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Metal Nanoparticles to Combat Candida albicans Infections: An Update
Paulo Henrique Fonseca do Carmo1, Maíra Terra Garcia1, Lívia Mara Alves Figueiredo-Godoi1
1Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (Unesp), São José dos Campos 12245-000, SP, Brazil.
Abstract:
Candidiasis is an opportunistic mycosis with high annual incidence worldwide. In these infections, Candida albicans is the chief pathogen owing to its multiple virulence factors. C. albicans infections are usually treated with azoles, polyenes and echinocandins. However, these antifungals may have limitations regarding toxicity, relapse of infections, high cost, and emergence of antifungal resistance. Thus, the development of nanocarrier systems, such as metal nanoparticles, has been widely investigated. Metal nanoparticles are particulate dispersions or solid particles 10-100 nm in size, with unique physical and chemical properties that make them useful in biomedical applications. In this review, we focus on the activity of silver, gold, and iron nanoparticles against C. albicans. We discuss the use of metal nanoparticles as delivery vehicles for antifungal drugs or natural compounds to increase their biocompatibility and effectiveness. Promisingly, most of these nanoparticles exhibit potential antifungal activity through multi-target mechanisms in C. albicans cells and biofilms, which can minimize the emergence of antifungal resistance. The cytotoxicity of metal nanoparticles is a concern, and adjustments in synthesis approaches or coating techniques have been addressed to overcome these limitations, with great emphasis on green synthesis.
Insights
Metal nanoparticles show promise in combating Candida albicans infections, offering a novel approach to overcome antifungal resistance and improve treatment efficacy. Research highlights their potential as drug delivery systems and their multi-target mechanisms against fungal cells and biofilms.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Candidiasis, a common fungal infection, is primarily caused by Candida albicans.
- Current antifungal treatments (azoles, polyenes, echinocandins) face challenges like toxicity, resistance, and high costs.
- Metal nanoparticles are explored as alternative therapeutic agents due to their unique properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the antifungal activity of silver, gold, and iron nanoparticles against Candida albicans.
- To explore the use of metal nanoparticles as carriers for existing antifungal drugs or natural compounds.
- To assess the potential of metal nanoparticles in overcoming antifungal resistance.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on metal nanoparticles and their activity against Candida albicans.
- Analysis of nanoparticle properties, synthesis methods (including green synthesis), and applications in drug delivery.
- Evaluation of mechanisms of action against planktonic cells and biofilms.
Main Results:
- Silver, gold, and iron nanoparticles demonstrate significant antifungal activity against Candida albicans.
- Nanoparticles can enhance the efficacy and biocompatibility of antifungal drugs and natural compounds.
- Multi-target mechanisms of nanoparticles show potential in minimizing antifungal resistance.
- Green synthesis approaches are being developed to address nanoparticle cytotoxicity.
Conclusions:
- Metal nanoparticles represent a promising strategy for managing Candida albicans infections.
- Their application as delivery systems and their inherent antifungal properties offer a way to combat resistance.
- Further research into synthesis and formulation is needed to optimize their therapeutic use.
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