Glucuronoxylomannan exhibits potent immunosuppressive properties

FEMS Yeast Res. 2006 Jun;6(4):537-42. doi: 10.1111/j.1567-1364.2006.00072.x.

Abstract

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungus responsible for life-threatening infections in immunocompromised and occasionally in immunocompetent hosts. The fungus is endowed with several virulence factors such as its capsular polysaccharide, which plays a key role in virulence. The major component of capsular material of C. neoformans is glucuronoxylomannan, a polysaccharide that exhibits potent immunosuppressive properties in vitro and in vivo. Here we describe a new aspect relative to glucuronoxylomannan-induced immunosuppression. In this review we analyze the suppressive effects of glucuronoxylomannan and the mechanisms leading to induction of apoptosis in T cells.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Apoptosis / drug effects*
  • Cryptococcus neoformans / metabolism
  • Cryptococcus neoformans / pathogenicity*
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppression Therapy*
  • Polysaccharides / metabolism
  • Polysaccharides / pharmacology*
  • T-Lymphocytes / pathology*

Substances

  • Polysaccharides
  • glucuronoxylomannan