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Cell wall fractions from Paracoccidioides brasiliensis induce hypergammaglobulinemia
S L de Oliveira1, M F da Silva, A M Soares
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
Abstract:
The antibody response against the antigen sheep red blood cells (SRBC) was investigated in mice pre-treated with formalin-killed Paracoccidioides brasiliensis or with cell wall fractions of the fungus. Pre-treatment with P. brasiliensis, as well as with the Fl fraction and beta-glucan significantly increased the anti-SRBC antibody response in the experimental groups as compared to the control group that received only SRBC. This immunomodulatory effect varied with the different doses employed and with pre-treatment time. We conclude that the cell wall fractions of P. brasiliensis might play an important role in the hypergammaglobulinemia associated with Paracoccidioidomycosis.
Insights
Pre-treating mice with Paracoccidioides brasiliensis or its cell wall components boosted antibody production against sheep red blood cells (SRBC). These findings suggest P. brasiliensis fractions may contribute to hypergammaglobulinemia in Paracoccidioidomycosis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Mycology
Background:
- Paracoccidioidomycosis is a systemic fungal infection endemic to Latin America.
- Hypergammaglobulinemia is a common clinical feature of Paracoccidioidomycosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immunomodulatory effects of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and its cell wall fractions on antibody production.
- To explore the role of fungal components in the hypergammaglobulinemia observed in Paracoccidioidomycosis.
Main Methods:
- Mice were pre-treated with formalin-killed P. brasiliensis or its cell wall fractions (Fl fraction, beta-glucan).
- The antibody response against sheep red blood cells (SRBC) was measured in experimental and control groups.
Main Results:
- Pre-treatment with P. brasiliensis, Fl fraction, and beta-glucan significantly increased the anti-SRBC antibody response compared to controls.
- The observed immunomodulatory effect was dose-dependent and influenced by pre-treatment duration.
Conclusions:
- Cell wall fractions of P. brasiliensis possess immunomodulatory properties that enhance antibody production.
- These fungal components may play a significant role in the development of hypergammaglobulinemia associated with Paracoccidioidomycosis.