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Antifungal Potential of Streptomyces-Derived Metabolites Against Fluconazole-Resistant Oral Candida albicans: In vitro Evaluation and Mechanistic Insights

Summary

Researchers studied a type of soil bacteria called Streptomyces that produces natural compounds with strong antifungal properties. These compounds effectively killed drug-resistant Candida fungal infections that commonly affect cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. The bacterial extract worked by damaging fungal cell membranes and blocking biofilm formation, which are protective structures the fungus uses to survive. While the results are promising for treating stubborn fungal infections, more research is needed to ensure safety for human patients.

Background

Oropharyngeal candidiasis caused by C. albicans is a common opportunistic fungal infection in head and neck cancer patients. The emergence of fluconazole-resistant strains has increased morbidity and mortality rates. Streptomyces bacteria produce bioactive metabolites with antimicrobial properties.

Objective

To investigate the antifungal potential of S. monomycini strain 615 metabolites against fluconazole-resistant C. albicans clinical isolates. The study evaluated pathogenic factors including protease activity, biofilm formation, and virulence gene expression.

Results

The extract showed strong antifungal activity with MIC values of 0.0008-0.0035 µg/ml. It completely inhibited phospholipase and proteinase activities, reduced ergosterol content by 31.81%, suppressed biofilm formation, and downregulated virulence genes. Cytotoxicity at highest concentration was 76.7% in esophageal epithelial cells.

Conclusion

S. monomycini strain 615 shows promise as an alternative or adjunct therapy for fluconazole-resistant oropharyngeal candidiasis in head and neck cancer patients. Further research is needed to identify active metabolites, confirm safety, and assess clinical efficacy.
  • Published in:Iran Biomedical Journal,
  • Study Type:In vitro Evaluation Study,
  • Source: 10.61186/ibj.4937, PMID: 40384316
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