Retrospective analysis of the association of the expression and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the TLR4, PTX3 and Dectin-1 (CLEC/A) genes with development of invasive aspergillosis among haematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients with oncohaematological disorders

Human immunity to fungal infections

Fungi increasingly threaten health globally. Mycoses range from life-threatening, often iatrogenic conditions, to enigmatic syndromes occurring without apparent immunosuppression. Despite some recent advances in antifungal drug development, complementary therapeutic strategies are essential for addressing these opportunistic pathogens. One promising avenue is leveraging host immunity to combat fungal infections; this necessitates deeper understanding of the molecular immunology of human fungal susceptibility to differentiate beneficial versus harmful immunopathological responses. Investigating human models of fungal diseases in natural settings, particularly through genetic immunodeficiencies and ethnographic-specific genetic vulnerabilities, reveals crucial immune pathways essential for fighting various yeasts and molds. This review highlights the diversity in intrinsic fungal susceptibility across individuals and populations, through genetic- and autoantibody-mediated processes, complementing previous principles learned from animal studies and iatrogenic contexts. Improved understanding of human immunity to fungal diseases will facilitate the development of host-directed immunotherapies and targeted public health interventions, paving the way for precision medicine in fungal disease management.

Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis: Genomic Variant Analysis and Protein Dysfunction Susceptibility in a Brazilian Cohort

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a debilitating condition often affecting immunocompetent patients with underlying structural lung diseases, particularly pulmonary tuberculosis. This study investigates single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in immunogenetic-related genes among a Brazilian cohort with CPA.

METHODS

Twelve patients with confirmed CPA, based on ESCMID/ERS criteria, were sequenced using custom multigenic panel sequencing. Variants were annotated, classified using ACMG guidelines, and analyzed for potential impact on protein interactions and immune pathways.

RESULTS

A set of SNVs in CX3CR1, IL12B, IL4R, PTX3, CCR5, and IFNG genes were classified as variants of uncertain significance (VUS), but protein-protein interaction analysis suggests a potential role in immune evasion and dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to apply a custom multigenic panel for CPA susceptibility in a Brazilian cohort, contributing to future functional and clinical studies in fungal immunogenetics.

Interaction between Dectin-1 gene polymorphisms and low weight on the risk of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in patients with lung cancer undergoing surgery

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the Dectin-1 gene, the interaction between SNPs of the Dectin-1 gene and the low weight on susceptibility to invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in patients with lung cancer undergoing surgery. Logistic regression was used to test the relationship between four SNPs of the Dectin-1 gene and IPA susceptibility. The generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR) model was used to assess the interaction between SNPs of Dectin-1 gene and low weight. We found that both the rs3901533-TT and the rs3901533-TT or GT genotype were associated with an increased risk of IPA, the adjusted ORs (95% CI) were 1.98 (1.37-2.62) (TT vs. GG) and 1.43 (1.10-1.81) (GT+TT vs. GG), respectively. We also found that rs7309123-GG and rs7309123-GG+CG genotypes were associated with an increased risk of IPA, adjusted OR (95% CI) were 2.06 (1.43-2.71) (GG vs. CC), 1.63 (1.15-2.12) (CG+GG vs. CC), respectively. GMDR model found a statistically significant two-dimensional model combination (including rs3901533 and low weight). The participants with rs3901533-GT or TT genotype and low weight had the highest risk of IPA, compared to participants with rs3901533-GG genotype and without low weight, OR (95% CI) was 3.24 (1.68-4.92) (p < 0.001). In conclusion, rs3901533 and rs7309123 of Dectin-1 gene, the interaction between rs3901533 and low weight were correlated with increased risk of IPA in patients with lung cancer undergoing surgery.

Genetic variants of dectin-1 and their antifungal immunity impact in hematologic malignancies: A comprehensive systematic review

BACKGROUND

Fungal infections pose a significant threat to individuals with hematologic malignancies due to compromised immune systems. Dectin-1, a pivotal pattern recognition receptor, plays a central role in antifungal immune responses. Understanding its genetic variants' impact is crucial for advancing personalized therapeutic approaches.

METHODS

Employing systematic review methods, studies were meticulously selected and assessed for relevance. Data extraction encompassed Dectin-1 genetic variants, antifungal immune responses, and disease outcomes.

RESULTS

Findings unveiled a complex relationship between Dectin-1 genetic variants and antifungal immunity in hematologic malignancies. Variable associations emerged, influencing susceptibility to fungal infections and disease prognosis. Moreover, implications for treatment outcomes were explored, suggesting potential avenues for tailored interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review underscores the need for further investigation into the precise influence of Dectin-1 genetic variants on antifungal immunity and disease progression in hematologic malignancies. Insights gained could pave the way for personalized therapeutic strategies, optimizing infection prevention and malignancy management. By delving into the intricate connections between genetic nuances, immune responses, and clinical trajectories, this review contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding hematologic malignancies, fungal infections, and their multifaceted interplay.

Complement-pentraxins synergy: Navigating the immune battlefield and beyond

The complement is a crucial immune defense system that triggers rapid immune responses and offers efficient protection against foreign invaders and unwanted host elements, acting as a sentinel. Activation of the complement system occurs upon the recognition of pathogenic microorganisms or altered self-cells by pattern-recognition molecules (PRMs) such as C1q, collectins, ficolins, and pentraxins. Recent accumulating evidence shows that pentraxins establish a cooperative network with different classes of effector PRMs, resulting in synergistic effects in complement activation. This review describes the complex interaction of pentraxins with the complement system and the implications of this cooperative network for effective host defense during pathogen invasion.

Diagnosis values of Dectin-1 and IL-17 levels in plasma for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in bronchiectasis

Background

Among immunocompetent patients, patients with bronchiectasis are considered to be a high-risk group for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the prognosis of patients.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of Dectin-1 and IL-17 for diagnosing IPA with bronchiectasis.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data on patients with bronchiectasis who had been hospitalized in the Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University between September 2018 to December 2021. Dectin-1, IL-17 and GM were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

A total of 129 patients were analyzed in the study, of whom 33 had proven or probable IPA with bronchiectasis. The remaining 96 patients served as controls. The plasma Dectin-1 and IL-17 levels in the IPA group were significantly higher than that in the control group (P=0.005; P<0.001). The plasma GM, BALF GM, plasma Dectin-1 and IL-17 assays had sensitivities of 39.4%, 62.5%, 69.7% and 78.8%, respectively, and specificities of 89.2%, 91.5%, 72.9% and 71.9%, respectively. The sensitivity of Dectin-1 and IL-17 in plasma was higher than that in plasma and BALF GM. while the specificity is lower than that of plasma and BALF GM. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of plasma GM combined with IL-17 for IPA in bronchiectasis were greater than 80%. The combination of plasma GM and IL-17 can improve the sensitivity of the GM test, but does not reduce the diagnostic specificity. The plasma Dectin-1 and IL-17 showed positive linear correlations with the bronchiectasis severity Index (BSI) score in linear regression.

Conclusions

Plasma Dectin-1 and IL-17 levels were significantly higher in bronchiectasis patients with IPA. The sensitivity of Dectin-1 and IL-17 was superior to that of GM for the diagnosis of IPA in patients with bronchiectasis. The combination of GM and IL-17 in plasma is helpful for the diagnosis of IPA in bronchiectasis patients who cannot tolerate invasive procedures.