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Che M, Xu Y, Zang Y, Zhang R, Hu J, Liu S, Zhang J. Association of NLRP3 and IL-4 VNTR polymorphisms and genetic susceptibility to preeclampsia: A case-control study. Pregnancy Hypertens 2024; 37:101142. [PMID: 38959653 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2024.101142] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Abnormalities in the maternal immune system and insufficient gestational immune tolerance may significantly contribute to the development of preeclampsia (PE). The NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) functions as a pattern recognition receptor that identifies pathogen-associated molecular patterns. Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is a potent anti-inflammatory cytokine that modulates the immune response. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the impact of NLRP3 and IL-4 variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) polymorphisms on susceptibility to PE. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 1,018 patients with PE and 1,007 normal pregnant women were recruited as the case group and the control group, respectively. Peripheral blood DNA was extracted, and NLRP3 and IL-4 VNTR polymorphisms were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis. Genotypes and allele frequencies of pregnant women were assessed in both cohorts. RESULTS The NLRP3 VNTR 9-7 genotype in the PE group was significantly lower than that in the control group, but 9 and 14 allele frequencies were significantly higher in patients with PE. Individuals with IL-4 VNTR genotypes 1-2 had a lower risk of PE than controls, and the IL-4 VNTR 2 allele frequency was significantly lower in patients with PE. CONCLUSIONS This study, the first of its kind in the literature, evaluates the impact of NLRP3 VNTR and IL-4 VNTR polymorphisms on PE, revealing a significant correlation with PE susceptibility. This investigation contributes to understanding the pathogenesis of PE and provides a reference point for developing strategies to prevent and treat the disease in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxuan Che
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yinglei Xu
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yucui Zang
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ru Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jian Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shiguo Liu
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
| | - Jidong Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
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2
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Cheng KO, Montaño DE, Zelante T, Dietschmann A, Gresnigt MS. Inflammatory cytokine signalling in vulvovaginal candidiasis: a hot mess driving immunopathology. OXFORD OPEN IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 5:iqae010. [PMID: 39234208 PMCID: PMC11374039 DOI: 10.1093/oxfimm/iqae010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Protective immunity to opportunistic fungal infections consists of tightly regulated innate and adaptive immune responses that clear the infection. Immune responses to infections of the vaginal mucosa by Candida species are, however, an exception. In the case of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), the inflammatory response is associated with symptomatic disease, rather than that it results in pathogen clearance. As such VVC can be considered an inflammatory disease, which is a significant public health problem due to its predominance as a female-specific fungal infection. Particularly, women with recurrent VVC (RVVC) suffer from a significant negative impact on their quality of life and mental health. Knowledge of the inflammatory pathogenesis of (R)VVC may guide more effective diagnostic and therapeutic options to improve the quality of life of women with (R)VVC. Here, we review the immunopathogenesis of (R)VVC describing several elements that induce an inflammatory arson, starting with the activation threshold established by vaginal epithelial cells that prevent unnecessary ignition of inflammatory responses, epithelial and inflammasome-dependent immune responses. These inflammatory responses will drive neutrophil recruitment and dysfunctional neutrophil-mediated inflammation. We also review the, sometimes controversial, findings on the involvement of adaptive and systemic responses. Finally, we provide future perspectives on the potential of some unexplored cytokine axes and discuss whether VVC needs to be subdivided into subgroups to improve diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kar On Cheng
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11a, Jena, 07749, Germany
| | - Dolly E Montaño
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11a, Jena, 07749, Germany
| | - Teresa Zelante
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, Perugia, 06132, Italy
| | - Axel Dietschmann
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11a, Jena, 07749, Germany
| | - Mark S Gresnigt
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11a, Jena, 07749, Germany
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3
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Katsipoulaki M, Stappers MHT, Malavia-Jones D, Brunke S, Hube B, Gow NAR. Candida albicans and Candida glabrata: global priority pathogens. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0002123. [PMID: 38832801 PMCID: PMC11332356 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00021-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYA significant increase in the incidence of Candida-mediated infections has been observed in the last decade, mainly due to rising numbers of susceptible individuals. Recently, the World Health Organization published its first fungal pathogen priority list, with Candida species listed in medium, high, and critical priority categories. This review is a synthesis of information and recent advances in our understanding of two of these species-Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. Of these, C. albicans is the most common cause of candidemia around the world and is categorized as a critical priority pathogen. C. glabrata is considered a high-priority pathogen and has become an increasingly important cause of candidemia in recent years. It is now the second most common causative agent of candidemia in many geographical regions. Despite their differences and phylogenetic divergence, they are successful as pathogens and commensals of humans. Both species can cause a broad variety of infections, ranging from superficial to potentially lethal systemic infections. While they share similarities in certain infection strategies, including tissue adhesion and invasion, they differ significantly in key aspects of their biology, interaction with immune cells, host damage strategies, and metabolic adaptations. Here we provide insights on key aspects of their biology, epidemiology, commensal and pathogenic lifestyles, interactions with the immune system, and antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrto Katsipoulaki
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Mark H. T. Stappers
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Dhara Malavia-Jones
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Neil A. R. Gow
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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4
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Nenciarini S, Renzi S, di Paola M, Meriggi N, Cavalieri D. Ascomycetes yeasts: The hidden part of human microbiome. WIREs Mech Dis 2024; 16:e1641. [PMID: 38228159 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1641] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The fungal component of the microbiota, the mycobiota, has been neglected for a long time due to its poor richness compared to bacteria. Limitations in fungal detection and taxonomic identification arise from using metagenomic approaches, often borrowed from bacteriome analyses. However, the relatively recent discoveries of the ability of fungi to modulate the host immune response and their involvement in human diseases have made mycobiota a fundamental component of the microbial communities inhabiting the human host, deserving some consideration in host-microbe interaction studies and in metagenomics. Here, we reviewed recent data on the identification of yeasts of the Ascomycota phylum across human body districts, focusing on the most representative genera, that is, Saccharomyces and Candida. Then, we explored the key factors involved in shaping the human mycobiota across the lifespan, ranging from host genetics to environment, diet, and lifestyle habits. Finally, we discussed the strengths and weaknesses of culture-dependent and independent methods for mycobiota characterization. Overall, there is still room for some improvements, especially regarding fungal-specific methodological approaches and bioinformatics challenges, which are still critical steps in mycobiota analysis, and to advance our knowledge on the role of the gut mycobiota in human health and disease. This article is categorized under: Immune System Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Immune System Diseases > Environmental Factors Infectious Diseases > Environmental Factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sonia Renzi
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Monica di Paola
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Niccolò Meriggi
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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5
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Tozetto-Mendoza TR, Mendes-Correa MC, Linhares IM, de Cássia Raymundi V, de Oliveira Paião HG, Barbosa EMG, Luna-Muschi A, Honorato L, Correa GF, da Costa AC, Costa SF, Witkin SS. Association between development of severe COVID-19 and a polymorphism in the CIAS1 gene that codes for an inflammasome component. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11252. [PMID: 37438453 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38095-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
An elevated pro-inflammatory cytokine response is associated with severe life-threatening symptoms in individuals with Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID). The inflammasome is an intracellular structure responsible for generation of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18. NALP3, a product of the CIAS1 gene, is the rate-limiting component for inflammasome activity. We evaluated if a CIAS1 42 base pair length polymorphism (rs74163773) was associated with severe COVID. DNA from 93 individuals with severe COVID, 38 with mild COVID, and 98 controls were analyzed for this polymorphism. The 12 unit repeat allele is associated with the highest inflammasome activity. Five alleles, corresponding to 6, 7, 9, 12 or 13 repeat units, divided into 12 genotypes were identified. The frequency of the 12 unit repeat allele was 45.3% in those with severe disease as opposed to 30.0% in those with mild disease and 26.0% in controls (p < 0.0001, severe vs. controls). In contrast, the 7 unit repeat allele frequency was 30.1% in controls as opposed to 14.0% and 12.5% in those with severe or mild disease, respectively (p ≤ 0.0017). We conclude that individuals positive for the CIAS1 12 allele may be at elevated risk for development of severe COVID due to an increased level of induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania R Tozetto-Mendoza
- Laboratório de Virologia LIM 52, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Maria Cassia Mendes-Correa
- Laboratório de Virologia LIM 52, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Iara Moreno Linhares
- Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetricia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vanessa de Cássia Raymundi
- Laboratório de Virologia LIM 52, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Heuder Gustavo de Oliveira Paião
- Laboratório de Virologia LIM 52, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Erick Matheus Garcia Barbosa
- Laboratório de Virologia LIM 52, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Luna-Muschi
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Layla Honorato
- Laboratório de Virologia LIM 52, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giovanna Francisco Correa
- Laboratório de Virologia LIM 52, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio Charlys da Costa
- Laboratório de Virologia LIM 52, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia Figueiredo Costa
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Steven S Witkin
- Laboratório de Virologia LIM 52, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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6
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Wood SJ, Goldufsky JW, Seu MY, Dorafshar AH, Shafikhani SH. Pseudomonas aeruginosa Cytotoxins: Mechanisms of Cytotoxicity and Impact on Inflammatory Responses. Cells 2023; 12:cells12010195. [PMID: 36611990 PMCID: PMC9818787 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most virulent opportunistic Gram-negative bacterial pathogens in humans. It causes many acute and chronic infections with morbidity and mortality rates as high as 40%. P. aeruginosa owes its pathogenic versatility to a large arsenal of cell-associated and secreted virulence factors which enable this pathogen to colonize various niches within hosts and protect it from host innate immune defenses. Induction of cytotoxicity in target host cells is a major virulence strategy for P. aeruginosa during the course of infection. P. aeruginosa has invested heavily in this strategy, as manifested by a plethora of cytotoxins that can induce various forms of cell death in target host cells. In this review, we provide an in-depth review of P. aeruginosa cytotoxins based on their mechanisms of cytotoxicity and the possible consequences of their cytotoxicity on host immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J. Wood
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Cell Therapy, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Josef W. Goldufsky
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Cell Therapy, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Michelle Y. Seu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Amir H. Dorafshar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Sasha H. Shafikhani
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Cell Therapy, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Microbial Pathogens and Immunity, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Cancer Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Correspondence:
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7
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Jafarzadeh L, Ranjbar M, Nazari T, Naeimi Eshkaleti M, Aghaei Gharehbolagh S, Sobel JD, Mahmoudi S. Vulvovaginal candidiasis: An overview of mycological, clinical, and immunological aspects. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:1546-1560. [PMID: 35445492 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To provide an overview of clinical, immunological, and mycological aspects of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). METHODS A literature search was conducted to find relevant articles about different aspects of VVC. Related data from retrieved articles were summarized in different headings. RESULTS VVC has a global distribution and Candida albicans is the leading cause of infection except for specific patient groups like postmenopausal, diabetic, or immunocompromised women. VVC has a range of clinical presentations, accordingly, its diagnosis should be based on clinical examination coupled with laboratory investigations. The best therapeutic regimen depends on the patient's conditions and the causative agent. Moreover, factors like drug resistance of the causative agents and different mutations in the immunity-related genes could affect the treatment outcome. CONCLUSION As a globally distributed disease, VVC needs further attention, especially in areas related to the treatment failure and recurrence of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Jafarzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Maryam Ranjbar
- Department of Persian Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Tina Nazari
- Department of Medical Geriatrics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Naeimi Eshkaleti
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sanaz Aghaei Gharehbolagh
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jack D Sobel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Shahram Mahmoudi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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8
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Churchill MJ, Mitchell PS, Rauch I. Epithelial Pyroptosis in Host Defense. J Mol Biol 2022; 434:167278. [PMID: 34627788 PMCID: PMC10010195 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Pyroptosis is a lytic form of cell death that is executed by a family of pore-forming proteins called gasdermins (GSDMs). GSDMs are activated upon proteolysis by host proteases including the proinflammatory caspases downstream of inflammasome activation. In myeloid cells, GSDM pore formation serves two primary functions in host defense: the selective release of processed cytokines to initiate inflammatory responses, and cell death, which eliminates a replicative niche of the pathogen. Barrier epithelia also undergo pyroptosis. However, unique mechanisms are required for the removal of pyroptotic epithelial cells to maintain epithelial barrier integrity. In the following review, we discuss the role of epithelial inflammasomes and pyroptosis in host defense against pathogens. We use the well-established role of inflammasomes in intestinal epithelia to highlight principles of epithelial pyroptosis in host defense of barrier tissues, and discuss how these principles might be shared or distinctive across other epithelial sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline J Churchill
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | - Isabella Rauch
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
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9
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Candida albicans Modulates Murine and Human Beta Defensin-1 during Vaginitis. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 8:jof8010020. [PMID: 35049960 PMCID: PMC8778459 DOI: 10.3390/jof8010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) are two forms of a disease caused by Candida spp. β-defensin (BD) is one of the most important families of antimicrobial peptides in the female genital tract and includes molecules that exert essential local functions as antimicrobial and PMN chemoattractant peptides. However, the information on their role during murine and human VVC and RVVC is limited. Thus, we analyzed the behavior and contribution of BD1 to the local response in a VVC mice model and the local cytokine profile and human BD1 and BD3 expression in cervicovaginal lavage from patients with VVC and RVVC. We demonstrated that, in patients with RVVC BD1, mRNA and protein expression were severely diminished and that the aspartate proteinase and lipase secreted by C. albicans are involved in that decrease. This study provides novel information about the pathogenesis of VVC and describes a highly efficient C. albicans escape strategy for perpetuating the infection; these results may contribute to the development of new or combined treatment approaches.
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10
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Pandiyan P, McCormick TS. Regulation of IL-17A-Producing Cells in Skin Inflammatory Disorders. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 142:867-875. [PMID: 34561088 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on the IL-17A family of cytokines produced by T lymphocytes and other immune cells and how they are involved in cutaneous pathogenic responses. It will also discuss cutaneous dysbiosis and FOXP3+ regulatory T cells in the context of inflammatory conditions linked to IL-17 responses in the skin. Specifically, it will review key literature on chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis and psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pushpa Pandiyan
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
| | - Thomas S McCormick
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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11
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Torres-Cueco R, Nohales-Alfonso F. Vulvodynia-It Is Time to Accept a New Understanding from a Neurobiological Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18126639. [PMID: 34205495 PMCID: PMC8296499 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Vulvodynia is one the most common causes of pain during sexual intercourse in premenopausal women. The burden of vulvodynia in a woman's life can be devastating due to its consequences in the couple's sexuality and intimacy, in activities of daily living, and psychological well-being. In recent decades, there has been considerable progress in the understanding of vulvar pain. The most significant change has been the differentiation of vulvar pain secondary to pathology or disease from vulvodynia. However, although it is currently proposed that vulvodynia should be considered as a primary chronic pain condition and, therefore, without an obvious identifiable cause, it is still believed that different inflammatory, genetic, hormonal, muscular factors, etc. may be involved in its development. Advances in pain neuroscience and the central sensitization paradigm have led to a new approach to vulvodynia from a neurobiological perspective. It is proposed that vulvodynia should be understood as complex pain without relevant nociception. Different clinical identifiers of vulvodynia are presented from a neurobiological and psychosocial perspective. In this case, strategies to modulate altered central pain processing is necessary, changing the patient's erroneous cognitions about their pain, and also reducing fear avoidance-behaviors and the disability of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Torres-Cueco
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Francisco Nohales-Alfonso
- Gynecology Section, Clinical Area of Women’s Diseases, La Fe University Hospital, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
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12
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Camilli G, Griffiths JS, Ho J, Richardson JP, Naglik JR. Some like it hot: Candida activation of inflammasomes. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008975. [PMID: 33119702 PMCID: PMC7595283 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Camilli
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - James S. Griffiths
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jemima Ho
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan P. Richardson
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Julian R. Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Zhang D, Wang Y, Shen S, Hou Y, Chen Y, Wang T. The mycobiota of the human body: a spark can start a prairie fire. Gut Microbes 2020; 11:655-679. [PMID: 32150513 PMCID: PMC7524315 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2020.1731287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycobiota are inseparable from human health, shaking up the unique position held by bacteria among microorganisms. What is surprising is that this seemingly small species can trigger huge changes in the human body. Dysbiosis and invasion of mycobiota are confirmed to cause disease in different parts of the body. Meanwhile, our body also produces corresponding immune changes upon mycobiota infection. Several recent studies have made a connection between intestinal mycobiota and the human immune system. In this review, we focus on questions related to mycobiota, starting with an introduction of select species, then we summarize the typical diseases caused by mycobiota in different parts of the human body. Moreover, we constructed a framework for the human anti-fungal immune system based on genetics and immunology. Finally, the progression of fungal detection methods is also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sunan Shen
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yayi Hou
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yugen Chen
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,CONTACT Tingting Wang The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing210093, China
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14
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Jaeger M, Pinelli M, Borghi M, Constantini C, Dindo M, van Emst L, Puccetti M, Pariano M, Ricaño-Ponce I, Büll C, Gresnigt MS, Wang X, Gutierrez Achury J, Jacobs CWM, Xu N, Oosting M, Arts P, Joosten LAB, van de Veerdonk FL, Veltman JA, Ten Oever J, Kullberg BJ, Feng M, Adema GJ, Wijmenga C, Kumar V, Sobel J, Gilissen C, Romani L, Netea MG. A systems genomics approach identifies SIGLEC15 as a susceptibility factor in recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. Sci Transl Med 2020; 11:11/496/eaar3558. [PMID: 31189718 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aar3558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Candida vaginitis is a frequent clinical diagnosis with up to 8% of women experiencing recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) globally. RVVC is characterized by at least three episodes per year. Most patients with RVVC lack known risk factors, suggesting a role for genetic risk factors in this condition. Through integration of genomic approaches and immunological studies in two independent cohorts of patients with RVVC and healthy individuals, we identified genes and cellular processes that contribute to the pathogenesis of RVVC, including cellular morphogenesis and metabolism, and cellular adhesion. We further identified SIGLEC15, a lectin expressed by various immune cells that binds sialic acid-containing structures, as a candidate gene involved in RVVC susceptibility. Candida stimulation induced SIGLEC15 expression in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and a polymorphism in the SIGLEC15 gene that was associated with RVVC in the patient cohorts led to an altered cytokine profile after PBMC stimulation. The same polymorphism led to an increase in IL1B and NLRP3 expression after Candida stimulation in HeLa cells in vitro. Last, Siglec15 expression was induced by Candida at the vaginal surface of mice, where in vivo silencing of Siglec15 led to an increase in the fungal burden. Siglec15 silencing was additionally accompanied by an increase in polymorphonuclear leukocytes during the course of infection. Identification of these pathways and cellular processes contributes to a better understanding of RVVC and may open new therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jaeger
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands.,Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center (Radboudumc), Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands
| | - M Pinelli
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Pozzuoli, Naples, 80078, Italy.,Department of Human Genetics, Donders Center for Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525HR, Netherlands
| | - M Borghi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, 06123, Italy
| | - C Constantini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, 06123, Italy
| | - M Dindo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, 06123, Italy
| | - L van Emst
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands
| | - M Puccetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, 06123, Italy
| | - M Pariano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, 06123, Italy
| | - I Ricaño-Ponce
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Genetics, Groningen, 9713GZ, Netherlands
| | - C Büll
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiotherapy & OncoImmunology Laboratory, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 32, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands
| | - M S Gresnigt
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands.,Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center (Radboudumc), Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands.,Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, Jena, 07745, Germany
| | - X Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands.,College of Computer, Qinghai Normal University, 810008 Xining, China
| | - J Gutierrez Achury
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Genetics, Groningen, 9713GZ, Netherlands
| | - C W M Jacobs
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands
| | - N Xu
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - M Oosting
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands
| | - P Arts
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Center for Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525HR, Netherlands
| | - L A B Joosten
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands
| | - F L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands
| | - J A Veltman
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Center for Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525HR, Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, 6229HX, Netherlands
| | - J Ten Oever
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands
| | - B J Kullberg
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands
| | - M Feng
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - G J Adema
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiotherapy & OncoImmunology Laboratory, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 32, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands
| | - C Wijmenga
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Genetics, Groningen, 9713GZ, Netherlands
| | - V Kumar
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Genetics, Groningen, 9713GZ, Netherlands
| | - J Sobel
- Infectious Diseases, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - C Gilissen
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Center for Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525HR, Netherlands
| | - L Romani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, 06123, Italy
| | - M G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Centre for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525GA, Netherlands. .,Human Genomics Laboratory, Craiova University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Craiova, 200349
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15
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Inflammasome genetics and complex diseases: a comprehensive review. Eur J Hum Genet 2020; 28:1307-1321. [PMID: 32499599 PMCID: PMC7608315 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-020-0631-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The inflammasome is a cytoplasmic multiprotein complex responsible for the activation of inflammatory caspases (caspase-1, -4, and -5) in response to pathogen- and/or damage-associated molecular patterns or to homeostasis-altering molecular pathways, and for the consequent release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1ß and IL-18. Taking in account the complexity of inflammasome activation and that several regulatory steps are involved in maintaining its physiologic role in homeostasis and innate immune response, it does not surprise that several genetic variants in inflammasome components have been associated with common pathologies in the general population, such as autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular diseases, obesity and associated metabolic syndrome, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Moreover, the susceptibility to infectious agents and/or to develop severe complications during infections also has been related to inflammasome genetics. In this work, we revised genetic association studies about polymorphisms of main inflammasome genes in sterile as well as infectious diseases, trying to depict the genetic contribution of inflammasome in disease pathogenesis.
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16
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Merkhofer RM, Klein BS. Advances in Understanding Human Genetic Variations That Influence Innate Immunity to Fungi. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:69. [PMID: 32185141 PMCID: PMC7058545 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungi are ubiquitous. Yet, despite our frequent exposure to commensal fungi of the normal mammalian microbiota and environmental fungi, serious, systemic fungal infections are rare in the general population. Few, if any, fungi are obligate pathogens that rely on infection of mammalian hosts to complete their lifecycle; however, many fungal species are able to cause disease under select conditions. The distinction between fungal saprophyte, commensal, and pathogen is artificial and heavily determined by the ability of an individual host's immune system to limit infection. Dramatic examples of commensal fungi acting as opportunistic pathogens are seen in hosts that are immune compromised due to congenital or acquired immune deficiency. Genetic variants that lead to immunological susceptibility to fungi have long been sought and recognized. Decreased myeloperoxidase activity in neutrophils was first reported as a mechanism for susceptibility to Candida infection in 1969. The ability to detect genetic variants and mutations that lead to rare or subtle susceptibilities has improved with techniques such as single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarrays, whole exome sequencing (WES), and whole genome sequencing (WGS). Still, these approaches have been limited by logistical considerations and cost, and they have been applied primarily to Mendelian impairments in anti-fungal responses. For example, loss-of-function mutations in CARD9 were discovered by studying an extended family with a history of fungal infection. While discovery of such mutations furthers the understanding of human antifungal immunity, major Mendelian susceptibility loci are unlikely to explain genetic disparities in the rate or severity of fungal infection on the population level. Recent work using unbiased techniques has revealed, for example, polygenic mechanisms contributing to candidiasis. Understanding the genetic underpinnings of susceptibility to fungal infections will be a powerful tool in the age of personalized medicine. Future application of this knowledge may enable targeted health interventions for susceptible individuals, and guide clinical decision making based on a patient's individual susceptibility profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard M Merkhofer
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Bruce S Klein
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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17
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de Rivero Vaccari JP. The Inflammasome in Reproductive Biology: A Promising Target for Novel Therapies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:8. [PMID: 32047476 PMCID: PMC6997205 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The inflammasome is a key regulator of innate immunity involved in the inflammatory response to infections as well as disease through the activation of caspase-1 and the processing of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18. Even though the inflammasome was first described in the context of infections, most research in recent years has focused on targeting the inflammasome as a therapeutic option in sterile inflammatory events. Recent evidence indicates a clear involvement of the inflammasome in Reproductive Biology such as infertility and preeclampsia. In this mini-review, I summarize the current findings on the inflammasome that have been described in the field of Reproductive Biology and highlight the potential that the inflammasome has as a novel therapeutic option in this field. The topics covered in this review as it pertains to the inflammasome field cover the literature published on male and female infertility, endometriosis, preeclampsia, placental inflammation, and reproductive senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo de Rivero Vaccari
- Department of Neurological Surgery and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Center for Cognitive Neuroscience and Aging, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- InflamaCORE, LLC, Miami, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Juan Pablo de Rivero Vaccari
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18
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Tribó MJ, Canal C, Baños JE, Robleda G. Pain, Anxiety, Depression, and Quality of Life in Patients with Vulvodynia. Dermatology 2019; 236:255-261. [PMID: 31694025 DOI: 10.1159/000503321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The term vulvodynia refers to vulvar pain of unknown origin lasting at least 3 months. Psychiatric comorbidities are a common feature and, along with pain, may severely affect patients' wellbeing. We aimed to determine the characteristics of pain in vulvodynia, to correlate characteristics with symptoms of anxiety and depression, and to analyse the impact of these factors on patients' quality of life. METHODS This cross-sectional observational study analysed pain, anxiety, and depression and the effects of these factors on quality of life. Pain, anxiety, and depression were assessed using validated tools in 110 women. RESULTS Statistical analyses found correlations between pain and anxiety and between anxiety and worsened quality of life. Patients often reported stinging, burning, pain, itching, and dyspareunia, pointing to the importance of temporal, localisation, punctate pressure, thermal, tactile sensitivity, and emotional tension characteristics. Most patients had severe pain related to psychiatric comorbidities and decreased quality of life. CONCLUSION Using descriptors of pain quality and assessing anxiety and depression might help to define subgroups of patients that may benefit from different therapeutic approaches and thus enable treatments to be tailored to individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria José Tribó
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Universitari del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carla Canal
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep-E Baños
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain, .,Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain,
| | - Gemma Robleda
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.,Mar School of Nursing, University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
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19
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Kalia N, Singh J, Kaur M. Immunopathology of Recurrent Vulvovaginal Infections: New Aspects and Research Directions. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2034. [PMID: 31555269 PMCID: PMC6722227 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent vulvovaginal infections (RVVI), a devastating group of mucosal infection, are severely affecting women's quality of life. Our understanding of the vaginal defense mechanisms have broadened recently with studies uncovering the inflammatory nature of bacterial vaginosis, inflammatory responses against novel virulence factors, innate Type 17 cells/IL-17 axis, neutrophils mediated killing of pathogens by a novel mechanism, and oxidative stress during vaginal infections. However, the pathogens have fine mechanisms to subvert or manipulate the host immune responses, hijack them and use them for their own advantage. The odds of hijacking increases, due to impaired immune responses, the net magnitude of which is the result of numerous genetic variations, present in multiple host genes, detailed in this review. Thus, by underlining the role of the host immune responses in disease etiology, modern research has clarified a major hypothesis shift in the pathophilosophy of RVVI. This knowledge can further be used to develop efficient immune-based diagnosis and treatment strategies for this enigmatic disease conditions. As for instance, plasma-derived MBL replacement, adoptive T-cell, and antibody-based therapies have been reported to be safe and efficacious in infectious diseases. Therefore, these emerging immune-therapies could possibly be the future therapeutic options for RVVI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namarta Kalia
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, India
| | - Jatinder Singh
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, India
| | - Manpreet Kaur
- Department of Human Genetics, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, India
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20
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Localized Provoked Vulvodynia: Association With Nerve Growth Factor and Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid Type 1 Genes Polymorphisms. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2019; 23:58-64. [DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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21
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Lai GC, Tan TG, Pavelka N. The mammalian mycobiome: A complex system in a dynamic relationship with the host. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2018; 11:e1438. [PMID: 30255552 PMCID: PMC6586165 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Revised: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian barrier surfaces are densely populated by symbiont fungi in much the same way the former are colonized by symbiont bacteria. The fungal microbiota, otherwise known as the mycobiota, is increasingly recognized as a critical player in the maintenance of health and homeostasis of the host. Here we discuss the impact of the mycobiota on host physiology and disease, the factors influencing mycobiota composition, and the current technologies used for identifying symbiont fungal species. Understanding the tripartite interactions among the host, mycobiota, and other members of the microbiota, will help to guide the development of novel prevention and therapeutic strategies for a variety of human diseases. This article is categorized under:
Physiology > Mammalian Physiology in Health and Disease Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Genetic/Genomic Methods Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Organismal Models
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22
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Abstract
Trained immunity was originally proposed as a program of innate immunity memory by innate immunity cells of hematopoietic origin such as the monocytes/macrophages and the NK cells. Here I discuss some old and new data justifying this program and some specific, still unanswered, questions it raises regarding the model fungus Candida albicans and the chronic, inflammatory vulvovaginal disease it causes. Building upon this well-established program, the recent reports that epithelial cells of mammals can also acquire memory from previous stimulations, and the apparent intrinsic ability of many living cells from bacteria to mammals to learn from experience, I suggest an expansion of the concept of trained immunity to include all cells of different lineages with the potential of memorizing previous microbial encounters. This expansion would better fit the complexity of innate immunity and the role it plays in infectious and inflammatory diseases.
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23
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Abstract
Over the last decade, invasive fungal infections have emerged as a growing threat to human health worldwide and novel treatment strategies are urgently needed. In this context, investigations into host-pathogen interactions represent an important and promising field of research. Antigen presenting cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells are strategically located at the frontline of defence against potential invaders. Importantly, these cells express germline encoded pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which sense conserved entities from pathogens and orchestrate innate immune responses. Herein, we review the latest findings regarding the biology and functions of the different classes of PRRs involved in pathogenic fungal recognition. We also discuss recent literature on PRR collaboration/crosstalk and the mechanisms involved in inhibiting/regulating PRR signalling. Finally, we discuss how the accumulated knowledge on PRR biology, especially Dectin-1, has been used for the design of new immunotherapies against fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel C Patin
- Division of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Aiysha Thompson
- Division of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Selinda J Orr
- Division of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, Wales, United Kingdom.
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24
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Abstract
Fungi have emerged as premier opportunistic microbes of the 21st century, having a considerable impact on human morbidity and mortality. The huge increase in incidence of these diseases is largely due to the HIV pandemic and use of immunosuppressive therapies, underscoring the importance of the immune system in defense against fungi. This article will address how the mammalian immune system recognizes and mounts a defense against medically relevant fungal species.
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25
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Campos CF, van de Veerdonk FL, Gonçalves SM, Cunha C, Netea MG, Carvalho A. Host Genetic Signatures of Susceptibility to Fungal Disease. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2018; 422:237-263. [PMID: 30043341 DOI: 10.1007/82_2018_113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Our relative inability to predict the development of fungal disease and its clinical outcome raises fundamental questions about its actual pathogenesis. Several clinical risk factors are described to predispose to fungal disease, particularly in immunocompromised and severely ill patients. However, these alone do not entirely explain why, under comparable clinical conditions, only some patients develop infection. Recent clinical and epidemiological studies have reported an expanding number of monogenic defects and common polymorphisms associated with fungal disease. By directly implicating genetic variation in the functional regulation of immune mediators and interacting pathways, these studies have provided critical insights into the human immunobiology of fungal disease. Most of the common genetic defects reported were described or suggested to impair fungal recognition by the innate immune system. Here, we review common genetic variation in pattern recognition receptors and its impact on the immune response against the two major fungal pathogens Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus. In addition, we discuss potential strategies and opportunities for the clinical translation of genetic information in the field of medical mycology. These approaches are expected to transfigure current clinical practice by unleashing an unprecedented ability to personalize prophylaxis, therapy and monitoring for fungal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia F Campos
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Samuel M Gonçalves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Cristina Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal. .,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
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26
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Roselletti E, Perito S, Gabrielli E, Mencacci A, Pericolini E, Sabbatini S, Cassone A, Vecchiarelli A. NLRP3 inflammasome is a key player in human vulvovaginal disease caused by Candida albicans. Sci Rep 2017; 7:17877. [PMID: 29259175 PMCID: PMC5736597 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-17649-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of host inflammatory and Candida albicans putative virulence factors was studied in women with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC; twenty) or colonized by the fungus but asymptomatic (carriers; fifteen) or non-colonized asymptomatic (ten subjects). Overexpression of genes encoding NLRP3 and caspase-1 inflammasome components sharply differentiated VVC patients from asymptomatic colonized or non-colonized women. Inflammasome expression was coupled with neutrophils recruitment in the vagina of VVC women and IL-1β and IL-8 production. Both cytokines were present, though to a lower concentration, also in the vaginal fluid of colonized and non-colonized women. Secretory aspartyl proteinases (SAPs) and hyphae associated genes HWP1 and ECE1 were upregulated in VVC but with some differences among infected women. The most overexpressed SAP gene was SAP2, that correlated with neutrophils accumulation. Our data provide clinical evidence that the intracytoplasmic activation of NLRP3 inflammasome complex plays a critical, pathogenesis-relevant role in human VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Roselletti
- Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132, Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, Italy
| | - Stefano Perito
- Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132, Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, Italy
| | - Elena Gabrielli
- Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132, Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonella Mencacci
- Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132, Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, Italy
| | - Eva Pericolini
- Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132, Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, Italy.,Department of Diagnostic Medicine, Clinical and Health Public, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Samuele Sabbatini
- Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132, Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonio Cassone
- Polo d'Innovazione di Genomica, Genetica e Biologia, University of Perugia, 06132, Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, Italy
| | - Anna Vecchiarelli
- Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132, Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, Italy.
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27
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Caffrey-Carr AK, Kowalski CH, Beattie SR, Blaseg NA, Upshaw CR, Thammahong A, Lust HE, Tang YW, Hohl TM, Cramer RA, Obar JJ. Interleukin 1α Is Critical for Resistance against Highly Virulent Aspergillus fumigatus Isolates. Infect Immun 2017; 85:e00661-17. [PMID: 28947643 PMCID: PMC5695118 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00661-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneity among Aspergillus fumigatus isolates results in unique virulence potential and inflammatory responses. How these isolates drive specific immune responses and how this affects fungally induced lung damage and disease outcome are unresolved. We demonstrate that the highly virulent CEA10 strain is able to rapidly germinate within the immunocompetent lung environment, inducing greater lung damage, vascular leakage, and interleukin 1α (IL-1α) release than the low-virulence Af293 strain, which germinates with a lower frequency in this environment. Importantly, the clearance of CEA10 was consequently dependent on IL-1α, in contrast to Af293. The release of IL-1α occurred by a caspase 1/11- and P2XR7-independent mechanism but was dependent on calpain activity. Our finding that early fungal conidium germination drives greater lung damage and IL-1α-dependent inflammation is supported by three independent experimental lines. First, pregermination of Af293 prior to in vivo challenge drives greater lung damage and an IL-1α-dependent neutrophil response. Second, the more virulent EVOL20 strain, derived from Af293, is able to germinate in the airways, leading to enhanced lung damage and IL-1α-dependent inflammation and fungal clearance. Third, primary environmental A. fumigatus isolates that rapidly germinate under airway conditions follow the same trend toward IL-1α dependency. Our data support the hypothesis that A. fumigatus phenotypic variation significantly contributes to disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alayna K Caffrey-Carr
- Montana State University, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Bozeman, Montana, USA
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Caitlin H Kowalski
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Sarah R Beattie
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Nathan A Blaseg
- Montana State University, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Bozeman, Montana, USA
| | | | - Arsa Thammahong
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Hannah E Lust
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Yi-Wei Tang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Microbiology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Disease Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Tobias M Hohl
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Disease Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Robert A Cramer
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Joshua J Obar
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
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Gow NAR, Netea MG. Medical mycology and fungal immunology: new research perspectives addressing a major world health challenge. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2017; 371:rstb.2015.0462. [PMID: 28080988 PMCID: PMC5095541 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2015.0462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungi cause more than a billion skin infections, more than 100 million mucosal infections, 10 million serious allergies and more than a million deaths each year. Global mortality owing to fungal infections is greater than for malaria and breast cancer and is equivalent to that owing to tuberculosis (TB) and HIV. These statistics evidence fungal infections as a major threat to human health and a major burden to healthcare budgets worldwide. Those patients who are at greatest risk of life-threatening fungal infections include those who have weakened immunity or have suffered trauma or other predisposing infections such as HIV. To address these global threats to human health, more research is urgently needed to understand the immunopathology of fungal disease and human disease susceptibility in order to augment the advances being made in fungal diagnostics and drug development. Here, we highlight some recent advances in basic research in medical mycology and fungal immunology that are beginning to inform clinical decisions and options for personalized medicine, vaccine development and adjunct immunotherapies.This article is part of the themed issue 'Tackling emerging fungal threats to animal health, food security and ecosystem resilience'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil A R Gow
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Nijmegen, 6500HB, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Fungi and mammals share a co-evolutionary history and are involved in a complex web of interactions. Studies focused on commensal bacteria suggest that pathological changes in the microbiota, historically known as dysbiosis, are at the root of many inflammatory diseases of non-infectious origin. However, the importance of dysbiosis in the fungal community - the mycobiota - was only recently acknowledged to have a pathological role, as novel findings have suggested that mycobiota disruption can have detrimental effects on host immunity. Fungal dysbiosis and homeostasis are dynamic processes that are probably more common than actual fungal infections, and therefore constantly shape the immune response. In this Review, we summarize specific mycobiota patterns that are associated with fungal dysbiosis, and discuss how mucosal immunity has evolved to distinguish fungal infections from dysbiosis and how it responds to these different conditions. We propose that gut microbiota dysbiosis is a collective feature of complex interactions between prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbial communities that can affect immunity and that can influence health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iliyan D Iliev
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Division, Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- The Jill Roberts Institute for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Irina Leonardi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Division, Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
- The Jill Roberts Institute for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
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31
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Robinson RT, Huppler AR. The Goldilocks model of immune symbiosis with Mycobacteria and Candida colonizers. Cytokine 2017; 97:49-65. [PMID: 28570933 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2017.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mycobacteria and Candida species include significant human pathogens that can cause localized or disseminated infections. Although these organisms may appear to have little in common, several shared pathways of immune recognition and response are important for both control and infection-related pathology. In this article, we compare and contrast the innate and adaptive components of the immune system that pertain to these infections in humans and animal models. We also explore a relatively new concept in the mycobacterial field: biological commensalism. Similar to the well-established model of Candida infection, Mycobacteria species colonize their human hosts in equilibrium with the immune response. Perturbations in the immune response permit the progression to pathologic disease at the expense of the host. Understanding the immune factors required to maintain commensalism may aid with the development of diagnostic and treatment strategies for both categories of pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard T Robinson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
| | - Anna R Huppler
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Disease, Medical College of Wisconsin, Children's Hospital and Health System, Children's Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
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Patanwala IY, Lamvu G, Ledger WJ, Witzeman K, Marvel R, Rapkin A, Bongiovanni AM, Feranec J, Witkin SS. Catechol-O-methyltransferase gene polymorphism and vulvar pain in women with vulvodynia. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2017; 216:395.e1-395.e6. [PMID: 27780702 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2016] [Revised: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The underlying causes of vulvar pain in women with vulvodynia remain poorly understood. Catechol-O-methyltransferase, an enzyme that metabolizes catecholamines, is a neuromodulator that is involved with perception and sensitivity to pain. The catechol-O-methyltransferase gene is polymorphic, and a single nucleotide polymorphism is associated with low activity and heightened pain sensitivity. The variant allele that encodes this polymorphism commonly is called the "L allele" because of its low enzyme activity as opposed to the normal H (high activity) allele. OBJECTIVE The methionine-containing catechol-O-methyltransferase protein coded by the L allele results in elevated catecholamine levels, reduced inactivation of the dopaminergic and adrenergic systems, and increased sensitivity to pain. This polymorphism not only may decrease the pain threshold in response to acute pain but also may facilitate the development of chronic pain. Therefore, the objective of our study was to assess whether a variation in the catechol-O-methyltransferase genotype is involved in increased pain sensitivity in women with vulvodynia. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a prospective cohort study. METHODS Buccal swabs were collected from 167 white women with vulvodynia and 107 control subjects; the DNA was tested for a single nucleotide polymorphism at position 158 (rs4680) in the catechol-O-methyltransferase gene. RESULTS Women with vulvodynia had a marginally increased, yet not significant, prevalence of the catechol-O-methyltransferase genotype that is associated with high activity of the coded protein: 32.9% in the women with vulvodynia, as opposed to 21.5% in the control subjects (odds ratio, 1.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-3.15). Subgrouping the cases based on pain frequency revealed that the elevated occurrence of this catechol-O-methyltransferase genotype was present in 40.6% of the subset of women who experienced pain only with sexual intercourse vs only 21.5% of control subjects (odds ratio, 2.50; 95% confidence interval, 1.27-4.93). Also, women with primary vulvodynia had a significantly higher prevalence of the H allele than did the control subjects (62.9% vs 48.1%; odds ratio, 1.82; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-3.17). CONCLUSION Increased pain sensitivity in women with vulvodynia is not due to a genetically determined low catechol-O-methyltransferase enzyme activity. Other mechanisms may account for alterations in catechol-O-methyltransferase activity in women with pain that is limited to intercourse or primary vulvodynia that contributes to pain sensitivity.
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Wang X, van de Veerdonk FL, Netea MG. Basic Genetics and Immunology of Candida Infections. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2016; 30:85-102. [PMID: 26897063 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2015.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Candida infections can cause superficial and invasive disease. Several essential mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of these infections were known for some time, such as neutropenia predisposing to invasive disease, and CD4 lymphopenia causing increased susceptibility to mucosal candidiasis. However, the development of novel genetic screening techniques has led to several new insights in the genetics and immunology of candida infections. This article highlights novel insights in the pathogenesis of mucocutaneous and invasive candidiasis that have been identified in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowen Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 8, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands; Department of Dermatology, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street 8, Xicheng District, Beijing 10034, China
| | - Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 8, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands; Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Geert Grooteplein Zuid 8, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 8, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands; Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Geert Grooteplein Zuid 8, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands.
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Abstract
Vulvodynia refers to pain in the vulva of at least 3 months’ duration in the absence of a recognized underlying cause. Provoked, localized vestibulodynia is the term used to describe superficial pain confined to the vulvar vestibule, provoked by touch. This review will focus on provoked vestibulodynia with regard to its suggested causative factors and will discuss the role of inflammation, vulvovaginal infections, mucosal nerve fiber proliferation, hormonal associations, central pain mechanisms, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, and genetic factors. Clinical observations, epidemiological studies, and data from basic research emphasize the heterogeneity of vulvar pain syndromes. There is a critical need to perform prospective, longitudinal studies that will allow better diagnostic criteria and subgrouping of patients that would lead to improvements in our understanding of provoked vestibulodynia and its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahinoam Lev-Sagie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Steven S Witkin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Lupfer C, Anand PK. Integrating Inflammasome Signaling in Sexually Transmitted Infections. Trends Immunol 2016; 37:703-714. [PMID: 27592079 PMCID: PMC5086000 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Revised: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Inflammasomes are cytosolic multiprotein platforms with pivotal roles in infectious diseases. Activation of inflammasomes results in proinflammatory cytokine signaling and pyroptosis. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major health problem worldwide, yet few studies have probed the impact of inflammasome signaling during these infections. Due to the dearth of appropriate infection models, our current understanding of inflammasomes in STIs is mostly drawn from results obtained in vitro, from distant infection sites, or from related microbial strains that are not sexually transmitted. Understanding how inflammasomes influence the outcome of STIs may lead to the development of novel and effective strategies to control disease and prevent transmission. Here we discuss and highlight the recent progress in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Lupfer
- Department of Biology, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO 65809, USA
| | - Paras K Anand
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK.
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Ventolini G. Progresses in vaginal microflora physiology and implications for bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 12:283-91. [PMID: 27215488 DOI: 10.2217/whe.16.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Gary Ventolini
- School of Medicine at Texas Tech. University Health Sciences Center, 800 W 4th Street, Odessa, TX 79763, USA
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38
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Kashem SW, Kaplan DH. Skin Immunity to Candida albicans. Trends Immunol 2016; 37:440-450. [PMID: 27178391 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2016.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Revised: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Candida albicans is a dimorphic commensal fungus that colonizes healthy human skin, mucosa, and the reproductive tract. C. albicans is also a predominantly opportunistic fungal pathogen, leading to disease manifestations such as disseminated candidiasis and chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC). The differing host susceptibilities for the sites of C. albicans infection have revealed tissue compartmentalization with tailoring of immune responses based on the site of infection. Furthermore, extensive studies of host genetics in rare cases of CMC have identified conserved genetic pathways involved in immune recognition and the response to the extracellular pathogen. We focus here on human and mouse skin as a site of C. albicans infection, and we review established and newly discovered insights into the cellular pathways that promote cutaneous antifungal immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakeen W Kashem
- Department of Dermatology, Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Daniel H Kaplan
- Departments of Dermatology and Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15216, USA.
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Maskarinec SA, Johnson MD, Perfect JR. Genetic Susceptibility to Fungal Infections: What is in the Genes? CURRENT CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2016; 3:81-91. [PMID: 27547700 DOI: 10.1007/s40588-016-0037-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The development of severe fungal infections has long been associated with traditional risk factors such as profound immunosuppression, yet it remains challenging to understand why under similar conditions only some patients will develop these infections while others will not. Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of host genetic variation in influencing the severity and susceptibility to invasive fungal infections (IFIs). In this review, we examine selected primary immunodeficiencies characterized by their vulnerability to a narrow range of fungal pathogens, and then focus on recently identified genetic polymorphisms associated with an increased susceptibility to IFIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey A Maskarinec
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine Duke University Medical Center Durham, NC, USA; Hanes House Box 102359, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Melissa D Johnson
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine Duke University Medical Center Durham, NC, USA; Department of Clinical Research Campbell University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences Buies Creek, NC, USA; Duke University Medical Center Box 102359, Durham, NC 27710
| | - John R Perfect
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine Duke University Medical Center Durham, NC, USA; Hanes House Box 102359, Durham, NC 27710
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40
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Jaeger M, Carvalho A, Cunha C, Plantinga TS, van de Veerdonk F, Puccetti M, Galosi C, Joosten LAB, Dupont B, Kullberg BJ, Sobel JD, Romani L, Netea MG. Association of a variable number tandem repeat in the NLRP3 gene in women with susceptibility to RVVC. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 35:797-801. [PMID: 26951262 PMCID: PMC4840230 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-016-2600-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal infections with Candida spp. frequently occur in women of childbearing age. A small proportion of these women experience recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis (RVVC), which is characterized by at least three episodes of infection in one year. In addition to known risk factors such as antibiotics, diabetes, or pregnancy, host genetic variation and inflammatory pathways such as the IL-1/Th17 axis have been reported to play a substantial role in the pathogenesis of RVVC. In this study, we assessed a variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) polymorphism in the NLRP3 gene that encodes a component of the inflammasome, processing the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. A total of 270 RVVC patients and 583 healthy controls were analyzed, and increased diseases susceptibility was associated with the presence of the 12/9 genotype. Furthermore, functional studies demonstrate that IL-1β production at the vaginal surface is higher in RVVC patients bearing the 12/9 genotype compared to controls, whereas IL-1Ra levels were decreased and IL-18 levels remained unchanged. These findings suggest that IL-1β-mediated hyperinflammation conveyed by the NLRP3 gene plays a causal role in the pathogenesis of RVVC and may identify this pathway as a potential therapeutic target in the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jaeger
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A Carvalho
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - C Cunha
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - T S Plantinga
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - F van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - M Puccetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - C Galosi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - L A B Joosten
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - B J Kullberg
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J D Sobel
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - L Romani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Polo Unico Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - M G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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41
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Vulvodynia: Definition, Prevalence, Impact, and Pathophysiological Factors. J Sex Med 2016; 13:291-304. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2015.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Revised: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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42
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Jaeger M, Stappers MHT, Joosten LAB, Gyssens IC, Netea MG. Genetic variation in pattern recognition receptors: functional consequences and susceptibility to infectious disease. Future Microbiol 2016; 10:989-1008. [PMID: 26059622 DOI: 10.2217/fmb.15.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells of the innate immune system are equipped with surface and cytoplasmic receptors for microorganisms called pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). PRRs recognize specific pathogen-associated molecular patterns and as such are crucial for the activation of the immune system. Currently, five different classes of PRRs have been described: Toll-like receptors, C-type lectin receptors, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptors, retinoic acid-inducible gene I-like receptors and absent in melanoma 2-like receptors. Following their discovery, many sequence variants in PRR genes have been uncovered and shown to be implicated in human infectious diseases. In this review, we will discuss the effect of genetic variation in PRRs and their signaling pathways on susceptibility to infectious diseases in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Jaeger
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mark H T Stappers
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Faculty of Medicine, Research group of Immunology & Biochemistry, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Leo A B Joosten
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Inge C Gyssens
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Faculty of Medicine, Research group of Immunology & Biochemistry, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Underhill DM, Pearlman E. Immune Interactions with Pathogenic and Commensal Fungi: A Two-Way Street. Immunity 2016; 43:845-58. [PMID: 26588778 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2015.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
We are exposed to a wide spectrum of fungi including innocuous environmental organisms, opportunistic pathogens, commensal organisms, and fungi that can actively and explicitly cause disease. Much less is understood about effective host immunity to fungi than is generally known about immunity to bacterial and viral pathogens. Innate and adaptive arms of the immune system are required for effective host defense against Candida, Aspergillus, Cryptococcus, and others, with specific elements of the host response regulating specific types of fungal infections (e.g., mucocutaneous versus systemic). Here we will review themes and controversies that are currently shaping investigation of antifungal immunity (primarily to Candida and Aspergillus) and will also examine the emerging field of the role of fungi in the gut microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Underhill
- F. Widjaja Foundation Inflammatory Bowel & Immunobiology Research Institute, and the Division of Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
| | - Eric Pearlman
- Institute for Immunology, and the Departments of Ophthalmology, and Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
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44
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van de Veerdonk FL, Joosten LAB, Netea MG. The interplay between inflammasome activation and antifungal host defense. Immunol Rev 2016; 265:172-80. [PMID: 25879292 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infections cause significant morbidity and mortality in humans, and they are a growing problem due to the increased usage of broad-spectrum antibiotics and immunosuppressive therapies. The equilibrium between the commensal microbial flora and the immune system that protects the host against invasive fungal infection is disturbed during disease, and understanding this disturbed balance is important to develop new therapeutic interventions for the treatment of fungal infection. In the context of tolerating fungi during colonization and eliciting a vigorous immune response to eliminate invading fungal pathogens when needed, the inflammasome has been identified as an integral component of antifungal host defense. It contributes to mucosal host defense by regulating T-helper 17 (Th17) cell responses, and contributes to protective responses such as neutrophil influx during fungal sepsis. Several aspects are important for understanding the role of the inflammasome for antifungal host defense, such as the role of fungal cell wall morphology and its components in triggering the inflammasome, the pattern recognition pathways and downstream signaling cascades involved in the activation of the inflammasome, and the effects of inflammasome activation during fungal infection. The future perspectives of inflammasome research in fungal immunology, with emphasis on targeting the inflammasome for the design of future immunotherapies, is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Gonçalves B, Ferreira C, Alves CT, Henriques M, Azeredo J, Silva S. Vulvovaginal candidiasis: Epidemiology, microbiology and risk factors. Crit Rev Microbiol 2015; 42:905-27. [PMID: 26690853 DOI: 10.3109/1040841x.2015.1091805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 328] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is an infection caused by Candida species that affects millions of women every year. Although Candida albicans is the main cause of VVC, the identification of non-Candida albicans Candida (NCAC) species, especially Candida glabrata, as the cause of this infection, appears to be increasing. The development of VVC is usually attributed to the disturbance of the balance between Candida vaginal colonization and host environment by physiological or nonphysiological changes. Several host-related and behavioral risk factors have been proposed as predisposing factors for VVC. Host-related factors include pregnancy, hormone replacement, uncontrolled diabetes, immunosuppression, antibiotics, glucocorticoids use and genetic predispositions. Behavioral risk factors include use of oral contraceptives, intrauterine device, spermicides and condoms and some habits of hygiene, clothing and sexual practices. Despite a growing list of recognized risk factors, much remains to be elucidated as the role of host versus microorganisms, in inducing VVC and its recurrence. Thus, this review provides information about the current state of knowledge on the risk factors that predispose to VVC, also including a revision of the epidemiology and microbiology of VVC, as well as of Candida virulence factors associated with vaginal pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Gonçalves
- a CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho , Braga , Portugal
| | - Carina Ferreira
- a CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho , Braga , Portugal
| | - Carlos Tiago Alves
- a CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho , Braga , Portugal
| | - Mariana Henriques
- a CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho , Braga , Portugal
| | - Joana Azeredo
- a CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho , Braga , Portugal
| | - Sónia Silva
- a CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho , Braga , Portugal
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Henrique Tavares
- Laboratório de Imunologia Aplicada, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brasil
- * E-mail:
| | - Pedro Henrique Bürgel
- Laboratório de Imunologia Aplicada, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brasil
| | - Anamélia Lorenzetti Bocca
- Laboratório de Imunologia Aplicada, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brasil
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Female Sexual Pain Disorders: a Review of the Literature on Etiology and Treatment. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-015-0053-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Bruno VM, Shetty AC, Yano J, Fidel PL, Noverr MC, Peters BM. Transcriptomic analysis of vulvovaginal candidiasis identifies a role for the NLRP3 inflammasome. mBio 2015; 6:e00182-15. [PMID: 25900651 PMCID: PMC4453569 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00182-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), caused most frequently by Candida albicans, represents a significant unmet clinical need. C. albicans, as both a commensal and a pathogenic organism, has a complex and poorly understood interaction with the vaginal environment. Understanding the complex nature of this relationship is necessary for the development of desperately needed therapies to treat symptomatic infection. Using transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq), we characterized the early murine vaginal and fungal transcriptomes of the organism during VVC. Network analysis of host genes that were differentially expressed between infected and naive mice predicted the activation or repression of several signaling pathways that have not been previously associated with VVC, including NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Intravaginal challenge of Nlrp3(-/-) mice with C. albicans demonstrated severely reduced levels of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs), alarmins, and inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1β (IL-1β) (the hallmarks of VVC immunopathogenesis) in vaginal lavage fluid. Intravaginal administration of wild-type (WT) mice with glyburide, a potent inhibitor of the NLRP3 inflammasome, reduced PMN infiltration and IL-1β to levels comparable to those observed in Nlrp3(-/-) mice. Furthermore, RNA-seq analysis of C. albicans genes indicated robust expression of hypha-associated secreted aspartyl proteinases 4, 5, and 6 (SAP4-6), which are known inflammasome activators. Despite colonization similar to that of the WT strain, ΔSAP4-6 triple and ΔSAP5 single mutants induced significantly less PMN influx and IL-1β during intravaginal challenge. Our findings demonstrate a novel role for the inflammasome in the immunopathogenesis of VVC and implicate the hypha-associated SAPs as major C. albicans virulence determinants during vulvovaginal candidiasis. IMPORTANCE Vaginitis, most commonly caused by the fungus Candida albicans, results in significant quality-of-life issues for all women of reproductive age. Recent efforts have suggested that vaginitis results from an immunopathological response governed by host innate immunity, although an explanatory mechanism has remained undefined. Using comprehensive genomic, immunological, and pharmacological approaches, we have elucidated the NLRP3 inflammasome as a crucial molecular mechanism contributing to host immunopathology. We have also demonstrated that C. albicans hypha-associated secreted aspartyl proteinases (SAP4-6 and SAP5, more specifically) contribute to disease immunopathology. Ultimately, this study enhances our understanding of the complex interplay between host and fungus at the vaginal mucosa and provides proof-of-principle evidence for therapeutic targeting of inflammasomes for symptomatic vulvovaginal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amol C Shetty
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Junko Yano
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dentistry, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
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Caffrey AK, Lehmann MM, Zickovich JM, Espinosa V, Shepardson KM, Watschke CP, Hilmer KM, Thammahong A, Barker BM, Rivera A, Cramer RA, Obar JJ. IL-1α signaling is critical for leukocyte recruitment after pulmonary Aspergillus fumigatus challenge. PLoS Pathog 2015; 11:e1004625. [PMID: 25629406 PMCID: PMC4309569 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1004625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a mold that causes severe pulmonary infections. Our knowledge of how A. fumigatus growth is controlled in the respiratory tract is developing, but still limited. Alveolar macrophages, lung resident macrophages, and airway epithelial cells constitute the first lines of defense against inhaled A. fumigatus conidia. Subsequently, neutrophils and inflammatory CCR2+ monocytes are recruited to the respiratory tract to prevent fungal growth. However, the mechanism of neutrophil and macrophage recruitment to the respiratory tract after A. fumigatus exposure remains an area of ongoing investigation. Here we show that A. fumigatus pulmonary challenge induces expression of the inflammasome-dependent cytokines IL-1β and IL-18 within the first 12 hours, while IL-1α expression continually increases over at least the first 48 hours. Strikingly, Il1r1-deficient mice are highly susceptible to pulmonary A. fumigatus challenge exemplified by robust fungal proliferation in the lung parenchyma. Enhanced susceptibility of Il1r1-deficient mice correlated with defects in leukocyte recruitment and anti-fungal activity. Importantly, IL-1α rather than IL-1β was crucial for optimal leukocyte recruitment. IL-1α signaling enhanced the production of CXCL1. Moreover, CCR2+ monocytes are required for optimal early IL-1α and CXCL1 expression in the lungs, as selective depletion of these cells resulted in their diminished expression, which in turn regulated the early accumulation of neutrophils in the lung after A. fumigatus challenge. Enhancement of pulmonary neutrophil recruitment and anti-fungal activity by CXCL1 treatment could limit fungal growth in the absence of IL-1α signaling. In contrast to the role of IL-1α in neutrophil recruitment, the inflammasome and IL-1β were only essential for optimal activation of anti-fungal activity of macrophages. As such, Pycard-deficient mice are mildly susceptible to A. fumigatus infection. Taken together, our data reveal central, non-redundant roles for IL-1α and IL-1β in controlling A. fumigatus infection in the murine lung. Aspergillus spp. are ubiquitous in the environment, and even though individuals are regularly exposed to fungal spores clinical invasive disease is a rare manifestation. In contrast, individuals with weakened immune systems develop severe disease, such as invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). IPA is associated with extremely poor prognoses and unacceptably high mortality rates. Knowledge gained from understanding how immunocompetent mammals control Aspergillus challenge will help develop new immunomodulatory strategies aimed at improving patient outcomes. It is well known that neutrophils and monocytes are crucial immune cells that act to limit fungal growth. Our work demonstrates a central role for the cytokine IL-1α in orchestrating the optimal recruitment of neutrophils and monocytes, whereas IL-1β and the inflammasome are more important in activation of anti-fungal activity of the monocytes. Moreover, our studies indicate that CCR2+ monocytes are required for optimal production of IL-1α in the lungs of A. fumigatus challenged mice. Thus, our data highlight a crucial role of the IL-1 cytokine in mediating anti-fungal immunity which might be harnessed to treat clinical cases of IPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alayna K. Caffrey
- Montana State University, Department of Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
| | - Margaret M. Lehmann
- Montana State University, Department of Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
| | - Julianne M. Zickovich
- Montana State University, Department of Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
| | - Vanessa Espinosa
- Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Department of Pediatrics, Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Kelly M. Shepardson
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Hanover, New Hampshire, United States of America
| | - Christopher P. Watschke
- Montana State University, Department of Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
| | - Kimberly M. Hilmer
- Montana State University, Department of Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
| | - Arsa Thammahong
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Hanover, New Hampshire, United States of America
| | - Bridget M. Barker
- TGen North, Pathogen Genomics Research Division, Flagstaff, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Amariliz Rivera
- Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Department of Pediatrics, Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Robert A. Cramer
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Hanover, New Hampshire, United States of America
| | - Joshua J. Obar
- Montana State University, Department of Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Pana ZD, Farmaki E, Roilides E. Host genetics and opportunistic fungal infections. Clin Microbiol Infect 2014; 20:1254-64. [PMID: 25274142 DOI: 10.1111/1469-0691.12800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Current knowledge on the human pathophysiology of fungal infections highlights the crucial role of genetic pitfalls in specific immunity pathways that determine, together with other risk factors, the predisposition to and clinical outcome of fungal disease. In several studies, associations between gene polymorphisms and genetic errors have been implicated in an immunodeficiency phenotype and an increased incidence of opportunistic fungal diseases. The major challenge is to fully understand the complex interactions between genetic variations and multiple factors, and their relative contributions to the final clinical fungal disease phenotype. The aim of this review is to present updated knowledge on immunity genetics and susceptibility to medically relevant fungal diseases, such as those caused by Candida, Aspergillus, and certain other more rare fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z-D Pana
- Infectious Diseases Unit, 3rd Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
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