Identification of candida species from oral cavity using phenotypic and polymearse chain reaction methods

To understand the prevalence and diversity of Candida infections and identify potential risk factors for candidiasis, the detection of Candida albicans utilizing phenotypic and molecular approaches in the oral cavity is crucial. One hundred oral cavity samples were taken from patents in Iraq with oral candidiasis who belonged to two different groups: diabetics and healthy (non-diabetic) individuals during March-June 2022 periods. Swab samples were taken from males and females in three different age groups (30-40, 40-50, and 50-70 years old) representing both patient groups. In this study, Candida isolates were identified using microscopic examination in addition to cultural characteristics on Chromogenic media and Vitek technique. The highest ratio of C. albicans isolation was observed from the diabetic 50-70 years-old male patients. The prevalence of Candida isolation may vary depending on the population being studied and the presence of risk factors. Fungal DNA was extracted, and the MP65 gene was amplified by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique using primers designated for this study. A putative 65 kDa b-glucanase mannoprotein, encoded by the MP65 gene, is critical for pathogenicity, morphogenesis, and the interaction between the fungus and the host. The results revealed the detection of 350 base pair bands of the MP65 gene in all C. albicans isolates. Overall, the study showed that it is crucial to use phenotypic and molecular techniques for accurate identification and diagnosis of the infection for the patients rather than unreliable and non-standardized detection techniques for Candida infections in many healthcare facilities in Iraq.