Oral thrush from candida yeast infection prevented by immune cells in tongue

Oral thrush from candida yeast infection prevented by immune cells in tongue. The findings come from researchers at the University of Pittsburg School of Medicine who found an unusual type of immune cells in the tongue which can play a role in prevention of oral thrush. The findings offer insight into why some individuals with HIV or other immune system impairments are at a higher risk for oral yeast infections, compared to others.

Oral thrush is an overgrowth of fungus known as candida albicans. Oral thrush is characterized by painful lesions in the mouth, but it is a treatable condition. Unfortunately, though, it can cause complications in individuals with HIV and other immune system impairments.

Senior investigator Dr. Sarah L. Gaffen said, “In previous work, we found the cytokine interleukin-17 (IL-17), a protein involved in immune regulation, must be present to prevent the development of thrush. But until now, we didn’t know where the IL-17 was coming from.”

Normally, IL-17 is produced by immune T cells that learn to recognize foreign organisms after initial exposure. Unlike humans, mice are considered immunologically naïve to candida fungus, so when researchers administered candida to the mice, their IL-17 levels rose within 24 hours even with a lack of a T cell response. This revealed that immune activity was inborn and not acquired.

Dr. Gaffen explained, “These cells are part of a natural host defense system that is present at birth and does not require a first exposure to be activated. This study demonstrates for the first time that natural TH17 cells protect against infection.”

The researchers will continue their work on other factors that contribute to thrush development in high-risk groups.

Home remedies for oral thrush

Oral thrush is a yeast infection caused by candida albicans in the mouth. It can be quite painful, but it is treatable. Here are some natural remedies for oral thrush you can utilize to reduce symptoms and help speed up recovery.

• Swish around salt water in your mouth.
• Consume yogurt with active cultures.
• Swish around coconut oil for at least 10 minutes every morning.
• Drink diluted apple cider vinegar – can be mixed with honey.
• Gargle tea tree oil.
• Mix baking soda with water to make a paste and apply on the tongue and inner cheek area.
• Drink cinnamon tea.
• Chew on raw garlic.
• Dilute oregano oil in water and drink it twice daily.
• Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.

By following these tips. you can treat oral thrush naturally.

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Sources:
http://www.upmc.com/media/NewsReleases/2014/Pages/pitt-study-immune-cell-prevents-oral-thrush.aspx
http://www.top10homeremedies.com/home-remedies/home-remedies-for-oral-thrush.html/3
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/oral-thrush/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20022381