Fungal Protein Found to Cross Blood-brain Barrier

In a series of experiments on a fungus that causes cryptococcal meningitis, investigators at University of California Davis have isolated a protein that appears to be responsible for the fungus’ ability to cross from the bloodstream into the brain. The discovery, recently published online in mBio, has important implications for developing a more effective treatment for Cryptococcus neoformans, the cause of the condition, and other brain infections, as well as for brain cancers that are difficult to treat with conventional medications. “This study fills a significant gap in our understanding of how C. neoformans crosses the blood-brain barrier and causes meningitis,” said Angie Gelli, principal investigator of the study. “It is our hope that our findings will lead to improved treatment for this fungal disease, as well as other diseases of the central nervous system.” To learn more about the study, click here.