Evolution of the Human Pathogenic Fungus Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii in Africa
Author Information
Author(s): Litvintseva Anastasia P., Carbone Ignazio, Rossouw Jenny, Thakur Rameshwari, Govender Nelesh P., Mitchell Thomas G.
Primary Institution: Duke University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Southern Africa may harbor the ancestral populations of Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii.
Conclusion
The study provides evidence that Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii may have evolved from a diverse population in southern Africa.
Supporting Evidence
- 273 isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii were obtained from various environmental niches in southern Africa.
- Genetic analyses revealed that the majority of strains are associated with pigeon excreta and endemic African trees.
- The study identified a novel ecological niche for the fungus in mopane trees, which are prevalent in southern Africa.
Takeaway
Scientists found that a type of fungus that can make people sick likely started in Africa and spread around the world, especially through birds.
Methodology
Phylogenetic and population genetic analyses were used to study the population structures and histories of global and African strains.
Limitations
The study's conclusions are based on a relatively small sample of environmental isolates from southern Africa.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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