# Plant Microfungi Tranzschelia pruni-spinosae and Phragmidium rubi-idaei Demonstrate Allergenic Capabilities in Mouse Models of Asthma

## TL;DR

This study shows that two plant microfungi can cause asthma-like symptoms in mice, suggesting they may be new allergens.

## Contribution

The study identifies two rust fungi as potential new allergens linked to asthma.

## Key findings

- Both fungal extracts increased pro-inflammatory cytokines in mice.
- Specific IgE levels and lung histology changes indicated asthma progression.
- The fungi showed strong allergenic potential in both acute and chronic models.

## Abstract

Allergic conditions have surged to unprecedented levels globally, affecting approximately 30% of the global population. Fungi are among the most significant sources of allergens, accounting for approximately 6% of respiratory issues in the general population. However, identifying the precise cause of respiratory allergies remains challenging. We investigated the potential of two rust species, Tranzschelia pruni-spinosae and Phragmidium rubi-idaei, which infect common fruit plants, to induce inflammatory and asthmatic responses in mouse models of both acute and chronic asthma. Mice were sensitized and administered intranasal challenges with extracts from T. pruni-spinosae and P. rubi-idaei. Levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, TNF-α, and TGF-β) were measured via ELISA. Additionally, specific IgE production was assessed via ELISA and lung histology was examined using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Both fungal extracts induced significant increases in all tested cytokines, elevated specific IgE levels, and histological changes characteristic of acute and chronic asthma progression in the lungs. The microfungi T. pruni-spinosae and P. rubi-idaei possess strong proinflammatory and asthma-inducing capabilities, suggesting their potential as previously unrecognized fungal allergens.