Comparative Genomics of Serial Isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans Reveals Gene Associated With Carbon Utilization and Virulence.

ABSTRACT: The opportunistic fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans is a leading cause of mortality among the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome population and is known for frequently causing life-threatening relapses. To investigate the potential contribution of in-host microevolution to persistence and relapse, we have analyzed two serial isolates obtained from a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome who suffered an initial and relapse episode of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. Despite being identical by multilocus sequence typing, the isolates differ phenotypically, exhibiting changes in key virulence factors, nutrient acquisition, metabolic profiles, and the ability to disseminate in an animal model. Whole-genome sequencing uncovered a clonal relationship

SUBMITTER: Ormerod KL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3618354 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature