Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026
Lymphocyte Isolation from Human Skin for Phenotypic Analysis and Ex Vivo Cell Culture
Published on: April 8, 2016
Immunological resistance to dermatophyte infections
1Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis.
Abstract:
Dermatophytic fungus infections are common and in the main confined to the stratum corneum. The way the body keeps these infections confined to the stratum corneum involves both nonspecific and specific factors. Cell-mediated immune reactions appear to be the major host defense against invasion. Appropriate cell-mediated immunity not only can limit the spread of dermatophytic fungi but also can rid the fungus from host skin. In contrast, the absence of cell-mediated immunity predisposes to severe and widespread infection and to chronic infection. Complement and polymorphonuclear leukocytes can interact with hyphae once they invade into viable tissue. These interactions are inhibitory to growth. In addition, the inflammation provoked by these interactions can increase epidermal turnover time and thereby force retreat of the fungus back into the stratum corneum or rid the fungus through desquamation. The role of specific antibodies to dermatophytic fungi is uncertain, but it is likely a minor one. High levels of antibodies do not protect against infection or allow resolution of established infection in the absence of other mechanisms. Antibodies may augment complement activation and accumulation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, but it is unlikely they contribute directly to killing. Indeed, IgE antibodies to dermatophytic fungi develop in many patients with chronic infections.
Insights
Cell-mediated immunity is crucial for controlling dermatophytic fungal infections by limiting spread and clearing the fungus. Its absence leads to severe, chronic infections, highlighting its importance in host defense.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Mycology
Background:
- Dermatophytic fungus infections commonly affect the stratum corneum.
- Host defense involves both nonspecific and specific immune factors.
- Cell-mediated immunity is the primary mechanism against dermatophyte invasion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the host immune mechanisms controlling dermatophytic fungal infections.
- To understand the roles of cell-mediated immunity, complement, and antibodies in fungal defense.
- To investigate factors contributing to severe and chronic infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on host immune responses to dermatophytic fungi.
- Analysis of the roles of cellular and humoral immunity in infection control.
- Examination of the impact of immune deficiencies on infection outcomes.
Main Results:
- Cell-mediated immunity effectively limits dermatophyte spread and promotes fungal clearance.
- Absence of cell-mediated immunity results in severe, widespread, and chronic infections.
- Complement and polymorphonuclear leukocytes inhibit fungal growth in viable tissues, promoting clearance via inflammation and epidermal turnover.
- The role of specific antibodies is minor; high levels do not prevent or resolve infection, though IgE antibodies are associated with chronic cases.
Conclusions:
- Cell-mediated immunity is essential for controlling dermatophytic fungal infections.
- While complement and polymorphonuclear leukocytes contribute, they are secondary to cell-mediated immunity.
- Antibody responses appear to play a limited role in host defense against these fungi.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:26Defense Mechanism Against Infection
In addition, many body organ systems have unique defenses against infection. The skin is an intact, multilayered surface preventing invasion by microorganisms unless impaired. Mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, and eyelids are barriers...
01:23Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
01:20Special Features of Adaptive Immunity
The primary cell types involved in adaptive immunity are T cells and B cells. Each type has a unique role in defending the body against pathogens. T cells are responsible for cell-mediated immunity. They identify and eliminate infected cells directly,...
01:31Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
01:29Hypersensitivity Reactions: Delayed Hypersensitivity Reactions
01:27The Skin Microbiota