Abstract
The pathogenic process of Candida albicans, the primary causative species of candidiasis, involves hyphal growth, biofilm formation, and secretion of virulence factors. Of these factors, the biofilm, created by the secretion of extracellular matrix from adherent cells, shields cells from external threats, enabling them to withstand high concentrations of antifungal agents. Therefore, suppressing biofilm formation is a crucial aspect of combating candidiasis. This study developed phthalic pullulan nanoparticles (PPNPs) as a novel material for inhibiting C. albicans' pathogenicity. PPNPs were internalized within Candida cells and reduced pathogenicity at the gene expression level, resulting in reduced in vitro biofilm formation, adhesion to human cells, and mortality of infected Caenorhabditis elegans. Moreover, PPNPs exhibited these effects without toxicity to human cells and host animals. These findings not only indicate that PPNPs can be employed to hinder in vitro biofilm formation but also suggest their potential as a novel treatment for candidiasis.
Published Version
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