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Bio-energetics Investigation of Candida albicans Using Real-time Extracellular Flux Analysis
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Indole propionic acid induced Ca2+ -dependent apoptosis in Candida albicans

Giyeol Han1, Dong Gun Lee1

  • 1School of Life Sciences, BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea.

IUBMB Life
|November 15, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Indole propionic acid (IPA), a gut microbe metabolite, demonstrates antifungal properties against Candida albicans. IPA induces apoptosis by disrupting mitochondrial function, increasing reactive oxygen species, and triggering programmed cell death.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Indole propionic acid (IPA) is a gut microbiota metabolite primarily involved in cellular respiration.
  • The antimicrobial potential of IPA has not been previously established.
  • Candida albicans is a significant opportunistic fungal pathogen.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the antimicrobial activity of IPA.
  • To elucidate the mechanism of IPA's action against Candida albicans.

Main Methods:

  • Antifungal activity assays against Candida albicans.
  • Monitoring of mitochondrial respiration and NAD+/NADH ratios.
  • Measurement of Ca2+ levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, and ROS production.
  • Analysis of proapoptotic protein release, glutathione levels, DNA fragmentation, phosphatidylserine exposure, and metacaspase activation.

Main Results:

  • IPA exhibited antifungal activity against Candida albicans.
  • IPA treatment modulated mitochondrial respiration, altering NAD+/NADH ratios.
  • IPA induced Ca2+ influx, leading to mitochondrial membrane depolarization and ROS accumulation.
  • IPA triggered apoptosis in Candida albicans, evidenced by DNA fragmentation, phosphatidylserine exposure, and metacaspase activation.

Conclusions:

  • Indole propionic acid effectively inhibits Candida albicans growth.
  • IPA induces apoptosis in Candida albicans through calcium-dependent mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress.
  • IPA represents a potential therapeutic agent against fungal infections.
Keywords:
Candida albicansapoptosiscalciumindole propionic acidreactive oxygen species

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