AHR and AIDS: In fact, a previous study by Zelante et al. has revealed the activation of AHR by tryptophan metabolites provides antifungal resistance to Candida albicans via interleukin-22 and mucosal protection from inflammation.50 In another yeast-mediated disease, oropharyngeal candidiasis, which is most often associated with Candida albicans infection of the oral epithelium in AIDS patients, the AHR may be involved in the progression of the disease.65 Kynurenine activated AHR in oral epithelial cells increases activation of Src family kinases that enhances fungal endocytosis.