Role of Phenotypic Switching in the Adaptive Response of <i>Candida tropicalis</i> to Hyperosmotic Stress

Phenotypic switching in Candida tropicalis influences virulence and fitness attributes, aiding host colonization by yeast. This study assessed the role of phenotypic switching in hyperosmotic stress adaptation. Two C. tropicalis strains (49.07 and 100.10), each with five morphotypes, were exposed to 1 M NaCl for 10 and 60 min. Results showed that 62.5% of morphotypes were less sensitive to osmotic shock, and 50% had greater osmoadaptation. The crepe morphotype exhibited less cell damage. Changes in cell wall composition, porosity, and expression of EFG1, WOR1, and HOG1 were observed. Phenotypic switching enhances osmoadaptation, impacting treatment strategies and C. tropicalis epidemiology.