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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
Biolistic Transformation of a Fluorescent Tagged Gene into the Opportunistic Fungal Pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans
Published on: March 19, 2015
Proteomics of Cryptococcus neoformans: From the Lab to the Clinic
Ben Muselius1, Shay-Lynn Durand1, Jennifer Geddes-McAlister1
1Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
Abstract:
Fungal pathogens cause an array of diseases by targeting both immunocompromised and immunocompetent hosts. Fungi overcome our current arsenal of antifungals through the emergence and evolution of resistance. In particular, the human fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans is found ubiquitously within the environment and causes severe disease in immunocompromised individuals around the globe with limited treatment options available. To uncover fundamental knowledge about this fungal pathogen, as well as investigate new detection and treatment strategies, mass spectrometry-based proteomics provides a plethora of tools and applications, as well as bioinformatics platforms. In this review, we highlight proteomics approaches within the laboratory to investigate changes in the cellular proteome, secretome, and extracellular vesicles. We also explore regulation by post-translational modifications and the impact of protein-protein interactions. Further, we present the development and comprehensive assessment of murine models of cryptococcal infection, which provide valuable tools to define the dynamic relationship between the host and pathogen during disease. Finally, we explore recent quantitative proteomics studies that begin to extrapolate the findings from the bench to the clinic for improved methods of fungal detection and monitoring. Such studies support a framework for personalized medical approaches to eradicate diseases caused by C. neoformans.
Insights
Proteomics reveals how the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans causes disease and develops resistance. This research aids in developing new diagnostics and treatments for cryptococcal infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
- Proteomics and Bioinformatics
Background:
- Fungal pathogens, including Cryptococcus neoformans, cause significant disease, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Emerging antifungal resistance limits effective treatment options for cryptococcal infections.
- Understanding host-pathogen interactions is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of mass spectrometry-based proteomics in studying Cryptococcus neoformans.
- To explore proteomics-driven insights into fungal pathogenesis, resistance mechanisms, and host-pathogen dynamics.
- To highlight advancements in proteomics for improved fungal detection and personalized treatment approaches.
Main Methods:
- Review of laboratory-based proteomics approaches: cellular proteome, secretome, and extracellular vesicle analysis.
- Investigation of post-translational modifications and protein-protein interactions.
- Assessment of murine models for cryptococcal infection and quantitative proteomics studies.
Main Results:
- Proteomics enables detailed investigation of cellular and secreted fungal components.
- Murine models combined with proteomics provide insights into host-pathogen interactions during infection.
- Quantitative proteomics studies are translating bench findings towards clinical applications for detection and monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Proteomics is a powerful tool for fundamental research on Cryptococcus neoformans.
- Advancements in proteomics contribute to understanding antifungal resistance and disease mechanisms.
- This research supports the development of personalized medicine strategies for cryptococcal infections.
