SAP3 — Candida albicans

Summary

C3_05230W_A (SAP3) in Candida albicans chromosome 3 encodes an aspartic endopeptidase of the SAP-like family, classified as EC 3.4.23.24, with aspartic endopeptidase activity and metal binding. This protein is associated with extracellular vesicles and the fungal cell wall. The gene is linked to host immune modulation, including cytokine production (IL-6, IGIF), inflammatory and acute inflammatory responses, defense response, immune evasion, and perturbation of host immune response. It is also associated with germ tube formation, epithelial cell differentiation, fibrinolysis, blood clotting, and CSF secretion. Associations with oral, vaginal, and disseminated candidiasis, as well as peritonitis, have been observed in animal models including rat, guinea pig, mouse, and human. Studies of related Candida SAP family members link the family to altered virulence, including hypervirulence and loss of pathogenicity.