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Exploring the Antifungal Potential of Lawsone-Loaded Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata: Growth Inhibition and Biofilm Disruption

Summary

Researchers developed a new antifungal treatment by loading lawsone (a compound from henna plants) into tiny particles called mesoporous silica nanoparticles. When tested against common fungal infections caused by Candida bacteria, this nano-formulation was more effective than lawsone alone at killing the fungi and breaking down protective biofilm structures. The treatment showed no harm to normal human cells, suggesting it could be a promising natural alternative to treat stubborn fungal infections that resist current antifungal drugs.

Background

Fungal infections caused by Candida albicans and Candida glabrata are rising globally with limited antifungal drug options. The emergence of drug-resistant strains and the ability of Candida to form biofilms present significant therapeutic challenges. Lawsone (LAW), a natural compound from Henna (Lawsonia inermis), has traditional use in treating fungal infections but has limited bioavailability.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal effects of lawsone and lawsone-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (LAW-MSNs) against fluconazole-resistant and fluconazole-susceptible Candida isolates. The research focused on growth inhibition, biofilm formation, and expression of adhesion genes ALS1 and EPA1.

Results

LAW and LAW-MSNs inhibited Candida growth with MIC ranges of 0.31->5 µg/mL, with LAW-MSNs showing superior efficacy. Both compounds significantly reduced biofilm formation, with LAW-MSNs reducing biofilm to 9% in fluconazole-susceptible C. albicans. Both compounds downregulated ALS1 and EPA1 adhesion genes, with LAW-MSNs demonstrating greater effectiveness (fold changes of 0.2-0.3).

Conclusion

LAW emerged as a promising antifungal agent, with nano-formulation (LAW-MSNs) significantly improving antifungal properties and biofilm inhibition. The compounds showed no cytotoxic effects on normal human fibroblast cells at tested concentrations. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are warranted to establish LAW-MSNs as a novel antifungal therapeutic option.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:In vitro experimental study,
  • Source: PMID: 40558939, DOI: 10.3390/jof11060427
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