Biochemical and physiological aspects in the dimorphism of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis.

Abstract

Paracoccidioides brasiliensis is a dimorphic fungus pathogenic for humans. It shows a yeast like phase at 37 degrees C and a mycelial phase at 23 degrees C. Biochemical aspects of its dimorphism are related to the presence of hormone receptors, regulation of cAMP, or modulation of glucan synthetase activity through cytoplasmic proteinases. These aspects are reviewed herein.