Interkingdom interaction between C. albicans and S. salivarius on titanium surfaces

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Oral Biology
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Candida albicans and Streptococcus salivarius biofilms exhibit antagonism in oral candidiasis.
• S. salivarius has been explored as a probiotic due to this interaction.
• The interaction in peri-implantitis microenvironments under reduced oxygen is unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the interaction between C. albicans and S. salivarius biofilms on titanium surfaces.
• To assess their behavior under reduced oxygen conditions relevant to peri-implantitis.

Main Methods:

• Biofilms of C. albicans and co-cultures with S. salivarius were developed on titanium for 24 and 72 hours.
• Assessed cell viability (CFU/mL), biofilm biomass, and total protein.
• Analyzed co-culture biofilms using fluorescence microscopy.

Main Results:

• C. albicans growth was not affected by S. salivarius presence.
• Co-culture biofilms showed increased viable cells and biomass at 72 hours compared to 24 hours.
• Fluorescence microscopy revealed increased C. albicans hyphal forms and S. salivarius clusters at 72 hours.

Conclusions:

• S. salivarius co-cultivation did not inhibit C. albicans growth or virulence on titanium under low oxygen.
• S. salivarius did not hinder C. albicans virulence factors.
• These findings indicate S. salivarius may be ineffective as a probiotic for peri-implant disease treatment.