Genotypes of Candida albicans and its cooperative interaction with Streptococci isolated from throat infections.

Objective: Aim: This study was aimed to detect and determine genotypes of Candida albicans and its cooperative interaction with streptococci isolated from throat infections.

Patients and methods: Materials and Methods: This survey was carried out during November 2023 and March 2024 to collect a total of 80 throat swab samples from patients in in Al-Sadr Medical City in Najaf during. Candida was isolated from culturing throat swab samples on Sabouraud agar, and Blood agar. Each isolate (Candida & Streptococci) enhanced in monoculture using enrichment media; Potato Dextrose broth. Molecular assay included detecting three of biofilm forming genes; Als1, Als2, Als3.

Results: Results: Twelve out of fifteen Candida isolates showed increase in number after mixing with Streptococci and incubation. In contrast, three isolates showed no change or decrease after mixing in co-culture media. Five Candida isolates (out of 15 isolates) were positive in gel electrophoresis to three biofilm genes classified as first genotype (CALSG1). Four Candida isolates were negative in gel electrophoresis to three biofilm genes, classified as second genotype (CALSG2). Other Candida isolates were positive to one or two of three biofilm genes, classified with genotypes (CALSG3, CALSG4, CALSG5 and CALSG6).

Conclusion: Conclusions: Candida albicans has biofilm formation genes (Als), which attract other organisms, like streptococci resulting in synergistic interaction. Despite the presence of some Als genes, it's not necessary to found strong biofilm results as Als genes may not be translated to form biofilm.