The composition of the microbiome makes a decisive contribution to human health or disease. However, biological mechanisms that cause inflammations in the microbiome are still largely unknown. Together with a group of researchers from the University of Kiel and the University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Dr. Oliver Cornely (head of the Center of Excellence for Invasive Fungal Diseases at Cologne University Hospital) has deciphered a mechanism by which specific intestinal microbiota amplify inflammatory reactions in the lungs. The results of the study, published in Cell, could accelerate the development of new therapies for common diseases.
"The fungus Candida albicans, which colonizes the intestines, skin and mucous membranes, is actually harmless," Cornely said. "However, our study has shown that Candida albicans affects the balance of our immune system."
Candida albicans stimulates the immune system to produce specific defense cells, so-called Th17 cells. However, some of these Th17 cells then attack other fungi, such as Aspergillus fumigatus. This phenomenon is called cross-reactivity. The research showed that immune-compromised individuals have an increased level of cross-reactive Th17 cells in their lung tissue. This concentration is associated with a deterioration of these patients' health. The protective Th17 reaction in the intestine seems to amplify pathogenic immune processes in the lungs.
"With this observation, we were able to show for the first time how a single member of the microbiome, Candida albicans, influences the specific immune response to a large group of other microbes. Immune cross-reactivity is probably a common mechanism by which the microbiome manipulates the immune system -- with both protective and harmful effects," Cornely remarked.
Deciphering such specific effects of individual microbes will in future contribute to the development of targeted therapies.
Source: University of Cologne
Show, Tell, Teach: Elevating EVS Training Through Cognitive Science and Performance Coaching
April 25th 2025Training EVS workers for hygiene excellence demands more than manuals—it requires active engagement, motor skills coaching, and teach-back techniques to reduce HAIs and improve patient outcomes.
The Rise of Disposable Products in Health Care Cleaning and Linens
April 25th 2025Health care-associated infections are driving a shift toward disposable microfiber cloths, mop pads, and curtains—offering infection prevention, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in one-time-use solutions.
Phage Therapy’s Future: Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance With Precision Viruses
April 24th 2025Bacteriophage therapy presents a promising alternative to antibiotics, especially as antimicrobial resistance continues to increase. Dr. Ran Nir-Paz discusses its potential, challenges, and future applications in this technology.