Association between polymorphisms in the genes encoding toll-like receptors and dectin-1 and susceptibility to invasive aspergillosis: a systematic review

Rev Soc Bras Med Trop. 2018 Nov-Dec;51(6):725-730. doi: 10.1590/0037-8682-0314-2018.

Abstract

Invasive aspergillosis is a common fungal infection in immunocompromised individuals. Some studies have shown that toll-like receptor and dectin-1 genetic polymorphisms may alter signaling pathways, thus increasing an individual's susceptibility to invasive aspergillosis. We investigated the pertinent literature to determine whether polymorphisms in the genes encoding toll-like receptors and dectin-1 increase the susceptibility to invasive aspergillosis. This study systematically reviewed the literature using the databases PubMed/PMC, Scopus, and Web of Science using the keywords invasive aspergillosis, polymorphism, Toll-like, and Dectin-1. From the initial search, 415 studies were found and according to our inclusion and exclusion criteria, eight studies were selected. Several studies described single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with a greater susceptibility to invasive aspergillosis. These SNPs were found in the genes that encode toll-like receptors 1, 3, 4, and 5 and the gene that encodes dectin-1; upon activation, both cellular receptors initiate a signaling cascade that can result in the production of cytokines and chemokines. Thus, our literature review uncovered a significant association between polymorphisms in the genes that encode toll-like receptors and dectin-1 and invasive aspergillosis. More studies should be performed to better understand the relationship between toll-like receptor and dectin-1 genetic polymorphisms and invasive aspergillosis susceptibility.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Aspergillosis / genetics*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Lectins, C-Type / genetics*
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide / genetics*
  • Toll-Like Receptors / genetics*

Substances

  • Lectins, C-Type
  • Toll-Like Receptors
  • dectin 1