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Antifungal potential of Rhinacanthus nasutus extracts against the pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus neoformans

Summary

Researchers studied snake jasmine (Rhinacanthus nasutus), a plant used in traditional Thai medicine, to see if it could fight fungal infections caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, a dangerous pathogen that kills many people worldwide. They found that extract from the plant’s roots effectively slowed fungal growth and weakened the pathogen’s defenses by reducing its ability to produce protective melanin and capsules. Importantly, when combined with amphotericin B, a common antifungal drug, the plant extract worked even better together, suggesting it could enhance existing treatments.

Background

Rhinacanthus nasutus (snake jasmine) has been used in traditional Thai medicine to treat various ailments including fungal infections. Cryptococcus neoformans is a globally distributed pathogenic yeast that causes severe cryptococcal infections with high mortality rates, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Current treatment options are limited by inaccessibility, emerging resistance, and significant side effects.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the antifungal activity of R. nasutus extracts and their impact on virulence factors of Cryptococcus neoformans. The research evaluated the effects of leaf, root, and combined extracts on fungal growth and key pathogenic mechanisms.

Results

The root extract demonstrated the strongest antifungal effect, particularly against C. neoformans. Treatment resulted in reduced melanin production, decreased cell and capsule sizes, and cellular structural abnormalities. The root extract showed near-synergistic activity when combined with amphotericin B (FIC index 0.5612), while showing additive effects with fluconazole and 5-fluorocytosine.

Conclusion

R. nasutus root extract demonstrates significant antifungal potential against C. neoformans by inhibiting key virulence factors and enhancing the activity of existing antifungal drugs. These findings provide scientific basis for traditional use and suggest potential for developing plant-based therapeutic options for cryptococcosis.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:In vitro experimental study,
  • Source: PMID: 41417760, DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0339279
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