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Methods to Study Lipid Alterations in Neutrophils and the Subsequent Formation of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps
Published on: March 29, 2017
Role of sphingolipids in the host-pathogen interaction
Gabriel Soares Matos1, Caroline Mota Fernandes1, Maurizio Del Poeta2
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
Abstract:
Fungal pathogens have been under the spotlight as their expanding geographic range combined with their potential harm to vulnerable populations turns them into increasingly threats to public health. Therefore, it is ultimately important to unveil the mechanisms associated with their infection process for further new treatment discovery. With this purpose, sphingolipid-based research has gained attention over the last years as these molecules have key properties that can regulate fungal pathogenicity. Here we discuss some of these properties as well as their role in fungal diseases, focusing on the subgroup of glycosphingolipids, as they represent promising molecules for drug discovery and for the development of fungal vaccines.
Insights
Fungal infections pose a growing public health threat. Research into sphingolipids, particularly glycosphingolipids, offers new avenues for discovering antifungal treatments and vaccines.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
Background:
- Fungal pathogens are an increasing public health concern due to their expanding range and impact on vulnerable populations.
- Understanding fungal infection mechanisms is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
- Sphingolipids play a significant role in regulating fungal pathogenicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the properties of sphingolipids and their role in fungal diseases.
- To highlight glycosphingolipids as promising targets for antifungal drug discovery and vaccine development.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of sphingolipid research in fungal pathogenicity.
- Focus on glycosphingolipid properties and their implications in fungal infections.
Main Results:
- Sphingolipids possess key regulatory properties influencing fungal pathogenicity.
- Glycosphingolipids demonstrate potential as targets for novel antifungal interventions.
Conclusions:
- Sphingolipid-based research is vital for advancing antifungal therapies.
- Glycosphingolipids offer a promising platform for developing new antifungal drugs and vaccines.
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