Pichia kudriavzevii Yeast Exposure Increases the Asthmatic Behavior of Alveolar Epithelial Cells In Vitro

Asthma is a respiratory disorder that is characterized by the obstruction of the airway due to mucus overproduction and inflammation. More than 334 million people worldwide are affected by asthma. Pichia kudriavzevii is a spoilage yeast that is abundant in the environment and therefore a proficient pathogen. In this study, we observed the asthmatic effects of Pichia kudriavzevii on alveolar epithelial cells through a trypan blue assay (viability), TUNEL assay (apoptosis), PAS stain (mucin presence), and an ELISA immunoassay (IL-6 hypersecretion). Results from the assays displayed a direct correlation between infection duration and asthmatic characteristics. Thus, the Pichia kudriavzevii yeast may be a common cause of asthma-related symptoms and is a worthy cause of further study.