Characteristics and potential clinical applications of the extracellular vesicles of human pathogenic Fungi
Amir Ullah, Yiyi Huang, Kening Zhao, Yuneng Hua, Shafi Ullah, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Jingyu Wang, Qian Wang, Xiumei Hu, Lei Zheng
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a heterogeneous group of lipid membrane-enclosed compartments that contain different biomolecules and are released by almost all living cells, including fungal genera. Fungal EVs contain multiple bioactive components that perform various biological functions, such as stimulation of the host immune system, transport of virulence factors, induction of biofilm formation, and mediation of host-pathogen interactions. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on EVs of human pathogenic fungi, mainly focusing on their biogenesis, composition, and biological effects. We also discuss the potential markers and therapeutic applications of fungal EVs.