Hyphal wall protein 1 (HWP1) (HWP1)

Hyphal wall protein 1 (HWP1) is a major cell surface adhesin and critical virulence factor uniquely expressed during the hyphal (filamentous) phase of the opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans [1, 5, 7]. It functions as a specialized substrate for mammalian transglutaminases, enabling the fungus to form covalent isopeptide bonds with host epithelial cells, effectively 'tethering' the pathogen to host tissues with the same strength as native host protein interactions [2, 4, 12]. This covalent attachment is essential for the establishment of mucosal infections, such as oral and esophageal candidiasis, and is a key driver in the formation and structural integrity of fungal biofilms on both biological surfaces and medical devices like catheters [2, 3, 9]. Due to its surface accessibility and vital role in pathogenesis, HWP1 is a primary target for the development of novel antifungal vaccines, therapeutic antibodies, and diagnostic markers for invasive candidiasis [1, 8, 13]. While HWP1 is highly specific to the hyphal form, its sequence shares partial homology with gluten-derived gliadin, leading to hypotheses regarding its potential role in triggering or exacerbating Celiac disease through molecular mimicry [5, 15]. Therapeutic strategies targeting HWP1 aim to disrupt the fungal-host interface and prevent the biofilm-mediated resistance and dissemination characteristic of chronic and systemic Candida infections [2, 9, 14].

Other names

Hwp1pAdhesin HWP1Candida albicans HWP1Hyphal wall protein

Inhibition of fungal adhesion to host tissues, disruption of biofilm structural integrity, and induction of protective humoral and cellular immunity through vaccination.