Virus-associated fungal infections and lost immune resistance

Invasive fungal infections are an increasing threat to human health. Of recent concern is the emergence of influenza- or SARS-CoV-2-virus-associated invasive fungal infections. Understanding acquired susceptibilities to fungi requires consideration of the collective and newly explored roles of adaptive, innate, and natural immunity. Neutrophils are known to provide host resistance, but new concepts are emerging that implicate innate antibodies, the actions of specialized B1 B cell subsets, and B cell-neutrophil crosstalk in mediating antifungal host resistance. Based on emerging evidence, we propose that virus infections impact on neutrophil and innate B cell resistance against fungi, leading to invasive infections. These concepts provide novel approaches to developing candidate therapeutics with the aim of restoring natural and humoral immunity and boosting neutrophil resistance against fungi.

Automated summary

Invasive fungal infections caused by viruses such as influenza or SARS-CoV-2 are a growing concern. Understanding the susceptibility to fungi requires considering the roles of adaptive, innate, and natural immunity. Neutrophils, innate antibodies, B cells subsets, and B cell-neutrophil crosstalk play important roles in antifungal host resistance. Virus infections can weaken neutrophil and innate B cell resistance, leading to invasive fungal infections. Novel therapeutic approaches aim to restore natural and humoral immunity and boost neutrophil resistance against fungi.