[Innate receptors and IL-17 in the immune response against human pathogenic fungi]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Rising incidence of human fungal infections linked to diagnostic delays, ineffective treatments, and vaccines.
• Immune system disturbances, including immunosuppression, are significant risk factors for fungal pathologies.
• Innate immune cells utilize pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) to detect fungal pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and cellular components crucial for antifungal immunity.
• To highlight the role of the antifungal cytokine Interleukin-17 (IL-17) in host defense against fungi.
• To discuss human genetic mutations that increase susceptibility to fungal infections.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on innate immunity, PRRs, PAMPs, and cytokine signaling in fungal infections.
• Analysis of studies investigating cellular and molecular mechanisms of antifungal defense.
• Examination of research on genetic factors influencing susceptibility to human mycoses.

Main Results:

• PRRs and specific immune cells are essential for recognizing and eliminating pathogenic fungi.
• Interleukin-17 (IL-17) plays a pivotal role as a major antifungal cytokine.
• Naturally occurring human mutations can lead to increased susceptibility to fungal diseases.

Conclusions:

• Effective antifungal immunity relies on the coordinated action of PRRs, immune cells, and key cytokines like IL-17.
• Understanding these pathways is critical for developing improved diagnostics and therapies for fungal infections.
• Genetic predisposition significantly impacts an individual's risk of developing severe fungal diseases.