Host-microbe interactions: innate pattern recognition of fungal pathogens

Curr Opin Microbiol. 2008 Aug;11(4):305-12. doi: 10.1016/j.mib.2008.06.002. Epub 2008 Jul 17.

Abstract

The recognition of fungi is mediated by germline pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) such as Toll-like receptors and lectin receptors that interact with conserved structures of the microorganisms, the pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). Subsequently, PRRs activate intracellular signals that collaborate for the efficient activation of the host defense. The specificity of these responses is achieved through the activation of a particular mosaic of PRRs, that is determined by the available fungal PAMPs and the innate immune cells involved. This will determine a divergence of the final type of reaction, and in this way the innate host defense has the capability to deliver tailored responses to each pathogen.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Fungi / immunology*
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions*
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate*