Effects of Cryptococcus neoformans on activation of human alveolar basal epithelial adenocarcinoma cells (A549 cells)

Introduction: The bronchial epithelium has defense mechanisms based on innate immunity against various airborne microorganisms, including Cryptococcus neoformans. Purpose: We evaluated the inflammatory effects of C. neoformans using human alveolar basal epithelial adenocarcinoma cells (A549 cells). Methods: A549 cells were exposed to C. neoformans (Multiplicity of Infection - MOI 1:100) and the analyses were performed 24 hours after stimulation. Results: C. neoformans increased the production of IL-6 and TGF-β1, but not IL-8 and IL-10, and activated ERK1/2 and NF-B phosphorylation in A549 cells when compared to the control group. There was a greater adhesion of C. neoformans when compared to internalization in A549 cells. Conclusion: The C. neoformans is able to promote changes in inflammatory parameters in human adenocarcinoma alveolar basal epithelial cells.