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Innate Immunity and Saliva in Candida albicans-mediated Oral Diseases
O Salvatori1, S Puri1, S Tati1
1Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.
Journal of Dental Research
|January 10, 2016
Summary
The oral microbiota and saliva are key defenses against Candida albicans infections in the mouth. Aberrations in these defenses can lead to oral candidiasis and other oral diseases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Oral Biology
Background:
- The oral cavity harbors Candida albicans, causing infections in both healthy and immunocompromised individuals.
- Oral microbiota and host immune responses are crucial in preventing oral candidiasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review the role of the human innate immune response in preventing oral candidiasis.
- To discuss the contribution of Candida albicans to select oral diseases in immunocompetent individuals.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on innate immunity, oral microbiota, saliva, and Candida albicans.
- Analysis of immune cell activation, cytokine production, and salivary proteins' effects on C. albicans.
Main Results:
- Oral microbiota prevents infection via competition and immune modulation.
- Saliva contains proteins that modulate C. albicans growth and adherence.
- C. albicans can induce mucosal defenses and cytokine production.
Conclusions:
- The oral microbiota and saliva are vital components of innate immunity against oral candidiasis.
- Dysbiosis, salivary dysfunction, or epithelial damage can lead to C. albicans overgrowth.
- Candida albicans contributes to specific oral diseases, even in immunocompetent hosts.
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