Investigating the Roles of Mechanosensory Genes (Wsc1, Wsc2, and Mid1) in Triggering Filamentation on Solid Surfaces and Their Influence on Nutrient Sensing in Candida albicans.
Presenter Type
UNO Graduate Student (Masters)
Major/Field of Study
Biology
Other
Biological Sciences
Advisor Information
Biology Chairperson
Location
CEC RM #201/205/209
Presentation Type
Poster
Poster Size
48''in width
Start Date
22-3-2024 10:30 AM
End Date
22-3-2024 11:45 AM
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal organism and a significant human pathogen. It is recognized globally as a critical pathogen and is the most common causative agent recovered from immunocompromised patients who succumb to fungal infections (Saville et al, 2003). C. albicans contributes to various diseases, with substantial implications for mortality rates and healthcare costs. The Blankenship Lab focuses on understanding the core filamentation response of C. albicans, which is linked to pathogenesis. This study specifically focuses on the mechanosensory genes Wsc1, Wsc2, and Mid1. While numerous genes, whose products are responsible for environmental sensing, have defined roles in filamentation (Martin et al, 2013), it is unknown how mechanosensory genes may influence filamentation initiation. Through gene deletion experiments and assays, the research aims to unravel the mechanosensory regulation of filamentation, providing insights into environmental sensing mechanisms with potential implications for pathogenicity.
Investigating the Roles of Mechanosensory Genes (Wsc1, Wsc2, and Mid1) in Triggering Filamentation on Solid Surfaces and Their Influence on Nutrient Sensing in Candida albicans.
CEC RM #201/205/209
Candida albicans is a commensal organism and a significant human pathogen. It is recognized globally as a critical pathogen and is the most common causative agent recovered from immunocompromised patients who succumb to fungal infections (Saville et al, 2003). C. albicans contributes to various diseases, with substantial implications for mortality rates and healthcare costs. The Blankenship Lab focuses on understanding the core filamentation response of C. albicans, which is linked to pathogenesis. This study specifically focuses on the mechanosensory genes Wsc1, Wsc2, and Mid1. While numerous genes, whose products are responsible for environmental sensing, have defined roles in filamentation (Martin et al, 2013), it is unknown how mechanosensory genes may influence filamentation initiation. Through gene deletion experiments and assays, the research aims to unravel the mechanosensory regulation of filamentation, providing insights into environmental sensing mechanisms with potential implications for pathogenicity.