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The Inhibitory Effects of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Clinical Isolates of Malassezia in Dogs
Alaleh Vazifehdust1, Donya Nikaein2, Matin Mozafari1
1Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
Introduction:
Malassezia pachydermatis is frequently detected among the microflora of endothermic vertebrates, acts opportunistically, and contributes to the development of dermatitis and otitis in humans and animals. Treating chronic or recurrent cases of external otitis can pose a challenge, and replacing common antibiotics and antifungal agents with nanoparticles can be crucial in mitigating drug resistance. The present study investigated zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles' antifungal effects on Malassezia pachydermatis clinical isolates and Phospholipase A2 and Aspartyl proteinase gene expression.
Materials And Methods:
Zinc oxide nanoparticles were prepared using the direct precipitation method at a concentration of 2000 ppm. Its antifungal potential was evaluated at concentrations of 1.95 to 2000 ppm by disk diffusion and micro-dilution methods against ten isolates of Malassezia pachydermatis. The effect of this product on Phospholipase A2 and Aspartyl proteinase gene expression was investigated by Quantitative real-time PCR method.
Results:
The results of the disk diffusion test showed that the highest inhibitory diameter was at the highest concentration of ZnO nanoparticles (23.9 mm), and the inhibitory zone was observed in dilutions up to 250 ppm. The minimum inhibitory concentration of ZnO nanoparticles was between 3.90 and 7.81 ppm, and the minimum fungicidal concentration was between 7.81 and 15.62 ppm. There was a significant reduction in Phospholipase A2 and Aspartyl proteinase gene expression in sub-MIC concentration (1.95-3.90 ppm) (p < 0.05).
Conclusion:
The present study provides evidence of the concentration-dependent antifungal activity of ZnO nanoparticles on Malassezia pachydermatis and suggests that they may be a viable alternative to traditional antifungal agents. Further research is necessary to explore the safety and efficacy of these nanoparticles in vivo.
Insights
Zinc oxide nanoparticles show significant antifungal activity against Malassezia pachydermatis, reducing gene expression of key virulence factors. These nanoparticles offer a promising alternative to conventional antifungal treatments for dermatitis and otitis.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Nanotechnology
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Malassezia pachydermatis is a common opportunistic pathogen causing dermatitis and otitis in humans and animals.
- Antimicrobial resistance necessitates exploring novel therapeutic agents like nanoparticles.
- Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are investigated for their potential antifungal properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the antifungal efficacy of ZnO nanoparticles against clinical isolates of Malassezia pachydermatis.
- To assess the impact of ZnO nanoparticles on the expression of Phospholipase A2 and Aspartyl proteinase genes.
Main Methods:
- ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized via direct precipitation.
- Antifungal activity was determined using disk diffusion and micro-dilution methods.
- Quantitative real-time PCR was employed to analyze gene expression.
Main Results:
- ZnO nanoparticles exhibited concentration-dependent antifungal effects, with inhibition zones up to 250 ppm.
- Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranged from 3.90 to 7.81 ppm.
- Significant reduction in Phospholipase A2 and Aspartyl proteinase gene expression was observed at sub-MIC concentrations.
Conclusions:
- ZnO nanoparticles demonstrate potent antifungal activity against Malassezia pachydermatis.
- They represent a potential alternative to traditional antifungal drugs, particularly in combating resistance.
- Further in vivo studies are warranted to confirm safety and efficacy.
