Unconventional T cells-New players in antifungal immunity

Life-threatening invasive fungal diseases (IFD) are increasing in incidence, especially in immunocompromised patients and successful resolution of IFD requires a variety of different immune cells. With the limited repertoire of available antifungal drugs there is a need for more effective therapeutic strategies. This review interrogates the evidence on the human immune response to the main pathogens driving IFD, with a focus on the role of unconventional lymphocytes e.g. natural killer (NK) cells, gamma/delta (gamma delta) T cells, mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells and innate lymphoid cells (ILC). Recent discoveries and new insights into the roles of these novel lymphocyte groups in antifungal immunity will be discussed, and we will explore how an improved understanding of antifungal action by lymphocytes can inform efforts to improve antifungal treatment options.

Automated summary

This review examines evidence on the human immune response to invasive fungal diseases, with a focus on unconventional lymphocytes such as NK cells, gamma/delta T cells, MAIT cells, iNKT cells, and ILC. Recent discoveries about the roles of these novel lymphocyte groups in antifungal immunity are discussed, and the potential for improving antifungal treatment options through a better understanding of lymphocyte actions is explored.