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Exopolysaccharides and Biofilms

François Le Mauff1

  • 1Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, H4A3J1, Canada. francois.lemauff@mail.mcgill.ca.

Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology
|February 20, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Fungal biofilms, formed by Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida albicans, resist antifungal treatments. Understanding their exopolysaccharides offers new strategies against these infections.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Fungal pathogens frequently form biofilms, increasing resistance to immune responses and antifungal drugs.
  • Biofilm development involves complex synthesis and composition, offering potential therapeutic targets.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the structure, biosynthesis, and function of exopolysaccharides in Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida albicans biofilms.
  • To identify future strategies for prophylaxis and treatment of fungal infections based on exopolysaccharide research.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on exopolysaccharide research in fungal biofilms.
  • Analysis of current understanding of exopolysaccharide synthesis and role in biofilm development.

Main Results:

  • Exopolysaccharides are key components of fungal biofilms, influencing their structure and resistance.
  • Detailed knowledge of exopolysaccharide pathways provides targets for novel antifungal therapies.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting exopolysaccharides in Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida albicans biofilms is a promising strategy for developing new antifungal treatments.
  • Further research into exopolysaccharide structure and biosynthesis can lead to effective prophylaxis and therapies against devastating fungal infections.

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