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Gut-Derived Short-Chain Fatty Acids and Macrophage Modulation: Exploring Therapeutic Potentials in Pulmonary Fungal

Qian Xie1, Qinhui Li2, Hong Fang1

  • 1Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, No. 32, West 2nd Section, 1st Ring Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China.

Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology
|July 4, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) boost macrophage immune responses against dangerous pulmonary fungal infections. While promising, SCFA therapy requires careful consideration of potential side effects for safe and effective use.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Microbiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Pulmonary fungal infections pose a significant threat, especially to immunocompromised individuals, due to high mortality and antifungal resistance.
  • Macrophages are key immune cells in combating fungal pathogens, but their function can be compromised in susceptible populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the therapeutic potential of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in treating pulmonary fungal infections.
  • To explore how SCFAs modulate macrophage functions relevant to antifungal immunity.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies investigating SCFA effects on immune cells, particularly macrophages.
  • Analysis of SCFA-mediated mechanisms enhancing macrophage antifungal activity.
  • Examination of SCFA applications in the context of common risk factors for pulmonary fungal infections.

Main Results:

  • SCFAs, including acetate, propionate, and butyrate, enhance macrophage functions essential for fighting fungal infections.
  • Mechanisms include promoting phagosome-lysosome fusion, increasing reactive oxygen species production, and balancing cytokine profiles.
  • SCFAs show promise in improving macrophage function in immunocompromised patients.

Conclusions:

  • SCFAs represent a potential therapeutic strategy for pulmonary fungal infections by bolstering host immune defenses.
  • Careful consideration of potential adverse effects, such as gut dysbiosis and metabolic disturbances, is crucial for SCFA therapy.
  • Further research is warranted to optimize SCFA administration for clinical application in managing these infections.
Keywords:
ImmunomodulationMacrophagesPulmonary fungal infectionShort-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)

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