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Microfungus Podosphaera fusca and the Fungus-like Organism Peronospora ficariae as Potential Inhalant Allergens in a Mouse Model of Asthma

Summary

Scientists studied two fungi that infect plants to see if they could cause asthma-like reactions in mice. They found that these fungi triggered inflammatory responses and produced antibodies similar to other known allergens. While not as potent as ovalbumin (a common test allergen), these plant-infecting fungi showed potential as respiratory allergens that may affect people exposed to them.

Background

Allergic conditions affect approximately 30% of the global population, with fungi accounting for about 6% of respiratory issues. Common allergenic fungi include Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria species. However, identifying specific causes of respiratory allergies is not always possible, suggesting undiscovered fungal allergens.

Objective

This study assessed whether two plant parasites, Podosphaera fusca and Peronospora ficariae, which infect Cucurbita pepo and Ficaria verna respectively, can provoke inflammatory and asthmatic reactions in mouse models of acute and chronic asthma.

Results

Both P. fusca and P. ficariae induced significant production of all tested cytokines, increased specific IgE levels, and caused histological changes characteristic of asthma progression. Although weaker than the reference allergen ovalbumin, both fungi demonstrated proinflammatory and asthma-inducing capabilities with eosinophil infiltration and airway remodeling.

Conclusion

P. fusca and P. ficariae possess allergenic potential and proinflammatory properties in mouse models of acute and chronic asthma. These findings expand the known list of fungal allergens and support the need for further investigation into plant parasites as respiratory allergen sources.
  • Published in:Cells,
  • Study Type:Experimental Animal Study,
  • Source: PMC12190413; PMID: 40558541; DOI: 10.3390/cells14120914
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