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Published on: January 13, 2016
Candida albicans-Based Immune Training to Reduce Lung Fibrosis from Polystyrene Nanoparticles
Zhuyun Zhu1, Yifan Zhou1, Dongnan Zheng1
1Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China.
Candida albicans pre-treatment enhances immune responses, preventing lung fibrosis and improving survival in mice exposed to polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs). This study highlights a novel approach for treating environmental pollutant-induced lung injury.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Toxicology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) pose significant respiratory health risks, leading to lung fibrosis.
- Current treatments for PS-NP-induced lung injury are limited and often ineffective.
- Immunological training presents a promising therapeutic avenue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the novel role of Candida albicans in immune training to mitigate PS-NP-induced lung fibrosis.
- To explore C. albicans' potential to advance trained immunity frameworks.
- To offer new therapeutic strategies for environmental pollutant-related health issues.
Main Methods:
- Male BALB/c mice were exposed to 80 nm PS-NPs via posterior pharyngeal drip.
- Mice received an intravenous injection of low-dose C. albicans for immunological training prior to PS-NP exposure.
- Survival rates, pulmonary histopathology, and gene expression profiles were assessed.
Main Results:
- C. albicans pre-treatment resulted in 100% survival in PS-NP-exposed mice, contrasting with 0% survival in the control group.
- Histopathological analysis showed preserved lung architecture and reduced collagen deposition in the C. albicans-treated group.
- RNA sequencing identified significant alterations in gene expression, including circadian rhythm genes, between groups.
Conclusions:
- C. albicans-based immune training effectively reduces lung fibrosis and enhances survival following PS-NP exposure.
- This approach offers a promising therapeutic strategy for PS-NP-induced lung injury.
- The findings contribute to advancing the understanding of trained immunity in the context of environmental pollutant exposure.
