Differentiation of the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum into a pathogen of phagocytes

Current Opinion in Microbiology
Qian Shen, Chad A Rappleye

Abstract

Mammalian body temperature triggers differentiation of the fungal pathogen Histoplasma capsulatum into yeast cells. The Drk1 regulatory kinase and an interdependent network of Ryp transcription factors establish the yeast state. Beyond morphology, the differentiation-dependent expression program equips yeasts for invasion and survival within phagosomes. Yeast cells produce α-glucan and the Eng1 endoglucanase which hide yeasts from immune detection. Secretion of yeast phase-specific Sod3 and CatB detoxify phagocyte-derived reactive oxygen molecules. Histoplasma cells adapt to iron and zinc limitation in activated macrophages by production of siderophores and the Zrt2 transporter, respectively. Yeasts also respond to inflammation-associated hypoxia. Histoplasma pathogenicity thus relies on factors controlled by yeast differentiation as well as environment-dependent responses.

Citations

Dec 18, 2019·Mycopathologia·Bernardo Tenório GuerraMarcus de Melo Teixeira
Dec 18, 2020·Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·Leandro do Prado AssunçãoAlexandre Melo Bailão
Nov 19, 2019·Current Opinion in Microbiology·Anita Sil
Nov 13, 2020·Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·Qian Shen, Chad A Rappleye
Nov 14, 2020·Molecular Biology and Evolution·Kristie D GoughenourChad A Rappleye
Feb 18, 2018·Trends in Microbiology·Alex HopkeRobert T Wheeler
Jul 3, 2021·Journal of Fungi·Marie A de PerioRandall J Nett

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