Cryptococcus neoformans (Cn) is a fungal pathogen that is a serious health threat to
immunocompromised individuals. Upon environmental exposure, infectious fungal
propagules are inhaled into the host's lungs. The anticryptococcal actions of alveolar
macrophages (AM), the predominant host phagocyte of the innate immune system in the
lungs, are fundamental in determining whether containment and clearance of the pathogen
occurs by the development of an adapted immune response or whether infection is …