ABSTRACT
Infection is the process whereby the parasite enters into a relationship with the host. This process has two essential steps which include: entrance of the parasite into the host, and establishment and multiplication of the parasite within the host. This chapter reviews the physicochemical aspects of the adherence process of Candida, including the specific chemicals involved. It discusses the current understanding of the mechanisms of association of Candida with surfaces and presents the test systems used to quantitate adherence of Candida. Adherence of Candida to epithelial cells is also known to be mediated by specific chemical substances associated with the walls and membranes. Candida is a dimorphic fungus capable of growing both as ellipsoidal buds or filamentous hyphae. Cell walls of both forms can be prepared for chemical analysis relatively easily. Candida cell wall consists predominantly of glucans and mannans; lesser amounts of chitin, proteins, and lipids are also present.
