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Updated: Aug 20, 2025

Bio-energetics Investigation of Candida albicans Using Real-time Extracellular Flux Analysis
Published on: March 19, 2019
Candida albicans the main opportunistic pathogenic fungus in humans
Ignacio Uriel Macias-Paz1, Salvador Pérez-Hernández1, Alejandra Tavera-Tapia1
1Faculty of Medicine "Dr. Alberto Romo Caballero", Autonomous University of Tamaulipas, Tampico (Tamaulipas), Mexico.
Abstract:
Candida albicans is a commensal of the mammalian microbiome and the primary pathogenic fungus of humans. It becomes a severe health problem in immunocompromised patients and can cause a wide variety of mucosal and systemic infections. The interaction between C. albicans and host cells is characterized by the expression of virulence factors such as adhesins and invasins, the secretion of hydrolytic enzymes, a transition from yeast to filamentous hyphae form, and the ability to form biofilms; these features collectively result in cell adhesion, invasion, and damage. This review describes complex commensal interactions of C. albicans with host cells and the cellular events that it triggers in a pathogenic environment. We also review the host immune response induced by C. albicans antigens and the mechanisms developed by this fungus to avoid the action of antifungal agents.
Insights
Candida albicans, a common microbe, causes severe infections in immunocompromised individuals. This review explores its pathogenic mechanisms, host immune responses, and antifungal resistance strategies.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Candida albicans is a human commensal and opportunistic pathogen.
- It causes mucosal and systemic infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes current knowledge on Candida albicans interactions with host cells.
- It details the fungal virulence factors and host immune responses.
- Mechanisms of antifungal resistance are also examined.
Key Points:
- C. albicans employs virulence factors like adhesins, invasins, enzymes, and biofilm formation for host cell adhesion, invasion, and damage.
- The fungus triggers specific host immune responses through its antigens.
- C. albicans exhibits sophisticated mechanisms to evade antifungal agents.
Conclusions:
- Understanding Candida albicans pathogenesis and host interactions is crucial for managing infections.
- Further research into antifungal resistance mechanisms is needed to improve treatment outcomes.
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