FIG 7.

The graspΔ mutant showed slight deficiencies in multiple classic cryptococcal virulence traits. (A) The WT, the graspΔ mutant, and the acb1Δ mutant after culture on RPMI medium for 2 days. The capsule (halo surrounding the yeast cells) was visualized by negative staining with India ink. (B) The WT, the graspΔ mutant, and the acb1Δ mutant were cultured on l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine medium for 3 days in order to test melanin formation. The dark pigment indicates melanin. (C) Macrophages were inoculated with the WT, the graspΔ mutant, and the acb1Δ mutant on RPMI medium and were cocultured for 3 h. The numbers of phagocytosed Cryptococcus cells were determined by CFU counting and were graphed.