Human platelets attenuate Aspergillus species via granule-dependent mechanisms.

Perkhofer, Susanne; Kehrel, Beate E; Dierich, Manfred P; Donnelly, J Peter; Nussbaumer, Walter; Hofmann, Johann; von Eiff, Christof; Lass-Flörl, Cornelia · J Infect Dis · 2008

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Using laser scanning microscopy, we investigated whether platelets are capable of internalizing Aspergillus conidia and examined Aspergillus-platelet adherence. The influence of platelets on fungal growth was evaluated by assessing galactomannan (GM) release, hyphal elongation, and colony size. A secretion assay with [(3)H]-serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) was performed. Exposure to platelets resulted in significantly decreased GM release (p<.05), hyphal elongation (p<.001), colony size, pigmentation, and 5-HT release ( p<.05). A lack of antifungal effects was observed with the microfilament inhibitor cytochalasin D. Platelets attenuate the virulence of Aspergillus species in vitro on the basis of granule-dependent effects.

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