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What is known about the host pathogen interactions in blastomycosis?

April 26, 2017blastomycosis host known pathogen

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What is known about the host pathogen interactions in blastomycosis?

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We have a limited understanding of the host-pathogen interactions that occur in blastomycosis. Recent work done by Dr. Bruce Klein, of the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, indicated that a surface antigen on the yeast (WI-1) is an immunodominant antigen that is recognized by antibodies in the serum of infected people and dogs. This WI-1 antigen also serves as a target for a cellular immune response (delayed type hypersensitivity) in infected individuals. In addition, it appears that the WI-1 antigen also binds to adhesion molecules (integrins) on human leukocytes that facilitate adherence of the yeast with those cells. Other information on virulence mechanisms of B. dermatitidis are limited.