Nanoscale interactions of Candida species with oral bacteria and surfaces

Candida is a fungus that is often found in healthy mouths, but can also cause infection. Such infections are common in denture wearers where Candida grows on the acrylic denture surface. My PhD is determining what factors on the denture promote infection. The research will measure attachment of Candida and certain bacterial species which live alongside it on the denture. This exchange project will contribute to my PhD as it will use an imaging technique called atomic force microscopy (AFM) to study how bacteria interact with Candida promoting infection. I will measure the strength of attachment that occurs and whether a particular protein, called ALS3 on the Candida surface helps in attachment. Experiments will use Candida with ALS3 and without. In addition, I will establish if acrylic surface roughness is also a factor in the attachment of Candida to dentures. This information will be invaluable in informing denture wearers on how best to care for their dentures to reduce the chances of infection.

Faculty Supervisor:

Laurent Bozec

Student:

Partner:

Cardiff University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

University of Toronto

Program: