Expression of ERG11, ERG3, MDR1 and CDR1 genes in Candida tropicalis

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Drug resistance to azoles is a growing problem in the Candida genus.

Objective

To analyze molecularly the genes responsible for fluconazole resistance in Candida tropicalis strains.

Materials and methods

Nineteen strains, with and without exposure to fluconazole, were selected for this study. The expression of MDR1, CDR1, ERG11, and ERG3 genes was analyzed in sensitive, dose-dependent sensitive, and resistant strains exposed to different concentrations of the antifungal drug.

Results

MDR1, ERG11 and ERG3 genes were significantly overexpressed in the different sensitivity groups. CDR1 gene expression was not statistically significant among the studied groups. Seven of the eight fluconazole-resistant strains showed overexpression of one or more of the analyzed genes. In some dose-dependent sensitive strains, we found overexpression of CDR1, ERG11, and ERG3.

Conclusion

The frequency of overexpression of ERG11 and ERG3 genes indicates that they are related to resistance. However, the finding of dose-dependent resistant/sensitive strains without overexpression of these genes suggests that they are not exclusive to this phenomenon. More basic research is needed to study other potentially involved genes in the resistance mechanism to fluconazole.

SUBMITTER: Rojas AE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10575625 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature