Amphibian-Derived Peptide Analog TB_KKG6K: A Powerful Drug Candidate Against Candida albicans with Anti-Biofilm...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• * *Candida albicans* is an opportunistic fungal pathogen causing significant clinical issues, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
• * Biofilm formation by *C. albicans* on medical devices increases antifungal resistance and complicates treatment.
• * Novel therapeutic agents are needed to combat *C. albicans* infections effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To evaluate the antifungal activity of the amphibian-derived peptide TB_KKG6K against *Candida albicans*.
• * To assess the peptide's efficacy against planktonic cells and biofilms.
• * To determine its potential for combination therapy with existing antifungal drugs.

Main Methods:

• * Broth microdilution assays were used to determine the fungicidal activity of TB_KKG6K against planktonic *C. albicans*.
• * Biofilm inhibition assays were performed on silicone elastomers to evaluate TB_KKG6K's effect on biofilm maturation.
• * Combination studies were conducted with amphotericin B and caspofungin.

Main Results:

• * TB_KKG6K demonstrated potent fungicidal activity against planktonic *C. albicans* with low resistance potential.
• * The peptide effectively inhibited the maturation of *C. albicans* biofilms on silicone elastomers.
• * TB_KKG6K showed additive fungicidal interaction with amphotericin B and caspofungin, without compromising their efficacy.

Conclusions:

• * TB_KKG6K is a promising antifungal agent with potent activity against both planktonic and biofilm-associated *C. albicans*.
• * Its combination with existing antifungals enhances fungicidal action.
• * TB_KKG6K represents a potential therapeutic candidate for managing challenging *C. albicans* infections.