Fungal killing by mammalian phagocytic cells

Abstract

SummaryPhagocytes are considered the most important effector cells in the immune response against fungal infections. To exert their role, they must recognize the invading fungi, internalize and kill them within the phagosome. Major advances in the field have elucidated the roles of pattern-recognition receptors in the innate immunity sensing and the importance of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in intracellular killing of fungi. Surprising exit mechanisms for intracellular pathogens and extracellular traps have also been discovered. These and several other recent breakthroughs in our understanding of the mechanisms used by phagocytes to kill fungal pathogens are reviewed in this work.

Extracellular Vesicles from Cryptococcus neoformans Modulate Macrophage Functions

“…Phagocytes are particularly important effector cells in the control of systemic mycoses (54). The interaction of C. neoformans with phagocytes, including macrophages, monocytes, dendritic cells, and neutrophils, has been widely studied (23,32,43,46,50,59,68,77).…”

Superoxide dismutases and glutaredoxins have a distinct role in the response of Candida albicans to oxidative stress generated by the chemical compounds menadione and diamide

“…This process is mediated by pattern recognition receptors involved in phagocytosis and the clearance of the pathogen (Gow et al 2007, Taylor et al 2007), such as Toll-like receptors and lectin receptors. These receptors recognise the pathogen-associated molecular patterns that are commonly found in a wide range of pathogens, but not in the mammalian host (Nicola et al 2008). In response to ROS produced by phagocytic cells, C. albicans possesses several enzymes involved in a number of biological processes, such as superoxide dismutases (Sods), catalases (Cats), thioredoxin (Trx) peroxidases (Prxs) and glutaredoxins (Grxs) (Chaves et al 2007, Tosello et al 2007.…”

Host Response to Pulmonary Fungal Infections: a Highlight on Cell-Driven Immunity to Cryptococcus Species and Aspergillus fumigatus

“…In the lung, alveolar macrophages are specialized tissue macrophages that reside between the airway epithelium and pulmonary vasculature [21, 22]. The functional requirements of macrophages vary from clearance of cellular debris [23] to phagocytosis and elimination of pathogens [24–26]. As a result, the plasticity of tissue-resident macrophages is important to maintain a balance of the inflammatory environment and prevent responses to non-pathogenic antigens.…”