Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026
10:45
Non-invasive Imaging of Disseminated Candidiasis in Zebrafish Larvae
Published on: July 30, 2012
Insights from human studies into the host defense against candidiasis
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 W. Carson St., Torrance, CA 90502, USA. sfiller@ucla.edu
Cytokine
|October 22, 2011
Summary
Genetic defects in humans reveal key immune defenses against Candida infections. Dectin-1, CARD9, and Th17 cytokines are crucial for preventing mucosal and systemic candidiasis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Mycology
- Human Genetics
Background:
- Candida species are leading causes of fungal infections in humans.
- Previous studies in mice identified roles for dectin-1, CARD9, and Th17 cytokines in combating candidiasis.
- Recent advances enable identification of human genetic mutations predisposing to candidal infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies on human genetic defects causing susceptibility to candidiasis.
- To elucidate the roles of specific genes and immune responses in host defense against various forms of candidiasis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of individuals with genetic mutations affecting candidiasis susceptibility.
- Review of recent scientific literature on host defense mechanisms against Candida.
Main Results:
- Dectin-1 is essential for defense against vulvovaginal candidiasis and gastrointestinal tract colonization.
- CARD9 is vital for preventing both mucosal and disseminated candidiasis.
- Th17 immune response is necessary for protection against mucocutaneous candidiasis.
Conclusions:
- Human genetic studies offer critical insights into host defense against candidiasis.
- Understanding these genetic defects enhances knowledge of immune responses to fungal infections.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Candidiasis
Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by opportunistic species of Candida. It can affect various anatomical sites, including the skin, oral cavity, nails, and genitourinary tract. Among its forms, vaginal candidiasis is the most common type of mucosal infection. It typically results from the overgrowth of Candida albicans in the vaginal mucosa. Under normal conditions, C. albicans exists as a commensal organism within the vaginal microbiota, regulated by the dominance of lactobacilli, which...
01:26Defense Mechanism Against Infection
Natural flora, body system defenses, and inflammation are natural barriers of the body against infectious agents regardless of previous exposure. Normal floras of the human body refer to the microbial population that colonizes the skin and mucous membranes.
In addition, many body organ systems have unique defenses against infection. The skin is an intact, multilayered surface preventing invasion by microorganisms unless impaired. Mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, and eyelids are barriers...
In addition, many body organ systems have unique defenses against infection. The skin is an intact, multilayered surface preventing invasion by microorganisms unless impaired. Mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, and eyelids are barriers...
01:26Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The hosts' susceptibility to infection depends on several factors. The integrity of the skin and mucous membranes helps protect the body against microbial attacks. When the skin is altered, the chance of infection, limb loss, and even death increases.
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...
01:18Trichomoniasis
Trichomonas vaginalis is a flagellated protozoan parasite and the causative agent of trichomoniasis, one of the most prevalent non-viral sexually transmitted infections in the United States. This extracellular parasite primarily colonizes the lower genitourinary tract in women—particularly the vagina—and in men, the urethra and prostate. Its structural and functional adaptations enable its survival, motility, and pathogenicity within the host environment.Structural Features and Host EntryT.
01:18Surface Membrane Barriers
The skin and mucous membranes serve as the primary line of defense against pathogens by providing both physical and chemical protection. These barriers are essential in preventing the entry and establishment of microbes, thereby maintaining the integrity of the host.
The outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, is a robust barrier comprising layers of closely packed keratinized cells. This dense arrangement prevents microbes from penetrating the body. The periodic shedding of epidermal cells...
The outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, is a robust barrier comprising layers of closely packed keratinized cells. This dense arrangement prevents microbes from penetrating the body. The periodic shedding of epidermal cells...
01:25Colonisation of Pathogens
Pathogen colonization of host tissues is a critical step in the development of infectious diseases. Various pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa, have evolved complex strategies to attach to, invade, and persist within host environments. These mechanisms enable pathogens to establish infections, evade immune responses, and resist antimicrobial treatments.Attachment to Host CellsIn bacteria, colonization typically begins with adherence to host epithelial...