Candida auris Phenotypic Heterogeneity Determines Pathogenicity In Vitro

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Host-Pathogen Interactions

Background:

• Candida auris is a global healthcare threat, forming biofilms resistant to disinfectants.
• Specific C. auris isolates form cell aggregates, a phenotype linked to pathogenicity.
• Biofilm formation and aggregation influence C. auris virulence and host response.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare biofilm formation and transcriptional responses of aggregative and non-aggregative C. auris isolates.
• To investigate the inflammatory and immune responses to C. auris in a 3D skin model.
• To determine if C. auris aggregation influences its pathogenic potential.

Main Methods:

• Screening of C. auris isolates for aggregation and biofilm formation.
• RNA sequencing to analyze gene expression during biofilm development.
• Utilizing a 3D wounded skin model to assess host inflammatory response.

Main Results:

• Heterogeneous biofilm formation observed across different C. auris phenotypes.
• Distinct transcriptional profiles identified between aggregative and non-aggregative isolates.
• Aggregative C. auris biofilms induced a stronger proinflammatory response in wounded skin models.

Conclusions:

• C. auris aggregation influences its transcriptional profile and inflammatory potential.
• Non-aggregative C. auris may possess immune evasion capabilities.
• Aggregative C. auris poses a heightened risk in healthcare settings, particularly in compromised skin barriers.