Characterization of Kazachstania slooffiae, a Proposed Commensal in the Porcine Gut

Abstract

Kazachstania slooffiae is a fungus commonly isolated from the gastrointestinal tract and feces of post-weaning pigs. Studies have implicated its ability to positively alter piglet gut health through potential symbioses with beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus and Prevotella, in providing amino acids as an energy source for microbial and piglet growth, and it has been found to be positively correlated with short-chain fatty acids in the piglet gut. However, basic mycological information remains limited, hampering in vitro studies. In this study, we characterized the growth parameters, biofilm formation ability, susceptibility to antimicrobials, and genetic relatedness of K. slooffiae to other fungal isolates. Optimal fungal growth conditions were determined, no antifungal resistance was found against multiple classes of antifungal drugs (azoles, echinocandins, polyenes, or pyrimidine analogues), and dimorphic growth was observed. K. slooffiae produced biofilms that became more complex in the presence of Lactobacillus acidophilus supernatant, suggesting positive interactions with this bacterium in the gut, while Enterococcus faecalis supernatant decreased density, suggesting an antagonistic interaction. This study characterizes the in vitro growth conditions that are optimal for further studies of K. slooffiae, which is an important step in defining the role and interactions of K. slooffiae in the porcine gut environment.