A pathogenic feature of Cryptococcus neoformans is _________.
a. production of destructive enzymes
b. production of a capsule
c. infection of immune cells
d. variation of surface antigens to avoid immune system recognition

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the organism in question, Cryptococcus neoformans, which is a fungal pathogen known to cause infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
2. Step 2: Review the common pathogenic features of Cryptococcus neoformans, focusing on its mechanisms to evade the host immune system and establish infection.
3. Step 3: Recall that one of the key virulence factors of Cryptococcus neoformans is the production of a polysaccharide capsule, which protects it from phagocytosis by immune cells.
4. Step 4: Compare the options given: (a) production of destructive enzymes, (b) production of a capsule, (c) infection of immune cells, and (d) variation of surface antigens. Consider which is most characteristic of Cryptococcus neoformans.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the production of a capsule is the primary pathogenic feature of Cryptococcus neoformans, as it is well-documented to enhance its virulence.

Key Concepts

Cryptococcus neoformans Capsule

Cryptococcus neoformans produces a polysaccharide capsule that is a major virulence factor. This capsule protects the fungus from phagocytosis by immune cells and helps it evade the host's immune response, facilitating infection and survival within the host.

Pathogenic Mechanisms of Fungi

Pathogenic fungi use various mechanisms to cause disease, including enzyme production to damage host tissues, capsule formation to avoid immune detection, and antigenic variation. Understanding these mechanisms helps differentiate how specific fungi cause infections.

Immune Evasion Strategies

Microorganisms evade the immune system through strategies like capsule formation, antigenic variation, and infecting immune cells. Cryptococcus neoformans primarily uses its capsule to avoid immune recognition rather than varying surface antigens or directly infecting immune cells.