Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 12, 2025
Whole Genome Sequencing of Candida glabrata for Detection of Markers of Antifungal Drug Resistance
Published on: December 28, 2017
Tools and techniques to identify, study, and control Candida auris
James Carty1, Anuradha Chowdhary2,3, Douglas Bernstein1
1Department of Biology, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, United States of America.
Abstract:
Candida auris, is an emerging fungal pathogen that can cause life-threatening infections in humans. Unlike many other Candida species that colonize the intestine, C. auris most efficiently colonizes the skin. Such colonization contaminates the patient's environment and can result in rapid nosocomial transmission. In addition, this transmission can lead to outbreaks of systemic infections that have mortality rates between 40% and 60%. C. auris isolates resistant to all known classes of antifungals have been identified and as such, understanding the underlying biochemical mechanisms of how skin colonization initiates and progresses is critical to developing better therapeutic options. With this review, we briefly summarize what is known about horizontal transmission and current tools used to identify, understand, and control C. auris infections.
Insights
Candida auris, a dangerous fungus, spreads easily on skin, causing severe infections. Understanding its skin colonization is key to fighting antifungal resistance and developing new treatments.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Candida auris is an emerging, multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen causing life-threatening infections.
- Unlike other Candida species, C. auris efficiently colonizes human skin, facilitating environmental contamination and nosocomial transmission.
- Infections have high mortality rates (40-60%) and are challenging due to antifungal resistance.
Approach:
- This review summarizes current knowledge on the horizontal transmission of Candida auris.
- It discusses the tools and methods used for identifying and understanding C. auris infections.
- The review also covers strategies for controlling the spread of C. auris.
Key Points:
- C. auris skin colonization is a primary driver of its rapid spread in healthcare settings.
- Antifungal resistance in C. auris necessitates novel therapeutic strategies.
- Effective identification and control measures are crucial to mitigate outbreaks.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the biochemical basis of C. auris skin colonization is critical for developing new treatments.
- Controlling horizontal transmission is essential to prevent widespread outbreaks.
- Further research into C. auris pathogenesis and transmission is needed.
