Document Detail


Paradoxical roles of alveolar macrophages in the host response to Cryptococcus neoformans.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  22045161     Owner:  NLM     Status:  Publisher    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
Cryptococcus neoformans (Cn) is a fungal pathogen that is a serious health threat to immunocompromised individuals. Upon environmental exposure, infectious fungal propagules are inhaled into the host's lungs. The anticryptococcal actions of alveolar macrophages (AM), the predominant host phagocyte of the innate immune system in the lungs, are fundamental in determining whether containment and clearance of the pathogen occurs by the development of an adapted immune response or whether infection is established and progresses to disease. However, the fungus is also capable of surviving the antimicrobial actions of AM and exploits these host phagocytes to establish infection and exacerbate disease. In addition, there is evidence suggesting that cryptococcosis may occur following reactivation of latent cryptococcal infection. Currently, the role of AM and the fungal factors contributing to latent cryptococcosis are unknown. This review examines the AM-Cn interaction and how it affects the development of pulmonary disease with a focus on host and pathogen factors enabling latency to occur.
Authors:
Travis J McQuiston; Peter R Williamson
Publication Detail:
Type:  JOURNAL ARTICLE     Date:  2011-11-2
Journal Detail:
Title:  Journal of infection and chemotherapy : official journal of the Japan Society of Chemotherapy     Volume:  -     ISSN:  1437-7780     ISO Abbreviation:  -     Publication Date:  2011 Nov 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2011-11-2     Completed Date:  -     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  9608375     Medline TA:  J Infect Chemother     Country:  -    
Other Details:
Languages:  ENG     Pagination:  -     Citation Subset:  -    
Affiliation:
Laboratory of Clinical Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Building 10, Rm. 11N234 MSC 1888, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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