Direct cell-to-cell spread of a pathogenic yeast
Author Information
Author(s): Ma Hansong, Croudace Joanne E, Lammas David A, May Robin C
Primary Institution: University of Birmingham
Hypothesis
How does Cryptococcus neoformans achieve latency and persistence prior to dissemination from its primary site of infection?
Conclusion
Lateral transfer of Cryptococcus neoformans between macrophages may help the pathogen remain concealed from the immune system and protect it from antifungal agents.
Supporting Evidence
- Lateral transfer was observed in both C. neoformans serotypes A and D.
- The process was independent of the initial route of uptake.
- Lateral transfer was observed in both immortalised cell lines and primary human macrophages.
- The transfer process was rapid, completing within ten minutes.
Takeaway
The study found that a type of yeast can move directly from one immune cell to another, which helps it hide from the body's defenses.
Methodology
The study used timelapse microscopy to observe lateral transfer of Cryptococcus neoformans between phagocytes.
Limitations
The rate of lateral transfer may be underestimated due to experimental constraints limiting observation time.
Participant Demographics
The study involved human primary macrophages and murine J774 cells.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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