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Published on: February 18, 2015
Intestinal colonization with Candida albicans and mucosal immunity
Xiao-Dong Bai1, Xian-Hua Liu, Qing-Ying Tong
1Department of Burn Surgery, General Hospital of Armed Police Force, 69 Yong Ding Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100039, China. baixiaotmu@yahoo.com.cn
World Journal of Gastroenterology
|July 9, 2004
Summary
This study shows that increased secretory IgA (sIgA) in the gut is linked to reduced Candida albicans colonization. Intestinal immunity effectively controls fungal presence.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Intestinal lumen colonization by Candida albicans can impact mucosal immunity.
- Secretory IgA (sIgA) is a key component of mucosal defense.
- Understanding the interplay between Candida albicans and sIgA is crucial for mucosal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between intestinal Candida albicans colonization and mucosal secretory IgA (sIgA) levels.
- To elucidate the role of lymphocytes in the immune response to Candida albicans in the gut.
Main Methods:
- Specific-pathogen-free mice were inoculated with Candida albicans.
- Quantified Candida albicans in the lumen and on the mucosa.
- Assessed lymphocyte proliferation (BrdU incorporation) and IgA isotype switching in Peyer's patches and lamina propria.
- Used immunohistochemistry and ELISA to measure IgA plasma cells and specific IgA antibodies.
Main Results:
- Candida albicans colonization and adherence decreased significantly from day 3 to 14 post-inoculation.
- Translocation of Candida albicans to lymph nodes was transient.
- Specific IgA levels and lymphocyte proliferation in the lamina propria increased notably.
Conclusions:
- Increased specific IgA antibodies in intestinal mucus correlate with reduced Candida albicans levels.
- Lymphocytes in the lamina propria are vital for intestinal mucosal immunity against initial Candida albicans exposure.
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