What is the role of candida albicans extracellular vesicles in the induction of Thelper 17 cells?5 answersCandida albicans extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a crucial role in modulating immune responses, including the induction of Thelper 17 (Th17) cells. These EVs transport various molecules, such as proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates, which can interact with host cells and impact disease outcomes. Studies have shown that C. albicans EVs activate macrophages and dendritic cells, leading to cytokine production and immune activation. Additionally, EVs from C. albicans have been found to induce a protective effect against candidiasis in immunosuppressed mice, highlighting their immunomodulatory potential. The cargo of C. albicans EVs includes components related to pathogenesis, stress response, and metabolism, which can influence the host immune system. Overall, C. albicans EVs have a multifaceted role in immune regulation and can contribute to the induction of Th17 cells through their interactions with the host immune system.
How does candida albicans persist in the oral mucosa?5 answersCandida albicans persists in the oral mucosa through a commensal lifestyle characterized by specific adaptations. The fungus exhibits a metabolic profile tailored to the nutrient-poor conditions of the epithelium, enhancing nutrient acquisition for survival. Persistent colonization inversely correlates with the fungus's ability to induce epithelial cell damage and elicit an inflammatory response, indicating immune evasive properties. This immune evasion is attributed to the attenuation of virulence genes, including those linked to filamentation, which is crucial for commensal behavior. Notably, the transcriptional repressor NRG1 plays a central role in maintaining the commensal lifestyle of C. albicans in the oral niche.
Candida albicans Biofilm-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Are Involved in the Tolerance to Caspofungin, Biofilm Detachment, and Fungal Proteolytic Activity5 answersCandida albicans biofilm-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a role in caspofungin tolerance, biofilm detachment, and fungal proteolytic activity. These EVs are composed of various proteins and lipids that contribute to their functions. The biofilm matrix, which includes the EVs, provides protection against host immune responses and hinders the penetration of antifungal drugs. Additionally, the EVs released by C. albicans biofilms can modulate the host immune response, inducing proinflammatory cytokine production. Furthermore, C. albicans EVs have been shown to inhibit biofilm formation and regulate morphogenesis, leading to the formation of pseudohyphae and inhibiting filamentation. These findings highlight the importance of C. albicans biofilm-derived EVs in the pathogenesis of candidiasis and their potential as targets for therapeutic interventions.
What are that induce the secretion of proteases in filamentous fungi?5 answersThe secretion of proteases in filamentous fungi is induced by various factors including the presence of protein in the culture medium. These factors can influence protease production and are important for the biological function, survival, and biotechnological applications of these organisms. The secretion of proteases is regulated by nitrogen-, carbon-, and sulphur-containing compounds, as well as proteins, temperature, and pH. Different types of proteins used as substrates can also induce the secretion of proteases in filamentous fungi. The specificity of peptidases, which are a type of protease, is important in determining the profile of enzyme-substrate interactions. Overall, the secretion of proteases in filamentous fungi is a complex process influenced by various environmental and substrate-related factors.
Role of candida albicans?4 answersCandida albicans is a commensal fungal species that commonly colonizes the human body but can also act as an opportunistic pathogen in patients with malignant diseases. It has been suggested that C. albicans may play an active role in the development of cancer, including oral, esophageal, colorectal, and skin cancer. The proposed mechanisms include the production of carcinogenic metabolites, modulation of the immune response, changes in cell morphology, microbiome alterations, biofilm production, activation of oncogenic signaling pathways, and induction of chronic inflammation. In addition, C. albicans is known to have antifungal drug resistance and tolerance, which are supported by various cellular stress response pathways. The cell wall integrity of C. albicans is crucial for its survival and interaction with the host cells, and multiple signaling pathways and transcription regulators are involved in cell wall remodeling. Furthermore, during infection, C. albicans can invade human epithelial cells through epithelial-driven endocytosis and active penetration, and autophagy-related proteins play a role in protecting epithelial cells against C. albicans-induced cell death.
What are the virulence factors of Candida albicans?4 answersCandida albicans possesses several virulence factors that contribute to its pathogenicity. These factors include adhesion, invasion-promoting enzymes, mycelial growth, phenotypic change, extracellular hydrolytic enzymes, toxins, phospholipase activity, coagulase activity, hemolysin production, proteinase activity, and the ability to form biofilms. Adhesion allows C. albicans to colonize human mucosal surfaces, while invasion-promoting enzymes facilitate tissue invasion. Mycelial growth and phenotypic change contribute to the ability of C. albicans to adapt to different environments. The production of extracellular hydrolytic enzymes, such as proteases and lipases, and toxins further enhance its pathogenicity. Phospholipase activity, coagulase activity, hemolysin production, and proteinase activity are also important virulence factors. Additionally, C. albicans has the ability to form biofilms, which contribute to its resistance to antifungal agents and immune evasion. These virulence factors collectively contribute to the pathogenesis of C. albicans infections and understanding them is crucial for the development of effective therapeutic strategies.