title: Generating cell surface diversity in Candida albicans and other fungal pathogens.
abstract: The fungal cell surface contributes to pathogenesis by mediating interactions with host cells and eliciting host immune responses. This review focuses on the cell wall proteome of the major fungal pathogen Candida albicans and discusses how diversity at the cell surface can be introduced by altering the expression and structure of cell wall proteins. Remodelling the cell wall architecture is critical to maintain cellular integrity in response to different environments and stresses including challenge with antifungal drugs. In addition, the dynamic nature of the cell surface alters the physical properties of the fungal interface with host cells and thereby influences adhesion to the host and recognition by components of the host's immune system. Examples of the role of cell surface diversity in the pathogenesis of a number of microorganisms are described.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK.
authors.forename: Kerstin
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Nather
authors.forename: Carol A
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Munro
mesh_terms: D000940:Antigenic Variation / Q000276:immunology*; D000946:Antigens, Fungal / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000276:immunology*; D002176:Candida albicans / Q000276:immunology*; D002473:Cell Wall / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D005656:Fungal Proteins / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000276:immunology; D005658:Fungi / Q000276:immunology
chemical_list: D000946:Antigens, Fungal; D005656:Fungal Proteins