Adaptive immune responses to Candida albicans infection
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 18, 2026
Bio-energetics Investigation of Candida albicans Using Real-time Extracellular Flux Analysis
Published on: March 19, 2019
Jonathan P Richardson1, David L Moyes
1a Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division ; Dental Institute; King's College London ; London , UK.
Abstract:
Fungal infections are becoming increasingly prevalent in the human population and contribute to morbidity and mortality in healthy and immunocompromised individuals respectively. Candida albicans is the most commonly encountered fungal pathogen of humans, and is frequently found on the mucosal surfaces of the body. Host defense against C. albicans is dependent upon a finely tuned implementation of innate and adaptive immune responses, enabling the host to neutralise the invading fungus. Central to this protection are the adaptive Th1 and Th17 cellular responses, which are considered paramount to successful immune defense against C. albicans infections, and enable tissue homeostasis to be maintained in the presence of colonising fungi. This review will highlight the recent advances in our understanding of adaptive immunity to Candida albicans infections.
Insights
Fungal infections caused by Candida albicans are rising. Adaptive immune responses, specifically Th1 and Th17 cells, are crucial for fighting these infections and maintaining health.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida albicans, are a growing global health concern.
- Candida albicans is a common human fungal pathogen, often colonizing mucosal surfaces.
- Effective host defense relies on a coordinated innate and adaptive immune response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding adaptive immunity against Candida albicans infections.
- To emphasize the critical role of T helper 1 (Th1) and T helper 17 (Th17) cells in antifungal defense.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing research.
- Focuses on adaptive immune mechanisms, particularly T cell responses.
- Highlights recent findings on host-pathogen interactions.
Main Results:
- Adaptive immunity, especially Th1 and Th17 responses, is essential for controlling Candida albicans.
- These immune responses are vital for both clearing infections and maintaining homeostasis during colonization.
- Recent research has shed light on the specific pathways and cellular players involved.
Conclusions:
- Th1 and Th17 cellular responses are paramount for successful immune defense against Candida albicans.
- Understanding these adaptive immune mechanisms is key to developing new therapeutic strategies.
- Continued research is needed to fully elucidate the complexities of immunity to fungal pathogens.
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