Environmental sensing and signal transduction pathways regulating morphopathogenic detrminants of Candida albicans

Abstract

Opportunistic fungal pathogens, such as Candida albicans, are found in the normal gastrointestinal flora and the oral mucosa of most healthy humans. However, in immunocompromised patients, bloodstream infections often cause death, despite the use of antifungal therapies (152). The underlying molecular mechanisms for survival inside the human body and adaptation to various environments are probably distinct but overlapping. Dietary factors, such as an excess of or deficiency in certain nutrients, may alter the endogenous microbial flora. Mechanical factors, such as trauma or occlusive injury, can also alter the microenvironment, deplete the system of “friendly bacteria,” and enable the pathogenic fungus to take over. Immunocompromised or immunosuppressed persons, including AIDS patients, neonates, and transplant recipients, are also particularly susceptible to fungal infections.