Role of Fks1p and Matrix Glucan in <i>Candida albicans</i> Biofilm Resistance to an Echinocandin, Pyrimidine, and Polyene

Abstract

Candida infections frequently involve drug-resistant biofilm growth on device surfaces. Glucan synthase gene FKS1 has been linked to triazole resistance in Candida biofilms. We tested the impact of FKS1 modulation on susceptibility to additional antifungal classes. Reduction of FKS1 expression rendered biofilms more susceptible to amphotericin B, anidulafungin, and flucytosine. Increased resistance to anidulafungin and amphotericin B was observed for biofilms overexpressing FKS1. These findings suggest that Candida biofilm glucan sequestration is a multidrug resistance mechanism.