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A Simple Protocol for Platelet-mediated Clumping of Plasmodium falciparum-infected Erythrocytes in a Resource Poor Setting
Published on: May 16, 2013
Platelet immunology in fungal infections
Cornelia Speth, Günter Rambach1, Cornelia Lass-Flörl
1Dr. Günter Rambach, Division of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Innsbruck Medical University, Schöpfstr. 41, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria, Tel.: +43 512 9003 70705, Fax: +43 512 9003 73700,
Abstract:
Up to date, perception of platelets has changed from key players in coagulation to multitaskers within the immune network, connecting its most diverse elements and crucially shaping their interplay with invading pathogens such as fungi. In addition, antimicrobial effector molecules and mechanisms in platelets enable a direct inhibitory effect on fungi, thus completing their immune capacity. To precisely assess the impact of platelets on the course of invasive fungal infections is complicated by some critical parameters. First, there is a fragile balance between protective antimicrobial effects and detrimental reactions that aggravate the fungal pathogenesis. Second, some platelet effects are exerted indirectly by other immune mediators and are thus difficult to quantify. Third, drugs such as antimycotics, antibiotics, or cytostatics, are commonly administered to the patients and might modulate the interplay between platelets and fungi. Our article highlights selected aspects of the complex interactions between platelets and fungi and the relevance of these processes for the pathogenesis of fungal infections.
Insights
Platelets are now recognized as immune multitaskers, directly inhibiting fungi and influencing invasive fungal infections. Their complex role involves balancing protective and detrimental effects, complicated by indirect actions and medications.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Mycology
Background:
- Platelets' role has evolved from coagulation to immune functions.
- Platelets interact with diverse immune cells and pathogens.
- Platelets possess direct antimicrobial mechanisms against fungi.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifaceted role of platelets in invasive fungal infections.
- To highlight the complex interplay between platelets and fungi.
- To discuss factors complicating the assessment of platelet impact.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on platelet-fungal interactions.
- Analysis of platelet antimicrobial effector molecules and mechanisms.
- Discussion of indirect platelet effects and drug modulations.
Main Results:
- Platelets directly inhibit fungal growth through effector molecules.
- Platelet functions in fungal infections present a balance between protection and pathogenesis.
- Assessing platelet impact is challenging due to indirect effects and confounding drug therapies.
Conclusions:
- Platelets are crucial players in the immune response to fungal infections.
- Understanding platelet-fungal interactions is vital for managing invasive mycoses.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate and therapeutically leverage platelet functions in fungal pathogenesis.
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