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Cell envelope of Candida albicans
1Experimental Oral Biology Unit, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
Critical Reviews in Microbiology
|January 1, 1987
Summary
This review details the cell envelope of Candida albicans, focusing on its complex wall structure composed of mannoproteins, beta-glucans, and chitin. Understanding this structure is key to targeting this human pathogenic yeast.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Mycology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Candida albicans is a human pathogenic yeast with a complex cell envelope.
- The cell envelope comprises the plasma membrane and the cell wall.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structural organization and composition of the Candida albicans cell envelope.
- To highlight the roles of different cell envelope components in yeast biology and pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature.
- Analysis of ultrastructural studies.
- Chemical characterization of cell wall components.
Main Results:
- The C. albicans cell wall has distinct layers, with mannoproteins on the exterior and near the plasma membrane, containing antigenic determinants.
- Beta-1,3- and beta-1,6-glucans are the major structural components, present in nearly equal amounts.
- Chitin is concentrated at bud scars and linked to beta-1,6-glucan elsewhere in the wall.
- Intricate chemical bonding provides wall rigidity and regulates molecular transport.
- The plasma membrane contains essential enzymes for cell wall biosynthesis, including chitin synthase and beta-1,3-glucan synthase.
Conclusions:
- The complex cell envelope of Candida albicans, particularly its wall structure, is crucial for its survival and pathogenicity.
- Detailed knowledge of mannoproteins, glucans, and chitin composition and organization aids in understanding fungal cell biology and developing therapeutic strategies.