Analysis of the Candida albicans proteome: I. Strategies and applications

The alarming incidence of invasive candidiasis, predominantly among the recent expanding immunocompromised population, the appearance of antifungal-drug resistance, and the lack of specific diagnostic tests for it have demanded more impactful research into Candida albicans pathogenicity. Proteomic approaches can provide accurate clues about its biological complexity. Indeed, initial C. albicans proteome analyses have focused on the understanding of dimorphism, host responses, the cell wall, virulence factors and drug resistance, among others. This review aims to briefly outline the technology available for proteomics-based studies, surveying the main proteomic approaches applied to C. albicans research. Prefractionation techniques, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry continue to be the backbone of proteomic projects. Emerging strategies for protein separation, quantification and identification may, however, challenge the pivotal position of 2D-PAGE. Regardless of this, since we are now approaching the completion and annotation of C. albicans genome sequencing, systematic characterization of the proteome of this fungal pathogen, although still in its early stages, heralds an exciting expansion of our knowledge in years to come.