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Experimental modulation of capsule size in Cryptococcus neoformans

Biological Procedures Online volume 6, pages 10–15 (2004)Cite this article

Abstract

Experimental modulation of capsule size is an important technique for the study of the virulence of the encapsulated pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. In this paper, we summarize the techniques available for experimental modulation of capsule size in this yeast and describe improved methods to induce capsule size changes. The response of the yeast to the various stimuli is highly dependent on the cryptococcal strain. A high CO2 atmosphere and a low iron concentration have been used classically to increase capsule size. Unfortunately, these stimuli are not reliable for inducing capsular enlargement in all strains. Recently we have identified new and simpler conditions for inducing capsule enlargement that consistently elicited this effect. Specifically, we noted that mammalian serum or diluted Sabouraud broth in MOPS buffer pH 7.3 efficiently induced capsule growth. Media that slowed the growth rate of the yeast correlated with an increase in capsule size. Finally, we summarize the most commonly used media that induce capsule growth in C. neoformans.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, 10461, Bronx, New York

    Oscar Zaragoza & Arturo Casadevall

Authors
  1. Oscar Zaragoza
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  2. Arturo Casadevall
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Correspondence to Oscar Zaragoza.

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Published: March 3, 2004

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Zaragoza, O., Casadevall, A. Experimental modulation of capsule size in Cryptococcus neoformans . Biol. Proced. Online 6, 10–15 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1251/bpo68

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1251/bpo68

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Biological Procedures Online

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