Regulators of Farnesol Metabolism in Candida albicans: Synthesis and Secretion

Candida albicans is a polymorphic opportunistic pathogen capable of transitioning from a harmless commensal organism to a life-threatening pathogen under immunocompromised conditions. Central to this pathogenic switch is its ability to undergo morphological transitions, regulated significantly by the quorum-sensing molecule farnesol. This thesis explores the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying farnesol biosynthesis, secretion, and its role in morphogenesis. By performing genetic screenings of transcriptional regulators, identifying the critical enzyme CWH8 involved in farnesol biosynthesis, and conducting transcriptomic analyses under secretion-promoting conditions, this research provides new insights into the complex regulatory networks associated with fungal virulence. Although the precise mechanisms governing farnesol secretion remain unresolved, key candidate genes such as RTA3 have been highlighted for future studies, advancing our understanding of fungal biology and presenting potential therapeutic targets.