Candida albicans dimorphism as a therapeutic target

Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2012 Jan;10(1):85-93. doi: 10.1586/eri.11.152.

Abstract

The ability to switch between yeast and hyphal growth forms (dimorphism) is one of the most discussed and best investigated virulence attributes of the human pathogenic fungus Candida albicans. Both morphological forms seem to be important for virulence and have distinct functions during the different stages of disease development, including adhesion, invasion, damage, dissemination, immune evasion and host response. In this review, we will provide an overview of the known and potential roles of C. albicans dimorphism and will discuss the potential benefit of drugs that can inhibit the morphological transition.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Candida albicans / drug effects
  • Candida albicans / genetics
  • Candida albicans / immunology
  • Candida albicans / pathogenicity*
  • Candidiasis / drug therapy*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal
  • Humans
  • Hyphae / genetics
  • Hyphae / immunology
  • Hyphae / pathogenicity
  • Virulence
  • Virulence Factors

Substances

  • Virulence Factors