TUP1-mediated filamentation in Candida albicans leads to inability to colonize the mouse gut

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the role of Candida albicans TUP1-mediated filamentation in the colonization of the mice gut.

Materials & methods: We used molecular genetics to generate a strain where filamentation is regulated by altering the expression of the TUP1 gene with tetracyclines.

Results: The colonization rates reached with the TUP1^REP-RFP^REP strain were lower compared with wild-type strain and completely absent after induction of filamentation. No differences in the susceptibility to bile salts nor in the adhesion to the mouse intestine epithelium were observed.

Conclusion: Blockage of C. albicans in a filamentous form impedes gut cell colonization in the mouse.

Keywords: Candida albicans; TUP1; commensalism; filamentous growth.