Helja lectin inhibits Candida albicans phagocytosis and induces pro-inflammatory responses in dendritic cells

Abstract

Background: Plant lectins have gained attention for their antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties and potential therapeutic applications in controlling infectious diseases and inflammatory disorders. Purpose: This study focused on the effect of the sunflower lectin Helja on Candida albicans phagocytosis and its immunomodulatory effects on dendritic cells, to explore alternative immunotherapeutic strategies to control infectious diseases. Results: Here, we showed that Helja lectin opsonizes and inhibits C. albicans phagocytosis by bone marrowderived dendritic cells, induces dendritic cell maturation by upregulating co-stimulatory molecules, such as CD86 and MHC class II, promotes reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide generation and increases the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-12, and TGF-β. This cytokine profile was also observed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, where Helja and C. albicans pre-incubated with the lectin promoted the release of TNF-α and IL-1β. Conclusion: These findings suggest that Helja lectin has the potential to modulate dendritic cells and cytokine responses, indicating its role in immune regulation and underscoring the significance of this plant lectin as a potential therapeutic agent.