Disease: primary immunodeficiencies

The dimorphic fungus Talaromyces marneffei: An opportunistic killer in Southeast Asia

Talaromyces marneffei is a dangerous fungus found in Southeast Asian soil that people inhale, causing a serious disease called talaromycosis. The fungus is particularly deadly for people with weakened immune systems like those with advanced HIV. The fungus has evolved clever tricks to hide from and manipulate the body’s immune system, allowing it to multiply inside immune cells called macrophages.

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Introduction to XIV updating course of antimicrobials and infectious diseases

Healthcare professionals gathered at a major conference in Madrid to learn about the latest advances in treating infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria and other pathogens. The course highlighted new antibiotic combinations that work against previously untreatable infections, faster ways to identify infections in emergency rooms and intensive care units, and modern treatment strategies based on scientific evidence. Speakers emphasized the importance of using antibiotics wisely, using personalized medicine approaches, and collaborating between laboratory scientists and clinicians to improve patient outcomes.

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Abundant Yet Aberrant T Helper Cell Responses to Candida albicans Underlie Mucosal Candidiasis in Humans and Mice

Researchers studied how the immune system fights Candida albicans fungal infections. They found that a specific type of immune cell called Th17 cells is absolutely essential for controlling these infections, while other immune cells called Th2 cells actually make infections worse by blocking the protective Th17 cells. Patients with certain genetic mutations that affect how their immune system works have too many Th2 cells and not enough Th17 cells, making them vulnerable to chronic fungal infections. The study suggests that blocking a molecule called IL-4 could help restore the balance and improve patient outcomes.

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