TLR2 modulates gut colonization and dissemination of Candida albicans in a murine model

Abstract

Invasive candidiasis often arises from translocation of endogenous yeasts from the gastrointestinal tract to the bloodstream. Here we describe that both wild type and TLR2−/− mice strains, orally administered with Candida albicans yeasts, display similar sustained high level of gut colonization when oral antibacterial treatment is present, while removal of antibiotic treatment causes a progressive clearance of yeasts in control but not in TLR2−/− mice. Fungal invasion of internal organs, following immunosuppression of colonized mice, was increased in TLR2−/− mice. These results point out to a role of TLR2 in gut protection against colonization and endogenous invasion by C. albicans.