Curcumin@ graphene oxide/chitosan/arginine hydrogel: A novel approach to treat Candida periprosthetic joint infections

Candida albicans, responsible for nearly 70% of fungal infections, is a leading cause of life-threatening invasive infections, particularly in healthcare settings, with a mortality rate approaching 40% even after medical treatment. This study introduces a novel antifungal agent such as Curcumin@Graphene Oxide/Chitosan/Arginine nanocomposite hydrogel (Cur@GO/CS/Arg), targeting Candida albicans, a primary cause of periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs). The hydrogel exhibited remarkable antifungal efficacy, characterized by a 17 mm inhibition zone, a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 1.25 mg/ml, and a minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of 2.5 mg/ml, confirming its fungicidal properties based on the tolerance ratio. Additionally, it significantly reduced biofilm formation, highlighting its potent antifungal action. Furthermore, it demonstrated excellent biosafety, as evidenced by a minimal hemolytic effect at 50 μg/ml. These findings underscore the synergistic interactions among curcumin, graphene oxide, chitosan, and arginine, which enhance antifungal activity. This study offers a promising strategy for managing Candida albicans-associated PJIs, enabling safer and more effective treatment.