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Chromosome length polymorphism in clinical isolates of Candida parapsilosis
P H Fernando1, L P Samaranayake
1Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.
Abstract:
Chromosome length polymorphism among 24 clinical isolates of Candida parapsilosis obtained from several human sources was analysed using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. The isolates, from both superficial and deep infections, comprised a miscellaneous collection from the oral cavity, blood cultures, ear infections, wound secrete, a venous catheter and peritoneal dialysis fluid. Contour-clamped homogenous field electrophoresis using a hexagonal electrode was used for pulsed field gel electrophoresis. The chromosome numbers varied from seven to nine and their sizes ranged from 0.75 to 2.6 Mb. According to the electrophoretic karyotype patterns the 24 isolates could be divided into 9 profiles. However, the majority (18 isolates) fell into 3 groups comprising 7, 8 and 9 chromosomes, containing 5, 11, and 2 isolates, respectively. The remaining six isolates, all of which were from either an oral or another superficial site of isolation, could be categorized into a further six groups. These data confirm previous observations on the genomic heterogeneity of clinical isolates of C. parapsilosis, and illustrate the possible commonality in strains from related clinical habitats.
Insights
Genomic heterogeneity in Candida parapsilosis was analyzed. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis revealed variations in chromosome number and size among clinical isolates, indicating distinct genetic profiles.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Candida parapsilosis is a significant opportunistic fungal pathogen.
- Clinical isolates of C. parapsilosis exhibit considerable genetic diversity.
- Understanding this diversity is crucial for infection control and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze chromosome length polymorphism in clinical isolates of Candida parapsilosis.
- To investigate the genomic heterogeneity of C. parapsilosis from various human sources.
- To correlate electrophoretic karyotype patterns with clinical habitats.
Main Methods:
- Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was employed to analyze chromosome size and number.
- Contour-clamped homogenous field electrophoresis with a hexagonal electrode was utilized.
- Twenty-four clinical isolates from diverse human infections were examined.
Main Results:
- Chromosome numbers varied from seven to nine, with sizes ranging from 0.75 to 2.6 Mb.
- Electrophoretic karyotype patterns divided the 24 isolates into 9 distinct profiles.
- The majority of isolates (18) clustered into three groups based on chromosome number (7, 8, or 9).
Conclusions:
- Confirms significant genomic heterogeneity among clinical isolates of Candida parapsilosis.
- Suggests potential commonality in C. parapsilosis strains from related clinical environments.
- Highlights the utility of PFGE for differentiating clinical isolates of C. parapsilosis.