Similarities and Differences among Species Closely Related to Candida albicans: C. tropicalis, C. dubliniensis, and C. auris

Abstract

Although Candida species are widespread commensals of the microflora of healthy individuals, they are also among the most important human fungal pathogens that under certain conditions can cause diseases (candidiases) of varying severity ranging from mild superficial infections of the mucous membranes to life-threatening systemic infections. So far, the vast majority of research aimed at understanding the molecular basis of pathogenesis has been focused on the most common species—Candida albicans. Meanwhile, other closely related species belonging to the CTG clade, namely, Candida tropicalis and Candida dubliniensis, are becoming more important in clinical practice, as well as a relatively newly identified species, Candida auris. Despite the close relationship of these microorganisms, it seems that in the course of evolution, they have developed distinct biochemical, metabolic, and physiological adaptations, which they use to fit to commensal niches and achieve full virulence. Therefore, in this review, we describe the current knowledge on C. tropicalis, C. dubliniensis, and C. auris virulence factors, the formation of a mixed species biofilm and mutual communication, the environmental stress response and related changes in fungal cell metabolism, and the effect of pathogens on host defense response and susceptibility to antifungal agents used, highlighting differences with respect to C. albicans. Special attention is paid to common diagnostic problems resulting from similarities between these species and the emergence of drug resistance mechanisms. Understanding the different strategies to achieve virulence, used by important opportunistic pathogens of the genus Candida, is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Current advances in Candida tropicalis: Yeast overview and biotechnological applications

“…C. tropicalis is recognized as an opportunistic pathogen in the medical field, predominantly affecting individuals with compromised immune systems 22 . On the other hand, its pathogenicity depends on different factors 8 . The yeast is responsible for causing various infections, including candidemia, urinary tract infections, and skin and soft tissue infections.…”

“…22 On the other hand, its pathogenicity depends on different factors. 8 The yeast is responsible for causing various infections, including candidemia, urinary tract infections, and skin and soft tissue infections. It is important to note that the symptoms and severity of infections caused by C. tropicalis can vary depending on the infection site and the individual's overall health condition.…”

“…Although C. tropicalis has a closed genome related to the Candida albicans , both belonging to the CTG clade, the pathogenicity of C. tropicalis depends on its geographic distribution and the predisposition of the patients 8 . Still, studies have demonstrated the importance of working with nonconventional yeasts and exploring them in biotechnological processes.…”

“…3,7 Although C. tropicalis has a closed genome related to the Candida albicans, both belonging to the CTG clade, the pathogenicity of C. tropicalis depends on its geographic distribution and the predisposition of the patients. 8 Still, studies have demonstrated the importance of working with nonconventional yeasts and exploring them in biotechnological processes. This review summarizes crucial aspects related to the biology of the yeast C. tropicalis, its genetic characteristics, and biotechnological applications in the context of biorefineries.…”

Activatable prodrug for controlled release of an antimicrobial peptide via the proteases overexpressed inCandida albicansandPorphyromonas gingivalis

“…[20] Likewise, the rate of colonization of C. albicans at subgingival sites is significantly higher in subjects with chronic periodontitis; the rate of candidiasis increases with higher isolation frequencies of P. gingivalis. [21][22][23] However, treatment of C. albicans and P. gingivalis is quite different, and cotreatment has not yet been investigated in molecular detail. [21] Moreover, drug-resistant fungi are a growing public health threat with a mortality rate as high as 30% in Candida family (C. auris); thus, improved therapies are clearly needed.…”