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Antifungal Effects of Pterostilbene on Candida albicans, Candida dubliniensis, and Microcosm Biofilms of Denture Stomatitis

Summary

Pterostilbene, a natural compound found in blueberries and grapes, has been shown to effectively kill Candida fungi that cause denture-related mouth infections. In laboratory tests, it successfully eliminated fungal cells and disrupted harmful biofilms within 8 hours. When tested in a living organism model, pterostilbene proved safe and reduced infection severity, suggesting it could be a promising natural alternative to conventional antifungal medications.

Background

Candida infections affecting the oral cavity, particularly denture stomatitis, represent a significant clinical challenge due to emerging antifungal resistance and limitations of conventional therapies. Natural compound-based strategies, particularly polyphenols, have gained attention as alternatives to conventional antifungal therapies. Pterostilbene is a naturally occurring polyphenol with documented antimicrobial properties.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the antifungal activity of the polyphenol pterostilbene against clinical Candida isolates and microcosm biofilms from denture stomatitis patients. The research also evaluated its toxicity and therapeutic efficacy using the Galleria mellonella experimental candidiasis model.

Results

Pterostilbene exhibited fungicidal effects against C. albicans and C. dubliniensis at 32 µg/mL with complete inhibition within 8 hours. It demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against microcosm biofilms, significantly reducing streptococci, mutans streptococci, staphylococci, and yeast counts. Prophylactic treatment enhanced larval survival in experimental candidiasis and reduced fungal burden of C. albicans in hemolymph without altering hemocyte recruitment.

Conclusion

Pterostilbene demonstrated potent antifungal activity against Candida planktonic cells and complex heterotypic biofilms associated with denture stomatitis. The compound exhibited favorable biocompatibility and in vivo antifungal efficacy in the G. mellonella model, particularly when administered prophylactically. Further studies are warranted to elucidate mechanisms against non-albicans Candida species using larger clinical isolate numbers.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:In vitro and in vivo experimental study,
  • Source: PMID: 41440696, DOI: 10.3390/jof11120869
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