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Human lysozyme has fungicidal activity against nasal fungi

Charmaine M Woods1, David N Hooper, Eng H Ooi

  • 1Flinders ENT, Department of Surgery, Flinders University and Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, Australia.

American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy
|June 7, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Lysozyme, an innate immune protein, effectively kills fungi commonly found in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This study demonstrates lysozyme

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Microbiology
  • Otolaryngology

Background:

  • Lysozyme is a key innate immune protein in nasal secretions.
  • Its role in paranasal sinus disease and antifungal activity is under-researched.
  • This study investigates lysozyme's fungicidal effects against CRS-associated fungi.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the fungicidal activity of lysozyme against common fungal pathogens in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).
  • To assess lysozyme's efficacy against clinical fungal isolates from CRS patients.

Main Methods:

  • Colony-forming unit assays were used to test lysozyme's fungicidal activity.
  • Concentrations of 0-50 micromolar and treatment durations of 0-7 hours were evaluated.
  • Tested fungi included Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, and clinical CRS isolates.

Main Results:

  • Lysozyme demonstrated concentration- and time-dependent fungicidal activity.
  • Over 80% fungicidal activity was observed against multiple fungal species, including A. fumigatus and C. albicans, after 7-hour treatment with 5 micromolar lysozyme.
  • Lysozyme was also effective against clinical isolates of A. fumigatus and Aspergillus terreus.

Conclusions:

  • Lysozyme exhibits significant fungicidal activity against fungi prevalent in CRS.
  • The findings support a potential therapeutic role for lysozyme in managing fungal sinusitis.
  • Further research is needed to understand lysozyme regulation in CRS.

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