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Updated: Mar 12, 2026
Whole Genome Sequencing of Candida glabrata for Detection of Markers of Antifungal Drug Resistance
Published on: December 28, 2017
Molecular Detection of Resistance to Echinocandins
Brunella Posteraro1, Antonietta Vella2, Elena De Carolis2
1Section of Hygiene, Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, Rome, 00168, Italy. brunella.posteraro@unicatt.it.
Abstract:
In the last years, life-threatening fungal diseases have increased significantly, due to the rising number of human individuals susceptible to fungal infections, which are in part complicated by the emergence of antifungal drug-resistant pathogens. Among yeasts, Candida albicans and Candida glabrata are the most common organisms responsible for invasive fungal diseases. The molecular detection of echinocandin resistance in Candida species may represent a useful means of monitoring the incidence of clinical isolates with antifungal resistance-associated gene alterations. Here, we describe the current methods that enable researchers and/or clinical microbiologists to accurately detect echinocandin-resistant isolates of C. albicans and C. glabrata.
Insights
Antifungal resistance in Candida yeasts is a growing threat. This study details methods for detecting echinocandin resistance in Candida albicans and Candida glabrata, aiding in monitoring resistant fungal infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Molecular Diagnostics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Increasing incidence of life-threatening fungal diseases.
- Emergence of antifungal drug-resistant pathogens, complicating treatment.
- Candida albicans and Candida glabrata are leading causes of invasive candidiasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe methods for molecular detection of echinocandin resistance.
- To aid researchers and clinical microbiologists in identifying resistant Candida isolates.
- To facilitate monitoring of antifungal resistance gene alterations.
Main Methods:
- Review of current molecular detection techniques.
- Focus on methods applicable to Candida albicans and Candida glabrata.
- Accurate identification of echinocandin-resistant isolates.
Main Results:
- Established methods for detecting echinocandin resistance in Candida species.
- Provided guidance for accurate molecular identification of resistant isolates.
- Highlighted the importance of molecular detection for resistance surveillance.
Conclusions:
- Molecular detection of echinocandin resistance is crucial for monitoring.
- Accurate methods enable timely identification of resistant Candida albicans and Candida glabrata.
- This aids in managing invasive fungal infections and combating drug resistance.
