Fungal cell adhesion molecules in Candida albicans
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G Tronchin1, J P Bouchara, V Annaix
1Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHRU, Angers.
Abstract:
Adherence of Candida albicans to host tissues is considered a crucial step in the pathogenesis of candidiasis. Using in vitro assays, it was demonstrated that the yeast-mycelium transition was an important phenomenon in the acquisition of adhesive properties. Proteins with MWs of 60, 68, 200 and greater than 200 kDa seemed to be involved in germ tube adherence to plastic surfaces. Likewise, recent investigations have revealed that C. albicans expresses on its surface receptors which interact with a wide variety of host proteins, particularly some extracellular matrix components like fibronectin, laminin and collagen. Plasmatic components, such as fibrinogen, iC3b and C3d, have also been proposed as mediators of adherence of C. albicans. Thus, by their reaction with laminin, fibrinogen and C3d, the mannoproteins of 68 and 60 kDa demonstrated multiple biological activities. Proteins of similar MWs were detected as C3d and iC3b receptors, the latter showing similarities with the neutrophil CR3. Based upon the antigenic, structural and functional homologies between the candidal receptors and mammalian integrins, it was postulated that these fungal cell adhesion molecules (F-CAM) are members of the integrin family. Interactions with host proteins and molecular mimicry of mammalian adhesion molecules may be a fertile area for further research.
Insights
Candida albicans uses specific proteins to adhere to host tissues, a key step in candidiasis. These fungal cell adhesion molecules (F-CAM) may mimic mammalian integrins, suggesting a potential therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Adherence of *Candida albicans* to host tissues is a critical step in candidiasis pathogenesis.
- The yeast-to-mycelium transition enhances *C. albicans* adhesive properties.
- Surface receptors on *C. albicans* interact with host proteins like fibronectin, laminin, and collagen.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of specific proteins in *Candida albicans* adherence.
- To identify receptors involved in the interaction between *C. albicans* and host components.
- To explore the potential of fungal cell adhesion molecules (F-CAM) as integrin family members.
Main Methods:
- In vitro adherence assays using plastic surfaces.
- Analysis of protein molecular weights (MWs) involved in adherence (60, 68, 200, >200 kDa).
- Investigation of interactions with host proteins (fibronectin, laminin, collagen) and plasmatic components (fibrinogen, iC3b, C3d).
Main Results:
- Proteins of 60 and 68 kDa showed interactions with laminin, fibrinogen, and C3d, indicating multiple biological activities.
- These proteins were identified as receptors for C3d and iC3b, with similarities to neutrophil CR3.
- Antigenic, structural, and functional homologies suggest candidal receptors are members of the integrin family.
Conclusions:
- Specific mannoproteins of 60 and 68 kDa play a significant role in *Candida albicans* adherence.
- Fungal cell adhesion molecules (F-CAM) exhibit molecular mimicry with mammalian integrins.
- Further research into host-fungal interactions and molecular mimicry is warranted for therapeutic strategies.