Biofilm, proteinase and phospholipase production by Candida albicans isolates from a hospital in Thailand

Abstract

This study aimed to determine biofilm formation, and production of phospholipase and proteinase in 73 clinical isolates of Candida albicans. Biofilms formed in a 96-well plate were quantified by crystal violet staining. Proteinase and phospholipase production levels were determined by spot assay on agar medium supplemented with the relevant substrates. In our study, all the isolates produced biofilm, and 89% were high biofilm producers. The mean biofilm amounts from each source of isolation ranged within 1.52 -3.41, and no significant difference of the mean values was detected. Over two-thirds (71%) of C. albicans isolates showed no proteinase production. By contrast, positive results for phospholipase activity were observed in 94% of the isolates. A highly significant correlation between biofilm formation and phospholipase production was detected. In conclusion, biofilm and phospholipase seem to be more prevalent compared to proteinase production. This suggests that phospholipase could potentially serve as a target for the treatment of Candida infection.

Keywords

• biofilm formation
• proteinase
• phospholipase
• candida albicans