Effective Antifungal Activity Research Articles

Photodynamic impact of curcumin enhanced silver functionalized graphene nanocomposites on Candida virulence

Candida species are escalating resistance to conventional antifungal treatments, intensifying their virulence, and obstructing the effectiveness of antifungal medications. Addressing this challenge is essential for effectively managing Candida infections. The overarching objective is to advance the development of more efficient and precise therapies tailored to counter Candida infections. This study focuses on developing antifungal combined drugs using curcumin-enhanced silver-functionalized graphene nanocomposites (Cur-AgrGO) to effectively target key virulence factors of C. albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. glabrata (Candida spp.). The green reduction of graphene oxide (GO) using bioentities and active molecules makes this approach cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The nanocomposites were characterized using various techniques. Combining Cur-AgrGO with photodynamic therapy (PDT) demonstrated effective antifungal and antibiofilm activity with delayed growth and metabolism. The nanocomposites effectively suppressed hyphal transition and reduced key virulence factors, including proteinases, phospholipases, ergosterol levels, and cell membrane integrity. The findings suggest that Cur-AgrGO + PDT has potential as a treatment option for Candida infections. This innovative approach holds promise for treating Candida infections.Graphical abstract

Preliminary evaluation of in-Vivo and in-Vitro antifungal activity of Piper longum, Origanum majorana, Embelia ribes and Butea monosperma with Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of phytochemical property of plant extracts against Candida species causing dermatological

: Globally, fungi infections cause more than 1.5 million fatalities annually, mostly in those with weakened immune systems with Candida albicans found to be the chief pathogen. Approximately one to two billion people are affected by dermatological fungal infections involving skin and skin appendages, perhaps very difficult to estimate its exact prevalence due to under-reporting, this augments the requirements for more attention towards new molecules to combat resistance.: Evaluation of antifungal activity of Piper longum, Origanum majorana, Embelia ribes, Butea monosperma both in-vivo and in-vitro analysis against Candida species. This experimental study conducted for evaluating both in-vitro as well as in-vivo anti-fungal activity of Piper longum, Butea monosperma, Embelia ribes and Origanum majorana, and evaluation of phytoconstituent through Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry analysis by GC-MS-QP-2010 plus system to identify the active bio-component. Fluconazole used as the standard control in-vivo and Itraconazole used as a standard drug for in-vitro infection and analysis. Ethical Committee approval was taken (IMS, BHU Dean/2018/CAEC/818). The antifungal activity of the extracts in-vitro was evaluated by Resazurin microtiter assay against Candida sp. Micro broth dilution methods. Rats were given an injection of 0.2 mL (intravenously/i.v) of a 10° UFC/mL inoculum made from a fresh 48-hour Candida albicans culture in sterile saline to cause infection. Induction of candidemia in rats was confirmed using qualitative Gram-stained smear. : The extracts of Butea monosperma (Alc.), Piper longum (Alc.), Origanum majorana (Aq.), and Piper longum (Aq.) showed effective antifungal activity against Candida sp. in-vitro research with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of less than 0.25 mg/mL. : This study is contributing towards the search for a natural drug candidate to combat resistance caused by the Candida genus, as it is one of the highest contributors to fungal dermatological/skin infections.

Formulation and Development of a Herbal Antifungal Gel Containing Origanum vulgare and Syzygium aromaticum Essential Oils Against Oral Candida albicans.

Background Oral candidiasis is the most prevalent oral fungal infection, and existing antifungal agents have side effects such as drug intolerance, resistance, and toxicity. Herbal essential oils are emerging as an alternative therapeutic approach for treating fungal infections. Origanum vulgare (O. vulgare), commonly known as oregano, and Syzygium aromaticum (S. aromaticum), commonly known as clove, are known to have antifungal properties and are effective against fluconazole-resistant strains. A combination of essential oils has a synergistic effect and aids in achieving effective antifungal activity at sufficiently low concentrations, which could lead to reduced side effects and resistance. Aim of the study This study aimed to formulate and develop an herbal antifungal gel containing O. vulgareand S. aromaticum and evaluate its synergistic antifungal efficacy against oralCandida albicans (C. albicans). Methodology Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) determinations of O. vulgareand S. aromaticum essential oils were performed individually and in combination to assess the antifungal activity against C. albicans. Based on the obtained MIC and MFC of essential oils in combination, anherbal antifungal gel was formulated. Further, to determine the biocompatible nature of the gel, a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was performed. Results We found that a combination of O. vulgare and S. aromaticum essential oils showed antifungal activity at a lesser concentration, with a MIC of 0.19 μl/ml and MFC of 0.39μl/ml when compared to their individual concentrations. Based on our results, an antifungal herbal gel comprising a concentration of 0.6 μl/ml of both essential oils was developed to achieve synergistic antifungal activity against oral C. albicans. The MTTassay of the herbal gel did not show any cytotoxicity. Conclusion The novel herbal antifungal gel containing O. vulgareand S. aromaticum is biocompatible in nature and provides an alternative therapeutic approach for treating oral candidiasis.

Antifungal activities of vineyard-habitat wild yeast for grape gray-mold disease and its effects on spontaneous winemaking.

Microorganisms, including native yeasts, are abundant in vineyard fields. Herein, we studied the possibility of using vineyard-derived wild yeast as a microbial pesticide against Botrytis cinerea, a pathogen that causes grape gray mold disease, to boost the initial alcohol production of spontaneously fermented wine. We identified the Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain KONDO170908, which showed the most effective antifungal activity in an ex vivo yeast dripping experiment on grape berries. This strain was utilized in an in vivo spray test on grape bunches in vineyard fields and was proven to significantly suppress gray mold disease on the grape berries in test plot #16 when the yeast was sprayed during both the flowering and ripening periods (morbidity 11.2% against 15.3% of the control plot, χ2 test, p < 0.0001). However, in test plot #17, spraying the yeast during only the ripening period had no effect (morbidity 16.3%). The grapes from each test plot were also submitted for spontaneous wine fermentation. Alcoholic fermentation of the grapes from test plot #16 provided the most active bubbling of CO2 gas and the highest ethanol production and colony counts over seven days of fermentation. Unique changes in the different strains of S. cerevisiae among the plots were observed throughout the early fermentation stage. Thus, yeast spraying during the flowering period might trigger modification of the entire microbiota and could ultimately contribute to promoting alcohol production in the spontaneously fermented wine, although it decreased the grape yield by 20%.

Mucoadhesive Hybrid System of Silk Fibroin Nanoparticles and Thermosensitive In Situ Hydrogel for Amphotericin B Delivery: A Potential Option for Fungal Keratitis Treatment.

The purpose of this work was to investigate the feasibility of a novel ophthalmic formulation of amphotericin B-encapsulated silk fibroin nanoparticles incorporated in situ hydrogel (AmB-FNPs ISG) for fungal keratitis (FK) treatment. AmB-FNPs ISG composites were successfully developed and have shown optimized physicochemical properties for ocular drug delivery. Antifungal effects against Candida albicans and in vitro ocular irritation using corneal epithelial cells were performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the composite formulations. The combined system of AmB-FNPs-ISG exhibited effective antifungal activity and showed significantly less toxicity to HCE cells than commercial AmB. In vitro and ex vivo mucoadhesive tests demonstrated that the combination of silk fibroin nanoparticles with in situ hydrogels could enhance the adhesion ability of the particles on the ocular surface for more than 6 h, which would increase the ocular retention time of AmB and reduce the frequency of administration during the treatment. In addition, AmB-FNP-PEG ISG showed good physical and chemical stability under storage condition for 90 days. These findings indicate that AmB-FNP-PEG ISG has a great potential and be used in mucoadhesive AmB eye drops for FK treatment.

Chitosan inhibits Penicillium expansum possibly by binding to DNA and triggering apoptosis

Chitosan is a natural polysaccharide that is abundant, biocompatible and exhibits effective antifungal activity against various pathogenic fungi. However, the potential intracellular targets of chitosan in pathogenic fungi and the way of activity of chitosan are far from well known. The present work demonstrated that chitosan could inhibit Penicillium expansum, the principal causal agent of postharvest blue mold decay on apple fruits, by binding to DNA and triggering apoptosis. UV–visible spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy and electrophoretic mobility assay proved the interaction between chitosan and DNA, while atomic force microscope (AFM) observation revealed the binding morphology of chitosan to DNA. Chitosan could inhibit in vitro DNA replication, and cell cycle analysis employing flow cytometry demonstrated that cell cycle was retarded by chitosan treatment. Furthermore, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay and membrane potential analysis showed that apoptosis was induced in P. expansum cells after exposure to chitosan. In conclusion, our results confirmed that chitosan interacts with DNA and induces apoptosis. These findings are expected to provide a feasible theoretical basis and practical direction for the promoting and implementing of chitosan in plant protection and further illuminate the possible antifungal mechanisms of chitosan against fungal pathogens.

Antifungal effect of Aloe barbadensis Miller gel extract on Candida albicans: Development of an eco-friendly herbal antifungal finish on cotton fabric for medical application

The application of natural antimicrobial agents has garnered significant interest within the healthcare and medical textile industries because they are functionally active textiles that can inhibit the excessive proliferation of microorganisms. The present study aimed to evaluate the antifungal properties of Aloe barbadensis Miller ethanol extract to develop an eco-friendly A. barbadensis Miller ethanolic gel treated cotton fabric against vulvovaginal candidiasis caused by Candida albicans. The antifungal activity of A. barbadensis Miller ethanol extract against C. albicans was evaluated by the well diffusion method, and the highest concentration (5 mg/ml) showed a maximum mean zone diameter of 24.00 ± 1.00 mm. Moreover, the minimum inhibitory concentration was recorded as 3.12 mg/ml by the broth macrodilution method. The cotton fabric (100% cotton) was treated with 4 mg/ml of A. barbadensis Miller ethanol extract using the pad-dry-cure method. The treated fabric exhibited a clear zone of inhibition against C. albicans using the agar diffusion method. The wash durability test showed that treated cotton fabric retained antifungal activity up to 15 washing cycles with a fungal growth reduction rate of 15%. In conclusion, A. barbadensis Miller ethanol extract showed concentration dependent inhibitory activity on C. albicans; furthermore, treated fabric also exhibited effective antifungal activity against vulvovaginal candidiasis caused by C. albicans in vitro.

Seasonal variation of yield, chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of Teucrium polium L. essential oil growing in the south of Algeria

Essential oils (EOs) have been recognized as potential secondary products of aromatic plants that are environmentally friendly while performing a variety of biological properties. In this research, the essential oil of aerial parts Teucrium polium L. (Lamiaceae), collected in winter and autumn in the south of Algeria was characterized in order to better understand differences in yield, chemical composition and antimicrobial activity. Seasonal changes have been recorded in the yield and composition of T. polium L. essential oil with a percentage of 0.20% (v/w) in autumn and a highest yield 0.42% (v/w) in winter. The autumn samples contained β-pinene (23.97%) and γ-muurolene (17.7%) as the major compounds while the winter samples contained mainly camphor (22.09%) and eucalyptol (13.70%). Six different bacteria strains consisting of three Gram positive, three Gram negative bacteria and nine toxigenic fungal strains were used for antimicrobial activity. A concentration of 10 μl/ml (v/v) of both seasons essential oils inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For the other bacterial strains, the winter essential oil was more active than the autumn one with a minimal inhibitory concentration of 5 μl/ml and 10 μl/ml respectively. The essential oils from autumn and winter seasons inhibited the growth of Listeria monocytogenes at a minimal inhibitory concentration of 20 μl/ml. These essential oils exhibited fungicidal activity at the minimal fungicidal concentrations of 20 μl/ml for some strains, while the other strains showed no fungicidal effect (>20 μl/ml). Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium graminearum were inhibited from a concentration of 10 μl/ml (v/v), whereas A. flavus and Penicillium glabrum were sensitive at a minimal fungicidal concentration of 20 μl/ml. Overall, essential oils obtained in winter show more effective antifungal activity than autumn essential oil against the majority of fungal strains.

Synthesis and Evaluation of Novel Metacetamol Derivatives with Hydrazone Moiety as Anticancer and Antimicrobial Agents.

By exploiting the wide biological potential of the hydrazone scaffold, a series of hydrazone derivatives were synthesized, starting from N-(3-hydroxyphenyl)acetamide (metacetamol). The structures of the compounds were determined using IR, 1H and 13C-NMR, and mass spectroscopic methods. The obtained molecules (3a-j) were evaluated for their anticancer potential against MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. According to the CCK-8 assay, all tested compounds showed moderate to potent anticancer activity. Among them, N-(3-(2-(2-(4-nitrobenzylidene)hydrazineyl)-2-oxoethoxy)phenyl)acetamide (3e) was found to be the most effective derivative with an IC50 value of 9.89 μM against MDA-MB-231 cell lines. This compound was further tested for its potential effects on the apoptotic pathway. Molecular docking studies was also carried out for 3e in the colchicine binding pocket of tubulin. Additionally, compound 3e also demonstrated effective antifungal activity, particularly against Candida krusei (MIC = 8 mg/ml), indicating that nitro group at the 4th position of the phenyl ring was the most preferable substituent for both cytotoxic and antimicrobial activity. Our preliminary findings suggest that compound 3e could be exploited as a leading structure for further anticancer and antifungal drug development.

Antifungal Properties of Ethanolic Extract of Holarrhena Pubescens against Candida Species

Antimicrobial resistance is a global problem that jeopardizes the efficient use of modern medicine and the state of the world's health. The effectiveness of traditional antifungals used to treat fungal infections has declined, increasing mortality. Following exposure to antifungal medications, acquired mechanisms can lead to the development of resistance to currently available antifungal medicines. Invasive fungal infections have few treatment choices, and patients who are most at risk frequently have other co-morbid conditions, such as immunosuppression. This problem is made worse by the paucity of novel antifungals now under research. One potential research avenue for tackling the problem of MDR fungal pathogens is plants that are used in traditional medicine. When used to treat infectious diseases, antimicrobials derived from plants have a great deal of therapeutic promise and have less adverse effects than their synthetic counterparts. In this study, the possible antifungal action of ethanolic extract of Holarrhena pubescens was tested against American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) and Multidrug resistant (MDR) strains of pathogenic fungi, Candida species. Antifungal activities of ethanolic extract of Holarrhena pubescens were studied by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value which was done by serial dilution in Mueller Hinton broth.The ethanolic extract of Holarrhena pubescensshowedantifungal activities exhibiting MIC values varying between 1.5625-3.125 mg/mL in both ATCC and MDR fungal pathogenic strains of Candida. Ethanolic extract of Holarrhena pubescenswas found to have effective antifungal activity against Candida species andcould be the cure to invasive candidiasis which is a global health threat.

Green synthesis, characterization and biological activities of silver nanoparticles synthesized from Neolamarkia cadamba.

Metal nanoparticles are essential due to their unique catalytic, electrical, magnetic, and optical characteristics, as well as their prospective use in sensing, catalysis, and biological research. In recent years, researchers have focused on developing cost-effective and eco-friendly biogenic practices using the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles (AgNP). In the present study, the aqueous extracts prepared from the leaf, stem, bark, and flower of Neolamarkia cadamba were used for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Visible spectroscopy, zeta potential, dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and EDAX. The current study showed absorption of synthesized AgNPs at 425, 423, 410, and 400 nm. Dynamic light scattering of AgNPs Showed size distribution of AgNPs synthesized from leaf, stem, and flower aqueous extracts ranges from 80-200 nm and AgNPs prepared from bark extract ranges from 100-700 nm. Zeta-potential of the biosynthesized AgNPs was found as a sharp peak at -23.1 mV for the leaf, -27.0 mV for the stem, -34.1 mV for the bark, and -20.2 mV for the flower. Silver nanoparticles and crude extracts of Neolamarkia cadamba showed effective antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant activities. Silver nanoparticles have substantial antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria and also exhibit the utmost antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger. The study concludes that the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from N. cadamba leaf, stem, bark, and flower extract is a reliable and eco-friendly technique.

Formulation and Evaluation of Poly Herbal Mouth Wash against Different Mouth Disorder

Abstract: Our oral cavity is a sweet able place to grow different types of bacterial species either harmless or harmful for human. Many of us are suffering different types of mouth disease and feeling insecure or hesitate to speak with another due to the unpleasant odor of mouth. To maintain a good oral hygiene mouthwash plays a important role in our daily lifestyle. From ancient age medicinal plants are considered as a store room of different types of biological activity in Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha, and have important role to cleanse tooth and prevent different human pathogens are responsible for unpleasant odor, inflammation of teeth root, dental plaque. Herbal mouthwash contains different medicinal plant part extract have various pharmacological activities and shows significant advantages which helps to cure different types of oral disorder and helps to maintain oral hygiene. Herbal mouthwash is suitable for any age group due to less or no other side effect instead of chemical mouthwash. Aqueous extract of Neem, Turmeric, Clove, Fennel, Guava leaves, Pudina, Ginger, Tulsishows effective antimicrobial, antifungal activity, anti-inflammatory and anti-plaque properties. In this research work herbal mouth wash was evaluated depends on various parameter like color, pH, Visual appearance, Phase separation, Homogeneity and antibacterial properties.

Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Gargle against Throat Irritation, Inflammation and Infection

Abstract: Herbal gargles have gained significant attention as potential alternatives to conventional oral care products due to their perceived natural composition and reported therapeutic benefits. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the efficacy of herbal gargles in promoting oral health and preventing various oral ailments. Our oral cavity is a sweet able place to grow different types of bacterial species either harmless or harmful for human. From ancient age medicinal plants are considered as a store room of different types of biological activity in Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha, and have important role to cleanse tooth and prevent different human pathogens are responsible for unpleasant odour, inflammation of teeth root, dental plaque. The study evaluates a wide range of herbal ingredients commonly found in mouth gargles, including essential oils, plant extracts, and traditional herbal remedies. It explores their antimicrobial properties, antioxidant activity, and potential for reducing plaque formation, gingivitis, and bad breath. Aqueous extract of Tulsi, Turmeric, Clove, Fennel, Betel leaves, Pudina, Ginger, Liquorice shows effective antimicrobial, antifungal activity, anti-inflammatory and anti-plaque properties. In this research work herbal gargle was evaluated depends on various parameter like color, pH, Phase separation , Homogeneity and antibacterial properties. Herbal gargles show potential as adjuncts to conventional oral care, Herbal gargle is suitable for any age group due to less side effect. Healthcare professionals and consumers should approach herbal gargles with caution, taking into consideration individual oral health needs and consulting oral healthcare providers for personalized recommendations.

Investigation of the Antimicrobial and Physico-Mechanical Properties of Nature-Friendly Nanosilver-Loaded Pig Lining Leather Prepared Using Exhaustion Method

The natural hydrophilic property of leather makes it a possible growing substrate for microorganisms. Microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts, and molds frequently grow on shoe lining leather, causing skin diseases, unpleasant odors, and discomfort for the wearers. To address these issues, herein, bio-synthesized silver nanoparticles from Piper betle L. leaf extract were applied as an antimicrobial agent to pig leather via the exhaustion method. The characterization of nanosilver-treated pig leather was performed using colorimetry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), and FTIR techniques. Evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy of the nanosilver-treated leather was both qualitatively and quantitatively assessed against two bacteria (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) and two fungi (a yeast Candida albicans and a mold Aspergillus niger) in accordance with AATCC TM90, AATCC TM30, and ISO 16187:2013 standards. The results indicated that the nanosilver was immobilized on the surface of collagen fibers as well as within the collagen matrix of the pig leather. The treated leather exhibited highly effective antibacterial and antifungal activities against all tested microorganisms, and the inhibition increased with an increase in the initial nanosilver concentration in the treated solution. Furthermore, the exhaustion technique used for the antimicrobial treatment of pig leather had no negative effects on its physico-mechanical properties, and it met the standard requirements of ISO 20882:2007 for shoe upper lining. Therefore, based on the efficient antimicrobial and suitable physico-mechanical properties, nanosilver-treated pig leather adapts the criteria for making hygienic shoe upper lining.

Study of the Variability of the Chemical Profile, and Biological Activity Approaches of Hedychium coronarium J. Koenig Essential Oil from Different Habitats of Uttarakhand, India

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the altitudinal variability in chemical compounds, nematicidal, insecticidal, herbicidal, and antifungal activity of the essential oils of H. coronarium collected from four different habitats of Tarai and Kumaun region of Uttarakhand. Essential oils were hydro-distilled from rhizomes of H. coronarium, and their yield varied from 0.05 to 0.25% (v/w). Based on GC-MS analysis, the major compounds observed were 1, 8-cineole (12.21–18.27%), coronarin E (10.20–14%), α-terpineol (5.32–10.13%), terpinen-4-ol (2.20–4.67%), α-pinene (4.90–8.77%), Z-caryophyllene (4.67–12.29%), and linalool (1.96–4.62%). To visually observe the variation in the oil composition profile of essential oils, heat map clustering, Venn diagram, and principal component analysis (PCA) were performed. To evaluate the pesticidal properties, the essential oils were tested under laboratory conditions. Additionally, significant nematicidal activity was demonstrated by essential oils against Meloidogyne incognita, good insecticidal activity against Spodoptera litura, and moderate herbicidal activity on Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus, and effective antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum and Curvularia lunata was observed in the current investigation.

Antifungal activity of protein hydrolysates from Thai Phatthalung Sangyod rice (Oryza sativa L.) seeds.

Fungal zoonoses are an economic and public health concern because they can cause various degrees of morbidity and mortality in animals and humans. To combat this issue, alternative natural antifungals, such as products derived from rice protein hydrolysates or rice antifungal protein/peptide are being considered because they are highly bioactive and exhibit various functional properties. Thailand is a leading rice producer and exporter. Among the various cultivated rice varieties, Sangyod rice (Oryza sativa L.) is exclusively indigenous to Thailand's Phatthalung province; it has a Thai geographical indication tag. Here, we investigated whether the Phatthalung Sangyod rice seeds have bioactive antifungal peptides. Antifungal activity in four Sangyod rice seed extracts (SYPs) - namely, (1) the crude lysate, SYP1; (2) the heat-treated lysate, SYP2; (3) the heat- and pepsin digested lysate, SYP3; and (4) the heat- and proteinase K-digested lysate, SYP4 - was analyzed. Protein concentrations in these SYPs were determined using the Bradford assay. The total phenolic compound content was determined using the modified Folin-Ciocalteu method in a 96-well microplate. Then, the SYP protein pattern was determined using the sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Subsequently, using the agar well diffusion method, the antifungal properties of these SYPs were tested against ten medically important pathogenic fungi. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal fungicidal concentration values were determined for the active SYPs - SYP2-4. Finally, the clinical safety of SYP4 was determined using a hemolytic assay (using canine red blood cells [RBCs]). The crude lysate SYP1 did not show antifungal activity against any of the ten tested pathogenic fungi. Surprisingly, hydrolysates SYP2, SYP3, and SYP4 displayed antifungal properties against the ten tested pathogenic fungi. Thus, heat and enzymatic hydrolysis seem to transform the bioactivity of the crude protein extract - SYP1. Further, SYP4 shows the most effective antifungal activity. It completely inhibited Cryptococcus neoformans, Talaromyces marneffei yeast phase, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Trichophyton rubrum. A partial inhibitory action on Candida albicans and Microsporum gypseum was possessed while showing the least activity to C. neoformans. SYP4 was nontoxic to canine RBCs. Hemolysis of canine RBCs was undetectable at 1 × MIC and 2 × MIC concentrations; therefore, it can be safely used in further applications. These results indicate that heat and proteinase K hydrolyzed SYP is a very potent antifungal preparation against animal and human fungal pathogens and it can be used in future pharmaceuticals and functional foods.

Development of Chitosan-Based Nanoemulsion Gel Containing Microbial Secondary Metabolite with Effective Antifungal Activity: In vitro and in vivo Characterizations [Retraction].

[This retracts the article DOI: 10.2147/IJN.S338064.].

In vitro and In vivo study targeting the development of Unani Antidermatophytic Cream: Implication of Herbal Formulations in Treatment of Dermatophytosis

Panwad (Cassia tora L.), Sarshaf (Brassica nigra L.) and Kunjad (Sesamum indicum L.) have been used in the treatment of ringworm infection since ancient times and are documented in classical literature of Unani Medicine. These plant drugs give promising results when used topically in the form of paste (zimad). Hence, the development and evaluation of a cream containing extracts of Tukhm-e-Panwad (Cassia tora L.), Sarshaf (Brassica nigra L.), and Kunjad (Sesamum indicum L.) was carried out to get better efficacy of the drugs. A total of 16 batches (F1–F16) of cream were prepared by adding varying concentrations of hydro-alcoholic extract of the drugs (20%, 40% and 50%) in water removable bases, and three batches were selected as final batches (F4-20%, F6-40% and F16-50%). In vitro antidermatophytic activity was conducted to optimize MIC against dermatophytosis-causing fungi. Dermal irritation of the prepared cream was determined in New Zealand Albino Rabbits. In vivo testing of the different concentrations of the prepared cream (20%, 40%, and 50%) was also carried out using Wistar rats to assess the antidermatophytic activity. Final batches showed good results in all the tested parameters and significant in vitro and in vivo antifungal activity in a dose-dependent manner. No microbial growth was seen in the prepared formulation. The study revealed significant antidermatophytic activity of the prepared cream against dermatophytosis-causing fungi. Hence, it can be concluded that the prepared cream can be an alternative topical agent with safe and effective antifungal activity for treating dermatophytosis.

Silk Fibroin Hydrogel-Assisted Controlled Release of Antifungal Drug Ketoconazole

This research focused on preparing a ketoconazole-infused silk fibroin hydrogel to enhance patient compliance, leveraging the hydrogel's biocompatibility and biodegradability. The process used a 50% (v/v) ethanol, propanol, or glycerol solution treated with 2% (w/v) silk fibroin at 37°C. The use of glycerol quickened the gelation process. The hydrogel's structure was analyzed via SEM, and UV-VIS spectrometry was used to evaluate the encapsulation efficiency and ketoconazole release profile. The surface structure varied based on the formulation and the best encapsulation efficiency was observed with ethanol (60±1.78%), followed by propanol (56±2.72%) and glycerol (47±1.42%). The release profile demonstrated an initial burst release followed by 20 hours of sustained release. Furthermore, the hydrogel-encapsulated drug demonstrated effective antifungal activity against Aspergillus Niger. As a result, silk fibroin hydrogels are a promising option for controlled topical delivery of ketoconazole.&#x0D; Keywords: Silk fibroin, Controlled release, Hydrogels, Drug delivery.

Antifungal efficiency and cytocompatibility of polymethyl methacrylate modified with zinc dimethacrylate.

Considering the high incidence rates of denture stomatitis, research that providing dental biomaterials with antifungal property are essential for clinical dentistry. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the effect of zinc dimethacrylate (ZDMA) modification on the antifungal and cytotoxic properties, as well as the variance in surface characteristics and other physicochemical properties of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture base resin. PMMA with various mass fraction of ZDMA (1 wt%, 2.5 wt% and 5 wt%) were prepared for experimental groups, and unmodified PMMA for the control. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was applied for characterization. Thermogravimetric analysis, atomic force microscopy and water contact angle were performed to investigate the thermal stability and surface characteristics (n=5). Antifungal capacities and cytocompatibility were evaluated with Candida albicans (C. albicans) and human oral fibroblasts (HGFs), respectively. Colony-forming unit counting, crystal violet assay, live/dead biofilm staining and scanning electron microscopy observation were performed to assess antifungal effects, and the detection of intracellular reactive oxygen species production was applied to explore the possible antimicrobial mechanism. Finally, the cytotoxicity of ZDMA modified PMMA resin was evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and live/dead double staining. The FTIR analyses confirmed some variation in chemical bonding and physical blend of the composites. Incorporation of ZDMA significantly enhanced the thermal stability and hydrophilicity compared with unmodified PMMA (p < 0.05). The surface roughness increased with the addition of ZDMA while remained below the suggested threshold (≤ 0.2 µm). The antifungal activity significantly improved with ZDMA incorporation, and cytocompatibility assays indicated no obvious cytotoxicity on HGFs. In the present study, the ZDMA mass fraction up to 5 wt% in PMMA performed better thermal stability, and an increase in surface roughness and hydrophilicity without enhancing microbial adhesion. Moreover, the ZDMA modified PMMA showed effective antifungal activity without inducing any cellular side effects.