Research Topic: Pattern recognition receptors

Dectin-1 and dectin-2 drive protection against Sporothrix brasiliensis in experimental sporotrichosis

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Scientists studied how the immune system fights a dangerous fungal infection called sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis. They found that two immune receptors called dectin-1 and dectin-2 are crucial for fighting this infection by activating specific killer T cells and preventing immune suppression. Unlike what was previously thought, these receptors don’t work mainly by triggering inflammation, but rather by fine-tuning the balance of different immune cell types. This discovery could help develop new treatments for this emerging fungal disease.

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Immunomodulatory function of chitosan is dependent on complement receptor 3

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This study reveals how the human immune system recognizes chitosan, a natural component found in the walls of disease-causing fungi like Aspergillus and Cryptococcus. Researchers discovered that immune cells use a protein called CR3 on their surface to detect and respond to chitosan by producing inflammatory chemicals that help fight infection. When chitosan works together with fungal proteins, it can boost the immune system’s response even more effectively, suggesting new ways to enhance immunity against fungal infections.

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Protein kinase A signaling regulates immune evasion by shaving and concealing fungal β-1,3-glucan

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Candida albicans is a fungus that causes infections in humans. The fungus has developed a clever way to hide from our immune system by covering up a molecule on its surface called β-1,3-glucan that normally triggers immune responses. This study shows that the fungus masks this molecule through a combination of growing and dividing to create new surfaces, and then using enzymes to trim away exposed molecules. The research reveals that a specific cell signaling pathway controlled by lactate (a chemical found in our bodies) activates this masking behavior, helping the fungus evade immune recognition.

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