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Impact of Fungi on Immune Responses
Pio Conti1, Lucia Tettamanti2, Filiberto Mastrangelo3
1Immunology Division, Postgraduate Medical School, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy.
Abstract:
Spores and fungal fragments found in indoor and outdoor environments originate from opportunistic fungi and they can contribute to inflammatory responses, causing a broad range of symptoms. Papers were selected and reviewed with an emphasis on the molecular mechanisms involved in the effect of fungi on immune cells, especially mast cells (MCs). Fungi can bind to antibodies and complement them, allowing them to be recognized by cells of the innate immune system, including macrophages, dendritic cells, and MCs, which are then stimulated via Toll-like receptor signaling. Fungi can cause diseases mediated by MCs and aggravate allergic inflammation. Immunosuppressed subjects can be particularly susceptible to developing diseases caused by opportunistic fungi. Mold also liberates mycotoxins that could be on volatile spores and stimulate MCs to secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines, but this mechanism is not known. Fungi can activate the immune system directly or through mycotoxins, leading to stimulation of immune cells and chronic neuroinflammatory symptoms. Some of these processes may be inhibited by the new anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin 37.
Insights
Fungi in indoor environments trigger immune responses, particularly in mast cells (MCs), leading to inflammation and allergic reactions. Understanding these fungal mechanisms may help manage inflammatory diseases, especially in vulnerable populations.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Fungi spores and fragments are common in indoor and outdoor environments.
- Opportunistic fungi can trigger inflammatory responses and cause various symptoms.
- Mast cells (MCs) play a crucial role in mediating fungal-induced inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular mechanisms of fungal effects on immune cells, focusing on mast cells (MCs).
- To understand how fungi and their mycotoxins activate the immune system and contribute to disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of selected papers.
- Emphasis on molecular mechanisms of fungal-immune cell interactions.
- Focus on Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathways.
Main Results:
- Fungi bind to antibodies and complement, recognized by innate immune cells including MCs via TLRs.
- Fungi and mycotoxins activate immune cells, potentially causing chronic neuroinflammation.
- Fungal exposure can exacerbate allergic inflammation and lead to MC-mediated diseases.
Conclusions:
- Fungi significantly impact immune responses, particularly through MC activation.
- Opportunistic fungal infections pose risks, especially to immunosuppressed individuals.
- Interleukin 37 shows potential in inhibiting fungal-induced inflammatory processes.
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