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Intracytoplasmic membrane configurations, vesicles and vesicular inclusions in Candida albicans
K C Rajasingham1, S J Challacombe
1Department of Oral Medicine and Pathology, United Medical School, Guy's Hospital, University of London, Great Britain.
Abstract:
Ultrastructural studies of Candida albicans in its invasive form obtained from oral lesions of patients with acute chronic candidosis, candidal infection on chorio-allantoic membrane of chick embryo, and of organisms grown artificially, have demonstrated the presence of an intracytoplasmic membrane system, vesicles and vesicular inclusions, in varying degrees. These variations appear to be attributed to the environment, cultural conditions and the age of the organism. Their origin, structure and distribution are described.
Insights
Ultrastructural analysis of Candida albicans reveals an internal membrane system and vesicles. These structures vary based on the organism's environment, culture, and age, impacting its invasive form.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Cell Biology
- Pathogenic Microbiology
Background:
- Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen.
- Oral candidosis is a common infection caused by C. albicans.
- Understanding fungal ultrastructure is key to combating infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructure of invasive Candida albicans.
- To identify and characterize intracytoplasmic structures in C. albicans.
- To correlate ultrastructural variations with environmental and cultural factors.
Main Methods:
- Ultrastructural analysis using electron microscopy.
- Examination of C. albicans from patient oral lesions.
- Infection models using chick embryo chorio-allantoic membranes.
- Cultivation of C. albicans under artificial conditions.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the presence of an intracytoplasmic membrane system, vesicles, and vesicular inclusions in invasive C. albicans.
- Observed varying degrees of these structures across different conditions.
- Identified environmental factors, cultural conditions, and organism age as influences on ultrastructure.
Conclusions:
- The internal membrane system and vesicles of C. albicans are dynamic and influenced by external factors.
- These ultrastructural variations may play a role in the pathogenicity and invasive potential of C. albicans.
- Further research into these structures could inform therapeutic strategies against candidosis.