Prevalence of HWP1 and SAP Genes Among Biofilm-Forming Candida: Impacts on Antifungal Resistance Patterns

Abstract

The study aimed to correlate the existence of biofilm and resistance to antifungal agents. 125 clinical samples were collected from cancer patients: 81 (64.8%) oral swabs and 44 (35.2%) vaginal swabs (21 (16.8%) from diabetic patients and 23 (18.4%) from pregnant women). The age range was 1-61 years, with 29 (23.2%) males and 96 (76.8%) females. Biofilm assay was performed using Congo red agar method and microtiter plate assay, in addition to determination of HWP1, SAP1, and SAP4 genes. The results showed that the majority of isolates were Candida albicans 26 (81.25%) followed by C. glabrata 2 (6.25%). The study demonstrated that SAP4 is more prevalent than other genes 24 (75%) and is responsible for resistance. Additionally, the current research showed that the presence of the three genes together HWP1, SAP1, and SAP4, provides more resistance. In conclusion, the percentage of SAP4 gene in yeast isolates is higher than other genes.