MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Genomic Insights of Candida krusei, an Emerging Fungal Pathogen With Intrinsic Antifungal Resistance

Summary

Candida krusei is a yeast that causes serious bloodstream infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. Unlike many other fungi, it naturally resists common antifungal drugs like fluconazole, making infections hard to treat. The organism can form protective biofilms and has multiple genetic mechanisms that help it survive antifungal treatment. Researchers are exploring new drugs and treatment strategies to combat this growing health threat, especially in hospitals.

Background

Candida krusei is a diploid, dimorphic opportunistic yeast belonging to the methylotrophic clade, known for causing infections primarily in immunocompromised individuals. It is globally distributed and has been associated with nosocomial outbreaks, particularly in neonatal intensive care units. A key concern is its intrinsic resistance to fluconazole, often resulting in high mortality rates of approximately 49%.

Objective

This review explores the genetics of C. krusei, including its genomic structure, evolutionary relationships, and genetic mechanisms underlying resistance to antifungal agents. It discusses the pathogenic potential and current treatment options to enhance understanding and management of this emerging fungal pathogen.

Results

C. krusei has a 10.8 Mb genome with 5140 protein-coding genes and exhibits 52.8% prevalence of high biofilm formation. Intrinsic fluconazole resistance is attributed to low Erg11p affinity, efflux pump overexpression, and ABC11 gene mutations. Echinocandin resistance emerges from FKS1 gene mutations, and multiple novel antifungal agents show promising activity.

Conclusion

C. krusei is a clinically significant emerging fungal pathogen requiring enhanced surveillance, molecular monitoring, and continued research. Novel antifungal compounds and drug repurposing strategies offer potential therapeutic alternatives to mitigate the growing threat in healthcare settings.
  • Published in:Open Forum Infectious Diseases,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.1093/ofid/ofaf742, PMID: 41536615
Scroll to Top