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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
08:48
Bio-energetics Investigation of Candida albicans Using Real-time Extracellular Flux Analysis
Published on: March 19, 2019
Targeting Candida albicans Infections through Synergistic Phytochemical and Antifungal Combinations
Arya Sharma1, Harshita Singhai1, Sunny Rathee1
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, 470003, India.
Current Pharmaceutical Design
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Combining plant compounds with antifungal drugs boosts efficacy against Candida albicans. This strategy enhances treatment, reduces resistance, and lowers toxicity for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Candida albicans poses a significant clinical threat due to its invasive potential and ability to cause systemic infections, especially in immunocompromised patients.
- Widespread use of conventional antifungals has led to resistance and toxicity, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches.
- Phytochemicals show promise in combination therapy against C. albicans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review synergistic interactions between phytochemicals and conventional antifungal agents against Candida albicans.
- To elucidate the multi-targeted mechanisms underlying this synergy.
- To highlight the potential for reducing antifungal resistance and drug toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating phytochemical-antifungal combinations.
- Analysis of mechanistic data on synergistic interactions.
- Evaluation of effects on fungal virulence, biofilm formation, and drug susceptibility.
Main Results:
- Phytochemicals potentiate the activity of azoles, polyenes, and echinocandins against C. albicans.
- Synergistic mechanisms include disruption of fungal cell membranes, inhibition of efflux pumps, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress.
- Combinations impair virulence, inhibit biofilms, enhance susceptibility, and improve treatment outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Combining phytochemicals with conventional antifungals offers a promising strategy to combat C. albicans infections.
- This approach effectively reduces antifungal resistance and minimizes drug toxicity by allowing lower conventional drug doses.
- Multi-targeted mechanisms underlying synergy enhance therapeutic efficacy and improve patient outcomes.
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