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Molecular Mapping of Antifungal Mechanisms Accessing Biomaterials and New Agents to Target Oral Candidiasis
Valentina Anuța1, Marina-Theodora Talianu1, Cristina-Elena Dinu-Pîrvu1
1Department of Physical and Colloidal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Str., 020950 Bucharest, Romania.
Abstract:
Oral candidiasis has a high rate of development, especially in immunocompromised patients. Immunosuppressive and cytotoxic therapies in hospitalized HIV and cancer patients are known to induce the poor management of adverse reactions, where local and systemic candidiasis become highly resistant to conventional antifungal therapy. The development of oral candidiasis is triggered by several mechanisms that determine oral epithelium imbalances, resulting in poor local defense and a delayed immune system response. As a result, pathogenic fungi colonies disseminate and form resistant biofilms, promoting serious challenges in initiating a proper therapeutic protocol. Hence, this study of the literature aimed to discuss possibilities and new trends through antifungal therapy for buccal drug administration. A large number of studies explored the antifungal activity of new agents or synergic components that may enhance the effect of classic drugs. It was of significant interest to find connections between smart biomaterials and their activity, to find molecular responses and mechanisms that can conquer the multidrug resistance of fungi strains, and to transpose them into a molecular map. Overall, attention is focused on the nanocolloids domain, nanoparticles, nanocomposite synthesis, and the design of polymeric platforms to satisfy sustained antifungal activity and high biocompatibility with the oral mucosa.
Insights
This literature review explores novel antifungal therapies for oral candidiasis, focusing on advanced drug delivery systems. New trends in nanomedicine and smart biomaterials offer promising solutions for combating drug-resistant fungal infections in immunocompromised patients.
Area of Science:
- Oral medicine
- Mycology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Oral candidiasis is prevalent in immunocompromised individuals, often developing resistance to standard antifungal treatments.
- Hospitalized HIV and cancer patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapies are particularly susceptible to severe, drug-resistant oral candidiasis.
- Fungal biofilms exacerbate treatment challenges by promoting multidrug resistance and hindering effective therapeutic protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging trends and possibilities in antifungal therapy for buccal drug administration.
- To explore novel agents, synergistic components, and smart biomaterials for enhanced antifungal efficacy.
- To identify molecular mechanisms for overcoming multidrug resistance in oral fungal pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of antifungal strategies for oral candidiasis.
- Analysis of studies investigating new antifungal agents and synergistic combinations.
- Exploration of nanocolloids, nanoparticles, nanocomposites, and polymeric platforms for drug delivery.
Main Results:
- Numerous studies highlight the antifungal activity of novel agents and synergistic components.
- Smart biomaterials show potential in enhancing antifungal efficacy and overcoming resistance.
- Nanomaterials and polymeric platforms are being developed for sustained drug release and improved oral mucosa biocompatibility.
Conclusions:
- Nanomedicine, including nanoparticles and nanocomposites, presents a promising frontier for developing effective treatments against multidrug-resistant oral candidiasis.
- Smart biomaterials and advanced polymeric platforms offer sustained antifungal activity and high biocompatibility for oral drug delivery.
- Further research into molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies is crucial for conquering resistant fungal strains in vulnerable patient populations.
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