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Eosinophil-Cryptococcus neoformans interactions in vivo and in vitro
M Feldmesser1, A Casadevall, Y Kress
1Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York 10461-1602, USA. feldmess@aecom.yu.edu
Infection and Immunity
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Eosinophils, immune cells, may fight Cryptococcus neoformans infections. Studies show eosinophils interact with and phagocytose (engulf) the fungus, especially with antibody assistance, suggesting a protective role.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Eosinophils are key inflammatory cells with debated roles in pathogen defense.
- Previous research indicated eosinophilic pneumonia in Cryptococcus neoformans-infected mice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interaction between eosinophils and Cryptococcus neoformans in vivo and in vitro.
- To determine if eosinophils can eliminate the fungus and under what conditions.
Main Methods:
- Light and electron microscopy of mouse lungs infected with C. neoformans.
- In vitro studies using rat peritoneal eosinophils and C. neoformans, with and without specific monoclonal antibodies (IgG1, IgE).
Main Results:
- Eosinophils were found in close association with C. neoformans in infected mouse lungs, within cuffs, granulomas, and alveoli.
- In vitro, eosinophils phagocytosed C. neoformans only when specific antibodies were present.
- Antibody-mediated phagocytosis by eosinophils was rapid, with granule contents forming rings around the fungi.
Conclusions:
- Eosinophils demonstrate direct interaction with and phagocytosis of C. neoformans, particularly when opsonized by antibodies.
- These findings suggest eosinophils may function as effector cells against C. neoformans infections.