Effect of Farnesol, A Quorum Sensing Molecule, On Biofilm Formation By Candida Species

Abstract

The majority of disease produced by Candida spp. is associated with biofilm growth. The micro-organisms are almost non-existent in their planktonic free form in the tissues of the host, but are grouped together, forming a multicellular community, both in tissues and on prostheses, catheters and other surfaces (Ramage & Lo´ pez-Ribot, 2005; Soll, 2008). Biofilms possess unique developmental characteristics that are in stark contrast to the characteristics of free-floating planktonic cells. Biofilm formation enhances the chances of dissemination and establishment at distal sites of infection and escaping the immune response. Biofilm is also associated with a high level of antimicrobial resistance of the associated organisms. Consequently, biofilm-related infections are difficult to treat (Albuquerque and Casadevall, 2012; Sardi et al., 2013). Quorum sensing in eukaryotic organisms was unknown until the discovery of farnesol as a QSM in the pathogenic fungus C. albicans (Hornby et al., 2001). This molecule was shown to prevent the germination of yeast cells into mycelia, a phenomenon that may be mandatory to C. albicans biofilm formation (Ramage et al., 2002).