Metalloproteinases Secreted By Candida: a Systematic Review

Abstract

The aim of this article was to identify if the metalloproteinases secreted by Candida would be considered a factor of pathogenicity, through a systematic review of literature. In this review, we describe the virulence mechanisms of Candida spp. metalloproteinases. Searches were conducted of 3 electronic databases: MEDLINE via PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. The inclusion criteria included only in vitro assays about metalloproteinases secreted by Candida. After the database screening [PubMed (72), Scopus (22) and Web of Science (29)] and removal of duplicates, 112 studies were identified. After title screening, 13 studies remained and this number was reduced to 8 after careful examination of the abstracts. Candida metalloproteinases may play a role in the degradation of the sub endothelial extracellular matrix components and facilitate the migration of the yeast in the tissues after crossing the endothelial layer, allowing the fungal invasion of target organs. Thus, the inhibition of metalloproteinase may have therapeutic implications for controlling pathological collagen breakdown. This represents a promising approach to the treatment of infectious diseases. Metalloproteinases secreted by Candida is one factor of pathogenicity of this fungi genus and represents a promising approach to the treatment of Candidiasis. However, research in this field needs advancement and improvement in terms of rigor and quality of the studies involved with this theme.