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[Detection of secretory acid proteinase enzyme from Candida strains on protein supplemented agar media]
1Mikrobiyoloji Uzmani, Hacettepe Universitesi, Tip Fakültesi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dali.
Abstract:
In this study, we identified the species of 130 candida strains isolated from various clinical specimens, and we also investigated the secretory acid proteinase activity of these strains on hemoglobin, albumin and casein containing agar media. In 65 of 75 C. albicans, 8 of 15 C. tropicalis, 5 of 15 C. pseudotropicalis, in 3 C. stellatoidea and in 2 C. glabrata strains enzyme activity was shown. We couldn't detect proteinase activity in any of the 7 C. krusei, 7 C. parapsilosis and in 6 C. guilliermondii strains. Enzyme activity was shown to be inhibited when proteolytic strains were treated with specific inhibitor pepstatin-A.
Insights
This study identified 130 Candida strains, finding that most Candida albicans and some other species exhibit secretory acid proteinase activity. This enzyme activity was inhibited by pepstatin-A, suggesting a therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Enzymology
Background:
- Candida species are opportunistic fungal pathogens.
- Secretory acid proteinases are virulence factors in Candida infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the species of 130 clinical Candida isolates.
- To investigate the secretory acid proteinase activity of these isolates.
- To determine the effect of pepstatin-A on enzyme activity.
Main Methods:
- Species identification of 130 Candida strains from clinical specimens.
- Assay of secretory acid proteinase activity using casein, albumin, and hemoglobin agar media.
- Enzyme inhibition assay using pepstatin-A.
Main Results:
- Proteinase activity was detected in 65/75 *Candida albicans*, 8/15 *C. tropicalis*, 5/15 *C. pseudotropicalis*, 3/*C. stellatoidea*, and 2/*C. glabrata* strains.
- No proteinase activity was observed in *C. krusei*, *C. parapsilosis*, or *C. guilliermondii* strains.
- Pepstatin-A effectively inhibited the observed proteinase activity.
Conclusions:
- Specific Candida species, notably *C. albicans*, possess significant secretory acid proteinase activity.
- This enzyme activity is a potential virulence factor.
- Pepstatin-A demonstrates inhibitory potential against Candida proteinases, suggesting therapeutic applications.