Abstract：Cryptococcus neoformans is an important fungal pathogen in clinical practice. Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most powerful antigen-presenting cells , which function as the central link between innate and adaptive
immune responses. They are important in recognizing a variety of pathogens, presenting antigens, and inducing immune responses. Many investigations demonstrate that DCs can effectively recognize cryptococcal antigens through several receptors on the cellular surface and promote valid cell-mediated immune responses against invasive microbes. Meanwhile, DCs themselves have shown a certain capacity to kill Cryptococcus neoformans ; however , subset type or the maturation status of DCs can significantly affect the host immune defense . On the other hand, Cryptococcus neoformans has some virulence factors, which can inhibit the induction of protective immune responses, although mannoproteins have been identified as the main immunodominant antigens in Cryptococcus neoformans . In this article , the complicated mechanisms of interplay between DCs and Cryptococcus neoformans in recent years are reviewed.
2010, Vol. 5 
