Comparison of phytase activity in Candida albicans isolated from different sources

Introduction: Microbes cause an infection must be able to live and proliferate the host. This necessitates the acquisition of essential nutrients like inositol and phosphate by the pathogen. Candida albicans produce hydrolyse enzymes like proteinase, phosphates to destroy the epithelial cells and gains the essential nutrients. One of these enzymes is phytase. Phytase (myo-inositol hexakissphosphate 3-or 6-phosphohydrolaises) belong to the family of histidine acid phosphatase. This enzyme hydrolise phytate (myo inositol hexakisphosphate) to lower myo-inositol phosphate and inorganic phosphate. These compounds have a key role in the candidiasis pathogenicity. The aim of the present study was to compare phytase activity among strains of C. albicans recovered from different sources. Materials & Methods: In the present study 100 isolates of C. albicans (25 isolates from Candida vaginitis, 25 from normal flora vagina, 25 from urines and 25 from bucal cavity) were evaluated for the secretion extracellular enzyme phytase. Phytase activity was evaluated according to visual method presented by Tsang using phytase specific medium. Phytase index (PI) value of 1.00 indicates no phytase activity, ≤0.50 indicates a high level, >0.50-0.75 indicates a moderate level, and >0.75-0.99 indicates a low level. Results: Our study shows that 37% of isolates were unable to produce phytase whereas 63% of isolates have high level of phytase. In the present study all urinary isolates of C. albicans have no phytase activity in comparison to oral isolates that all isolates produced extracellular phytase. In addition 88% and 64% of tested C. albicans recovered from Candida vaginitis and normal vagina were positive for phytase enzyme, respectively. Discussion: It is concluded that the strains of C. albicans recovered from different sources have difference phytase activities.

Candidiasis, Candida albicans, Phytase enzyme, Normal flora