Title:The Blood-Brain Barrier: Targeting in the Pathogenesis of C. neoformans Meningitis and Drug Discovery
VOLUME: 11 ISSUE: 2
Author(s):Hsiang-Kuang Tseng, Sheng-He Huang, Gregory Shackleford and Ambrose Jong
Affiliation:Hematology-Oncology and Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA.
Keywords:Amphotericin B, brain invasion, blood-brain barrier, C. neoformans, lipid rafts, simvasatatin.
Abstract:The interaction between Cryptococcus neoformans and the host system is a consummate process, on account of
the multiple components involved in its traversal of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). It is possible that this yeast pathogen
may use different mechanisms of invasion under different physiological or pathological conditions. Understanding these
mechanisms of encroachment can explicate the route of invasion, which may provide us with an indication for identifying
the potential drug target sites. Current C. neoformans management still relies on the anti-fungal reagents, such as amphotericin
B, fluconazole, or fluorocytosine. However, potential treatments on BBB, e.g., flurofamide and simvastatin, are
emerging. This review summarizes the possible routes for C. neoformans traversal of the BBB, current regimens for
C. neoformans, and potential new targets for treatments.
