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Evidence for recombination in Candida glabrata
Andrew R Dodgson1, Claude Pujol, Michael A Pfaller
1School of Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
Fungal Genetics and Biology : FG & B
|February 15, 2005
Summary
Candida glabrata, a clinically important fungus, shows a predominantly clonal population structure. However, evidence of genetic recombination suggests it may occur infrequently, impacting its evolution.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Population Genetics
- Fungal Pathogenesis
Background:
- Candida glabrata is a significant human fungal pathogen.
- Its epidemiology and population structure remain poorly understood.
- A mating system exists, but recombination has not been demonstrated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the population structure of Candida glabrata.
- To test for evidence of genetic recombination in C. glabrata.
Main Methods:
- Multilocus sequence typing was performed on 165 isolates.
- Six loci (FKS, LEU2, NMT1, TRP1, UGP1, URA3) were sequenced.
- Population genetics analyses, including index of association, were used.
Main Results:
- Thirty-four distinct sequence types were identified.
- Significant evidence for a clonal population structure was found.
- Fourteen instances of phylogenetic incompatibility indicated recombination.
Conclusions:
- Candida glabrata exhibits a predominantly clonal population structure.
- Evidence strongly suggests that recombination has occurred during its evolution.
- Infrequent recombination may still be occurring in C. glabrata.