Amyloid fibrils of the Als5p-derived peptide NH2-SNGIVIVATTRTV-COOH influence the biofilm formation of Candida albicans by sharpening microcolony morphology
Description
In this study, we demonstrate that the addition of Als5pFP promotes biomass accumulation in C. albicans biofilms under standard laboratory conditions, including in complex media and at temperatures compatible with clinical biofilm assays. Using advanced image analysis of microscopy images, we show that Als5p peptide induces a distinct morphological effect on biofilms: a sharpening of microcolony structures, characterized by the concentration of fungal cells into denser aggregates and the reduction of cells in intermediate spaces. These observations suggest a potential role for amyloid-like fibrils formed by Als5p peptide in influencing the spatial organization of C. albicans biofilms. Our findings contribute to the understanding of the architectural development of C. albicans biofilms and provide a foundation for future research aimed at targeting amyloid structures within fungal biofilms. Furthermore, the results may support the design of biofilm-targeting antifungal agents and the development of biosensors for monitoring amyloid formation during infection.