An analysis of respiratory function and mitochondrial morphology in Candida albicans

Abstract

Respiratory function and mitochondrial dynamics have been well characterised in a number of cell types, including the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, but remain under-researched in fungal pathogens such as Candida albicans. An understanding of mitochondrial activity and morphology is important if we are to understand the role that this organelle plays in adaption and response to stress. Here we examine the respiratory profiles of several prominent pathogenic Candida species and present a useful GFP probe for the study of mitochondrial morphology. We examine mitochondrial morphology under a variety of conditions that Candida species may encounter within the host, such as acidic pH, respiratory and oxidative stress. The GFP probe also allowed for the visualisation of mitochondria during hyphal development, during growth following macrophage engulfment and distribution within biofilms. These data demonstrate that the mitochondrial network of C. albicans is highly responsive to both environmental conditions and developmental cues, suggesting important roles for this organelle in environmental adaption.