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Fungi of the human gut microbiota: Roles and significance

J Christian Pérez1

  • 1Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany; Institute for Molecular Infection Biology, University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.

International Journal of Medical Microbiology : IJMM
|March 6, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Fungi are key gut microbes influencing immune responses and inflammation. Understanding fungal dysbiosis, especially Candida albicans, is crucial for human health and disease research.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Fungi are increasingly recognized as vital components of the gut microbiota.
  • Intestinal fungi modulate host immune responses, including T helper 17 cell induction.
  • Fungal dysbiosis is linked to various health and disease conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advancements in understanding symbiotic gut fungi.
  • To explore the health implications of fungal dysbiosis.
  • To highlight the host-fungus relationship, particularly with Candida albicans.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current research on gut fungi.
  • Analysis of studies investigating fungal roles in host immunity.
  • Focus on the interaction between Candida albicans and the mammalian host.

Main Results:

  • Fungi significantly impact host immunity, influencing protective responses and inflammation.
  • Candida albicans is a prominent gut fungus with notable host interactions.
  • Fungal dysbiosis can have detrimental effects on gastrointestinal health.

Conclusions:

  • Further research into human-associated fungi is essential for understanding microbiota contributions to health and disease.
  • The role of gut fungi in maintaining or disrupting host homeostasis requires deeper investigation.
  • Targeting fungal-host interactions may offer new therapeutic avenues for gastrointestinal disorders.
Keywords:
Candida albicansFungiGut microbiotaInflammatory bowel disease

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