 |
|
Researchers at Case Western Reserve discover a new way the body fights fungal infection
June 12, 2009School of Medicine study in 'Cell, Host and Microbe' uncovers how cells search for and destroy Candida albicans, a common yeast infection
A team of researchers led by Amy G. Hise, M.D., M.P.H., assistant professor at the Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, is the first to discover how the body fights off oral yeast infections caused by the most common human fungal pathogen, Candida.
As fungal infections become more resistant to current drugs, this groundbreaking research may directly lead to the development of new drugs and therapies that will help limit and/or prevent Candida infections in the future for millions of sufferers.
Candida albicans is the most common species of the Candida fungus and is the leading cause of vaginal and oral yeast infections, including thrush and denture stomatitis. It is the fourth most common hospital acquired bloodborne pathogen in the United States and surprisingly, it is present in the mouths of 30 to 50 percent of healthy adults.
Because of the widespread nature of Candida, the potential for overgrowth and infection is common in the young, elderly, immuno-compromised and people receiving corticosteroid or chemotherapy treatments.
The findings, published in Cell, Host and Microbe, identified the critical role of a protein, interleukin-1β or IL-1β, secreted by a variety of cells in the human immune system to protect the body from oral colonization by Candida albicans and preventing it from spreading to infect host tissue and blood. The study defines the precise mechanism by which the body's immune cells produce IL-1β following contact with Candida albicans. Further, it shows that a complex of proteins, collectively termed the NLRP3 inflammasome, function to produce IL-1β from an inactive, precursor form into a form that can be secreted by cells and subsequently function to modulate the immune system and its responses.
This research clarifies a number of mechanisms and pathways that may be therapeutic targets to help alleviate and/or eliminate Candida overgrowth and its accompanying symptoms, such as pain and discomfort, swelling, burning sensation of affected area, difficulty swallowing, in individuals suffering from infections.
The findings of Dr. Hise's laboratory will open many new avenues of research in fungal infections. One direction they are pursuing is to identify the way that the fungus activates the inflammasome. This might provide new targets for drug development. Another area of interest is the investigation of how small differences between individuals in immune related genes, called single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs, affect susceptibility to fungal and other infections.
"If we can identify patterns of SNPs that make people more likely to develop life-threatening fungal infections, it may be possible in the future to use these as markers to screen patients. For example, patients admitted to intensive care units or needing long-term invasive catheters could be genetically screened to identify who would benefit from preventive anti-fungal treatment," says Dr. Hise.
Case Western Reserve University
Candida albicans is the most common species of the Candida fungus and is the leading cause of vaginal and oral yeast infections, including thrush and denture stomatitis. It is the fourth most common hospital acquired bloodborne pathogen in the United States and surprisingly, it is present in the mouths of 30 to 50 percent of healthy adults.
Because of the widespread nature of Candida, the potential for overgrowth and infection is common in the young, elderly, immuno-compromised and people receiving corticosteroid or chemotherapy treatments.
The findings, published in Cell, Host and Microbe, identified the critical role of a protein, interleukin-1β or IL-1β, secreted by a variety of cells in the human immune system to protect the body from oral colonization by Candida albicans and preventing it from spreading to infect host tissue and blood. The study defines the precise mechanism by which the body's immune cells produce IL-1β following contact with Candida albicans. Further, it shows that a complex of proteins, collectively termed the NLRP3 inflammasome, function to produce IL-1β from an inactive, precursor form into a form that can be secreted by cells and subsequently function to modulate the immune system and its responses.
This research clarifies a number of mechanisms and pathways that may be therapeutic targets to help alleviate and/or eliminate Candida overgrowth and its accompanying symptoms, such as pain and discomfort, swelling, burning sensation of affected area, difficulty swallowing, in individuals suffering from infections.
The findings of Dr. Hise's laboratory will open many new avenues of research in fungal infections. One direction they are pursuing is to identify the way that the fungus activates the inflammasome. This might provide new targets for drug development. Another area of interest is the investigation of how small differences between individuals in immune related genes, called single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs, affect susceptibility to fungal and other infections.
"If we can identify patterns of SNPs that make people more likely to develop life-threatening fungal infections, it may be possible in the future to use these as markers to screen patients. For example, patients admitted to intensive care units or needing long-term invasive catheters could be genetically screened to identify who would benefit from preventive anti-fungal treatment," says Dr. Hise.
Case Western Reserve University
Fungal Infections Current Events and Fungal Infections News RSSGenetic links to fungal infection risk identified
Two genetic mutations that may put individuals at increased risk of fungal infections have been identified by scientists from UCL and Radboud University, increasing understanding about the genetic basis of these infections and potentially aiding the development of new treatments.
Do 3 meals a day keep fungi away?
The fact that they eat a lot - and often - may explain why most people and other mammals are protected from the majority of fungal pathogens, according to research from Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University.
Discovery of genetic defect may lead to better treatments for common gut diseases
New findings related to an uncommon genetic disorder may impact the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the most common chronic gastrointestinal illness in children and teens. Two million Americans have IBD which involves inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
Scientists identify genetic cause of previously undefined primary immune deficiency disease
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have identified a genetic mutation that accounts for a perplexing condition found in people with an inherited immunodeficiency.
Mounting a multi-layered attack on fungal infections
Unravelling a microbe's multilayer defence mechanisms could lead to effective new treatments for potentially lethal fungal infections in cancer patients and others whose natural immunity is weakened.
Gene shut-down may offer early warning of chronic leukemia
A new study shows that certain genes are turned off early, before clinical signs of the disease appear, in the development of chronic leukemia.
Breast cancer drug shows promise against serious infections
An FDA-approved drug used for preventing recurrence of breast cancer shows promise in fighting life-threatening fungal infections common in immune-compromised patients, such as infants born prematurely and patients with cancer.
Singapore nanotechnology combats fatal brain infections
Doctors may get a new arsenal for meningitis treatment and the war on drug-resistant bacteria and fungal infections with novel peptide nanoparticles developed by scientists at the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (IBN) of Singapore and reported in Nature Nanotechnology.
The Hsp90-Antifungal Combo, please: Compromising fungi in the immunocompromised
Even the most drug-resistant fungi can be eradicated in multiple in vitro and in vivo models using a lethal combination of an antifungal agent and inhibition of the heat shock protein Hsp90, according to a new study by Whitehead Institute and University of Toronto researchers.
Scientists discover how deadly fungus protects itself
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University have discovered how a deadly microbe evades the human immune system and causes disease.
More Fungal Infections Current Events and Fungal Infections News Articles
 |
Pocket Guide to Fungal Infection by Malcolm Richardson (Author), Elizabeth Johnson (Author) The Pocket Guide to Fungal Infection presents, in a convenient and practical format, the major features of fungal infections in humans, providing visual information for each pathogen and the infections they cause.
The second edition has been extensively revised. In each chapter the clinical manifestations and management sections have been revised and updated to include recently developed antifungal drugs. New sections include;
Emerging yeast and filamentous fungal pathogens Antifungal susceptibility testing Antifungal assays Molecular methods in medical mycology Mycological aspects of the indoor environment.
Medical... |
 |
Noni Care Natural Topical Skin Spray, Chamomile, 1-Ounce Bottles (Pack of 3) by Bioponic Phytoceuticals Noni Chamomile Skin Spray |
 |
SAPROX Natural Treatment Fungal Skin Infections by Saprox SAPROX is 100% natural clay that contains sulphur and other minerals, humic acids, essential oils and other organic substances that are a product of very slow decomposition of herbs and aquatic plants without presence of oxygen over thousands of years. This natural process preserves beneficial elements within the clay. The combination of all elements play an important part of SAPROX's complex effect. Saprox's significant healing effect is inhibiting and preventing growth of fungus and yeast. The anaerobic condition where Saprox exists prevents parasites, fungus and most bacteria from invading the mud deeming it safe to use on skin without open sores. Do not apply Saprox to an open bleeding skin wound. Saprox may be used on most external fungal skin infections successfully: Tinea... |
 |
Ring-Ex - Natural Pet Ringworm Relief - Fungal Skin Infections Treatment (30ml) by Nativeremedies Ringworm may cause various lesions on the skin and these are not always in the shape of a ring. You may notice your pet scratching at areas that look scaly and inflamed and, with time, the hair in these patches may be lost. Ringworm can look very similar to a number of other skin conditions including mange and allergic conditions, so if in doubt it is important to take your pet to a vet in order to be sure of the diagnosis. Usual treatment of ringworm involves use of anti-fungal shampoos or creams. In severe cases oral anti-fungal medication may be used but this has the potential to cause side-effects. PetAlive Ring-Ex contains a blend of natural, herbal ingredients in a medicinal olive oil base, all specially selected to treat ringworm infections. Ring-Ex will also help to prevent the... |
 |
Zeasorb-AF Antifungal Drying Gel (0.85 oz) by Zeasorb Zeasorb-AF Antifungal Drying Gel is a targeted treatment for athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm in hard-to-reach areas is easy! It applies as a gel and instantly dries to a soft powdery finish. Antifungal medication works to relieve symptoms, while the powdery finish soothes chafing and keeps skin dry and comfortable. |
 |
Fungal Infection (Tinea Versicolor) Stay Young for Life (Primary Contributor) |
 |
Melissa Oil 100% 1mL (organic/biodynamic) by Primavera Gentle, warm Melissa Oil has a touch of honey. It is balancing, strengthening, protective, stimulating and for emotional problems. Use it in the diffuser, in compresses, relaxing baths, for lip care, for delicate facial oils. Often used for nervousness, tension, stress, insomnia, infections, fungal infections, viral infections, herpes virus, cold sores and eczema. |
 |
Immunology of Fungal Infections by Gordon D. Brown (Editor), Mihai G. Netea (Editor) The immunology of fungal infections is a comprehensive text covering all aspects of the immunology of infection with fungal pathogens. In addition to established knowledge, this book covers recent developments in the innate and adaptive immunological mechanisms involved in the host response to fungal infection. The volume is divided into a number of sections, which provide an immunological perspective on the cells, soluble factors and receptors involved in recognising and combating fungal pathogens. Further sections provide detailed descriptions of immunity to specific fungi, immune-escape mechanisms used by these organisms and immune-based therapeutic strategies. This book would be a valuable resource for those interested in fungal immunology particularly,... |
 |
Noni Care Natural Topical Skin Spray, Sandalwood, 1-Ounce Bottles (Pack of 3) by Bioponic Phytoceuticals Noni Sandalwood Skin Spray |
 |
Oregano Oil: Nature's Answer to Bacterial, Viral, and Fungal Infection (Woodland Health) by Candace Salima (Author) Oregano oil has been proven to assist in the eradication of a number of pesky health issues that plague most people at some point in their lives. It functions as an antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral agent, and is a very powerful antiseptic, safe for both internal and external use. Oregano oil also contains powerful agents that aid in the deconstruction or expulsion of parasitic organisms. Read inside to find out how oregano oil can help you with a host of everyday health problems. |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |