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Protective effect of PSK, a protein-bound polysaccharide preparation against candidiasis in tumor-bearing mice
Abstract:
In an experimental Candidiasis of tumor-bearing mice, the administration of PSK resulted in a prolongation of lifespan when mice were treated with PSK before infection or before and after infection. The viable fungal counts in kidneys 3 weeks after infection was found to be less in PSK-treated mice than the control mice without PSK administration. The delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction in infected tumor-bearing mice against Candida dead cells were stimulated to some extent by PSK administration. The fungal proliferation in kidneys of tumor-bearing mice at the early stage of infection was prevented by PSK administration. The experimental results involving chemotaxis and phagocytosis suggest that PSK administration restores or enhances the depressed protection of tumor-bearing mice against Candida infection, mostly due to potentiating the phagocytic activity of macrophages.
Insights
PSK administration prolonged lifespan in tumor-bearing mice with experimental Candidiasis. This immunotherapy enhanced macrophage activity, reducing fungal load and improving survival against Candida infection.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Mycology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tumor-bearing hosts often exhibit suppressed immune function, increasing susceptibility to opportunistic infections like Candidiasis.
- PSK (polysaccharide-K) is an immunomodulatory agent derived from fungi, known for its potential anti-tumor and immune-enhancing effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of PSK in combating experimental Candidiasis in tumor-bearing mice.
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying PSK's protective effects against Candida infection in immunocompromised hosts.
Main Methods:
- Tumor-bearing mice were infected with Candida and treated with PSK before or before and after infection.
- Fungal burden in kidneys, survival rates, delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions, and macrophage phagocytic activity were assessed.
Main Results:
- PSK treatment significantly prolonged lifespan in infected tumor-bearing mice.
- Reduced viable fungal counts in kidneys and prevention of early fungal proliferation were observed in PSK-treated groups.
- PSK administration partially stimulated delayed-type hypersensitivity and enhanced macrophage phagocytosis.
Conclusions:
- PSK demonstrates therapeutic potential against experimental Candidiasis in tumor-bearing mice.
- PSK enhances host defense mechanisms, primarily by boosting macrophage phagocytic activity, thereby improving survival and reducing fungal burden.