Synergy of caspofungin with human polymorphonuclear granulocytes for killing Candida albicans.
The influence of caspofungin on polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) phagocytosis and intracellular killing of Candida albicans was investigated. Caspofungin, at all of the concentrations tested (2, 3.2, and 8 microg/ml), significantly increased intracellular killing by PMNs through its direct action on both yeast cells and PMNs, indicating the potential ability of caspofungin to synergize with phagocytes for candidal killing. Caspofungin may therefore constitute an effective therapeutic option for the treatment of invasive fungal infections, including those refractory to conventional treatment with azole agents.
Tullio
Vivian
V
Department of Public Health and Microbiology, Microbiology Section, University of Turin, Via Santena 9, 10126 Turin, Italy. vivian.tullio@unito.it
Mandras
Narcisa
N
Scalas
Daniela
D
Allizond
Valeria
V
Banche
Giuliana
G
Roana
Janira
J
Greco
Deborah
D
Castagno
Franco
F
Cuffini
Anna Maria
AM
Carlone
Nicola A
NA
D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D002176:Candida albicans / Q000187:drug effects*; D000077336:Caspofungin; D054714:Echinocandins / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006801:Humans; D055666:Lipopeptides; D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests; D009504:Neutrophils / Q000502:physiology*; D010587:Phagocytosis / Q000502:physiology
D000935:Antifungal Agents; D054714:Echinocandins; D055666:Lipopeptides; D000077336:Caspofungin