Candida albicans Biofilm Formation and Pathophysiology

Moon, Song Mi; Park, Kiho; Kim, Yang Soo; Woo, Jun Hee

Abstract

Candida species are frequently found in the normal microorganism of humans, which facilitates their encounter with most implanted biomaterials and host surfaces. Medical devices such as stents, prostheses, implants and various types of catheters have all been shown to support colonization and biofilm formation by Candida. Candida albicans remains the fungal species most commonly associated with biofilm formation and the increase in Candida infections in the last decades has almost paralleled the increase and widespread use of a broad range of medical implant devices, mainly in populations with impaired host defenses. The formation of C. albicans biofilms carries important clinical repercussions because of their increased resistance to antifungal therapy and the ability of cells within biofilms to withstand host immune defenses. Also, biofilm formation on medical devices can negatively impact the host by serving as a reservoir or source for future continuing infections. This review article aims to provide insights on various aspects of C. albicans biofilms, formation and structure, their role in pathogenesis and antifungal drug resistance.