In mice, the fungus Kazachstania pintolopesii can spur a type 2 immune response that protects against worms and parasites but exacerbates food allergies, raising concerns about its effects on urban residents.
Senior study author Iliyan Iliev explained that human asthma prevalence in NYC neighborhoods correlates with mouse sightings, suggesting a link between mice feces and respiratory issues in humans.
Iliev noted that as diets change or antibiotics are taken, the protective mucus layer in the gastrointestinal tract shrinks, allowing the fungus to closely interact with immune cells and trigger a type 2 immune response.
The study reveals that city mice pose potential health risks to nearby humans, with researchers aiming to investigate if the fungus is present in other regions and potentially harmful to people.
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