Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 7, 2026

Whole Genome Sequencing of Candida glabrata for Detection of Markers of Antifungal Drug Resistance
Published on: December 28, 2017
Pathogenic diversity amongst serotype C VGIII and VGIV Cryptococcus gattii isolates
Jéssica Rodrigues1, Fernanda L Fonseca2, Rafael O Schneider3
1Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Serotype C Cryptococcus gattii isolates show significant diversity in virulence factors and pathogenicity. Molecular types VGIII and VGIV exhibit distinct characteristics influencing disease severity in a murine model.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Cryptococcus gattii causes human cryptococcosis, a serious fungal infection.
- While serotype B strains are well-studied, serotype C isolates' pathogenic properties remain less understood.
- Understanding C. gattii diversity is crucial for effective disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze pathogenic determinants in three serotype C C. gattii isolates.
- To compare the virulence and phenotypic characteristics of different molecular types (VGIII and VGIV).
- To investigate the impact of phenotypic diversity on pathogenicity.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of capsule dimensions and CAP gene expression.
- Assessment of chitooligomer distribution and host chitinase activity induction.
- Evaluation of pigment production, glucuronoxylomannan reactivity, and pathogenicity in a murine model.
Main Results:
- Isolate ATCC 24066 (VGIII) differed from WM 779 and 106.97 (VGIV) in capsule, CAP genes, chitooligomers, and chitinase induction.
- VGIV isolates showed higher pigment production and distinct glucuronoxylomannan reactivity.
- VGIV isolates caused higher lethality and pulmonary fungal burden, while the VGIII isolate had reduced pathogenicity and did not reach the brain.
Conclusions:
- Serotype C C. gattii isolates exhibit significant phenotypic and genotypic diversity.
- This diversity correlates with differential pathogenicity, impacting disease outcomes.
- Molecular types VGIII and VGIV possess distinct virulence potentials, highlighting the need for strain-specific considerations.
Related Concept Videos
Diversity of Protists IV
Diversity of Protists III
Regulation of Bacterial Virulence
Diversity of Protists II
Diversity of Archaea III
Diversity of Archaea IV

