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Preprint . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Preprint . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Preprint . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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Candida albicans as a Biochemical Computer: Cross-Kingdom Signaling, Parasexual Reproduction, and Genetic Foundations of a Unique Fungal Symbiont

Authors: Craddock, Jim;

Candida albicans as a Biochemical Computer: Cross-Kingdom Signaling, Parasexual Reproduction, and Genetic Foundations of a Unique Fungal Symbiont

Abstract

This work presents a systems-level synthesis of existing literature to frame Candida albicans as a functional biochemical computer operating through cross-kingdom signaling within the human host biome. Drawing on established scientific findings in fungal signaling, parasexual reproduction, lipid-mediated communication, and host–pathogen interaction, the paper integrates these components into a unified model of adaptive, non-neural information processing. Rather than introducing new experimental data, this study reorganizes known mechanisms into a coherent framework that explains how C. albicans can sense, respond to, and modulate its environment across multiple biological scales at a scale not yet established in any other organism. Particular emphasis is placed on its capacity for phenotypic switching, quorum sensing, metabolic flexibility, and interaction with host signaling systems, including lipid-derived pathways relevant to systemic regulation. The resulting model positions C. albicans not merely as an opportunistic pathogen, but as a persistent, adaptive symbiont with the capacity to participate in host-level regulatory processes. This framework is intended to generate testable hypotheses and provide a foundation for future experimental investigation into fungal-host co-regulation, signaling interference, and the broader implications of non-neural biological computation. This work aims to bridge fragmented domains of fungal biology and host signaling into a unified conceptual model, inviting empirical validation and further refinement.

Related Organizations
Keywords

Keratinocytes, parasexual cycle, Antifungal Agents, cross-kingdom signaling, Glucose Transport Proteins, Facilitative, ophan genes, Receptors, Purinergic/analysis, Host Adaptation, Cell Degranulation, Basement Membrane, Epigenesis, Genetic, Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled, candidalysin, Extracellular Vesicles, Candida albicans, Receptors, Cholinergic, bet-hedging, Symbiosis, Volatile Organic Compounds, Arachidonic Acid, Tryptophan/metabolism, CUG Codon Reassignment, Fatty Acids, Membrane Transport Proteins, ece1 peptides, Dermis, DNA Methylation, Fibroblasts, Dinoprostone/analogs & derivatives, Connective Tissue, Mitochondria/genetics, biochemical computer, Mast Cells/immunology, Extracellular Space, Spatial Multiplexing

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
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