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An expanded regulatory network temporally controls C andida albicans biofilm formation
Author(s) -
Fox Emily P.,
Bui Catherine K.,
Nett Jeniel E.,
Hartooni Nairi,
Mui Michael C.,
Andes David R.,
Nobile Clarissa J.,
Johnson Alexander D.
Publication year - 2015
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/mmi.13002
Subject(s) - biofilm , biology , candida albicans , corpus albicans , microbiology and biotechnology , bacteria , genetics
Summary C andida albicans biofilms are composed of highly adherent and densely arranged cells with properties distinct from those of free‐floating (planktonic) cells. These biofilms are a significant medical problem because they commonly form on implanted medical devices, are drug resistant and are difficult to remove. C . albicans biofilms are not static structures; rather they are dynamic and develop over time. Here we characterize gene expression in biofilms during their development, and by comparing them to multiple planktonic reference states, we identify patterns of gene expression relevant to biofilm formation. In particular, we document time‐dependent changes in genes involved in adhesion and metabolism, both of which are at the core of biofilm development. Additionally, we identify three new regulators of biofilm formation, F lo8, G al4, and R fx2, which play distinct roles during biofilm development over time. F lo8 is required for biofilm formation at all time points, and G al4 and R fx2 are needed for proper biofilm formation at intermediate time points.