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Expression of the complement-binding protein (MP60) of Candida albicans in experimental vaginitis
A Stringaro1, P Crateri, D Adriani
1Laboratories of Ultrastructures, Istituto Superiore di Sanita, Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
The expression of the Candida albicans complement-binding C3d protein (MP60) was investigated both in vitro and in vivo by immunogold labelling and electron microscopy. In vivo expression was determined in a rat vaginitis model. Reactivity of in vitro-grown cells to an anti-MP60 rabbit serum was associated with both cytoplasmic and cell wall sites. Immunostaining in the cell wall of both yeast and hyphae was most concentrated in the inner, electron-lucid layer. Immunogold stained preparations of C. albicans from vaginal smears of infected animals also showed intense localization of the MP60 in the inner cell wall, plasma membrane. However, immunogold label was also intense at the cell surface in these samples, mostly in the area of close adherence with the keratinocytes of the vaginal epithelia. These observations indicate that MP60 is expressed both in vitro and in vivo, but to a different degree in the different cell wall layers.
Insights
The Candida albicans complement-binding C3d protein (MP60) is expressed in vitro and in vivo. Its location varies within the cell wall layers, with increased surface expression during vaginal infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen.
- The complement-binding C3d protein (MP60) plays a role in fungal-host interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro and in vivo expression of MP60 in Candida albicans.
- To determine the localization of MP60 within the fungal cell structure during infection.
Main Methods:
- Immunogold labelling and electron microscopy were employed.
- In vivo expression was assessed using a rat vaginitis model.
Main Results:
- MP60 expression was detected in both cytoplasmic and cell wall sites in vitro.
- In vivo, MP60 was localized to the inner cell wall, plasma membrane, and cell surface, particularly where C. albicans adhered to host keratinocytes.
- Cell wall localization varied between yeast and hyphal forms and in vitro versus in vivo conditions.
Conclusions:
- MP60 is expressed by Candida albicans both in vitro and in vivo.
- The differential expression and localization of MP60 suggest its involvement in fungal pathogenesis and host cell adherence during infection.