A novel approach to candidemia? The potential role of checkpoint inhibition

Med Mycol. 2019 Feb 1;57(2):151-154. doi: 10.1093/mmy/myy089.

Abstract

Infections with Candida spp. cause significant morbidity and mortality despite intensive treatment with antifungal agents. Novel treatment options are urgently needed. Predominately immunocompromised patients are affected. This warrants the conclusion that strengthening host immunity may have the potential to improve outcome. Recent studies imply a potential benefit of checkpoint inhibition reversing hyporesponsiveness of innate and adaptive immunity during invasive fungal infections and invasive candidiasis in particular. We here give a brief overview of first preclinical data in vitro and in vivo and clinical evidence in selected cases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies / therapeutic use*
  • CTLA-4 Antigen / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • CTLA-4 Antigen / immunology
  • Candida / immunology
  • Candidemia / immunology
  • Candidemia / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Immunotherapy*
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology

Substances

  • Antibodies
  • CTLA-4 Antigen
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor