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12:33
Determination of Biofilm Initiation on Virus-infected Cells by Bacteria and Fungi
Published on: July 6, 2016
Candida albicans: adherence, signaling and virulence
R Calderone1, S Suzuki, R Cannon
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA. calderor@gunet.georgetown.edu
Medical Mycology
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Candida albicans morphogenesis is regulated by signal pathways and genes, influencing oral cavity colonization. Mannan acts as an adhesin, recognizing red blood cells and potentially aiding iron uptake.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Medical Mycology
Background:
- Candida albicans is a fungal pathogen that exhibits dimorphism, switching between yeast and hyphal forms.
- Morphogenesis is crucial for C. albicans virulence, adherence, and colonization of host tissues, particularly the oral cavity.
- Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of morphogenesis is key to developing strategies against candidiasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review new information on Candida albicans morphogenesis.
- To explore the role of signal transduction pathways and regulatory genes in C. albicans morphogenesis.
- To discuss the adherence mechanisms of C. albicans in the oral cavity and the function of mannan as an adhesin.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and symposium presentations on C. albicans.
- Analysis of signal transduction pathways, including those involving Cph1p and Efg1p.
- Investigation of adherence factors and the role of mannan in host cell interactions.
Main Results:
- C. albicans utilizes at least two signal pathways for yeast-to-hyphal transition, involving regulatory proteins like Cph1p and Efg1p.
- Other potential pathways involve two-component histidine kinase and response regulator proteins (e.g., Chk1p, Ssk1p).
- A growth regulatory gene (CGRI) is upregulated during starvation and metabolic inhibition, preceding filamentous growth; mannan binds to human red blood cells via band 3 protein, causing hemolysis.
Conclusions:
- Signal transduction pathways and specific regulatory genes (e.g., CGRI) are critical for Candida albicans morphogenesis.
- Adherence to oral surfaces, mediated by interactions with salivary proteins, facilitates colonization.
- Mannan's interaction with human red blood cells suggests a role in nutrient acquisition (iron) and potential virulence.
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