Candida albicans antigen

Candida albicans antigens are a collection of immunogenic molecules, primarily proteins and polysaccharides like mannan and beta-glucan, derived from the cell wall of the fungus Candida albicans (StatPearls, NBK560624). These antigens are recognized by the host's pattern recognition receptors, initiating a robust immune response characterized by the activation of T-lymphocytes and the secretion of cytokines such as IFN-gamma and IL-2 (PubMed, 21531005). Clinically, these antigens are used in the form of standardized extracts for delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) skin testing to evaluate the integrity of a patient's cellular immunity (FDA, Candin PI). Additionally, intralesional injection of Candida antigens has gained prominence as an immunotherapy for viral warts, leveraging the induced inflammatory response to facilitate the clearance of human papillomavirus (HPV) (PubMed, 26203357). Research also focuses on specific recombinant antigens, such as the Agglutinin-like sequence 3 (Als3) protein, for the development of vaccines aimed at preventing systemic candidiasis and other fungal infections (Journal of Fungi, PMC7558957).

Other names

Candida antigensCandidinMonilia antigenCandida extractCandida albicans skin test antigen

Induction of delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) and Th1-mediated immune response