Innate Pulmonary Phagocytes and Their Interactions with Pathogenic Cryptococcus Species

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that causes over 180,000 annual deaths in HIV/AIDS patients. Innate phagocytes in the lungs, such as dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages, are the first cells to interact with the pathogen. Neutrophils, another innate phagocyte, are recruited to the lungs during cryptococcal infection. These innate cells are involved in early detection of C. neoformans, as well as the removal and clearance of cryptococcal infections. However, C. neoformans has developed ways to interfere with these processes, allowing for the evasion of the host's innate immune system. Additionally, the innate immune cells have the ability to aid in cryptococcal pathogenesis. This review discusses recent literature on the interactions of innate pulmonary phagocytes with C. neoformans.

Automated summary

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that causes a significant number of deaths in HIV/AIDS patients each year. Innate phagocytes in the lungs, including dendritic cells and macrophages, are the first to encounter the pathogen and play a crucial role in its detection and clearance. However, C. neoformans has developed strategies to evade the host's immune system, and innate immune cells can also contribute to its pathogenesis. This review provides insights into the interactions between innate pulmonary phagocytes and C. neoformans based on recent literature.