Tools for assessing translation in Cryptococcus neoformans

Abstract

Cryptococcus neoformans is a ubiquitous environmental fungus capable of establishing an infection in a human host. Rapid changes in environments and exposure to the host immune system results in a significant amount of cellular stress, which is effectively combated at the level of trans-latome reprogramming. Repression of translation following stress allows for the specific reallocation of limited resources. Understanding the mechanisms involved in regulating translation in C. neoformans during host infection is critical in the development of new antifungal drugs. In this re-view, we discuss the main tools available for assessing changes in translation state and translational output during cellular stress.