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Updated: Feb 12, 2026
Measuring Phagocytosis of Aspergillus fumigatus Conidia by Human Leukocytes using Flow Cytometry
Published on: December 7, 2019
The pathogenicity of Aspergillus fumigatus, drug resistance, and nanoparticle delivery
David A Szalewski1,2, Victoria S Hinrichs3, Denise K Zinniel4
1a Department of Biological Systems Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583-0726, USA.
Abstract:
The genus Aspergillus includes fungal species that cause major health issues of significant economic importance. These microorganisms are also the culprit for production of carcinogenic aflatoxins in grain storages, contaminating crops, and economically straining the production process. Aspergillus fumigatus is a very important pathogenic species, being responsible for high human morbidity and mortality on a global basis. The prevalence of these infections in immunosuppressed individuals is on the rise, and physicians struggle with the diagnosis of these deadly pathogens. Several virulence determinants facilitate fungal invasion and evasion of the host immune response. Metabolic functions are also important for virulence and drug resistance, since they allow fungi to obtain nutrients for their own survival and growth. Following a positive diagnostic identification, mortality rates remain high due, in part, to emerging resistance to frequently used antifungal drugs. In this review, we discuss the role of the main virulence, drug target, and drug resistance determinants. We conclude with the review of new technologies being developed to treat aspergillosis. In particular, microsphere and nanoparticle delivery systems are discussed in the context of improving drug bioavailability. Aspergillus will likely continue to cause problematic infections in immunocompromised patients, so it is imperative to improve treatment options.
Insights
Aspergillus fungi cause serious health and economic problems, producing toxins and leading to infections like aspergillosis. New drug delivery systems show promise for treating these resistant fungal infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Drug Development
Background:
- The genus Aspergillus comprises fungi with significant health and economic impacts, including the production of carcinogenic aflatoxins.
- Aspergillus fumigatus is a major human pathogen, causing high morbidity and mortality, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Diagnosis and treatment of invasive aspergillosis are challenging due to emerging antifungal drug resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the key virulence factors, drug targets, and drug resistance mechanisms in Aspergillus species.
- To discuss emerging technologies for the treatment of aspergillosis, focusing on improved drug delivery.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles on Aspergillus pathogenesis, virulence, drug resistance, and treatment strategies.
- Analysis of current and novel therapeutic approaches, including drug delivery systems.
Main Results:
- Virulence determinants facilitate fungal invasion and immune evasion, while metabolic functions contribute to survival and drug resistance.
- Antifungal drug resistance is a growing concern, contributing to high mortality rates even after diagnosis.
- Microsphere and nanoparticle delivery systems are being developed to enhance drug bioavailability for aspergillosis treatment.
Conclusions:
- Aspergillus infections pose a persistent threat, especially to immunocompromised populations.
- Understanding virulence and resistance mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatments.
- Advanced drug delivery systems offer potential for improved therapeutic outcomes in managing aspergillosis.
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