Progress in zinc homeostasis-related genes in Aspergillus fumigatus / 中华微生物学和免疫学杂志

ABSTRACT

Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic pathogenic fungus transmitted through the air. It targets the the lungs of immunocompromised patients and can cause severe invasive aspergillosis. Zinc, an essential trace element for microbial growth, is required by all fungi, including Aspergillus fumigatus. Some studies have shown a direct correlation between the virulence of fungi within the host and the uptake of zinc by them. However, zinc in the human body mostly binds to zinc-binding proteins, resulting in ion concentrations in the host′s tissue microenvironment much lower than the optimal growth concentration for fungi. There are several zinc transport proteins in Aspergillus fumigatus, enabling it to efficiently absorb zinc even in the condition of zinc deficiency. These proteins also protect the cells of Aspergillus fumigatu from the damage caused by excessive zinc. This article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the roles of zinc homeostasis regulation in the growth, development and virulence of Aspergillus fumigatus as well as the related genes, summarize the current research status of genes regulating zinc levels in Aspergillus fumigatus and investigate whether interference with zinc homeostasis in Aspergillus fumigatus will be a new generation of adjunctive therapy for invasive aspergillosis or antifungal strategy.