Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026
Systematic Approach to Identify Novel Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Molecules from Plants' Extracts and Fractions to Prevent Dental Caries
Published on: March 31, 2021
Methylcellulose Hydrogel with Melissa officinalis Essential Oil as a Potential Treatment for Oral Candidiasis
Elisa Serra1, Fabien Saubade1, Cosimo Ligorio2
1Microbiology at Interfaces, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M1 5GD, UK.
Abstract:
Candida spp. are the most prevalent fungi of the human microbiota and are opportunistic pathogens that can cause oral candidiasis. Management of such infections is limited due to the low number of antifungal drugs available, their relatively high toxicity and the emergence of antifungal resistance. Therefore, much interest in the antimicrobial potential of natural compounds has recently been evident. The use of hydrogels in the delivery of biocides has been explored due to their biocompatibility, ease with drug encapsulation, and due to their potential to confer mechanical and structural properties similar to biological tissue. Methylcellulose hydrogels (10% (w/v)) with 1% (v/v) and 2% (v/v) Melissa officinalis oil were synthesised. The rheological properties and gelation time of the hydrogels were evaluated. Antimicrobial action, the antifungal potential and ability to displace Candida were determined. Rheological tests revealed that the hydrogel jellified in three minutes at 37 °C. Loaded hydrogels successfully inhibited Candida albicans growth as evident by zone of inhibition and time-kill assays. A significant reduction in retained C. albicans was demonstrated with the hydrogel at 2% Melissa officinalis concentration. This work demonstrated that an essential oil-loaded hydrogel had the potential to provide a novel antimicrobial therapy for the treatment of oral candidiasis.
Insights
This study developed a methylcellulose hydrogel containing Melissa officinalis oil to combat oral candidiasis. The hydrogel effectively inhibited Candida albicans growth, offering a potential new therapy for fungal infections.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Biomaterials Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Candida species are common human microbiota, but can cause opportunistic oral infections like candidiasis.
- Limited antifungal drugs, toxicity, and resistance necessitate novel therapeutic strategies.
- Natural compounds and hydrogel drug delivery systems show promise for antimicrobial applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and evaluate methylcellulose hydrogels loaded with Melissa officinalis essential oil for treating oral candidiasis.
- To assess the antimicrobial and antifungal properties of these hydrogels against Candida species.
- To determine the potential of this formulation as a novel therapeutic agent.
Main Methods:
- Methylcellulose hydrogels (10% w/v) were synthesized with varying concentrations (1% and 2% v/v) of Melissa officinalis oil.
- Rheological properties and gelation time at 37°C were evaluated.
- Antimicrobial activity, antifungal potential, and Candida displacement were assessed using zone of inhibition and time-kill assays.
Main Results:
- The hydrogels demonstrated rapid gelation within three minutes at 37°C.
- Hydrogels loaded with Melissa officinalis oil effectively inhibited Candida albicans growth.
- A significant reduction in Candida albicans was observed with the 2% Melissa officinalis concentration.
Conclusions:
- Methylcellulose hydrogels loaded with Melissa officinalis essential oil show significant potential as a novel antimicrobial therapy.
- This formulation could offer a new treatment option for oral candidiasis.
- The study highlights the efficacy of natural compounds delivered via hydrogels against fungal pathogens.
