Transcription Factors Fzc9 and Pdr802 Regulate ATP Levels and Metabolism in Cryptococcus neoformans

Transcription factors Fzc9 and Pdr802, characterized by their Zn₂Cys₆ DNA-binding domain, are essential for the virulence of <i>Cryptococcus neoformans</i> in lung and brain infections. Notably, the in vivo roles of Fzc9 and Pdr802 in contributing to the pathogenicity of <i>C. neoformans</i> are not adequately reflected by the phenotypic characteristics observed in vitro. This study investigates the effects of gene deletion of <i>FZC9</i> or <i>PDR802</i> on the proteomic and metabolomic profiles of <i>C. neoformans</i>. Using mass spectrometry analysis, we identified significant changes in protein abundance and metabolite levels, particularly in pathways related to ATP synthesis. These findings deepen our understanding of the metabolic roles of Fzc9 and Pdr802, suggesting potential targets for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against <i>C. neoformans</i> infections.