Elucidating the Interactions of Cryptococcus Neoformans and Microglia

Presented By: Luis R. Martinez, PhD
Speaker Biography: Luis R. Martinez, Ph.D., MBA is an associate professor at the University of Florida. His research focuses on elucidating the mechanisms of fungal brain invasion and colonization in immunocompromised individuals. Dr. Martinez is well-published and -NIH funded. He serves on the editorial boards of mBio and Infection and Immunity. Dr. Martinez is a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Society of Microbiology, the International Society for Human & Animal Mycology, and the Medical Mycological Society of the Americas.
Webinar: Elucidating the Interactions of Cryptococcus Neoformans and Microglia
Webinar Abstract: The encapsulated fungus Cryptococcus neoformans is the most common cause of fungal meningitis, with the highest rate of cryptococcosis found in AIDS patients. Despite antifungal treatment, cryptococcal meningitis is known for its high morbidity and mortality rates due to its difficult eradication from the brain. C. neoformans’ capsule contributes directly to its pathogenesis; specifically, its main component, glucuronoxylomannan (GXM), has been associated with disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and invasion of the brain. Microglia are the main form of active immune defense in the central nervous system (CNS). These cells are critical for combating CNS-invading microbes, including C. neoformans, but the specific function(s) of microglia required to counteract GXM’s BBB damage and C. neoformans invasion is/are poorly understood. Identification of the mechanisms by which C. neoformans GXM alters the BBB integrity and microglia cell functions will provide novel insights into the neurotropism of this deadly infection and may offer new therapeutic opportunities and preventive measures for combating cerebral cryptococcosis, a disease that kills ~200,000 AIDS patients annually around the world.
Earn PACE Credits:
1. Make sure you’re a registered member of Labroots (www.labroots.c...)
2. Watch the webinar on KZbin or on the Labroots Website (www.labroots.c...)
3. Click Here to get your PACE credits (Expiration date - September 07, 2025): (www.labroots.c...)
Labroots on Social:
Facebook: / labrootsinc
Twitter: / labroots
LinkedIn: / labroots
Instagram: / labrootsinc
Pinterest: / labroots
SnapChat: labroots_inc