The Candida albicans Biofilm Matrix: Composition, Structure and Function

• Main Authors: Christopher G. Pierce, Taissa Vila, Jesus A. Romo, Daniel Montelongo-Jauregui, Gina Wall, Anand Ramasubramanian, Jose L. Lopez-Ribot
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2017-03-01
• Series: Journal of Fungi
• Subjects: Candida albicans; candidiasis; biofilms; extracellular matrix; antifungal resistance
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/2309-608X/3/1/14

A majority of infections caused by Candida albicans—the most frequent fungal pathogen—are associated with biofilm formation. A salient feature of C. albicans biofilms is the presence of the biofilm matrix. This matrix is composed of exopolymeric materials secreted by sessile cells within the biofilm, in which all classes of macromolecules are represented, and provides protection against environmental challenges. In this review, we summarize the knowledge accumulated during the last two decades on the composition, structure, and function of the C. albicans biofilm matrix. Knowledge of the matrix components, its structure, and function will help pave the way to novel strategies to combat C. albicans biofilm infections.