Role of IL-22 and TNF-α in pulmonary candidiasis and its effects as immunomodulation through Dectin-2 receptor mediation

Pulmonary fungal infections are severe and potentially fatal conditions caused by various fungi, with varying levels of seriousness. The present study aimed to determine the immunomodulatory role of IL-22 and TNF-α in patients with pulmonary candidiasis. Sputum specimens from 106 (Male/Female) outpatients were collected at the Consultation Clinic for Chest and Respiratory Diseases in Salah Al-Din Governorate in Tikrit – Iraq, from June 2022 to December 2022. The age groups ranged from 20 -75 years. Phenotypic identification of isolates was performed based on Gram reaction, direct wet preparation (10% KOH), and HiCrome™ candida differential agar. Complete species identification was confirmed using the Vitek2® compact system. The study patients' stimulation of IL-22 and TNF-α production through the 4Dectin-2 (CLEC6A) receptor was also examined. The results revealed that 40 of the collected specimens (37.7%) were confirmed as Candida. albicans. Dectin-2 (CLEC6A) expression indicates the concurrent release of TNF-α and IL-22 cytokines in response to C. albicans. The study determined that C. albicans was the main cause of pulmonary candidiasis. These findings can provide valuable insights to optimize the treatment strategies, ultimately enhancing the patient’s quality of life.