The Formation of Hyphae
Function of Hyphae
After the fungal cells are firmly established on the oral epithelium they generate tubular structures called hyphae. These hyphal lattice structures act as physical barriers to prevent host macrophages from phagocytosing the fungal cells.
The development of hyphae also begins to link fungal cells together into multicellular syncytia. When C. albicans becomes entrenched in this manner, it can excrete enzymes like aspartyl proteinases and phospholipase. These enzymes can break down cell membranes and the extracellular matrix of the epithelial tissues in proximity to the fungus.
Effects on Individuals with compromised Immne Systems
As surrounding tissues are damaged, the fungi can penetrate deeper into the oral mucosa and affect many tissue types. In individuals with compromised immune systems, this fungal incursion can cause serious medical complications and can be fatal. The host immune response is able to respond differentially to C. albicans depending on whether the fungi are behaving commensally or if it acting virulently.
How neutrophilis counteract fungi before they cause Additional Changes
Tissue damage caused by virulent C. albicans releases the inflammatory signaling molecules called alarmins that recruit neutrophils to the site of injury and begin to counteract the fungi before they cause additional damage. This point underscores the importance of a competent immune system in preventing these fungal infections from reaching dangerous levels (Schonherr et al., 2017).
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