Detection of histopathological changes in the lung tissues of mice caused by Cryptococcus neoformans: therapeutic effect of endophytic fungus extract

Background: Cryptococcus neoformans is a significant pathogenic yeast that causes severe infections in immuno-compromised individuals, such as those with respiratory diseases, cancer, kidney failure, and meningitis. Early diag¬nosis and treatment are crucial in managing the infections. The study was conducted at Al-Batoul Hospital and Baqubah Teaching Hospital to isolate and diagnose Cryptococcus neoformans and assess potential antifungal treat¬ments. Aim: This study aimed to isolate and identify Cryptococcus neoformans from clinical samples, determine the distribution of Cryptococcus species, and evaluate the effectiveness of fungal filtrate extract as a therapeutic agent compared to Amphotericin B in treating Cryptococcus infections in a mouse model. Methodology: The study spanned from September 2022 to May 2023 and included samples from sputum, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Tradi¬tional culture methods, phenotypic characterization, and Vitic device technology were used for diagnosis. The anti¬fungal efficacy of Cladosporium cucumerinum filtrate extract was evaluated and compared to Amphotericin B. Mice infected with C. neoformans were treated with either the fungal filtrate or Amphotericin B, and histopathological anal¬ysis of lung tissues was performed to assess treatment outcomes. Results: A total of 15 isolates of Cryptococcus were identified, including 6 from CSF, 5 from sputum, and 4 from urine samples. Three species were identified: Cryptococcus neoformans, Cryptococcus albidus, and Cryptococcus laurentii. The Cladosporium cucumerinum filtrate at 100% concentration exhibited higher antifungal activity than Amphotericin B. Mice infected with C. neoformans dis¬played loss of appetite and hyperactivity. Histological examination of lung tissues showed inflammatory cell infiltration, blood vessel congestion, and thickening of bronchi and alveolar walls in the infected mice. Mice treated with the fungal filtrate showed reduced pathological changes compared to those treated with Amphotericin B, with nearly normal alveolar structures. Conclusion: The study successfully identified Cryptococcus neoformans and other species from clinical samples. The Cladosporium cucumerinum filtrate exhibited promising antifungal activity, outperforming Am¬photericin B in reducing histopathological damage in an experimental mouse model. This suggests the potential for using fungal filtrates as an effective treatment for Cryptococcus infections.