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Small-Scale Plasma Membrane Preparation for the Analysis of Candida albicans Cdr1-mGFPHis
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Small-Scale Plasma Membrane Preparation for the Analysis of Candida albicans Cdr1-mGFPHis

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[Function and gene expression of the active efflux transporters in drug-resistant Candida albicans]

Hui-Jun Guo1, Zhong-di Xia, Gao-Li Wu

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China.

Zhong Nan Da Xue Xue Bao. Yi Xue Ban = Journal of Central South University. Medical Sciences
|March 9, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Active efflux pumps in Candida albicans contribute to fluconazole resistance. Measuring Rhodamine 6G efflux can identify resistant strains overexpressing efflux pump genes like CDR1 and CDR2.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Antimicrobial Resistance

Background:

  • Candida albicans is a common fungal pathogen.
  • Antifungal drug resistance, particularly to fluconazole, is a growing clinical concern.
  • Efflux pumps play a role in mediating drug resistance in various microorganisms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of active efflux transporters in fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans.
  • To examine the gene expression of key efflux pump genes (CDR1 and CDR2).
  • To evaluate Rhodamine 6G efflux as a marker for drug resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Broth microdilution was used to determine minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of antifungals.
  • Rhodamine 6G efflux was compared between sensitive and fluconazole-resistant C. albicans strains.
  • Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) quantified mRNA levels of CDR1 and CDR2.

Main Results:

  • Some fluconazole-resistant strains showed significantly increased Rhodamine 6G efflux, especially with glucose.
  • Gene expression of CDR1 and CDR2 was markedly elevated in these resistant strains compared to sensitive ones.
  • A correlation was observed between increased efflux and higher gene expression of CDR1 and CDR2.

Conclusions:

  • Overexpression of active efflux pump genes, such as CDR1 and CDR2, is associated with fluconazole resistance in Candida albicans.
  • Rhodamine 6G efflux measurement is a viable method for identifying C. albicans strains with resistance mediated by excessive efflux pump expression.

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