Melanin and Cryptococcus neoformans

The production of melanin is associated with the virulence of various microorganisms.Cryptococcus neoformans produces melanin mainly via phenoloxidase(laccase)pathway.Melanin contributes to virulence likely by reducing the susceptibility of melanized fungi to host defense mechanisms and affecting immune responses in infected hosts.This review mainly focuses on the microstructure and biosynthesis of Cryptococcus neoformans melanin, molecular regulation of laecase, relationship between melanin and Cryptococcus neoformans virulence, effects of melanization on the survival of fungi, relationship between melanization and antifungal treatment, ete, which may facilitate the design and development of antifungal agents and strategies. Key words: Melanins; Cryptococcus neoformans