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Published on: February 8, 2016
Application of Probiotic Yeasts on Candida Species Associated Infection
Lohith Kunyeit1,2,3, Anu-Appaiah K A1,2, Reeta P Rao3
1Department of Microbiology and Fermentation Technology, CSIR- Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysuru 570020, India.
Abstract:
Superficial and life-threatening invasive Candida infections are a major clinical challenge in hospitalized and immuno-compromised patients. Emerging drug-resistance among Candida species is exacerbated by the limited availability of antifungals and their associated side-effects. In the current review, we discuss the application of probiotic yeasts as a potential alternative/ combination therapy against Candida infections. Preclinical studies have identified several probiotic yeasts that effectively inhibit virulence of Candida species, including Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, Candida krusei and Candida auris. However, Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii is the only probiotic yeast commercially available. In addition, clinical studies have further confirmed the in vitro and in vivo activity of the probiotic yeasts against Candida species. Probiotics use a variety of protective mechanisms, including posing a physical barrier, the ability to aggregate pathogens and render them avirulent. Secreted metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids effectively inhibit the adhesion and morphological transition of Candida species. Overall, the probiotic yeasts could be a promising effective alternative or combination therapy for Candida infections. Additional studies would bolster the application of probiotic yeasts.
Insights
Probiotic yeasts show promise as an alternative or combination therapy for invasive Candida infections, offering natural mechanisms to combat drug-resistant strains. Further research will solidify their clinical application against challenging fungal infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Invasive Candida infections pose significant challenges, particularly in immunocompromised patients, due to emerging antifungal resistance and limited treatment options.
- Existing antifungals have potential side effects, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies.
- Probiotic yeasts are being investigated as a potential alternative or adjunctive therapy against Candida species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current evidence on the application of probiotic yeasts against invasive Candida infections.
- To highlight the mechanisms by which probiotic yeasts exert their anti-Candida effects.
- To assess the potential of probiotic yeasts as a viable therapeutic option.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical and clinical studies investigating probiotic yeasts and their efficacy against various Candida species.
- Analysis of the identified mechanisms of action, including physical barriers, pathogen aggregation, and metabolite production.
- Evaluation of the clinical relevance and potential of Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii and other probiotic yeasts.
Main Results:
- Several probiotic yeasts demonstrate inhibitory effects against key Candida species, including Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, Candida krusei, and Candida auris.
- Probiotics employ mechanisms such as physical barrier formation, pathogen aggregation, and secretion of inhibitory metabolites like short-chain fatty acids.
- Clinical studies support the in vitro and in vivo anti-Candida activity of probiotic yeasts.
Conclusions:
- Probiotic yeasts represent a promising alternative or combination therapy for managing Candida infections.
- Their natural mechanisms of action offer a potential solution to combat drug-resistant Candida strains.
- Further research is warranted to fully establish the clinical utility of probiotic yeasts in treating invasive fungal infections.
