Intricate interplay between fungi and neutrophils

Neutrophils, the most abundant leukocytes in humans, exhibit significant differences from their murine counterparts, shaping immune responses and disease outcomes. Recent studies indicate that fungal exposure in rewilded mice modifies neutrophil development, aligning it more closely with human neutrophil characteristics and emphasizing the role of environmental cues in neutrophil ontogeny. Beyond their immune defense functions, intestinal fungi contribute to granulopoiesis, sustaining immune activation through mechanisms distinct from those observed in invasive fungal infections. This review explores the complex interplay between fungi and neutrophils, focusing on how neutrophils respond to fungal colonization and infection. We examine the influence of fungal components, such as cell wall structures and toxins, on neutrophil activation and differentiation, which ultimately dictate their immune function. Additionally, we discuss the impact of gut mycobiota on disease progression and highlight emerging therapeutic strategies that target these interactions to manage immune-related disorders effectively. Understanding these mechanisms provides new insights into immune regulation and potential treatments for conditions driven by neutrophil dysfunction.