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Published on: December 28, 2017
Extracts from Argentinian native plants exhibit antifungal activity against multidrug-resistant Candida species
Alejandro N Etchecopaz1, Lucia S Di Ciaccio2, Katherine Hermida Alava3
1Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Cátedra de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Abstract:
Infections caused by the genus Candida have acquired considerable significance in recent years due to the enhanced susceptibility of immunocompromised hosts. There have been increasing reports of multidrug resistance (MDR) in several Candida species, posing a major hurdle to antifungal therapy. Accordingly, exploring and developing novel anti-Candida agents has become a priority. In this study, we assessed the antifungal activity of seven methanolic extracts from the Argentinian native plants Peltophorum dubium, Schinus areira, Parastrephia quadrangularis and Lantana balansae against clinical isolates of different wild-type and MDR isolates of Candida. Synergism with fluconazole was also evaluated. All plant extracts showed antifungal activities against different Candida species, including MDR isolates such as C. haemulonii. Highly active extracts from these native plants provide promising sources of compounds for potentiating the antifungal effect of fluconazole. Further investigation of the chemical constituents of the extracts and their cytotoxicity is needed to develop plant-derived anti-Candida agents.
Insights
Novel Argentinian plant extracts show antifungal activity against drug-resistant Candida infections. These natural compounds may enhance existing antifungal treatments, offering new hope against difficult-to-treat Candida species.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Mycology
- Ethnobotany
Background:
- Candida genus infections are a growing concern, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
- Multidrug resistance (MDR) in Candida species presents a significant challenge to current antifungal therapies.
- Development of new anti-Candida agents is a critical research priority.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the antifungal potential of seven Argentinian native plant extracts.
- To assess the activity of these extracts against wild-type and MDR Candida isolates.
- To investigate potential synergistic effects with fluconazole.
Main Methods:
- Methanolic extracts from Peltophorum dubium, Schinus areira, Parastrephia quadrangularis, and Lantana balansae were prepared.
- Antifungal activity was tested against clinical isolates of various Candida species, including MDR strains.
- Synergistic effects with fluconazole were evaluated.
Main Results:
- All seven plant extracts demonstrated antifungal activity against tested Candida species.
- Activity was observed against multidrug-resistant isolates, including Candida haemulonii.
- Extracts showed potential for enhancing the efficacy of fluconazole.
Conclusions:
- Argentinian native plants are a promising source for novel anti-Candida compounds.
- These plant extracts could be valuable in combating MDR Candida infections.
- Further research into chemical constituents and cytotoxicity is warranted for drug development.
