Anticandidal Effect Research Articles

In Vitro Inhibitory Effects and Co-Aggregation Activity of Lactobacilli on Candida albicans

Lactobacilli are considered important probiotics for the prevention of some infections. In this study, the antifungal effect of both cells and cell-free supernatants of twenty-three strains of lactobacilli were investigated against Candida albicans by co-aggregation, agar diffusion assay, agar spot assay and co-culture assay. In all cases, a fungistatic effect was recorded. In the agar diffusion assay and agar spot assay, an effect was established primarily for heterofermentative species via the production of lactic acid. The anti-Candida effect was higher with microbial suspension than with cultural supernatants in the co-culture assay. A strain-specific reduction in the yeast growth up to 28.9% in MRS broth and up to 17.1% in BHI broth was observed. Cells of Limosilactobacillus fermentum LLF-01 and Limosilactobacillus reuteri LLR-K67 showed the highest activity in both model systems. For all strains, a lower reduction up to 9.7% was recorded with cultural supernatants. L. fermentum LLF-01 showed the highest ability of co-aggregation (64.8%) with C. albicans, followed by Lactobacillus acidophilus LLA-01, Lactobacillus gasseri LLG-V74, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus LLB-02 and two strains of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. lactis LLL-14 and LLL-F18. The present study showed the potential of several strains of lactobacilli to affect the population of C. albicans in vitro. The combination of cultures with proved anti-Candida and co-aggregation activity in a probiotic formula may have a positive effect for the prevention of yeast overgrowth in the gut and hence for the suppression of candidiasis.

Anticandidal activity of Croton heliotropiifolius Kunth essential oil is enhanced by N-acetylcysteine and itraconazole.

Aim: Evaluate the anticandidal effect of Croton heliotropiifolius Kunth essential oil and its interaction with azoles and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) against planktonic cells and biofilms.Materials & methods: Broth microdilution and checkerboard methods were used to evaluate the individual and combined activity with fluconazole and itraconazole (ITRA). The antibiofilm effect of the oil was assessed in 96-well plates alone and combined with ITRA and NAC, and cytotoxicity determined by MTT.Results: The oil inhibited all Candida species growth. The activity was enhanced when associated with ITRA and NAC for planktonic cells and biofilms in formation. The effective concentrations were lower than the toxic ones to V79 cells.Conclusion: C. heliotropiifolius Kunth essential oil is an anticandidal alternative, and can be associated with ITRA and NAC.

Anticandidal effect of cinnamic acid characterized from Cinnamomum cassia bark against the fluconazole resistant strains of Candida.

Candida spp., causes invasive fungal infections, especially in immune-compromised patients and the propensity of antifungal resistance against azole-based drugs need to be addressed. This study is thus aimed to characterize the anticandidal effect of the cinnamic acid extracted from the barks of Cinnamomum cassia. Five species of Fluconazole-resistant Candida sp. were retrieved from the department repertoire. The extraction of CA was performed by three different methods followed by silica gel column chromatography. Eluant was subjected to FTIR and XRD analysis for confirmation. The anticandidal activity of the CA was checked by the agar disc diffusion method and the MIC and MFC were determined. The anti-biofilm effect of CA was assessed using the CLSM technique followed by the biocompatibility check using MTT assay in normal HGF cell lines. CA was best extracted with the hot maceration method using ethanol with a maximum yield of 6.73mg. Purification by column chromatography was achieved using benzene, acetic acid, and water (6:7:3) mobile phase. CA was confirmed by FTIR with absorption peaks and by XDR based on strong intensity. CA was found to possess promising anticandidal activity at 8µg/mL with MIC and MFC values determined as 0.8µg/mL and 0.08µg/mL respectively. Antibiofilm activity by CLSM analysis revealed biofilm inhibition and was biocompatible at 8.5µg/ml concentrations in HGF cell lines until 24h. The study findings conclude that CA is the best alternative to treat candidal infection warranting further experimental preclinical studies.

Anticandidal Activity of Various Probiotic Lactobacillus Strains and Their Efficacy Enhanced by Prebiotic Supplementation.

Probiotics and prebiotics have been considered as alternative approaches for promoting health. This study aimed to investigate the anticandidal potential of various probiotic Lactobacillus strains and their cell-free supernatants (CFSs). The study assessed the impact of inulin and some fruitsas prebiotics on the growth of selected probiotic strains in relation to their anticandidal activity, production of short-chain fatty acids,total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity. Results revealed variations in anticandidal activity based on the specific strains and forms of probiotics used. Non-adjusted CFSs were the most effective against Candida strains, followed by probiotic cells and adjusted CFSs (pH 7). Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus SD4, L. rhamnosus SD11 and L. rhamnosus GG displayed the strongest anticandidal activity. Non-adjusted CFSs from L. rhamnosus SD11, L. rhamnosus SD4 and L. paracasei SD1 exhibited notable anticandidal effects. The adjusted CFSs of L. rhamnosus SD11 showed the highest anticandidal activity against all non-albicans Candida (NAC) strains, whereas the others were ineffective. Supplementation of L. rhamnosus SD11 with prebiotics, particularly 2% (w/v) mangosteen, exhibited positive results in promoting probiotic growth, short-chain fatty acids production, total phenolic contents, and antioxidant activity, and the subsequent enhancing anticandidal activity against both C. albicans and NAC strains compared to conditions without prebiotics. In conclusion, both live cells and CFSs of tested strains, particularly L. rhamnosus SD11, exhibited the best anticandidal activity. Prebiotics supplementation, especially mangosteen, enhanced probiotic growth and beneficial metabolites against Candida growth. These finding suggested that probiotics and prebiotic supplementation may be an effective alternative treatment for Candida infections.

Anticandidal effect of multiple sessions of erythrosine and potassium iodide-mediated photodynamic therapy

ABSTRACT Background Erythrosine+potassium iodide-mediated photodynamic therapy has shown an anticandidal effect. Single session, however, has inadequate fungal inhibition. Objectives We aimed to examine the effects of multiple aPDT sessions on Candida albicans inhibition and singlet oxygen formation. Methods 220 μM erythrosine +/-100 mM potassium iodide was applied to C. albicans biofilms for 1 min prior to irradiation at 530±10 nm using a 250 mW/cm2 light-emitting diode. Negative and positive controls were phosphate buffer saline and nystatin, respectively. Single, double and triple irradiation sessions with a 5 min resting time between sessions were performed. Post-treatment candidal counts were done at 0, 1 6 and 24 hr while log10 colony forming unit/ml was calculated and compared using a Kruskal-Wallis with Dunn’s post hoc test at a p<0.05 - Singlet oxygen amount was compared using one-way ANOVA with a post hoc test at a p< 0.05. Results Two and three irradiation sessions to erythrosine+potassium iodide could inhibit Candida albicans at 7.92 log10CFU/ml (p < 0.001) . Singlet oxygen from a combination groups was significantly higher than for erythrosine (positive control). Moreover, the correlation coefficient (r) between singlet oxygen production and decreased Candida albicans counts was equal to 1. Conclusion Multiple sessions PDT of 220 μM erythrosine+100 mM potassium iodide effectively inhibited a Candida biofilm.

Globospiramine Exhibits Inhibitory and Fungicidal Effects against Candida albicans via Apoptotic Mechanisms.

Candidiasis is considered an emerging public health concern because of the occurrence of drug-resistant Candida strains and the lack of an available structurally diverse antifungal drug armamentarium. The indole alkaloid globospiramine from the anticandidal Philippine medicinal plant Voacanga globosa exhibits a variety of biological activities; however, its antifungal properties remain to be explored. In this study, we report the in vitro anticandidal activities of globospiramine against two clinically relevant Candida species (C. albicans and C. tropicalis) and the exploration of its possible target proteins using in silico methods. Thus, the colony-forming unit (CFU) viability assay revealed time- and concentration-dependent anticandidal effects of the alkaloid along with a decrease in the number of viable CFUs by almost 50% at 60 min after treatment. The results of the MIC and MFC assays indicated inhibitory and fungicidal effects of globospiramine against C. albicans (MIC = 8 µg/mL; MFC = 8 µg/mL) and potential fungistatic effects against C. tropicalis at lower concentrations (MIC = 4 µg/mL; MFC > 64 µg/mL). The FAM-FLICA poly-caspase assay showed metacaspase activation in C. albicans cells at concentrations of 16 and 8 µg/mL, which agreed well with the MIC and MFC values. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation experiments suggested globospiramine to bind strongly with 1,3-β-glucan synthase and Als3 adhesin-enzymes indirectly involved in apoptosis-driven candidal inhibition.

Synergistic Inhibition of Synbiotic Cultures among Lactobacilli and Plant Extracts against Vaginal Discharge Causing Candida albicans.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is the most common cause of vaginal discharge among women. The present study aimed to investigate the synergistic anticandidal effect of lactobacillus cultures supplemented with plant extracts. Among 600 isolates of lactic acid bacteria, 41 isolates exhibited inhibitory activity against Candida albicans ATCC10231. Six out of 41 cell-free supernatants demonstrated the most potent antibacterial and anticandidal activities. They also inhibited the clinical isolates of C. albicans, causing VVC and non-C. albicans. The synergistic effect between Lactobacillus crispatus 84/7 and Limosilactobacillus reuteri 89/4 was demonstrated by the lowest fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI = 0.5). The synbiotic culture of bacterial combination, cultured with Jerusalem artichoke (H. tuberosus) extract, also exhibited the strongest inhibition against the tested C. albicans. Biofilm formation decreased after 12 h of incubation in the selected cell-free supernatants of this synbiotic culture. The anticandidal activity of crude extracts was lost after treatment with proteinase K and trypsin but not with heating conditions, suggesting that it may be a heat-stable substance. In conclusion, the combination of L. crispatus 84/7 and L. reuteri 89/4 with H. tuberosus may be a promising candidate for inhibiting Candida infection and biofilm formation, with the potential use as ingredients in vaginal biotherapeutic products.

Comparing the Anti-candidal Effect of Egg White (Machine and Local) with Amphotericin B in Vitro

Introduction: The increase in the resistance of fungal species and the high side effects of antifungal drugs have led researchers to study and find new treatment methods against fungi. This study evaluated the anti-candidacy effects of local and artificial egg whites and compared them with amphotericin B. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted experimentally in May 2023 in the Microbiology Laboratory of Khalkhal Faculty of Medical Sciences. This research tested the antifungal effects of local and machine chicken egg whites and amphotericin B using the micro broth dilution and zone of inhibition method. In this experiment, Candida albicans species were placed in the vicinity of different concentrations of substances, and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicide concentration (MFC) of these substances on C. albicans were determined according to the guidelines of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. This study has been registered with the ethical code IR. IR.KHALUMS.REC.1401.019 in the Ethics Committee of Khalkhal Faculty of Medical Sciences. Results: Based on the results of the tests, the MIC of local and machine chicken egg whites on C. albicans was 25%, and their MFC was 50%. However, in these concentrations, no growth was observed in the presence of amphotericin B. Moreover, the MIC and MFC values of 25 µl of amphotericin B with 75 µl of local and machine egg whites were 3.125% and 6.25%, respectively. The zone of inhibition for C. albicans in the vicinity of local and machine chicken egg white and amphotericin B was 12, 11, and 16 mm, respectively. Conclusion: Local and machine chicken egg whites have antifungal properties against C. albicans.

Anti-Candida activity and biocompatibility of silver nanoparticles associated with denture glaze: a new approach to the management of denture stomatitis.

The association of silver nanoparticles (AgNps) to sealant agent Palaseal® can be a promising alternative for complete denture wearers who may develop denture stomatitis (DS). The study aimed to evaluate the anti-Candida and biocompatible potential of silver nanoparticles synthesized by three routes associated with denture glaze to prevent and/or treat oral candidiasis. Surface acrylic resin specimens were treated with different associations of glaze with AgNps (VER+AgUV, VER+AgTurk and VER+AgGm). As controls, specimens were treated with glaze+nystatin (VER+Nyst), glaze only (VER) or submerged in PBS (PBS). Afterwards, Candida albicans biofilm was developed for 24h, 15 d and 30 d. Subsequently, the biofilm was quantified by CFU/mL, XTT assay and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Fibroblasts were submitted to conditioned medium with the same associations for 24, 48 and 72h and LIVE/DEAD® viability test was carried out. Regardless of the period, there was a significant reduction (p < 0.01) of viable fungal cells load, as well as inhibition of fungal metabolic activity, in specimens treated with glaze+AgNps associations, compared to VER and PBS. The anti-Candida effects of the associations were similar to the VER+Nyst group, with emphasis on VER+AgGm, which showed the highest percentage values of non-viable fungal cells maintained over time. The associations did not prove toxicity to fibroblasts. The AgNps exerted antimicrobial activity against C. albicans biofilms and are biocompatible. The most effective results were achieved with the association of glaze+silver nanoparticles synthesized by the green chemistry method (AgGm), proving to be an innovative alternative in the management of DS.

Erythrosine+KI with Multiple Sessions Green LED-mediated Photodynamic Therapy Potentiate Anticandidiasis Effect

SignificanceThe concurrent use of double photosensitizers with multiple irradiation sessions is emerging as a promising modality for photodynamic therapy. ApproachCandida albicans (ATCC10231) biofilm was treated with either erythrosine 220 μM, 100 mM KI, or 220 μM erythrosine+100 mM KI. Control groups were phosphate buffer saline, 1:100,000 U/ml nystatin solution, and Light-only respectively. After 60-secs incubation, experimental groups were irradiated with LED (520-540 nm, 250 mW/cm2, 20 J/cm2/session) for 1 or 3 sessions. The logarithmic transformation of biofilm count was calculated and a comparison at 1, 24 hrs was performed using median±interquartile range. The statistically significant difference was determined using Kruskal Wallis test with post hoc test at p<0.05 Results220 μM Erythrosine+100 mM KI with 60 J/cm2 (20 J/cm2x3 sessions) exerted the most anticandidal effect that comparable to nystatin effect. ConclusionsErythrosine 200 μM+KI 100 mM+3 sessions green LED (total energy 60 J/cm2) effectively reduced C. albicans biofilm.

Gallic Acid Derived 1, 2-Diarylindole as a Potential Antifungal Agent against Candida Strain.

In recent decades, Candida albicans has become a serious issue for public health. The worldwide rapid rise in drug resistance to conventional therapies is the main contributing reason. Moreover, because of their potent activity at low concentrations and apparent lack of toxicity, compounds originating from plants are used in therapeutic treatments because of their potent activity at low concentrations and apparent lack of toxicity. Particularly in immunocompromised people, Candida species can result in a wide range of ailments. Present manuscript describes antifungal activity of an indole derivative 1-(4-((5- methoxy-2-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-1H-indol-1-yl) methyl) phenoxy)-N,N-dimethylethan-1- amine (7, 100DL-6) by using an in-silico and in-vitro anti-candidal activity against two Candida strains; Candida kefyr-DS-02 (ATCC-204093) and Candida albicans (AI-clinical isolate, AIIMS- Delhi). The synthetic strategy for the preparation of indole derivatives was modified through Fischer indole reaction. Antifungal activity of an indole derivative 1-(4-((5-methoxy-2-(3,4,5- trimethoxyphenyl)-1H-indol-1-yl) methyl) phenoxy)-N,N-dimethylethan-1-amine (7, 100DL-6) was done by using an in-silico and in-vitro anti-candidal activity against two Candida strains; Candida kefyr-DS-02 (ATCC-204093) and Candida albicans (AI-clinical isolate, AIIMS-Delhi). Compound 100DL-6 efficacy was determined by Combination synergy study, ergosterol binding assay, MTT toxicity study and Mutagenicity. Compound 100DL-6 was obtained in 65% yield on desired motifs. Docking scores found were 100DL-6 (-8.7 kcal/mol) and Fluconazole (-7.6 kcal/mol). Further, RMSD were shown for 100DL6 (0.26 ± 0.23 nm) and fluconazole (1.2 ± 0.62 nm). Indole derivative 100DL-6 was active against the tested fungal pathogens and the total zone of inhibition was measured between 13-14 mm in diameter and MIC values between 31.25 μg/mL to 250 μg/mL and MFC values between 62.5 μg/mL to 500 μg/mL. In checkerboard assay synergistic mode of interaction of 100DL-6 with known antifungal drugs was observed. In the presence of ergosterol 100DL-6 and standard drug (s) increased their MIC values, demonstrating a considerable affinity for ergosterol. Compound 100DL-6 was considered to be less-cytotoxic to the cells as determined by MTT assay. Lead compound 100DL-6 was found to be non-mutagenic. In the present study, 100DL6 (indole derivatives) significantly abrupted the ergosterol biosynthetic pathway and showed moderate anti-candidal effects. These studies suggest that 100DL6 significantly enhances antifungal effect of clinical drug fluconazole synergistically and may be considered as in clinical trial prior to some extensive in-vivo validations.

Anticandedal Effect action of Different Concentrations of Aglycon fraction of Anthroquinon (monoanathron) isolated from Aloe vera on Heat cure Acrylic Resins

Aim of study: to investigate the effects of different concentrations of aloe vera , aglycon part (monoanathron ) against candida albicance adhere to two types of heat cure acrylic resin denture base (conventional and Hi- impact) on two periods of time (30 minutes and 8 hours).&#x0D; Materials &amp; methods: A total of 120 specimens were prepared, sixty specimens of each hot cure denture base acrylic resin material, each sixty specimens were farther divided into two subgroups of 30 specimens according to the time of immersion, each 30 specimens were farther subdivided into three 10 specimen groups according to the concentration of aleo vera used, isolation of free aglycon (Monoianthron) from anthroquinon glycoside of aloe vera plant; Candida albicans isolation and identification and preparation of candida albicans suspension; autoclaved specimens of each sub-group for both heat cure acrylic resins were placed into the tubes containing brain heart infusion plus inoculum and remained for 12 hours at 37 0C in order to favor an initial colonization of the acrylic resin surfaces, the disinfection step was performed over two periods, colony formation was then counted after incubation.&#x0D; Results: The two concentration of aloe Vera studied in the present investigation exhibited varying degree of inhibitory effect against candida albicans adherent to different type of heat cure denture base acrylic resins. The degree of inhibition varied depending on the concentration of the extract while the period of immersion has no significant effect on the number colony.&#x0D; Conclusion: with the limitation of this study it can be concluded that 100% and 75% concentrations of monoanthron aglycon part of anthroquinon isolated from aloe vera have anticandidal effect, 100%concentration has higher effect than75%. Immertion period has no effect on the anticandidal activity of the solutions.

Anticandidal Effect of New Imidazole Derivatives Over Aspartic Protease Inhibition.

Candidiasis is one of the most serious microbial infections in the world. One of the main virulence factors for Candida albicans is the crucial secretion of aspartic proteases (Saps). Saps are hydrolytic enzymes that play a major role in many fungal pathophysiological processes as well as in many levels of the associations between the fungus and its host. In this work, we report on the synthesis, characterization, and anti-candida agent evaluation of a family of 13 imidazolidine-based aspartate protease inhibitors. In vitro and in silico enzyme inhibition studies have confirmed these compounds' ability to inhibit fungal aspartate protease. Based on the molecular mechanistic value scores from molecular docking and MD simulations, we selected the top compounds 5b (binding energy -13.90 kcal/mol) and 5m (binding energy -12.94 kcal/mol) from among 5a-l based on the molecular mechanistic value scores from molecular docking and MD simulations for use in in vitro validations. In the results, imidazolidine derivatives showed strong aspartic protease inhibition activity. In conclusion, compounds 5b and 5m were found as potent anti-candida agents and screened for further pre-clinical and clinical validations.

Chemical composition, antifungal, and anti-virulence action of the stem bark of Hancornia speciosa Gomes (Apocynaceae) against Candida spp.

Ethnopharmacological relevanceHancornia speciosa Gomes is a fruit and medicinal species used for treating infectious diseases of the genitourinary system. However, its mechanism of action against microbes is still not fully understood. Infections in the genitourinary system caused by Candida spp. are associated with its fungal resistance and pathogenicity. New plant-derived compounds are an alternative to fight these Candida infections. Aim of the studyThe objective of this study was to evaluate the anti-Candida effects of extracts of the stem bark of H. speciosa. This research investigated the chemical composition of sulfuric ether (EEHS) and methanolic (MEHS) extracts, their drug-modifying action on fluconazole, and their anti-virulence action on the morphological transition of Candida species. Materials and methodsThe extracts (EEHS and MEHS) of the stem bark of H. speciosa were chemically characterized via qualitative phytochemical screening and by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS-ESI-QTOF). The extracts were evaluated regarding their antifungal effects and fluconazole-modifying activity against Candida albicans, Candida krusei, and Candida tropicalis using the broth microdilution method. Additionally, the study evaluated the inhibition of fungal virulence in Candida species through morphological transition assays. ResultsThe phytochemical screening revealed the presence of anthocyanidins, anthocyanins, aurones, catechins, chalcones, flavones, flavonols, flavanones, leucoanthocyanidins, tannins (condensed and pyrogallic), and xanthones in both extracts of the stem bark of H. speciosa. The UPLC-MS-ESI-QTOF analysis identified the same compounds in both extracts, predominating phenolic compounds. Some compounds were first time recorded in this species: gluconic acid, cinchonain IIb, cinchonain Ib isomer, and lariciresinol hexoside isomers. Most of the intrinsic antifungal activity was observed for the MEHS against C. krusei (IC50: 58.41 μg/mL). At subinhibitory concentrations (MC/8), the EEHS enhanced the action of fluconazole against all Candida strains. The MEHS exhibited greater efficacy than fluconazole inhibiting C. krusei growth. The EEHS completely inhibited hyphae appearance and reduced pseudohyphae formation in C. albicans. ConclusionThe stem bark of H. speciosa is a rich source of bioactive compounds, especially phenolic. Phenolic compounds can have important roles in fighting infectious diseases of the genitourinary system, such as candidiasis. The extracts of H. speciosa improved the action of the drug fluconazole against Candida species, inhibited hyphae appearance, and reduced pseudohyphae formation. The results of this study can support the development of new therapeutics against resistant strains of Candida.

Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh Leaf Essential Oil from Palestine Exhibits Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity but No Effect on Porcine Pancreatic Lipase and α-Amylase.

Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh is a tree species that is commonly used for various purposes, including forestry, agroforestry, and conservation. The present investigation was designed to determine the composition of E. camaldulensis leaves essential oil and estimate its free radicals, porcine pancreatic lipase, α-amylase inhibitory, and antimicrobial properties in vitro. The chemical constituents were analyzed using the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technique. DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), p-nitrophenyl butyrate, and 3,5-dinitro salicylic acid (DNSA) methods were employed to estimate the antioxidant, antiobesity, and antidiabetic effects of the essential oil. The microdilution assay was employed to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of the substance against a total of seven distinct microbial species. The GC-MS results revealed that E. camaldulensis essential oil contains 52 components that makeup 100% of the entire oil. The main chemical constituents in E. camaldulensis essential oil are p-cymene (38.64%), followed by aromadendrene (29.65%), and 1,8-cineol (6.45%), with monocyclic monoterpene being the most abundant phytochemical group, followed by the sesquiterpene hydrocarbon group, representing 44.27 and 31.46%, respectively. The essential oil showed a weak antioxidant effect and had no antilipase or antiamylase effects. At the same time, the oil showed a strong antimicrobial effect against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus aureus, and Proteus vulgaris, which was even more potent than the positive controls, ciprofloxacin and ampicillin, which had MIC doses of 0.2 ± 0.01, 0.2 ± 0.01, and 6.25 ± 0.1 µg/mL, respectively. It also has a strong anti-Candida albicans effect with a MIC of 0.2 ± 0.01 µg/mL. In light of these findings, in vivo studies should be conducted to determine the efficiency of the E. camaldulensis essential oil in treating microbial infections.

Activity of propolis from Mexico on the proliferation and virulence factors of Candida albicans

BackgroundThis research evaluated the anti-Candida albicans effect of Mexican propolis from Chihuahua.Chemical composition of the ethanolic extract of propolis was determined by GC-MS, HPLC-DAD, and HPLC-MS. The presence of anthraquinone, aromatic acid, fatty acids, flavonoids, and carbohydrates was revealed.ResultsThe anti-Candida activity of propolis was determined. The inhibitions halos were between 10.0 to 11.8 mm; 25% minimum inhibitory concentration (0.5 mg/ml) was fungistatic, and 50% minimum inhibitory concentration (1.0 mg/ml) was fungicidal.The effect of propolis on the capability of C. albicans to change its morphology was evaluated. 25% minimum inhibitory concentration inhibited to 50% of germ tube formation.Staining with calcofluor-white and propidium iodide was performed, showing that the propolis affected the integrity of the cell membrane.INT1 gene expression was evaluated by qRT-PCR. Propolis significantly inhibited the expression of the INT1 gene encodes an adhesin (Int1p).Chihuahua propolis extract inhibited the proliferation of Candida albicans, the development of the germ tube, and the synthesis of adhesin INT1.ConclusionsGiven the properties demonstrated for Chihuahua propolis, we propose that it is a candidate to be considered as an ideal antifungal agent to help treat this infection since it would not have the toxic effects of conventional antifungals.

Unveiling the phytochemical profile, in vitro bioactivities evaluation, in silico molecular docking and ADMET study of essential oil from Clinopodium nepeta grown in Middle Atlas of Morocco

Clinopodium nepeta is an aromatic species appertaining to the Lamiaceae family, and has been mentioned for its numerous traditional uses and pharmacological properties, especially its antiradical and antimicrobial effects. The phytochemical profile of the aerial part essential oil via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technique identified 76.79 % of oxygenated monoterpenes, followed by monoterpene hydrocarbons (18.65 %), and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (2.76 %). The main constituents were 1,8-cineole (22.80%), piperitenone oxide (14.78%), and limonene (10.73%). The tested oil revealed a good inhibitory activity on α-amylase and α-glucosidase with IC50 values of 3.66 ± 0.07 mg/mL and 3.009 ± 0.02 mg/mL, respectively. In addition, antibacterial data revealed that Clinopodium nepeta essential oil (CNEO) was active against a panel of pathogenic microorganisms, mainly Bacillus subtilis (17.53 ± 0.81 mm) and Bacillus cereus (16.19 ± 0.30 mm). Besides, CNEO showed interesting anticandidal effect against Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. Moreover, the studied EO hold a great scavenging actvity against ABTS radical (IC50 = 571.2 ± 6.89 μg/mL) and remarkable protective effect on lipid peroxidation (IC50 = 714.61 ± 7.96 μg/mL). Besides, a strong total antioxidant ability (TAA = 283.16 ± 0.02 mg AAE/g E) at minimal dilution (1/10) was observed. Interestingly, docking and ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion)-associated physicochemical and pharmacokinetic effects were evaluated to promote the in vitro outcomes. This investigation revealed the prevailing properties of CNEO, especially antioxidant, antibacterial, anticandidal, and antidiabetic potentials, and allow the development of natural and effective agents with high safety for public health.

Antioxidant and anticandidal effects of Pedicularis comosa L. var. acmodonta Boiss.

Abstract&#x0D; The aim of this study is to measure the antioxidant and anticandidal efficiency of Pedicularis comosa var. acmodonta (Orobanchaceae). Using a spectrophotometric test on extracts from P.comosa var. acmodonta grown in Turkey, the antioxidant efficiency of the plant extracts was estimated by measuring the violet coloration in a methanol solution containing 1,1-diphenylpyryl hydrazil (DPPH·). In addition, the results of the anticandidal effect tests using the CLSI M27-A2 method are also included in this study. The 70% ethanol extract of P. comosa showed the highest antioxidant activity (0.143 mg/mL). According to the anticandidal activity test findings on five Candida species, it was determined that 70% ethanol extract of P. comosa inhibited C. utilis at a dose of 31.25 µg/mL (MIC).

Antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of the endemic Mentha longifolia subsp. cyprica growing in Cyprus

Mentha longifolia subsp. cyprica (Heinr. Braun) Harley, endemic to Cyprus, is traditionally used to treat tonsillitis and as an inhalant for headaches. In this study, the essential oil components, antioxidant activity, total phenolic content of extracts, and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil and the extracts from the aerial parts of M. longifolia subsp. cyprica are reported for the first time. The essential oil profile was determined by GC and GC/MS, and 28 compounds were identified. The main components were pulegone (71.5 %), 1,8-cineole (9.5 %), menthone (5.0 %), and limonene (3.4 %). The methanol extract revealed the highest antioxidant activity (0.109 mg/ml) and phenolic content (60.9 ± 0.034 mg gallic acid/g extract) compared to the ethyl acetate (0.368 mg/ml, 24.3 ± 0.032 mg GAE/g extract) and n-hexane (1.737 mg/ml, 10.1 ± 0.023 mg GAE/g extract) extracts. The antimicrobial activity of the essential oil and extracts was screened for their antibacterial and anticandidal effects against selected microorganisms. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most sensitive bacterial strain to the tested samples (MIC, 500–1000 µg/ml). In contrast, better inhibition effects were shown against Candida species, with a MIC of 62.5 µg/ml against C. utilis. The results of this study may partially support the traditional use of M. longifolia subsp. cyprica and provide insight into an alternative species.

Anticandidal effects and chemical compositions of volatile oils extracted from Origanum syriacum, Clinopodium serpyllifolium subsp. fruticosum and Thymbra capitata from Palestine

BackgroundOver the past decade, researchers have been exploring the potential therapeutic benefits of volatile oils (VOs) in addressing various disorders, particularly those associated with an increase in fungal infections. This study aimed to analyze the chemical compositions of three different thyme species growing in Palestine using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) and explore their antifungal characteristics. The thyme species investigated in this research encompass Origanum syriacum L., Clinopodium serpyllifolium subsp. fruticosum (L.) Bräuchler, and Thymbra capitata (L.) Cav.MethodsThe VOs of the investigated plants were extracted by hydrodistillation technique equipped with Cleavenger apparatus and characterized by utilizing GC–MS equipment. Moreover, the extracted VOs were evaluated for their antifungal activity using the broth microdilution assay against several clinically isolated Candida species and one ATCC strain.ResultsThe GC–MS characterization results of O. syriacum VO revealed the presence of 22 components and the abundant molecules were thymol (37.36%), carvacrol (27.71%), γ-terpinene (17.47%), and p-cymene (7.80%), while 19 compounds were characterized in the C. serpyllifolium VO and the major components were p-cymene (37.58%), carvacrol (22.93%), and γ-terpinene (21.91%). In addition, 23 compounds were identified in T. capitata VO and the main components were carvone (59.45%), pulegone (21.59%), menthone (4.24%), and isomenthone (3.71%). According to the antifungal assay results, VO extracted from O. syriacum has the highest activity among all the screened VOs.ConclusionAll the VOs screened in this study exhibit promising antifungal activities for various potential medical applications. Consequently, we strongly advocate for further biological investigations of these oils in the near future.Graphical