Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 18, 2025
An Ex vivo Assay to Study Candida albicans Hyphal Morphogenesis in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Published on: July 1, 2020
Candida and Candidiasis-Opportunism Versus Pathogenicity: A Review of the Virulence Traits
Cristina Nicoleta Ciurea1,2, Irina-Bianca Kosovski2,3, Anca Delia Mare1
1Department of Microbiology, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureș, 540139 Târgu Mureș, Romania.
Abstract:
One of the most important questions in microbiology nowadays, is how apparently harmless, commensal yeasts like Candida spp. can cause a rising number of infections. The occurrence of the disease requires firstly the attachment to the host cells, followed by the invasion of the tissue. The adaptability translates into a rapid ability to respond to stress factors, to take up nutrients or to multiply under different conditions. By forming complex intracellular networks such as biofilms, Candida spp. become not only more refractive to antifungal therapies but also more prone to cause disease. The inter-microbial interactions can enhance the virulence of a strain. In vivo, the fungal cells face a multitude of challenges and, as a result, they develop complex strategies serving one ultimate goal: survival. This review presents the virulence factors of the most important Candida spp., contributing to a better understanding of the onset of candidiasis and raising awareness of the highly complex interspecies interactions that can change the outcome of the disease.
Insights
Commensal yeasts like Candida spp. are increasingly causing infections by attaching to and invading host cells. Understanding their virulence factors and interactions is key to combating candidiasis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Commensal yeasts, particularly Candida species, are emerging as significant causes of human infections.
- The transition from harmless commensalism to pathogenicity involves host cell attachment and tissue invasion.
- Candida species exhibit remarkable adaptability to environmental stresses, nutrient availability, and growth conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the key virulence factors of important Candida species.
- To enhance understanding of the mechanisms underlying candidiasis onset.
- To highlight the role of interspecies interactions in disease outcome.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of virulence factors in Candida species.
- Analysis of pathogenic mechanisms including biofilm formation and stress response.
- Examination of inter-microbial interactions in the context of infection.
Main Results:
- Candida species possess diverse virulence factors enabling host cell adhesion and invasion.
- Biofilm formation by Candida enhances resistance to antifungal treatments and promotes pathogenicity.
- Interspecies interactions can significantly modulate the virulence and clinical outcome of candidiasis.
Conclusions:
- Virulence factors and adaptability are crucial for Candida's transition to a pathogenic state.
- Complex interspecies interactions play a critical role in the pathogenesis of candidiasis.
- Further research into these factors is essential for developing effective therapeutic strategies against Candida infections.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing
01:28Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
01:26Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...