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Updated: Apr 27, 2026
Bio-energetics Investigation of Candida albicans Using Real-time Extracellular Flux Analysis
Published on: March 19, 2019
Mast cells kill Candida albicans in the extracellular environment but spare ingested fungi from death
Elisa Trevisan1, Francesca Vita, Nevenka Medic
1Department of Life Science, University of Trieste, Trieste, via Valerio n° 28, 34127, Trieste, Italy.
Abstract:
Mast cells (MCs) reside in tissues that are common targets of Candida spp. infections, and can exert bactericidal activity, but little is known about their fungicidal activity. MCs purified from rat peritoneum (RPMC) and a clinical isolate of C. albicans, were employed. Ingestion was evaluated by flow cytometry (FACS) and optical microscopy. The killing activity was assayed by FACS analysis and by colony forming unit method. RPMC degranulation was evaluated by β-hexosaminidase assay and phosphatidylserine externalization by FACS. Phagocytosing RPMC were also analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. Herein, we show that the killing of C. albicans by RPMC takes place in the extracellular environment, very likely through secreted granular components. Ultrastructural analysis of the ingestion process revealed an unusual RPMC-C. albicans interaction that could allow fungal survival. Our findings indicate that MCs have a positive role in the defense mechanism against Candida infections and should be included among the cell types involved in host-defense against this pathogen.
Insights
Mast cells (MCs) kill Candida albicans extracellularly via secreted components. Despite an unusual interaction, MCs play a crucial role in host defense against fungal infections.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Mast cells (MCs) are tissue-resident immune cells found at sites prone to Candida spp. infections.
- While MCs possess bactericidal capabilities, their fungicidal activity against Candida remains largely uncharacterized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the fungicidal activity of rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMCs) against Candida albicans.
- To elucidate the mechanisms and cellular interactions involved in MC-mediated Candida killing.
Main Methods:
- Purification of RPMCs and use of a clinical isolate of Candida albicans.
- Evaluation of fungal ingestion via flow cytometry (FACS) and optical microscopy.
- Assay of killing activity using FACS and colony-forming unit methods.
- Assessment of RPMC degranulation and phosphatidylserine externalization by FACS.
- Ultrastructural analysis using transmission electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- Killing of Candida albicans by RPMCs occurs extracellularly, mediated by secreted granular components.
- An unusual interaction between RPMCs and Candida albicans was observed, potentially facilitating fungal survival.
- RPMC degranulation and phosphatidylserine externalization were measured in response to Candida.
Conclusions:
- Mast cells contribute positively to host defense mechanisms against Candida infections.
- MCs should be recognized as a key cell type involved in combating Candida pathogens.
