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Conn BN, Lieberman JA, Chatman P, Cotton K, Essandoh MA, Ebqa’ai M, Nelson TL, Wozniak KL. Antifungal activity of eumelanin-inspired indoylenepheyleneethynylene against Cryptococcus neoformans. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1339303. [PMID: 38293553 PMCID: PMC10826398 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1339303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that causes meningitis in >152,000 immunocompromised individuals annually, leading to 112,000 yearly deaths. The four classes of existing antifungal agents target plasma membrane sterols (ergosterol), nucleic acid synthesis, and cell wall synthesis. Existing drugs are not highly effective against Cryptococcus, and antifungal drug resistance is an increasing problem. A novel antimicrobial compound, a eumelanin-inspired indoylenepheyleneethynylene, EIPE-1, was synthesized and has antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSRA), but not towards Gram-negative organisms. Based on EIPE-1's antibacterial activity, we hypothesized that EIPE-1 could have antifungal activity. For these studies, we tested EIPE-1 against C. neoformans strain H99 and 6 additional cryptococcal clinical isolates. We examined antifungal activity, cytotoxicity, effects on fungal gene expression, and mechanism of action of EIPE-1. Results showed that EIPE-1 has fungicidal effects on seven cryptococcal strains with MICs ranging from 1.56 to 3.125 μg/mL depending on the strain, and it is non-toxic to mammalian cells. We conducted scanning and transmission electron microscopy on the exposed cells to examine structural changes to the organism following EIPE-1 treatment. Cells exposed displayed structural changes to their cell wall and membranes, with internal contents leaking out of the cells. To understand the effect of EIPE-1 on fungal gene expression, RNA sequencing was conducted. Results showed that EIPE-1 affects several processes involved stress response, ergosterol biosynthesis, capsule biosynthesis, and cell wall attachment and remodeling. Therefore, our studies demonstrate that EIPE-1 has antifungal activity against C. neoformans, which affects both cellular structure and gene expression of multiple fungal pathways involved in cell membrane stability and viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittney N. Conn
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Jacob A. Lieberman
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Priscilla Chatman
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Kaitlyn Cotton
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Martha A. Essandoh
- Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Mohammad Ebqa’ai
- Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Toby L. Nelson
- Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Karen L. Wozniak
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
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Moghadam S, Azari B, Rashidi R, Bafghi MH, Rakhshandeh H, Selman SM, Zarrinfar H. Antifungal activity of three different varieties of Capsicum annuum against clinical isolates of Candida species. Trop Dis Travel Med Vaccines 2023; 9:9. [PMID: 37468970 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-023-00194-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Acquired resistance to antifungal agents is rising among Candida species. Herbal extracts including Capsicum annum extracts have biological profits, which can be employed to overcome drug resistance in fungal species. The present study investigated the efficacy of different varieties of C. annum extracts against Candida species. METHODS Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of three different varieties of C. annum were prepared using the succulent method. Total values for compound extracts of C. annum var. cayenne, C. annum var. cayenne cultivar sabzevari, and C. annum var. cerasiforme were 43, 42, and 38 g, respectively. The clinical Candida isolates including C. albicans (n = 13), C. dubliniensis (n = 2), C. parapsilosis (n = 2), and C. tropicalis (n = 1); and reference strains of C. albicans (TIMML 1292 and TIMML 183), C. krusei (TIMML 1321), C. parapsilosis (TIMML 2201), and C. tropicalis (TIMML 731) were examined based on the M27-A3 guideline. RESULTS Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Capsicum annum showed a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) range of more than 512 µg/ml against clinical and reference strains of Candida. There was no justifiable difference between the effects of these extracts on Candida species. CONCLUSION Both aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Capsicum annum could not exert a significant effective impact on clinical and reference strains of Candida. The difference in pepper spiciness did not show a significant role against Candida isolates. However, their possible effects might be different among other yeasts or filamentous fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaghayegh Moghadam
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Behnam Azari
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roghayeh Rashidi
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahdi Hosseini Bafghi
- Department of Laboratory Science, Faculty of Paramedical, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hassan Rakhshandeh
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Hossein Zarrinfar
- Allergy Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Preparation and optimization of medicated cold cream using Caralluma adscendens var. attenuata for the treatment of Candida skin infection. BIOTECHNOLOGIA 2022; 103:249-260. [PMID: 36605824 PMCID: PMC9642957 DOI: 10.5114/bta.2022.118668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal skin infection is a major skin health issue worldwide. For the treatment of fungal infections, systematic antifungal therapies are frequently prescribed. The aim of this study is to prepare an antifungal cold cream from Caralluma adscendens var. attenuata to treat deep dermal fungal infection in the skin layer. To achieve this, different concentrations of plant extract-based cold cream were prepared, and their in vitro characteristic features such as color, texture, pH, viscosity, spreadability, stability, permeation, were analyzed together with ex vivo evaluation to identify their applicability in the treatment of acute rat skin irritation. After 72 h of induction of Candida albicans infection in rats (7 days, two times/day), C. adscendens var. attenuata cold cream was applied topically. In rats with C. albicans induction without any treatment, adverse skin damages were visible in the form of red rashes, whereas in those with the formulated cold cream application, significantly less skin damage and inflammation were observed on a dose-dependent basis. Moreover, the reduced microbial colonization and histopathology of the rat skin without any treatment indicated the successful invasion of C. albicans and showed the morphological changes caused by candidal infection. However, treatment with the C. adscendens var. attenuata cream significantly inhibited candida colonization and reversed the morphological changes. In addition, the formulated C. adscendens var. attenuata cold cream showed good spreadability, permeation, and viscosity. Hence, it can act as a potent antifungal topical agent for the treatment of C. albicans skin infection without any irritation, thus safeguarding the skin tissue.
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Popovici V, Matei E, Cozaru GC, Bucur L, Gîrd CE, Schröder V, Ozon EA, Karampelas O, Musuc AM, Atkinson I, Rusu A, Petrescu S, Mitran RA, Anastasescu M, Caraiane A, Lupuliasa D, Aschie M, Badea V. Evaluation of Usnea barbata (L.) Weber ex F.H. Wigg Extract in Canola Oil Loaded in Bioadhesive Oral Films for Potential Applications in Oral Cavity Infections and Malignancy. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11081601. [PMID: 36009320 PMCID: PMC9404812 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11081601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Usnea lichens are known for their beneficial pharmacological effects with potential applications in oral medicine. This study aims to investigate the extract of Usnea barbata (L.) Weber ex F.H. Wigg from the Călimani Mountains in canola oil as an oral pharmaceutical formulation. In the present work, bioadhesive oral films (F-UBO) with U. barbata extract in canola oil (UBO) were formulated, characterized, and evaluated, evidencing their pharmacological potential. The UBO-loaded films were analyzed using standard methods regarding physicochemical and pharmacotechnical characteristics to verify their suitability for topical administration on the oral mucosa. F-UBO suitability confirmation allowed for the investigation of antimicrobial and anticancer potential. The antimicrobial properties against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27353, Candida albicans ATCC 10231, and Candida parapsilosis ATCC 22019 were evaluated by a resazurin-based 96-well plate microdilution method. The brine shrimp lethality assay (BSL assay) was the animal model cytotoxicity prescreen, followed by flow cytometry analyses on normal blood cells and oral epithelial squamous cell carcinoma CLS-354 cell line, determining cellular apoptosis, caspase-3/7 activity, nuclear condensation and lysosomal activity, oxidative stress, cell cycle, and cell proliferation. The results indicate that a UBO-loaded bioadhesive film’s weight is 63 ± 1.79 mg. It contains 315 µg UBO, has a pH = 6.97 ± 0.01, a disintegration time of 124 ± 3.67 s, and a bioadhesion time of 86 ± 4.12 min, being suitable for topical administration on the oral mucosa. F-UBO showed moderate dose-dependent inhibitory effects on the growth of both bacterial and fungal strains. Moreover, in CLS-354 tumor cells, F-UBO increased oxidative stress, diminished DNA synthesis, and induced cell cycle arrest in G0/G1. All these properties led to considering UBO-loaded bioadhesive oral films as a suitable phytotherapeutic formulation with potential application in oral infections and neoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violeta Popovici
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Ovidius University of Constanta, 7 Ilarie Voronca Street, 900684 Constanta, Romania
| | - Elena Matei
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology, Ovidius University of Constanta, CEDMOG, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (V.S.); (E.A.O.); (O.K.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Georgeta Camelia Cozaru
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology, Ovidius University of Constanta, CEDMOG, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Sf. Apostol Andrei Emergency County Hospital, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Laura Bucur
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ovidius University of Constanta, 6 Capitan Al. Serbanescu Street, 900001 Constanta, Romania
| | - Cerasela Elena Gîrd
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry, and Phytotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Street, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Verginica Schröder
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ovidius University of Constanta, 6 Capitan Al. Serbanescu Street, 900001 Constanta, Romania
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (V.S.); (E.A.O.); (O.K.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Emma Adriana Ozon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Street, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (V.S.); (E.A.O.); (O.K.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Oana Karampelas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Street, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (V.S.); (E.A.O.); (O.K.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Adina Magdalena Musuc
- “Ilie Murgulescu” Institute of Physical Chemistry, Romanian Academy, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (V.S.); (E.A.O.); (O.K.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Irina Atkinson
- “Ilie Murgulescu” Institute of Physical Chemistry, Romanian Academy, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adriana Rusu
- “Ilie Murgulescu” Institute of Physical Chemistry, Romanian Academy, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona Petrescu
- “Ilie Murgulescu” Institute of Physical Chemistry, Romanian Academy, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raul-Augustin Mitran
- “Ilie Murgulescu” Institute of Physical Chemistry, Romanian Academy, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Anastasescu
- “Ilie Murgulescu” Institute of Physical Chemistry, Romanian Academy, 202 Spl. Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aureliana Caraiane
- Department of Oral Rehabilitation, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Ovidius University of Constanta, 7 Ilarie Voronca Street, 900684 Constanta, Romania
| | - Dumitru Lupuliasa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Street, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mariana Aschie
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology, Ovidius University of Constanta, CEDMOG, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Sf. Apostol Andrei Emergency County Hospital, 145 Tomis Blvd., 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Victoria Badea
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Ovidius University of Constanta, 7 Ilarie Voronca Street, 900684 Constanta, Romania
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Antifungal Activities of Phytochemically Characterized Hydroethanolic Extracts of Sclerocarya birrea Leaves and Stem Bark against Fluconazole-Resistant Candida albicans Strains. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:4261741. [PMID: 35711520 PMCID: PMC9197620 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4261741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The study evaluated the antifungal activities of the 70% ethanol extracts of Sclerocarya birrea leaves (SBL) and stem bark (SBB) against C. albicans strains and fluconazole-resistant isolates, their antifungal effects in combination with conventional antifungals as well as their effects on the biofilms of the C. albicans strains and isolates. UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS analysis was then carried out to investigate the metabolite profile of the extracts and UPLC fingerprints developed for their routine identification as part of quality control measures. The extracts exhibited considerable antifungal activity with MIC ranging from 12.21 to 97.66 μg/mL and MFC from 12.21 to 390.63 μg/mL against the C. albicans strains and isolates. The antifungal activity of the stem bark extract was higher than the leaf extract. SBL and SBB also significantly inhibited biofilm formation (IC50 = 12.49 to 164.42 μg/mL) and the mature biofilms (IC50 = 91.50 to 685.20 μg/mL) of the strains and isolates of the C. albicans and demonstrated potential for their use in combination therapies with currently used antifungals especially the stem bark extract with nystatin. Metabolite profiling identified the presence of polyphenolic compounds in both leaves and stem bark mostly flavonoids, their derivatives, and proanthocyanidins, which contribute in part to the bioactivity of the plant. Whereas flavonoids like quercetin, myricetin, and their derivatives were abundant in the leaves, epicatechin monomers with their condensed tannins, including procyanidin B2 and procyanidin C, were abundant in the stem bark. Fingerprints of SBL and SBB were developed and validated and could be used as qualitative tools to authenticate the plant. The outcomes of the study show the promise of the leaf and stem bark extracts of S. birrea to be studied further and developed as antifungal agents.
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Buakaew W, Pankla Sranujit R, Noysang C, Krobthong S, Yingchutrakul Y, Thongsri Y, Potup P, Daowtak K, Usuwanthim K. Proteomic Analysis Reveals Proteins Involved in the Mode of Action of β-Citronellol Identified From Citrus hystrix DC. Leaf Against Candida albicans. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:894637. [PMID: 35677908 PMCID: PMC9168680 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.894637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a fungus that lives primarily on the mucosal surfaces of healthy humans, such as the oral cavity, vagina, and gastrointestinal tract. This commensal organism can be controlled by other microbiota, while certain conditions can increase the risk of C. albicans outgrowth and cause disease. Prevalence of the drug-resistant phenotype, as well as the severity of C. albicans infection in immunocompromised patients, presents a challenge for scientists to develop novel, effective treatment, and prevention strategies. β-Citronellol is an intriguing active compound of several plants that has been linked to antifungal activity, but data on the mechanism of action in terms of proteomic profiling are lacking. Here, β-citronellol identified from Citrus hystrix DC. leaf against C. albicans were evaluated. A proteomic approach was used to identify potential target proteins involved in the mode of action of β-citronellol. This study identified and discussed three protein groups based on the 126 major proteins that were altered in response to β-citronellol treatment, 46 of which were downregulated and 80 of which were upregulated. Significant protein groups include cell wall proteins (e.g., Als2p, Rbt1p, and Pga4p), cellular stress response enzymes (e.g., Sod1p, Gst2p, and Ddr48p), and ATP synthesis-associated proteins (e.g., Atp3p, Atp7p, Cox1p, and Cobp). Results demonstrated the complexities of protein interactions influenced by β-citronellol treatment and highlighted the potential of antifungal activity for future clinical and drug development research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Watunyoo Buakaew
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| | - Rungnapa Pankla Sranujit
- Faculty of Integrative Medicine, Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Chanai Noysang
- Faculty of Integrative Medicine, Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Sucheewin Krobthong
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetic Engineering, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center for Neuroscience, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yodying Yingchutrakul
- Center for Neuroscience, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- National Omics Center, National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Yordhathai Thongsri
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| | - Pachuen Potup
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| | - Krai Daowtak
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| | - Kanchana Usuwanthim
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
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Negm WA, El-Aasr M, Attia G, Alqahtani MJ, Yassien RI, Abo Kamer A, Elekhnawy E. Promising Antifungal Activity of Encephalartos laurentianus de Wild against Candida albicans Clinical Isolates: In Vitro and In Vivo Effects on Renal Cortex of Adult Albino Rats. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8050426. [PMID: 35628682 PMCID: PMC9144060 DOI: 10.3390/jof8050426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans can cause various infections, especially in immunocompromised patients. Its ability to develop resistance to the current antifungal drugs as well as its multiple virulence factors have rendered the problem even more complicated. Thus, in the present investigation, we elucidated an in vitro and in vivo antifungal activity of Encephalartos laurentianus methanol extract (ELME) against C. albicans clinical isolates for the first time. A phytochemical identification of 64 compounds was conducted in ELME using LC-MS/MS. Interestingly, ELME exhibited antifungal activity with MIC values that ranged from 32–256 µg/mL. Furthermore, we investigated the antibiofilm activity of ELME against the biofilms formed by C. albicans isolates. ELME displayed antibiofilm activity using a crystal violet assay as it decreased the percentages of cells, moderately and strongly forming biofilms from 62.5% to 25%. Moreover, the antibiofilm impact of ELME was elucidated using SEM and fluorescent microscope. A significant reduction in the biofilm formation by C. albicans isolates was observed. In addition, we observed that ELME resulted in the downregulation of the biofilm-related tested genes (ALS1, BCR1, PLB2, and SAP5) in 37.5% of the isolates using qRT-PCR. Besides, the in vivo antifungal activity of ELME on the kidney tissues of rats infected with C. albicans was investigated using histological and immunohistochemical studies. ELME was found to protect against C. albicans induced renal damage, decrease desmin and inducible nitric oxide synthase, increase alkaline phosphatase, and increase infected rats’ survival rate. Additionally, the cytotoxicity of ELME was elucidated on Human Skin Fibroblast normal cells using MTT assay. ELME had an IC50 of 31.26 µg/mL. Thus, we can conclude that ELME might be a promising future source for antifungal compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walaa A. Negm
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (M.E.-A.); (G.A.)
- Correspondence: (W.A.N.); (E.E.)
| | - Mona El-Aasr
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (M.E.-A.); (G.A.)
| | - Ghada Attia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt; (M.E.-A.); (G.A.)
| | - Moneerah J. Alqahtani
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS 38677, USA
| | - Rania Ibrahim Yassien
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom 32511, Egypt;
| | - Amal Abo Kamer
- Pharmaceutical Microbiology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt;
| | - Engy Elekhnawy
- Pharmaceutical Microbiology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt;
- Correspondence: (W.A.N.); (E.E.)
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Evaluation of synergistic anticandidal activity of Galenia africana extract and fluconazole against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. J Herb Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2021.100503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Adenophora triphylla var. japonica Inhibits Candida Biofilm Formation, Increases Susceptibility to Antifungal Agents and Reduces Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212523. [PMID: 34830415 PMCID: PMC8624521 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Candida is the most common cause of fungal infections worldwide, but due to the limited option of antifungal therapies, alternative strategies are required. (2) Methods: Adenophora triphylla var. japonica extract was used for the biofilm formation assay using RPMI1640. The combinatorial antifungal assay, the dimorphic transition assay, and the adherence assay were done to see the influence of inhibition of biofilm formation. qRT-PCR analysis were performed to check the gene expression. (3) Results: Adenophora triphylla var. japonica extract inhibited the Candida biofilm formation. Treatment of extract increased the antifungal susceptibility of miconazole from a 37% reduction in fungal growth to 99.05%, and also dose-dependently reduced the dimorphic transition of Candida and the attachment of Candida to HaCaT cells. The extract blocked the expression of hyphal-related genes, extracellular matrix genes, Ras1-cAMP-PKA pathway genes, Cph2-Tec1 pathway gene, and MAP kinase pathway gene. (4) Conclusions: In this study, the treatment of Adenophora triphylla var. japonica extract showed inhibition of fungal biofilm formation, activation of antifungal susceptibility, and reduction of infection. These results suggest that fungal biofilm formation is a good target for the development of antifungal adjuvants, and Adenophora triphylla var. japonica extract should be a good candidate for biofilm-associated fungal infections.
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Hedera rhombea inhibits the biofilm formation of Candida, thereby increases the susceptibility to antifungal agent, and reduces infection. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258108. [PMID: 34614005 PMCID: PMC8494327 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida is an opportunistic pathogen and a common cause of fungal infections worldwide. Anti-fungal use against Candida infections has resulted in the appearance of resistant strains. The limited choice of anti-fungal therapy means alternative strategies are needed to control fungal infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inhibition of Candida biofilm formation by Hedera rhombea (Korean name: songak) extract. Biofilm formation was assessed using the crystal violet assay which showed a dose dependent reduction in the presence of extract with the biofilm formation inhibitory concentration of C. albicans (IC50 = 12.5μg/ml), C. tropicalis var. tropicalis (IC50 = 25μg/ml), C. parapsilosis var. parapsilosis (IC50 = 6.25μg/ml), C. glabrata (IC50 = 6.25μg/ml), C. tropicalis (IC50 = 12.5μg/ml), and C. parapsilosis (IC50 = 12.5μg/ml) without directly reducing Candida growth. Treatment with 6.25μg/mL of extract increased the antifungal susceptibility to miconazole from 32% decreasing of fungal growth to 98.8% of that based on the fungal growth assay. Treatment of extract dose-dependently reduced the dimorphic transition of Candida based on the dimorphic transition assay and treatment of 3.125μg/mL of extract completely blocked the adherence of Candida to the HaCaT cells. To know the molecular mechanisms of biofilm formation inhibition by extract, qRT-PCR analysis was done, and the extract was found to dose dependently reduce the expression of hyphal-associated genes (ALS3, ECE1, HWP1, PGA50, and PBR1), extracellular matrix genes (GSC1, ZAP1, ADH5, and CSH1), Ras1-cAMP-PKA pathway genes (CYR1, EFG1, and RAS1), Cph2-Tec1 pathway gene (TEC1) and MAP kinases pathway gene (HST7). In this study, Hedera rhombea extract showed inhibition of fungal biofilm formation, activation of antifungal susceptibility, and reduction of infection. These results suggest that fungal biofilm formation is good screen for developing the antifungal adjuvant and Hedera rhombea extract should be a good candidate against biofilm-related fungal infection.
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Antifungal activity of dendritic cell lysosomal proteins against Cryptococcus neoformans. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13619. [PMID: 34193926 PMCID: PMC8245489 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92991-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening disease among immune compromised individuals that is caused by the opportunistic fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. Previous studies have shown that the fungus is phagocytosed by dendritic cells (DCs) and trafficked to the lysosome where it is killed by both oxidative and non-oxidative mechanisms. While certain molecules from the lysosome are known to kill or inhibit the growth of C. neoformans, the lysosome is an organelle containing many different proteins and enzymes that are designed to degrade phagocytosed material. We hypothesized that multiple lysosomal components, including cysteine proteases and antimicrobial peptides, could inhibit the growth of C. neoformans. Our study identified the contents of the DC lysosome and examined the anti-cryptococcal properties of different proteins found within the lysosome. Results showed several DC lysosomal proteins affected the growth of C. neoformans in vitro. The proteins that killed or inhibited the fungus did so in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the concentration of protein needed for cryptococcal inhibition was found to be non-cytotoxic to mammalian cells. These data show that many DC lysosomal proteins have antifungal activity and have potential as immune-based therapeutics.
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Carvalho GC, Araujo VHS, Fonseca-Santos B, de Araújo JTC, de Souza MPC, Duarte JL, Chorilli M. Highlights in poloxamer-based drug delivery systems as strategy at local application for vaginal infections. Int J Pharm 2021; 602:120635. [PMID: 33895295 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases related to the vagina include diseases caused by the imbalance of the vaginal flora and by sexually transmitted infections. Some of these present themselves as a public health problem due to the lack of efficient treatment that leads to their complete cure, and others due to the growing resistance to drugs used in therapy. In this sense, new treatment strategies are desirable, with vaginal administration rout being a great choice since can bypass first-pass metabolism and decrease drug interactions and adverse effects. However, it is worth highlighting limitations related to patient's discomfort at application time. Thereby, the use of poloxamer-based drug delivery systems is desirable due its stimuli-sensitive characteristic. Therefore, the present review reports a brief overview of poloxamer properties, biological behavior and advances in poloxamer applications in controlled drug release systems for infectious diseases related to the vagina treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Corrêa Carvalho
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Victor Hugo Sousa Araujo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Bruno Fonseca-Santos
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), 13083-871 Campinas, Brazil
| | | | | | - Jonatas Lobato Duarte
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Marlus Chorilli
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil.
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13
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Dantas-Medeiros R, Zanatta AC, de Souza LBFC, Fernandes JM, Amorim-Carmo B, Torres-Rêgo M, Fernandes-Pedrosa MDF, Vilegas W, Araújo TADS, Michel S, Grougnet R, Chaves GM, Zucolotto SM. Antifungal and Antibiofilm Activities of B-Type Oligomeric Procyanidins From Commiphora leptophloeos Used Alone or in Combination With Fluconazole Against Candida spp. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:613155. [PMID: 33692765 PMCID: PMC7937886 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.613155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Commiphora leptophloeos (Burseraceae) is a medicinal plant native to Brazil which is popularly used for treating oral and vaginal infections. There has been no scientific evidence pointing to its efficacy in the treatment of these infections. Thus, this study sought to investigate the cytotoxic, antifungal, and antibiofilm activity of C. leptophloeos against Candida spp. and to isolate, identify, and quantify the content of B-type oligomeric procyanidins (BDP) in the extract of C. leptophloeos stem bark. The extract and the n-butanol fraction were obtained by maceration and liquid-liquid partition, respectively. Phytochemical analysis performed by HPLC-PDA/ELSD and FIA-ESI-IT-MS/MS allowed the identification and quantification of BDP in the samples. The application of centrifugal partition chromatography helped isolate BDP, which was identified by 1H NMR and MS analyses. Candida spp. reference strains and clinical isolates (including fluconazole-resistant strains) derived from the blood cultures of candidemic patients and the vaginal secretion of patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis were used for evaluating the antifungal and antibiofilm effects. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC) were determined by the microdilution technique, and biofilm inhibition was evaluated through crystal violet and XTT assays. The combined action of BDP with fluconazole was determined by the checkerboard method. The extract, the n-butanol fraction, and the BDP exhibited antifungal activity with MIC values ranging from 312.5 to 2500 μg/mL and were found to significantly reduce the biofilm formed in all the Candida strains investigated. BDP showed a fungicidal potential against strains of Candida spp. (especially against fluconazole-resistant strains), with MIC and MFC values ranging from 156.2 to 2500 μg/mL. In addition, the combined application of BDP and fluconazole produced synergistic antifungal effects against resistant Candida spp. (FICI = 0.31-1.5). The cytotoxic properties of the samples evaluated in human erythrocytes through hemolytic test did not show hemolytic activity under active concentrations. The findings of the study show that C. leptophloeos has antifungal and antibiofilm potential but does not cause toxicity in human erythrocytes. Finally, BDP, which was isolated for the first time in C. leptophloeos, was found to exhibit antifungal effect against Candida spp. either when applied alone or in combination with fluconazole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Dantas-Medeiros
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Ana Caroline Zanatta
- Laboratory of Bioprospecting of Natural Products, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São Paulo, Brazil.,Laboratory of Phytochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Júlia Morais Fernandes
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Bruno Amorim-Carmo
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Manoela Torres-Rêgo
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Matheus de Freitas Fernandes-Pedrosa
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Wagner Vilegas
- Laboratory of Phytochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Sylvie Michel
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Raphaël Grougnet
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Guilherme Maranhão Chaves
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Mycology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Silvana Maria Zucolotto
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
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Amara AAAF. Improving Animal Immunity to Prevent Fungal Infections with Folk Remedies and Advanced Medicine. FUNGAL DISEASES IN ANIMALS 2021:127-162. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-69507-1_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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15
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Recent advances in hydrogels as strategy for drug delivery intended to vaginal infections. Int J Pharm 2020; 590:119867. [PMID: 32919001 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal infections represent a clear women health problem due to the several issues as high recurrence rate, drug resistence and emergence of persistent strains. However, achieving improvements in therapeutic efficacy by using conventional formulations intended to vaginal drug delivery remains as a challenge due to anatomy and physiology of the vagina, since the secretion and renewal of vaginal fluids contribute to the removal of the dosage form. Hydrogels have been widely exploited aiming to achieve drug delivery directly into vaginal mucosa for local therapy due to their attractive features as increased residence time of the drug at the action site and control of drug release rates. Some polymers can aggregate specific properties to hydrogels as mucoadhesive, stimuli-responsive and antimicrobial, improving their interaction with the biological interface and therapeutic response. In this review, we highlight the advances, advantages and challenges of the hydrogels as drug and/or nanocarrier vehicles intended to the treatment of vaginal infections, emphasizing also the polymers and their properties more explored on the design these systems to improve the therapeutic effect on the vaginal tissue. In addition, this review can contribute for better exploitation these systems in search of new local treatments for bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis and trichomoniasis.
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Araujo VHS, Duarte JL, Carvalho GC, Silvestre ALP, Fonseca-Santos B, Marena GD, Ribeiro TDC, Dos Santos Ramos MA, Bauab TM, Chorilli M. Nanosystems against candidiasis: a review of studies performed over the last two decades. Crit Rev Microbiol 2020; 46:508-547. [PMID: 32795108 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2020.1803208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The crescent number of cases of candidiasis and the increase in the number of infections developed by non-albicans species and by multi-resistant strains has taken the attention of the scientific community, which has been searching for new therapeutic alternatives. Among the alternatives found the use of nanosystems for delivery of drugs already commercialized and new biomolecules have grown, in order to increase stability, solubility, optimize efficiency and reduce adverse effects. In view of the growing number of studies involving technological alternatives for the treatment of candidiasis, the present review came with the intention of gathering studies from the last two decades that used nanotechnology for the treatment of candidiasis, as well as analysing them critically and pointing out the future perspectives for their application with this purpose. Different studies were considered for the development of this review, addressing nanosystems such as metallic nanoparticles, mesoporous silica nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, nanoemulsion, microemulsion, solid lipid nanoparticle, nanostructured lipid carrier, lipidic nanocapsules and liquid crystals; and different clinical presentations of candidiasis. As a general overview, nanotechnology has proven to be an important ally for the treatment against the diversity of candidiasis found in the clinic, whether in increasing the effectiveness of commercialized drugs and reducing their adverse effects, as well as allowing exploring more effectively properties therapeutics of new biomolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Hugo Sousa Araujo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jonatas Lobato Duarte
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Corrêa Carvalho
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Bruno Fonseca-Santos
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Davi Marena
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tais de Cassia Ribeiro
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matheus Aparecido Dos Santos Ramos
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Taís Maria Bauab
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marlus Chorilli
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
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