T helper cell type 1 (Th1)- and Th2-like responses are present in mice with gastric candidiasis but protective immunity is associated with Th1 develop

So why do antivirals cause yeast? Here's a study that helps explain the TH1/TH2 roles. I think I have a few more that I'll dig up and post in the next few days.

J Infect Dis. 1995 May;171(5):1279-88.

Cenci E, Mencacci A, Spaccapelo R, Tonnetti L, Mosci P, Enssle KH, Puccetti P, Romani L, Bistoni F.

Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Perugia, Italy.

The relative contributions of local T helper cell type 1 (Th1)- and Th2-like responses to the course of primary and secondary gastrointestinal (GI) candidiasis were examined in adult immunocompetent BALB/c mice. Both Th1 cytokines, such as interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), and the Th2 cytokines, interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-5, were produced by CD4+ cells from Peyer's patches (PP) and mesenteric lymph nodes at a time when the fungus was cleared from the stomach and intestine. Augmentation of antigen-specific Th2-like responses by treatment with cholera toxin did not modify the course of disease. In contrast, treatment with soluble IL-4 receptor, which increased Th1 cells, was associated with enhanced yeast clearance. In addition, IFN-gamma but not IL-4 mRNA was present in PP and spleen CD4+ cells in mice resistant to subsequent GI inoculation. Activation of Th1- but not Th2-like responses may be responsible locally for controlling GI candidiasis and generating protective immunity.

PMID: 7751704 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]