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Published on: December 8, 2011
Gamma delta T cell-induced nitric oxide production enhances resistance to mucosal candidiasis
J Jones-Carson1, A Vazquez-Torres, H C van der Heyde
1Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison 53706-1532, USA.
Abstract:
Despite the prevalence of gamma delta T cells in mucosae that are typically colonized by Candida albicans, little is known of the possible role of these cells in resistance to candidiasis. A sharp increase in the number of gamma delta T cells and macrophages following intraperitoneal inoculation of mice with C. albicans led us to examine the role of these cells in the immune response to C. albicans. We show that the gamma delta T cells enhance macrophage nitric oxide (NO) production and anti-candida activity, in vitro. We also propose that the gamma delta T cells regulate macrophage function during candidiasis in vivo as well, because depletion of these cells abrogated inducible NO synthase expression in mucosae and enhanced murine susceptibility to candidiasis.
Insights
Gamma delta T cells boost macrophage nitric oxide production and anti-Candida activity. Depleting these cells increases susceptibility to candidiasis, highlighting their crucial role in immune defense.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Gamma delta T cells are abundant in mucosal tissues, often colonized by Candida albicans.
- Their specific role in combating candidiasis remains largely uncharacterized.
- Increased gamma delta T cells and macrophages were observed after Candida albicans inoculation in mice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the function of gamma delta T cells in the immune response to Candida albicans.
- To determine if gamma delta T cells influence macrophage activity during candidiasis.
Main Methods:
- In vitro experiments assessing gamma delta T cell enhancement of macrophage nitric oxide (NO) production and anti-Candida activity.
- In vivo studies involving the depletion of gamma delta T cells in mice infected with Candida albicans.
- Analysis of inducible NO synthase expression in mucosal tissues.
Main Results:
- Gamma delta T cells were shown to enhance macrophage nitric oxide (NO) production and anti-Candida activity in vitro.
- Depletion of gamma delta T cells led to abrogated inducible NO synthase expression in mucosal tissues.
- Mice with depleted gamma delta T cells exhibited enhanced susceptibility to candidiasis.
Conclusions:
- Gamma delta T cells play a significant role in the innate immune response against Candida albicans.
- These cells enhance macrophage anti-fungal functions, partly through nitric oxide production.
- Gamma delta T cells are critical regulators of mucosal immunity during candidiasis.
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