Induction of the synthesis of cell wall α 1,3 glucan in the yeastlike form of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis strain IVIC Pb9 by fetal calf serum

Abstract

In vitro subculturing of the yeastlike form of P. brasiliensis strain IVIC Pb9 leads to the disappearance of α 1,3 glucan as a main component of its cell wall. However, the addition of fetal calf serum to the growth medium induces the synthesis of this polysaccharide. It is suggested that the synthesis of α 1,3 glucan in the cell wall of the yeastlike form of P. brasiliensis is induced by external factors.