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Antifungal activity of ovotransferrin towards genus Candida
Abstract:
The inhibiting activity of ovotransferrin was tested towards different species belonging to genus Candida. Of one hundred strains tested, only C. krusei showed a noticeable resistance, while the other species appeared to be more sensitive than bacteria to the action of ovotransferrin. The influence of anions, such as bicarbonate and citrate, on the inhibiting activity of ovotransferrin was also investigated. Moreover it was observed that iron saturated ovotransferrin retained its activity, thus suggesting an interaction between the protein and Candida cells.
Insights
Ovotransferrin exhibits significant antifungal activity against most Candida species, with C. krusei showing resistance. Iron saturation does not impede ovotransferrin
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Antimicrobial Research
Background:
- Candida species are opportunistic fungal pathogens.
- Ovotransferrin is a major glycoprotein in egg white with known antimicrobial properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the antifungal activity of ovotransferrin against various Candida species.
- To investigate factors influencing ovotransferrin's inhibitory action.
Main Methods:
- Testing ovotransferrin's inhibitory activity against 100 Candida strains.
- Assessing the impact of anions (bicarbonate, citrate) on activity.
- Investigating the effect of iron saturation on ovotransferrin's efficacy.
Main Results:
- Most Candida species were sensitive to ovotransferrin, more so than bacteria.
- Candida krusei demonstrated notable resistance.
- Iron-saturated ovotransferrin retained its inhibitory activity.
Conclusions:
- Ovotransferrin possesses broad-spectrum antifungal activity against Candida.
- The mechanism may involve direct interaction between ovotransferrin and Candida cells.
- Further research into iron-saturated ovotransferrin's activity is warranted.