[HTML][HTML] Advances in combating fungal diseases: vaccines on the threshold

JE Cutler, GS Deepe Jr, BS Klein - Nature Reviews Microbiology, 2007 - nature.com
JE Cutler, GS Deepe Jr, BS Klein
Nature Reviews Microbiology, 2007nature.com
The dramatic increase in fungal diseases in recent years can be attributed to the increased
aggressiveness of medical therapy and other human activities. Immunosuppressed patients
are at risk of contracting fungal diseases in healthcare settings and from natural
environments. Increased prescribing of antifungals has led to the emergence of resistant
fungi, resulting in treatment challenges. These concerns, together with the elucidation of the
mechanisms of protective immunity against fungal diseases, have renewed interest in the …
Abstract
The dramatic increase in fungal diseases in recent years can be attributed to the increased aggressiveness of medical therapy and other human activities. Immunosuppressed patients are at risk of contracting fungal diseases in healthcare settings and from natural environments. Increased prescribing of antifungals has led to the emergence of resistant fungi, resulting in treatment challenges. These concerns, together with the elucidation of the mechanisms of protective immunity against fungal diseases, have renewed interest in the development of vaccines against the mycoses. Most research has used murine models of human disease and, as we review in this article, the knowledge gained from these studies has advanced to the point where the development of vaccines targeting human fungal pathogens is now a realistic and achievable goal.
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