Omics approaches in Cryptococcosis: Molecular insights into host alterations

Cryptococcosis is one of the most common invasive fungal diseases in immunocompromised subjects, and it is associated with a high mortality rate. This disease is caused by fungi of the Cryptococcus genus, particularly by members of the Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii species complex. The infection typically originates in the lungs and can spread to the central nervous system and other organs, often resulting in cryptococcal meningitis, a serious and potentially fatal condition. Understanding molecular pathogenesis is essential for paving the way for more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments, ultimately improving clinical outcomes. In this regard, omics approaches are a valuable tool to help elucidate infection alterations. Indeed, several studies have employed these approaches, mostly focusing on fungal molecular changes, while fewer articles address host molecular changes. This review provides an overview of the molecular aspects of cryptococcosis, emphasizing the contributions of omics sciences to infection characterization toward host impact. Accordingly, this article offers new insights into this infectious disease, such as modulation of the host immune system and alterations in energy metabolism. Additionally, we highlight the versatility of omics science in addressing different infection characterization approaches using several experimental models, including cell cultures, from immune systems to epithelial cells and in vivo models.