Role of matrix β-1,3 glucan in antifungal resistance of non-albicans Candida biofilms

Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2013 Apr;57(4):1918-20. doi: 10.1128/AAC.02378-12. Epub 2013 Jan 14.

Abstract

Candida biofilm infections pose an increasing threat in the health care setting due to the drug resistance associated with this lifestyle. Several mechanisms underlie the resistance phenomenon. In Candida albicans, one mechanism involves drug impedance by the biofilm matrix linked to β-1,3 glucan. Here, we show this is important for other Candida spp. We identified β-1,3 glucan in the matrix, found that the matrix sequesters antifungal drug, and enhanced antifungal susceptibility with matrix β-1,3 glucan hydrolysis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / pharmacology*
  • Biofilms / drug effects*
  • Candida albicans / drug effects*
  • Candida albicans / metabolism*
  • Drug Resistance, Fungal / physiology*
  • Proteoglycans
  • beta-Glucans / metabolism*

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents
  • Proteoglycans
  • beta-Glucans
  • polysaccharide-K