Helical growth of hyphae of Candida albicans

J Med Vet Mycol. 1994 Dec;32(6):437-45. doi: 10.1080/02681219480000591.

Abstract

When grown on a range of surfaces in conditions favouring hyphal growth, hyphae of Candida albicans grew in a right-handed helical fashion. This phenomenon was observed with eight strains and with two nutrient media. It is suggested that this is a result of rotation of the hyphal apex as it extends, which on some surfaces results in a helical hyphal wall, but which in a liquid results in a straight hypha. The consequence is that on a surface, a helically growing hypha will be exposed to a more diverse environment than a straight hypha. This phenomenon may have significance in the colonization of tissue by C. albicans.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Antifungal Agents / pharmacology
  • Candida albicans / cytology
  • Candida albicans / drug effects
  • Candida albicans / growth & development*
  • Cell Division / drug effects
  • Echinocandins
  • Fungal Proteins*
  • Peptides*
  • Peptides, Cyclic / pharmacology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Antifungal Agents
  • Echinocandins
  • Fungal Proteins
  • Peptides
  • Peptides, Cyclic
  • cilofungin
  • echinocandin B