An expanded regulatory network temporally controls Candida albicans biofilm formation

• Published in: Molecular microbiology 2015-06, Vol.96 (6), p.1226-1239
• Main Authors: Fox, Emily P., Bui, Catherine K., Nett, Jeniel E., Hartooni, Nairi, Mui, Michael C., Andes, David R., Nobile, Clarissa J., Johnson, Alexander D.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biofilms; Biofilms - growth & development; Candida albicans - genetics; Candida albicans - metabolism; Candida albicans - physiology; Cell adhesion & migration; Cellular biology; Comparative analysis; Fungal Proteins - metabolism; Fungi; Gene Expression; Metabolism
• ISSN: 0950-382X; 1365-2958
• DOI: 10.1111/mmi.13002

Summary Candida albicans biofilms are composed of highly adherent and densely arranged cells with properties distinct from those of free‐floating (planktonic) cells. These biofilms are a significant medical problem because they commonly form on implanted medical devices, are drug resistant and are difficult to remove. C. albicans biofilms are not static structures; rather they are dynamic and develop over time. Here we characterize gene expression in biofilms during their development, and by comparing them to multiple planktonic reference states, we identify patterns of gene expression relevant to biofilm formation. In particular, we document time‐dependent changes in genes involved in adhesion and metabolism, both of which are at the core of biofilm development. Additionally, we identify three new regulators of biofilm formation, Flo8, Gal4, and Rfx2, which play distinct roles during biofilm development over time. Flo8 is required for biofilm formation at all time points, and Gal4 and Rfx2 are needed for proper biofilm formation at intermediate time points. Candida albicans biofilms are composed of highly adherent and densely arranged cells with properties distinct from those of free‐floating (planktonic) cells. These biofilms are not static structures; rather they are dynamic and develop over time. Here we characterize gene expression in biofilms during their development, and identify patterns of gene expression relevant to biofilm formation. We also identify three new regulators of biofilm formation, Flo8, Gal4, and Rfx2, which play distinct roles during biofilm development over time.