Aspergillus fumigatus
EPIC researchers Dr. Savini Thrikawala, Molly Anderson, and Dr. Emily Rosowski, have published a new study in The Journal of Immunology titled “Glucocorticoids Suppress NF-κB–Mediated Neutrophil Control of Aspergillus fumigatus Hyphal Growth.” The study explores how glucocorticoids, commonly used anti-inflammatory drugs, increase vulnerability to infections caused by the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. Using a zebrafish model, the researchers discovered that these drugs suppress NF-κB–mediated neutrophil responses, leading to enhanced fungal growth and increased mortality. This research provides crucial insights into the immunosuppressive effects of glucocorticoids and their role in heightening the risk of opportunistic infections.
