Differential Sensitivities of various growth modes of Candida albicans to sixteen molecules of plant origin

Abstract

Candida albicans is opportunistic fungal human pathogen. Candida infections are becoming serious concern in immuno-comprised patients. Targeting of virulence factor can be an effective strategy to combat against C. albicans infections. Invasive growth is considered as crucial factor involved in virulence of C. albicans. Studies regarding drug sensitivity of invasive mode of growth are lacking. Sixteen molecules of plant origin were analyzed to test their efficacy against invasive, peripheral filamentous and total growth of C. albicans. Out of sixteen molecules, only four molecules i.e. Carvacrol, Geraniol, Eugenol and Geranyl acetate were specific inhibitors of invasive growth and their MIC values are presented in this communication. Fourteen molecules showed inhibitory activity against peripheral filamentous growth. Toxicity studies were done using human erythrocytes. These molecules showed negligible hemolytic activity at their MIC values. In addition, these molecules inhibited cell cycle division cycle. These molecules may be of use in developing novel drugs against candidiasis.