Recent progress in Candida albicans biofilm

Abstract:

Biofilms have been associated with a variety of persistent fungal infections that respond poorly to conventional treatments. Forming biofilm could help fungi escape from host immune system defense and antimicrobial treatment. Fungal biofilms have emerged as a clinical problem associated with persistent infections, causing significant morbidity and mortality. Candida albicans is the most common fungal pathogen in humans, causing mucosal infections as well as life-threatening systemic infections. Biofilm of Candida albicans has been relatively well studied among fungal pathogens. Recent studies show that the extracellular matrix of Candida albicans biofilm consists of proteins, DNA and polysaccharides. Moreover, quorum sensing, environmental nutrition and surface materials affect the formation of Candida albicans biofilms. Other studies reveal that physical barrier function of the extracellular matrix, specific genetic manipulation and other mechanisms might contribute to the drug-resistance of fungal biofilms. This review discusses the recent advances in the understanding of Candida albicans biofilms, including the formation process, structural components, factors of formation, research models, drug-resistance mechanisms and potential treatment strategies.