Cell surface mannoprotein MP65 (MP65)

Cell surface mannoprotein MP65 (MP65) is a major cell wall constituent and highly immunogenic protein of the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans. Encoded by the MP65 gene (orf19.1779), it functions as a putative beta-glucanase and adhesin, essential for maintaining cell wall integrity, hyphal morphogenesis, and biofilm formation [2, 3, 6]. MP65 is a primary target of host cell-mediated immunity, where it induces a robust Th1 response characterized by T-cell proliferation and the production of cytokines such as IFN-gamma and IL-1 beta [4, 7, 8]. Due to its critical role in fungal virulence and widespread recognition by the immune system, MP65 is under investigation as a therapeutic target for antifungal vaccines and targeted photodynamic therapies [4, 11]. Furthermore, the MP65 gene and its protein product serve as specific biomarkers for the diagnostic identification of systemic candidiasis [1, 2, 6]. Pharmacological modulation of the MP65 gene through inhibitors of glycosylation, such as tunicamycin, has been shown to increase fungal sensitivity to conventional drugs like amphotericin B [7].

Other names

Mp65p65-kilodalton mannoproteinSoluble cell wall protein 10SCW10orf19.1779CMP65

Induction of Th1-mediated cellular immune responses for vaccine protection; targeted delivery of photosensitizers via phages for photodynamic inactivation; inhibition of protein glycosylation to destabilize the cell wall.