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Candidiasis visualised by proteinase-directed immunofluorescence
R Rüchel1, F Zimmermann, B Böning-Stutzer
1Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Göttingen, Federal Republic of Germany.
Abstract:
The secretory aspartic proteinases of Candida albicans and C. tropicalis are potential factors for virulence produced during infection. By indirect immunofluorescence, we have demonstrated proteinase antigen on elements of both species in deparaffinized tissue sections derived from clinical cases of mucosal and deep-seated candidiasis. Occasionally, we observed a halo of fluorescence in the close vicinity of candidal cells, which may reflect secretion of the enzyme. In kidneys, a ring of amorphous fluorescent material surrounding candidal colonies may illustrate alkaline denaturation of secreted enzyme within a pH gradient, which is generated by the fungus. Our findings support the view that candidal proteinase may be a diagnostically relevant antigen.
Insights
Secretory aspartic proteinases from Candida species are virulence factors in candidiasis. These proteinase antigens were detected in tissue, suggesting their diagnostic relevance in infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Secretory aspartic proteinases (SAPs) from Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis are implicated as virulence factors in fungal infections.
- Candidiasis, a spectrum of infections caused by Candida species, can range from superficial mucosal to life-threatening deep-seated forms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and localization of candidal proteinase antigen in clinical tissue samples.
- To evaluate the potential diagnostic relevance of candidal proteinase as a biomarker in candidiasis.
Main Methods:
- Indirect immunofluorescence was employed to detect proteinase antigen.
- Deparaffinized tissue sections from clinical cases of candidiasis were analyzed.
- Analysis included examination of candidal cells and surrounding tissue microenvironments.
Main Results:
- Proteinase antigen was demonstrated on elements of both Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis in tissue sections.
- A halo of fluorescence near candidal cells suggested enzyme secretion.
- A ring of fluorescent material around kidney candidal colonies indicated potential alkaline denaturation of secreted enzyme due to fungal-generated pH gradients.
Conclusions:
- Candidal secretory aspartic proteinases are present in infected tissues.
- The detection of these proteinases supports their role as virulence factors.
- Candidal proteinase antigen holds potential diagnostic value for candidiasis.