Fungal Melanin and the Mammalian Immune System

Overview

Journal J Fungi (Basel)

Date 2021 Apr 3

PMID 33807336

Citations 26

Authors

Sichen Liu

Sirida Youngchim

Daniel Zamith-Miranda

Joshua D Nosanchuk

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Melanins are ubiquitous complex polymers that are commonly known in humans to cause pigmentation of our skin. Melanins are also present in bacteria, fungi, and helminths. In this review, we will describe the diverse interactions of fungal melanin with the mammalian immune system. We will particularly focus on and also discuss other major melanotic pathogenic fungi. Melanin interacts with the immune system through diverse pathways, reducing the effectiveness of phagocytic cells, binding effector molecules and antifungals, and modifying complement and antibody responses.

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