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Multilocus sequence typing of Candida albicans isolates from wild and farm animals from southern Italy

Summary

Researchers in Italy studied a fungus called Candida albicans that can infect both humans and animals. They analyzed samples from chickens, wild boars, and lizards to understand how genetically similar these animal strains are to human infections. They found that animal strains are very similar to human strains, suggesting the fungus could be passed between animals and people. This research highlights the importance of monitoring fungal infections in animals to understand public health risks.

Background

Candida albicans is a leading cause of invasive candidiasis in humans and animals, recognized as a critical priority pathogen by the WHO. Few studies have investigated its genetic diversity and population structure in non-human hosts, limiting understanding of animal-to-human transmission dynamics.

Objective

To characterize the genetic diversity and population structure of C. albicans isolates recovered from wild and farm animals in Italy using multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and to assess their relationship with human clinical isolates and isolates from different geographical regions.

Results

Of 27 diploid sequence types identified, 22 (81.5%) were novel. The VPS13 gene showed the highest genetic variation while ACC1 showed the lowest. Isolates clustered in 6 distinct clades with 59% classified as singletons and 41% in 6 clonal complexes containing mixed human and animal isolates.

Conclusion

C. albicans isolates from animals show close genetic relationships with human clinical isolates, suggesting potential cross-transmission between animals and humans. The identification of novel genotypes and complex evolutionary dynamics highlights the zoonotic potential of C. albicans and the need for further investigation into transmission mechanisms.
  • Published in:One Health,
  • Study Type:Molecular Epidemiology Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41017842, DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2025.101196
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