. Virtually all T-helper subsets have been described to play a role during aspergillosis, with the Th1 response being crucial for fungal clearance. However; morbidity and mortality of aspergillosis can also be partly attributed to detrimental immune responses resulting from adaptive immune activation. Th2 responses benefit fungal persistence; and are the foundation of allergic forms of aspergillosis. The Th17 response has two sides; although crucial for granulocyte recruitment, it can be involved in detrimental immunopathology. Regulatory T-cells, the endogenous regulators of inflammatory responses, play a key role in controlling detrimental inflammatory responses during aspergillosis. The current knowledge of the adaptive immune response against A. fumigatus is summarized in this review. A better understanding on how T-helper responses facilitate clearance of Aspergillus-infection and control inflammation can be the fundamental basis for understanding the pathogenesis of aspergillosis and for the development of novel host-directed therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Intan M W Dewi
- Department of Experimental Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran, Jl. Eijkman No. 38, Bandung 40161, Indonesia.
| | - Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Experimental Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Mark S Gresnigt
- Department of Experimental Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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48
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Wang F, Zhang C, Jiang Y, Kou C, Kong Q, Long N, Lu L, Sang H. Innate and adaptive immune response to chronic pulmonary infection of hyphae of Aspergillus fumigatus in a new murine model. J Med Microbiol 2017; 66:1400-1408. [PMID: 28923131 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The pathogenesis of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) has seldom been studied due partly to a lack of animal models. Since hypha is the main morphology colonizing the airway in CPA, it's critical to study the immune reaction to chronic pulmonary infection of hyphae of Aspergillus fumigatus, which also has seldom been studied in vivo before. METHODOLOGY We established a novel murine model of chronic pulmonary infection of hyphae by challenging immunocompetent mice with tightly-structured hyphae balls intratracheally, and described the ensuing immunoreaction to hyphae and conidia, and the pathogenesis of CPA. RESULTS Our experiment proved that the hyphae balls could induce a chronic pulmonary infection for 28 days with a considerable recrudescence at day 28 post-infection. Lungs infected with hyphae balls were remarkable for the many neutrophils and macrophages that flooded into airway lumens, with peribronchiolar infiltration of leukocytes. There was a transient increase of Th2 cells and Th17 cells at day 7 post-infection in the lung tissue. In contrast, lungs infected with conidia showed no peribronchiolar infiltration of leukocytes, but an influx of a great number of macrophages, and a much less number of neutrophils in the lumen. Besides, conidia activated the co-response of Th1, Th2 and Th17 cells with an increase of Treg cells in the lung tissue (quite different from most previous studies). CONCLUSION We established a new murine model of chronic infection of hyphae to mimic the formation of CPA, and provide a new marker for different immune responses to hyphae and conidia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengyuan Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Caiyun Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Yuan Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Caixia Kou
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Qingtao Kong
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Nanbiao Long
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Ling Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Hong Sang
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
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Hsieh SH, Kurzai O, Brock M. Persistence within dendritic cells marks an antifungal evasion and dissemination strategy of Aspergillus terreus. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10590. [PMID: 28878289 PMCID: PMC5587622 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10914-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus terreus is an airborne human fungal pathogen causing life-threatening invasive aspergillosis in immunocompromised patients. In contrast to Aspergillus fumigatus, A. terreus infections are associated with high dissemination rates and poor response to antifungal treatment. Here, we compared the interaction of conidia from both fungal species with MUTZ-3-derived dendritic cells (DCs). After phagocytosis, A. fumigatus conidia rapidly escaped from DCs, whereas A. terreus conidia remained persisting with long-term survival. Escape from DCs was independent from DHN-melanin, as A. terreus conidia expressing wA showed no increased intracellular germination. Within DCs A. terreus conidia were protected from antifungals, whereas A. fumigatus conidia were efficiently cleared. Furthermore, while A. fumigatus conidia triggered expression of DC activation markers such as CD80, CD83, CD54, MHCII and CCR7, persistent A. terreus conidia were significantly less immunogenic. Moreover, DCs confronted with A. terreus conidia neither produced pro-inflammatory nor T-cell stimulating cytokines. However, TNF-α addition resulted in activation of DCs and provoked the expression of migration markers without inactivating intracellular A. terreus conidia. Therefore, persistence within DCs and possibly within other immune cells might contribute to the low response of A. terreus infections to antifungal treatment and could be responsible for its high dissemination rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Hung Hsieh
- Fungal Genetics and Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, NG7 2RD, Nottingham, UK.,Microbial Biochemistry and Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans-Knoell-Institute, Adolf-Reichwein-Str. 23, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, Medical Microbiology and Mycology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080, Würzburg, Germany.,Septomics Research Center, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans-Knoell-Institute, Adolf-Reichwein-Str. 23, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Matthias Brock
- Fungal Genetics and Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, NG7 2RD, Nottingham, UK.
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Desoubeaux G, Cray C. Rodent Models of Invasive Aspergillosis due to Aspergillus fumigatus: Still a Long Path toward Standardization. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:841. [PMID: 28559881 PMCID: PMC5432554 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive aspergillosis has been studied in laboratory by the means of plethora of distinct animal models. They were developed to address pathophysiology, therapy, diagnosis, or miscellaneous other concerns associated. However, there are great discrepancies regarding all the experimental variables of animal models, and a thorough focus on them is needed. This systematic review completed a comprehensive bibliographic analysis specifically-based on the technical features of rodent models infected with Aspergillus fumigatus. Out the 800 articles reviewed, it was shown that mice remained the preferred model (85.8% of the referenced reports), above rats (10.8%), and guinea pigs (3.8%). Three quarters of the models involved immunocompromised status, mainly by steroids (44.4%) and/or alkylating drugs (42.9%), but only 27.7% were reported to receive antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent from bacterial infection. Injection of spores (30.0%) and inhalation/deposition into respiratory airways (66.9%) were the most used routes for experimental inoculation. Overall, more than 230 distinct A. fumigatus strains were used in models. Of all the published studies, 18.4% did not mention usage of any diagnostic tool, like histopathology or mycological culture, to control correct implementation of the disease and to measure outcome. In light of these findings, a consensus discussion should be engaged to establish a minimum standardization, although this may not be consistently suitable for addressing all the specific aspects of invasive aspergillosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Desoubeaux
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiMiami, FL, USA.,Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie-Médecine tropicale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de ToursTours, France.,Centre d'Etude des Pathologies Respiratoires (CEPR) Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1100/Équipe 3, Université François-RabelaisTours, France
| | - Carolyn Cray
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiMiami, FL, USA
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