Candida albicans biofilms: antifungal resistance, immune evasion, and emerging therapeutic strategies

Int J Antimicrob Agents. 2022 Nov-Dec;60(5-6):106673. doi: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2022.106673. Epub 2022 Sep 11.

Abstract

Candida albicans is a fungal pathogen that can form biofilms on medical devices and host tissue, resulting in serious, life-threatening infections. These fungal biofilms are inherently resistant to traditional antifungal therapies and the host immune system; therefore, biofilm-associated infections are a huge clinical challenge. This review summarizes the most important insights into C. albicans biofilm-associated antifungal drug resistance mechanisms and immune evasion strategies. In addtion, this review also discusses the strategies for antifungal drug use to combat these processes, providing further evidence for novel drugs research and clinical therapies.

Keywords: Candida albicans; biofilms; immune escape; resistance; therapeutic foresight.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / pharmacology
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biofilms
  • Candida albicans*
  • Drug Resistance, Fungal
  • Immune Evasion*

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents