Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for assessment of adherence of Candida albicans to human buccal epithelial cells

We describe herewith attempts to use an enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) to assess adherence in vitro of Candida albicans to exfoliated human buccal epithelial cells. The technique is a modification based on a method described for bacterial adherence, adapted for Candida. The assay is based on immobilization of human buccal epithelial cells on microtiter plates and exposure of the cells to the fungus. The detection system consists of a direct or indirect ELISA, with specific peroxidase labelled anti-Candida antibodies, or specific anti-Candida antibodies and a peroxidase labelled conjugate, respectively. The adherence level was proportional to the color intensity as measured at OD 405. We used this test to evaluate the effect of a crude and a partially purified chitin extract, as inhibitors of C. albicans adherence. The proposed assay is comparatively easy to perform, particularly the direct test. It allows detection of specific adherence of C. albicans, simultaneous assessment of many samples, and testing of inhibitors.