Characteristics and potential clinical applications of the extracellular vesicles of human pathogenic Fungi

BMC Microbiol. 2023 Aug 19;23(1):227. doi: 10.1186/s12866-023-02945-3.

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a heterogeneous group of lipid membrane-enclosed compartments that contain different biomolecules and are released by almost all living cells, including fungal genera. Fungal EVs contain multiple bioactive components that perform various biological functions, such as stimulation of the host immune system, transport of virulence factors, induction of biofilm formation, and mediation of host-pathogen interactions. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on EVs of human pathogenic fungi, mainly focusing on their biogenesis, composition, and biological effects. We also discuss the potential markers and therapeutic applications of fungal EVs.

Keywords: Biogenesis; Biomarkers; Composition; Extracellular vesicles; Fungi; Immunomodulation; Therapeutic applications.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biofilms
  • Biomarkers
  • Extracellular Vesicles* / chemistry
  • Fungal Vaccines / immunology
  • Fungi* / chemistry
  • Fungi* / classification
  • Fungi* / cytology
  • Fungi* / pathogenicity
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Mycoses / microbiology

Substances

  • Fungal Vaccines
  • Biomarkers