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In vivo and ex vivo comparative transcriptional profiling of invasive and non‐invasive Candida albicans isolates identifies genes associated with tissue invasion
Author(s) -
Thewes Sascha,
Kretschmar Marianne,
Park Hyunsook,
Schaller Martin,
Filler Scott G.,
Hube Bernhard
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
molecular microbiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.857
H-Index - 247
eISSN - 1365-2958
pISSN - 0950-382X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2958.2007.05614.x
Subject(s) - biology , candida albicans , ex vivo , gene , in vivo , corpus albicans , gene expression profiling , pathogenic fungus , microbiology and biotechnology , gene expression , genetics
Summary The human pathogenic fungus Candida albicans can cause a wide range of infections and invade multiple organs. To identify C. albicans genes that are expressed during invasion of the liver, we used genome‐wide transcriptional profiling in vivo and ex vivo . By analysing the different phases of intraperitoneal infection from attachment to tissue penetration in a time‐course experiment and by comparing the profiles of an invasive with those of a non‐invasive strain, we identified genes and transcriptional pattern which are associated with the invasion process. This includes genes involved in metabolism, stress, and nutrient uptake, as well as transcriptional programmes regulating morphology and environmental sensing. One of the genes identified as associated with liver invasion was DFG16 , a gene crucial for pH‐dependent hyphal formation, correct pH sensing, invasion at physiological pH and systemic infection.