CHI2 — Candida albicans

Summary

C5_04130C_A (CHI2, also known as CHT2 or CTS1) in Candida albicans encodes a chitinase with chitinase activity and chitin binding, belonging to the glycosyl hydrolase 18 family. This gene is associated with chitin breakdown and anabolism, biofilm formation, cytokinesis, cell morphogenesis, autolysis, quorum sensing, and the inflammatory response. It is linked to the yeast-form cell wall, fungal biofilm matrix, and plasma membrane. Phenotypic associations include abnormal cell wall morphology, increased flocculation, decreased polyploidy, absent septum formation and cytokinesis, abnormal chitin deposition, increased virulence, and altered nutrient utilization. The gene is also connected to relative growth rate and decreased acquired thermotolerance. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to oxidative stress response and acid sensitivity.