Antifungal Potential Research Articles

Inhibition of Virulence Associated Traits by β-Sitosterol Isolated from Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Flowers Against Candida albicans: Mechanistic Insight and Molecular Docking Studies.

The emerging drug resistance and lack of safer and more potent antifungal agents make Candida infections another hot topic in the healthcare system. At the same time, the potential of plant products in developing novel antifungal drugs is also in the limelight. Considering these facts, we have investigated the different extracts of the flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis of the Malvaceae family for their antifungal efficacy against five different pathogenic Candida strains. Among the various extracts, the chloroform extract showed the maximum zone of inhibition (26.6 ± 0.5mm) against the Candida albicans strain. Furthermore, the chloroform fraction was isolated, and a sterol compound was identified as β-sitosterol. Mechanistic studies were conducted to understand the mechanism of action, and the results showed that β-sitosterol has significant antifungal activity and is capable of interrupting biofilm formation and acts by inhibiting ergosterol biosynthesis in Candida albicans cells. Microscopic and molecular docking studies confirmed these findings. Overall, the study validates the antifungal efficacy of Candida albicans due to the presence of β-sitosterol which can act as an effective constituent for antifungal drug development individually or in combination.

Examination of the Antifungal Potential of Ozone Versus Aspergillus Parasiticus Isolated from Water

Examination of the Antifungal Potential of Ozone Versus Aspergillus Parasiticus Isolated from Water

Batzelladine D, a Marine Natural Product, Reverses the Fluconazole Resistance Phenotype Mediated by Transmembrane Transporters in Candida albicans and Interferes with Its Biofilm: An In Vitro and In Silico Study

Numerous Candida species are responsible for fungal infections; however, Candida albicans stands out among the others. Treatment with fluconazole is often ineffective due to the resistance phenotype mediated by transmembrane transporters and/or biofilm formation, mechanisms of resistance commonly found in C. albicans strains. A previous study by our group demonstrated that batzelladine D can inhibit the Pdr5p transporter in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In the present study, our aim was to investigate the efficacy of batzelladine D in inhibiting the main efflux pumps of Candida albicans, CaCdr1p and CaCdr2p, as well as to evaluate the effect of the compound on C. albicans biofilm. Assays were conducted using a clinical isolate of Candida albicans expressing both transporters. Additionally, to allow the study of each transporter, S. cerevisiae mutant strains overexpressing CaCdr1p or CaCdr2p were used. Batzelladine D was able to reverse the fluconazole resistance phenotype by acting on both transporters. The compound synergistically improved the effect of fluconazole against the clinical isolate when tested in the Caenorhabditis elegans animal model. Moreover, the compound disrupted the preformed biofilm. Based on the obtained data, the continuation of batzelladine D studies as a potential new antifungal agent and/or chemosensitizer in Candida albicans infections can be suggested.

Fungicidal Potentials of Leaf and Bark Extracts of Bryophyllum pinnatum on Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) Seed Fungi

In Nigeria, Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp) is an important grain legume which besides being a food crop serves as a major source of income for rural households. The action of pathogens on stored seeds causes huge post-harvest and economic losses to cowpea farmers in Nigeria. This research was aimed at isolating and identifying the spoilage pathogens of cowpea seed and testing the potentiality of ethanol extracts of Bryophyllum pinnatum on the isolates. Spoilt cowpea seed samples were purchased from different markets in Anambra State. They were transported to Alpha Research Laboratory, Awka in sterile polythene bags for microbial isolation. The spoilage organisms were isolated from the seeds through microbial culture. The media used for the isolation were Sabouraud Dextrose Agar and Potato Dextrose Agar. Pathogenic fungi were isolated from the spoilt cowpea seeds. The findings indicated that Aspergillus aculeatus, Fusarium solani, Penicillium citrinum, Rhizopus stolonifer, and Aspergillus flavus were present. The pathogenicity test also showed that the above organisms were responsible for cowpea spoilage. These isolates were tested for their in-vitro antifungal activity against the leaf and bark extracts of Bryophyllum Pinnatum. The antifungal activity ethanol extracts of Bryophyllum pinnatum on the isolated microorganisms were investigated using the disc method. Three different concentrations (25%, 50%, 100%) of extracts were used for the test. Fusarium solani showed the highest percentage of inhibition with antifungal medication while Penicillium citrinum showed the least percentage of inhibition with antifungal medication. The antifungal potential of Bryophyllum pinnatum extract on spoilage pathogens of stored cocoyam corms encourages more research on the active ingredient of the plant for easy use by farmers as alternative to commercial/ synthetic fungicides.

Insights into the antifungal activity and mechanisms of cinnamon components against Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium citrinum

Fungal spoilage of food and the excessive use of chemical disinfectants serves potential adverse effects on human health and the environment. Consequently, there is a growing interest in exploring natural alternatives, particularly plant-derived antimicrobial preservatives. Cinnamon extracts are known for their antifungal activity, but most research has focused on essential oils, rarely on other bioactive components. This study assessed the antifungal activity and underlying mechanisms of four components—trans-cinnamaldehyde, cis-2-methoxycinnamic acid, coumarin, and o-methoxycinnamaldehyde—extracted from Cinnamomum cassia Presl (cinnamon) against Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium citrinum. These cinnamon components can inhibit the two fungi strains at the minimum inhibitory concentration ranged from 0.30 to 8.55 mmol/L. These components can disrupt fungal cell membranes by enhancing relative electrical conductivity and cytoplasmic content leakage, reducing ergosterol content, and increasing malondialdehyde level. Additionally, they can affect fungal cell wall integrity, leading to the leakage of alkaline phosphatase and alterations in the contents of β-1,3-glucan and chitin. Moreover, the cinnamon components influenced the activities of malate dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase, as well as adenosine triphosphate levels. The observed suppression of fungal contamination in A. flavus and P. citrinum suggests that these cinnamon components as potential natural antifungal agents.

Antifungal potential of the spices and medicinal plant extracts on the fungal growth of Fusarium oxysporum

Antifungal potential of the spices and medicinal plant extracts on the fungal growth of Fusarium oxysporum

Green Synthesis, Characterization and Pharmaceutical Applications of Biocompatible Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Heliotropium rariflorum Stocks

Background: Zinc oxide nanoparticles are safe, non-toxic, and biocompatible. These NPs are used in food packaging materials, self-cleaning glass, ceramics, deodorants, sunscreens, paints, coatings, ointments, lotions, and as preservatives. This study explored the biological potential of ZnO nanoparticles synthesized using H. rariflorum. Methods: In vitro antibacterial and antifungal activities against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Candida albicans, Penicillium notatum, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus solani were determined. Antioxidant activity was explored using the DPPH radical scavenging method. In vivo analgesic, antipyretic and sedative potential of synthesized nanoparticles was investigated using a mouse model. Results: SEM with various magnification powers showed that some particles were spherical while some were aggregated, flake-shaped, and hexagonal with rough and irregular surfaces. The EDX analysis revealed Zn (12.63%), O (22.83%) and C (63.11%) with trace quantities of Si (0.40%), Ca (0.54%) and P (0.49%). The XRD pattern indicated an amorphous state, with no peaks observed throughout the spectrum. The UV–visible spectrophotometry revealed a characteristic absorption peak at 375 nm, indicating the presence of ZnO nanoparticles. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) displayed several small peaks between 1793 and 2370 cm−1, providing evidence of the presence of different kinds of organic compounds with different functional groups. ZnO-NPs showed dose-dependent antibacterial and antifungal potential against all strains. Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans were the most susceptible strains. The nanoparticles exhibited a maximum antioxidant effect of 85.28% at 100 μg/mL. In this study, the acute toxicity test showed no mortality, and normal behavior was observed in mice at ZnO-NP doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg. For analgesic and antipyretic activities, a two-way ANOVA revealed that dose, time, and the interaction between dose and time were significant. In contrast, the samples had a non-significant effect on sedative activity. Conclusions: This innovative study suggests a potential use of plant resources for managing microbes and treating various diseases, providing a scientific basis for the traditional use of H. rariflorum.

Rosmarinic Acid Exhibits Antifungal and Antibiofilm Activities Against Candida albicans: Insights into Gene Expression and Morphological Changes

Candida species, opportunistic pathogens that cause various infections, pose a significant threat due to their ability to form biofilms that resist antifungal treatments and immune responses. The increasing resistance of Candida spp. and the limited availability of effective treatments have prompted the research of natural compounds as alternative therapies. This study assessed the antifungal properties of RA against Candida species, focusing on its impact on C. albicans biofilms and the underlying mechanisms. The antifungal efficacy of RA was evaluated using the CLSI M27-A3 microdilution method on both fluconazole-susceptible and -resistant strains. Biofilm formation by C. albicans was assessed through a crystal violet assay, while its antibiofilm activity was analyzed using an MTT assay and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Gene expression related to biofilm formation was studied using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and statistical analysis was performed with an ANOVA. Among the 28 Candida strains tested, RA exhibited minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 160 to 1280 μg/mL. At a 640 μg/mL concentration, it significantly reduced the expression of genes associated with adhesion (ALS3, HWP1, and ECE1), hyphal development (UME6 and HGC1), and hyphal cAMP-dependent protein kinase regulators (CYR1, RAS1, and EFG1) in RAS1-cAMP-EFG1 pathway (p < 0.05). FESEM analysis revealed a reduction in hyphal networks and disruptions on the cell surface. Our study is the first to demonstrate the effects of RA on C. albicans adhesion, hyphae development, and biofilm formation through gene expression analysis with findings supported by FESEM. This approach distinguishes our study from previous studies on the effect of RA on Candida. However, the high MIC values of RA limit its antifungal potential. Therefore, more extensive research using innovative methods is required to increase the antifungal effect of RA.

Ultrasonic Production of Chitosan Nanoparticles and Their Application Against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides Present in the Ataulfo Mango

In Mexico, the Ataulfo mango crop faces significant challenges due to anthracnose, a disease caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. The need to use eco-friendly fungicides is crucial to avoid the use of harmful synthetic chemicals. This study aimed to prepare chitosan nanoparticles through a simple and effective ultrasound-assisted top-down method, with high antifungal efficiency. The nanoparticles were prepared from chitosan (DD = 85%, MW = 553 kDa) and Tween 20 under constant sonication. The formation of the nanoparticles was initially confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy; and their physicochemical properties were subsequently characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The antifungal potential of the chitosan nanoparticles against the phytopathogen Colletotrichum gloeosporioides was evaluated with isolated fungi obtained directly from mango tissues showing anthracnose symptoms in the state of Guerrero, Mexico. The fungus was identified through SEM imaging, showing a regular and smooth conidial layer, with cylindrical shape (r = 2 µm, h = 10 µm). In vitro tests were conducted with three different concentrations of chitosan nanoparticles to assess their inhibitory effects. After seven days of incubation, a maximum inhibition rate of 97% was observed with the 0.5% nanoparticle solution, corresponding to a fungal growth rate of 0.008 cm/h. At this time, the control mycelial growth was 7 cm, while the treated sample reached a radius of 0.55 mm. These results demonstrated the antifungal effect of the nanoparticles on the membrane and cell wall of the fungus, suggesting that their composition could induce a resistance response. The inhibitory effect was also influenced by the particle size (30 nm), as the small size facilitated penetration into fungal cells. Consequently, the parent compound could be formulated and applied as a natural antifungal agent in nanoparticle form to enhance its activity. The method described in this study offers a viable alternative for the preparation of chitosan nanoparticles, by avoiding the use of toxic reagents.

Exploring Trichoderma Diversity for Sustainable Disease Management in Lolium perenne Against Fusarium avenaceum

AbstractFusarium species represent a significant threat to pasture health, necessitating the development of sustainable solutions. This study explores the potential of regionally adapted Trichoderma isolates for controlling Fusarium avenaceum and promoting plant growth in the grasslands of the Iberian Peninsula. To this end, seven Trichoderma isolates (belonging to T. koningiopsis, T. koningii and T. gamsii) were obtained from soils of Extremadura and then evaluated as potential biocontrol agents against Fusarium avenaceum. For the purposes of this evaluation, water was used as a negative control, while a commercial Trichoderma product served as a positive control. An initial in vitro evaluation revealed that six Trichoderma isolates significantly inhibited F. avenaceum in a dual culture assay, reducing pathogen growth by 18 to 49%. Additionally, two of the isolates showed antifungal potential during the evaluation of their culture filtrates. Subsequently, two greenhouse assays were conducted to assess the effects of Trichoderma isolates and the pathogen on the development of Lolium perenne. One focused on seed germination and the other on established plants. The greenhouse experiments indicated that T08 (T. koningiopsis), T14 (T. koningii), and T19 (T. gamsii) significantly improved seed germination and plant growth, even outperforming the positive control on total dry matter in pathogen-infected plants during the postemergence test. Our study highlights the potential of Trichoderma isolates, particularly T08, T14, and T19, to boost plant growth and control Fusarium avenaceum in Lolium perenne. It emphasizes the importance of in planta testing and reveals the varying effects of the isolates throughout the plant cycle.

Comparison of different parts of Plumbago zeylanica L. through UPLC-MS/MS metabolite profiling and evaluation of their antioxidant and antifungal potential

The metabolites were extracted from the leaves (BHY), roots (BHG), and stems (BHJ) of Plumbago zeylanica L. (P.zeylanica) using 70 % ethanol. Subsequently, the metabolite profiles, antifungal, and antioxidant activities of the extracts were evaluated. The highest contents of total phenols (91.63±1.08 mg GAE/g DW) and total flavonoids (146.5±5.48 mg RE/g DW) were found in BHJ. All extracts of P.zeylanica effectively neutralized DPPH (83.47 %-93.44 % in 5 mg/mL) and ABTS radicals (99.42 %-102.1 % at 5 mg/mL), demonstrating potent antioxidant properties, particularly in BHG. The DPPH activity of P.zeylanica extracts (3.0 mg/mL) showed higher radical scavenging activity when compared with the positive control, ascorbic acid. The extracts of P.zeylanica displayed significant antifungal effects against all tested microorganisms (B.cinerea, F.moniliforme, B.dothidea, P.expansum, and G.candidum), with inhibition rates ranging from 37.96 % to 99.65 % and MIC values between 0.063 and 1.00 mg/mL. The most susceptible strain was G.candidum (average inhibition rate: 95.47 %). BHG demonstrated the highest effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of P.expansum, G.candidum, and F.moniliforme, while BHJ showed the strongest activity against B.cinerea and B.dothidea. 2116 metabolites were identified by UPLC-MS/MS, of which 2026 were common to the three extracts. Notably, BHG was found to be a rich source of alkaloids and quinones (including the pharmacologically active compound plumbagin), with superior antioxidant and antifungal capacities. Most of the metabolites were isolated and identified for the first time in P.zeylanica, including Hydroxyplumbagic acid, 3′-O-Beta-D-xylopyranosyl plumbagic acid, Loliolide, Atractylolide III, Cinchonain Ib, and Cinchonain Ic. Correlation analysis identified 115 potential metabolic biomarkers, primarily consisting of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which likely explain some of the potent observed bioactivity. As regards the results mentioned above, all parts of the P.zeylanica could be utilized as a promising source of bioactive compounds for potential applications in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries due to its notable antioxidant and antifungal properties.

The Antifungal Effects of Berberine and Its Proposed Mechanism of Action Through CYP51 Inhibition, as Predicted by Molecular Docking and Binding Analysis

Fungal infections present a significant health risk, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Berberine, a natural isoquinoline alkaloid, has demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, though its antifungal potential and underlying mechanisms against both yeast-like and filamentous fungi are not fully understood. This study investigates the antifungal efficacy of berberine against Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Trichophyton rubrum, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes in vitro, as well as its therapeutic potential in a murine model of cryptococcal infection. Berberine showed strong antifungal activity, with MIC values ranging from 64 to 128 µg/mL. SEM and TEM analyses revealed that berberine induced notable disruptions to the cell wall and membrane in C. neoformans. No signs of cell necrosis or apoptosis were observed in fungal cells treated with 2 × MIC berberine, and it did not increase intracellular ROS levels or affect mitochondrial membrane potential. Molecular docking and binding affinity assays demonstrated a strong interaction between berberine and the fungal enzyme CYP51, with a dissociation constant (KD) of less than 1 × 10−12 M, suggesting potent inhibition of ergosterol biosynthesis. In vivo studies further showed that berberine promoted healing in guinea pigs infected with T. mentagrophytes, and in a murine cryptococcal infection model, it prolonged survival and reduced lung inflammation, showing comparable efficacy to fluconazole. These findings indicate that berberine exerts broad-spectrum antifungal effects through membrane disruption and CYP51 inhibition, highlighting its potential as a promising therapeutic option for fungal infections.

Inhibition of Food Spoilage Fungi, Botrytis cinerea and Rhizopus sp., by Nanoparticles Loaded with Baccharis dracunculifolia Essential Oil and Nerolidol

This study investigates the antifungal potential of encapsulated essential oil (EO) from Baccharis dracunculifolia and nerolidol (NE) within Pluronic® F-127 nanoparticles (NPs). The EO, containing nerolidol, β-caryophyllene, and α-pinene as major bioactive compounds, exhibited superior antifungal activity compared to NE. The NP-EO formulations demonstrated high efficacy against Botrytis cinerea, with inhibition rates ranging from 29.73% to 87.60% and moderate efficacy against Rhizopus sp., with inhibition rates from 11.81% to 32.73%. In comparison, NP-NE showed lower antifungal activity. Both formulations effectively inhibited spore germination, with NP-EO showing greater inhibition compared to NP-NE. The encapsulation efficiency was significantly higher for NP-EO (80.1%) as compared to NP-NE (51.1%), attributed to the complex composition of EO facilitating better encapsulation and retention. Stability studies indicated that both NP formulations were stable at 25 °C for at least 15 days and exhibited changes in particle size and the formation of smaller particle populations at other temperatures (4 °C and 37 °C). Hemolytic activity was low across all NPs, suggesting their safety for food applications. The findings underscore the efficacy and applicability of EO-encapsulated NPs in extending food shelf life and maintaining product quality. The controlled and prolonged release of active compounds, coupled with their antifungal activity and safety, suggests that these NPs represent a promising and innovative approach for food preservation and active packaging development.

Two Step One-Pot Synthesis of 7-Azaindole Linked 1,2,3-Triazole Hybrids: In-Vitro and In-Silico Antimicrobial Evaluation.

Herein, we report design, synthesis and characterization of a new library of 7-azaindole N-ethyl linked 1,2,3-triazoles containing ethylene as a spacer unit, and evaluation of all the synthesized compounds for their antimicrobial properties. Antibacterial potential was checked against two Gram positive (B. subtilis and S. aureus) and two Gram negative (E. coli and P. aeruginosa) bacterial strains while antifungal potential was assayed against two fungal strains (C. albicans and A. niger). All the tested compounds showed satisfactory antibacterial potency in comparison to reference drug ciprofloxacin with MIC values ranging from 0.0108 to 0.0432 μmol/mL. Interestingly, except two, all the target compounds showed better antifungal property as compared to the reference drug fluconazole with MIC values less than 0.0408 μmol/mL. One of the compounds exhibited two-fold better antifungal potential in comparison to fluconazole. Furthermore, in-silico ADMET and DFT studies reported drug likeness behavior and chemical reactivity parameters, respectively. The cytotoxicity results on substrate azide 3 and most potent 1,2,3-triazoles (5 d and 5 l) were found to be non-toxic.

Development and characterization of nanoemulsions containing Lippia origanoides Kunth essential oil and their antifungal potential against Candida albicans.

Nanoemulsions based on plant essential oils have shown promise as alternatives against fungal pathogens by increasing the solubility and bioavailability of the active compounds of essential oils, which can improve their efficacy and safety. In the present study, we aimed to prepare and characterize nanoemulsions of Lippia origanoides essential oil, and analyze their antifungal activity against C. albicans in planktonic and biofilm form. Additionally, we sought to verify their cytotoxicity. Alginate nanoemulsions were prepared with different concentrations of essential oil, sunflower oil and surfactant to investigate ideal formulations regarding stability and antifungal efficiency. The results showed the nanoemulsions remained stable for longer than 60 days, with acidic pH, particle sizes ranging from 180.17±6.86nm to 497.85±253.50nm, zeta potential from -60.47±2.25 to -43.63±12, and polydispersity index from 0.004 to 0.622. The photomicrographs revealed that the addition of sunflower oil influenced the formation of the particles, forming nanoemulsions. The antifungal results of the essential oil and nanoemulsions showed that the MIC ranged from 0.078 to 0.312mg mL-1. The nanoemulsions were more effective than the free essential oil in eradicating the biofilm, eliminating up to 89.7% of its mass. With regard to cytotoxicity, differences were found between the tests with VERO cells and red blood cells, and the nanoemulsions were less toxic to red blood cells than the free essential oil. These results show that nanoemulsions have antifungal potential against strains of C. albicans in planktonic and biofilm forms.

Comparative phytochemical, antioxidant and antifungal evaluation of successive extracts of Bombax ceiba L. thorns

This study aims to analyze the comprehensive qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses, antioxidant potential, and antifungal activity of successive extracts from Bombax ceiba thorn. The assessment of antioxidant activities was performed by two methods, the phosphomolybdate assay and the reducing power assay. In vitro anti-fungal activity was evaluated by the agar well diffusion method. The results of phytochemical screening revealed the presence of various phytoconstituents like flavonoids, sterols, and tannins. Antioxidant potential and antifungal activity against Candida albicans were also found to be higher in ethyl acetate extract. All the successive extracts showed dose-dependent antioxidant potential. This study indicates that B. ceiba thorn has promising antioxidant and antifungal activity due to the presence of phenolics and flavonoids. B. ceiba can be used as potential antioxidant and antifungal agents, and resources for the development of new molecules.

In Vitro Antioxidant and Antifungal Activities of Extracts from Ocimum basilicum Leaves Validated by Molecular Docking and ADMET Analysis.

The aim of study is to investigate the various mechanism-based antioxidant and anti-fungal properties of a hydroalcoholic extract of Ocimum basilicum L leaves. Additionally, conduct molecular docking to simultaneously validate in vitro activities. Also, perform ADMET analysis to know pharmacokinetic properties and its toxicity for its safety. Prior extract's qualitative analysis has been performed to identify the bioactive compounds by phytochemical tests and GC-MS analysis. Different mechanism-based in vitro antioxidant methods are studied; in different methods, different IC50 values have come, which revealed the extract's antioxidant potentials. The antifungal potential of the extract has been observed by performing a modified poison food assay and a time-killing curve assay. In silico analysis with the human peroxiredoxin 5 enzyme (PDB ID: 1HD2) and secreted aspartic proteinase (PDB ID: 2QZX), which predict extract biological activity, has shown promising results of Ocimum basilicum L extract. In silico findings confirm the in vitro experimental outcome of the extract. The different IC50 values of extracts in different mechanisms indicate their therapeutic potential, and that encourages further research in formulation development. The time-killing assay method gives information about a dynamic interaction between extract and microbial strain. Concentration-dependent antifungal studies have significance in formulation development for dose determination.

Anti-Trichophyton rubrum potential, association with fluconazole, and mechanism of action of (R)-(+)-citronellal

Trichophyton rubrum is a keratolytic and keratinophilic fungus responsible for causing dermatophytoses. These pathogens have been associated with resistance phenomena, which encourages the need to search for new substances with anti-Trichophyton rubrum activity. The present study aimed to investigate the antifungal activity of (R)-(+)- Citronellal (RCIT) against clinical isolates of T. rubrum. The antifungal potential of RCIT was evaluated from the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Fungicide Concentration (MFC), Association study, and assays with cholesterol, ergosterol and sorbitol. RCIT MIC values ranged from 4 to 512 µg/mL, while their MFC ranged from 4 to 512 µg/mL. When associating RCIT with the drug fluconazole, pharmacological indifference and antagonism were evidenced. It was shown that the mechanism of action is related to fungal ergosterol and showed interactions with exogenous cholesterol. The results obtained in this research demonstrate that RCIT has the potential to become a product for the treatment of dermatophytosis.

Valorization of oil refinery by-products: production of sophorolipids utilizing fatty acid distillates and their potential antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and antifungal activities.

Starmerella bombicola is a native yeast strain producing sophorolipids as secondary metabolites. This study explores the production, characterization, and biological activities of sophorolipids and investigates the antimicrobial, anti-biofilm, and antifungal properties of sophorolipids produced from oil refinery wastes by the yeast Starmerella bombicola. The present work demonstrated that S. bombicola MTCC 1910 when grown in oil refinery wastes namely palm fatty acid distillates and soy fatty acid distillates enhanced the rate of sophorolipids production drastically in comparison to vegetable oil, sunflower oil used as hydrophobic feedstock. Sophorolipid yields were 18.14, 37.21, and 46.1g/L with sunflower oil, palm, and soy fatty acid distillates respectively. The crude biosurfactants were characterized using TLC, FTIR, and HPLC revealing to be acetylated sophorolipids containing both the acidic and lactonic isomeric forms. The surface lowering and emulsifying properties of the sophorolipids from refinery wastes were significantly higher than the sunflower oil-derived sophorolipids. Also, all the sophorolipids exhibited strong antibacterial properties (minimum inhibitory concentrations were between 50 and 200µgmL-1) against Salmonella typhimurium, Bacillus cereus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis and were validated with morphological analysis by Scanning electron microscopy. All the sophorolipids were potent biofilm inhibitors and eradicators (minimum biofilm inhibitory and eradication concentrations were between12.5to1000µgmL-1) for all the tested organisms. Furthermore, antifungal activities were also found to exhibit about 16-56% inhibition at 1mgmL-1 for fungal mycelial growth. Therefore, this endeavour of sophorolipids production using palm and soy fatty acid distillates not only opens up a window for the bioconversion of industrial wastes into productive biosurfactants but also concludes that sophorolipids from oil refinery wastes are potent antimicrobial, anti-biofilm, and antifungal agents, highlighting their potential in biotechnological and medical applications.

Bioprospecting Endophytic Fungi of Forest Plants for Bioactive Metabolites with Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Antioxidant Potentials.

The growing emergence of multi-drug resistant microbial strains has kept the scientific world searching for novel bioactive compounds with specific chemical characteristics. Accordingly, researchers have started exploring the understudied metabolites from endophytes as a new source of bioactive compounds. In this context, the current study was designed to evaluate the bioactive properties of endophytic fungi from the Mokrzański forest in Wrocław, Poland that have not yet been fully researched. Forty-three endophytic fungi were isolated from twelve distinct plants. Following their cultivation, fungal extracts were separately prepared from biomass and cell-free filtrates, and their antibacterial, antifungal (against human and plant pathogens), and antioxidant properties were examined. Five promising fungi after screening were identified to possess all of these activities. These strains and their respective plant hosts were Trichoderma harzianum BUK-T (Fagus sylvatica), Aspergillus ochraceus ROB-L1 (Robinia pseudoacacia), Chaetomium cochliodes KLON-L1, Fusarium tricinctum KLON-L2 (Acer platanoides), and Penicillium chrysogenum SOS-B2 (Pinus sylvestris). Moreover, gamma irradiation at several doses (Gy) was separately applied to the fungal cultures to study their effects on the recorded activities. Finally, compounds after preparative thin-layer chromatography fractionation of the five fungal strains were identified by GC-MS. These findings suggest that the isolated endophytic fungi could serve as novel sources of bioactive metabolites with antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties, potentially paving the way for future research and the development of new bioactive compounds.