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07:42
An Ex vivo Assay to Study Candida albicans Hyphal Morphogenesis in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Published on: July 1, 2020
Candida albicans morphogenesis and host defence: discriminating invasion from colonization
Neil A R Gow1, Frank L van de Veerdonk, Alistair J P Brown
1Aberdeen Fungal Group, School of Medical Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK.
Nature Reviews. Microbiology
|December 14, 2011
Summary
Candida albicans can colonize humans without causing harm, but its invasive hyphal form triggers a strong immune response. This review explores how the immune system distinguishes between harmless colonization and dangerous invasion by this common fungus.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Mycology
Background:
- Candida albicans is a prevalent human fungal pathogen.
- It commonly colonizes skin and mucosal surfaces in healthy individuals.
- Mechanisms of host defense against C. albicans were poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the properties of yeast and hyphal forms of C. albicans relevant to host interactions.
- To describe immunological mechanisms that differentiate between colonizing and invading C. albicans.
- To explain how mucosal antifungal defenses tolerate C. albicans colonization while reacting to invasion.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Candida albicans morphology and host interaction.
- Analysis of immunological recognition pathways.
- Comparison of host responses to yeast versus hyphal forms.
Main Results:
- C. albicans exists in yeast and hyphal forms with distinct host interaction properties.
- Immune system differentially recognizes colonizing yeast and invading hyphae.
- Mucosal defenses tolerate commensal C. albicans but target invasive forms.
Conclusions:
- Host immune system possesses sophisticated mechanisms to manage C. albicans.
- Distinguishing between colonization and invasion is crucial for effective antifungal defense.
- Understanding these mechanisms can inform strategies against invasive candidiasis.
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