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Understanding the genetic basis of immune responses to fungal infection
Samuel M Gonçalves1,2, Cristina Cunha1,2, Agostinho Carvalho1,2
1Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.
Introduction:
Fungal infections represent a global public health problem that affects millions of people. Despite remarkable advances achieved over the last decades, available diagnostic and therapeutic tools remain insufficient for the optimal management of these diseases. The clinical course of fungal infection is highly variable, and evidence accumulated from patients with rare mutations and cohort-based studies suggests that the trajectory of disease is largely defined by patient genetics and its impact on immune responses. Therefore, there is an urgent need to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which genetic variants influence the risk, progression, and outcome of fungal infection.
Areas Covered:
In this review, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of the genetic factors that influence antifungal immune responses based on candidate gene studies and genome-wide approaches performed in different experimental and clinical models.
Expert Opinion:
Research on genetics of susceptibility to infection is expected to lead to a detailed knowledge framework for the pathogenesis of human fungal infections and unveil novel targets and pathways amenable to clinical intervention.
Insights
Understanding genetic factors is crucial for combating fungal infections. Research into how patient genetics impacts immune responses can reveal new diagnostic and therapeutic targets for these global health threats.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Medical Genetics
- Mycology
Background:
- Fungal infections pose a significant global health challenge, with current diagnostics and treatments being insufficient.
- Disease progression in fungal infections is highly variable and influenced by host genetics and immune responses.
- Identifying genetic determinants of fungal infection susceptibility is critical for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in understanding genetic factors influencing antifungal immunity.
- To explore how genetic variants impact the risk, progression, and outcomes of fungal infections.
- To highlight the role of genetics in shaping immune responses to fungal pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Review of candidate gene studies.
- Analysis of genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
- Integration of data from experimental and clinical models of fungal infection.
Main Results:
- Genetic variations significantly affect individual susceptibility and response to fungal infections.
- Candidate gene and genome-wide approaches have identified key genetic factors in antifungal immunity.
- Host genetics plays a pivotal role in determining the clinical course and severity of fungal diseases.
Conclusions:
- Elucidating genetic mechanisms is essential for understanding fungal infection pathogenesis.
- Genetic insights can unveil novel therapeutic targets and pathways for clinical intervention.
- Further research into host-pathogen-genetic interactions will advance the management of fungal diseases.
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