Opaque-white phenotype transition: a programmed morphological transition in Candida albicans

J Bacteriol. 1988 Feb;170(2):895-9. doi: 10.1128/jb.170.2.895-899.1988.

Abstract

This paper reports that the opaque and white phenotypes of Candida albicans constitute a true high-frequency reversible transition system. The rDNA restriction fragment and orthogonal field alternating gel electrophoresis profiles of opaque and white phenotypes are indistinguishable, and a genetic marker introduced into a white strain is present in all opaque derivatives of this strain. Opaque and white derivatives appear markedly different on a bismuth indicator medium and differ in a number of other respects. We have used bismuth medium to examine the spontaneous and temperature-induced frequencies of transition from opaque to white. The temperature-induced transition from opaque to white does not occur when opaque cells are held in water.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Candida albicans / cytology*
  • Candida albicans / genetics
  • Candida albicans / growth & development
  • Culture Media
  • DNA Restriction Enzymes
  • DNA, Fungal / genetics
  • DNA, Ribosomal / genetics
  • Genetic Markers
  • Karyotyping
  • Mutation
  • Phenotype
  • Temperature

Substances

  • Culture Media
  • DNA, Fungal
  • DNA, Ribosomal
  • Genetic Markers
  • DNA Restriction Enzymes