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Yue D, Zheng D, Bai Y, Yang L, Yong J, Li Y. Insights into the anti-Candida albicans properties of natural phytochemicals: An in vitro and in vivo investigation. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2518-2538. [PMID: 38450815 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Invasive candidiasis, attributed to Candida albicans, has long been a formidable threat to human health. Despite the advent of effective therapeutics in recent decades, the mortality rate in affected patient populations remains discouraging. This is exacerbated by the emergence of multidrug resistance, significantly limiting the utility of conventional antifungals. Consequently, researchers are compelled to continuously explore novel solutions. Natural phytochemicals present a potential adjunct to the existing arsenal of agents. Previous studies have substantiated the efficacy of phytochemicals against C. albicans. Emerging evidence also underscores the promising application of phytochemicals in the realm of antifungal treatment. This review systematically delineates the inhibitory activity of phytochemicals, both in monotherapy and combination therapy, against C. albicans in both in vivo and in vitro settings. Moreover, it elucidates the mechanisms underpinning the antifungal properties, encompassing (i) cell wall and plasma membrane damage, (ii) inhibition of efflux pumps, (iii) induction of mitochondrial dysfunction, and (iv) inhibition of virulence factors. Subsequently, the review introduces the substantial potential of nanotechnology and photodynamic technology in enhancing the bioavailability of phytochemicals. Lastly, it discusses current limitations and outlines future research priorities, emphasizing the need for high-quality research to comprehensively establish the clinical efficacy and safety of phytochemicals in treating fungal infections. This review aims to inspire further contemplation and recommendations for the effective integration of natural phytochemicals in the development of new medicines for patients afflicted with C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daifan Yue
- College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dongming Zheng
- College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuxin Bai
- College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Linlan Yang
- College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiangyan Yong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Li
- College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Balakrishnan D, Lee CI. Photodynamic impact of curcumin enhanced silver functionalized graphene nanocomposites on Candida virulence. DISCOVER NANO 2024; 19:71. [PMID: 38683264 PMCID: PMC11058173 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-024-04017-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Candida species are escalating resistance to conventional antifungal treatments, intensifying their virulence, and obstructing the effectiveness of antifungal medications. Addressing this challenge is essential for effectively managing Candida infections. The overarching objective is to advance the development of more efficient and precise therapies tailored to counter Candida infections. This study focuses on developing antifungal combined drugs using curcumin-enhanced silver-functionalized graphene nanocomposites (Cur-AgrGO) to effectively target key virulence factors of C. albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. glabrata (Candida spp.). The green reduction of graphene oxide (GO) using bioentities and active molecules makes this approach cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The nanocomposites were characterized using various techniques. Combining Cur-AgrGO with photodynamic therapy (PDT) demonstrated effective antifungal and antibiofilm activity with delayed growth and metabolism. The nanocomposites effectively suppressed hyphal transition and reduced key virulence factors, including proteinases, phospholipases, ergosterol levels, and cell membrane integrity. The findings suggest that Cur-AgrGO + PDT has potential as a treatment option for Candida infections. This innovative approach holds promise for treating Candida infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cheng-I Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, National Chung Cheng University, Min-Hsiung, Chiayi, 62102, Taiwan, ROC.
- Center for Nano Bio-Detections, National Chung Cheng University, Min-Hsiung, Chiayi, 62102, Taiwan, ROC.
- Center for Innovative Research On Aging Society (CIRAS), National Chung Cheng University, Min-Hsiung, Chiayi, 62102, Taiwan, ROC.
- Advanced Institute of Manufacturing With High-Tech Innovations, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi, 62102, Taiwan, ROC.
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Li X, Liu Y, Wu L, Zhao J. Molecular Nanoarchitectonics of Natural Photosensitizers and Their Derivatives Nanostructures for Improved Photodynamic Therapy. ChemMedChem 2024; 19:e202300599. [PMID: 38069595 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202300599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Natural photosensitizers (PSs) and their derivatives have drawn ever-increasing attention in photodynamic therapy (PDT) for their wild range of sources, desirable biocompatibility, and good photosensitivity. Nevertheless, many factors such as poor solubility, high body clearance rate, limited tumor targeting ability, and short excitation wavelengths severely hinder their applications in efficient PDT. In recent years, fabricating nanostructures by utilizing molecular assembly technique is proposed to solve these problems. This technique is easy to put into effect, and the assembled nanostructures could improve the physical properties of the PSs so as to meet the requirement of PDT. In this concept, we focus on the construction of natural PSs and their derivatives nanostructures through molecular assembly technique to enhance PDT efficacy (Figure 1). Furthermore, current challenges and future perspectives of natural PSs and their derivatives for efficient PDT are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochen Li
- Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, 712046, Xianyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Health Cultivation of the Ministry of Education, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Health Cultivation of Beijing, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, Beijing, China
| | - Yilin Liu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), CAS, Key Lab of Colloid, Interface and Chemical Thermodynamics, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100190, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Lili Wu
- Key Laboratory of Health Cultivation of the Ministry of Education, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Health Cultivation of Beijing, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), CAS, Key Lab of Colloid, Interface and Chemical Thermodynamics, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100190, Beijing, China
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Woźniak M, Nowak-Perlak M. Hypericin-Based Photodynamic Therapy Displays Higher Selectivity and Phototoxicity towards Melanoma and Squamous Cell Cancer Compared to Normal Keratinocytes In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16897. [PMID: 38069219 PMCID: PMC10707231 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the potential of hypericin, a naturally occurring photosensi-tizer, for photodynamic therapy (PDT) in skin cancer, investigating its phototoxic effects and mechanisms of action in cancer cells compared to normal skin keratinocytes, squamous cell cancer (SCC-25) cells and melanoma (MUG-Mel2) cells. Hypericin was applied at concentrations ranging from 0.1-40 μM to HaCaT, SCC-25, and MUG-Mel2 cells. After 24 h of incubation, the cells were exposed to orange light at 3.6 J/cm2 or 7.2 J/cm2. Phototoxicity was assessed using MTT and SRB tests. Cellular uptake was measured by flow cytometry. Apoptosis-positive cells were estimated through TUNEL for apoptotic bodies' visualization. Hypericin exhibited a higher phototoxic reaction in cancer cells compared to normal keratinocytes after irradiation. Cancer cells demonstrated increased and selective uptake of hypericin. Apoptosis was observed in SCC-25 and MUG-Mel2 cells following PDT. Our findings suggest that hypericin-based PDT is a promising and less invasive approach for treating skin cancer. The higher phototoxic reaction, selective uptake by cancer cells, and observed proapoptotic properties support the promising role of hypericin-based PDT in skin cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Woźniak
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Division of General and Experimental Pathology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland;
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Lima E, Reis LV. Photodynamic Therapy: From the Basics to the Current Progress of N-Heterocyclic-Bearing Dyes as Effective Photosensitizers. Molecules 2023; 28:5092. [PMID: 37446758 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28135092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy, an alternative that has gained weight and popularity compared to current conventional therapies in the treatment of cancer, is a minimally invasive therapeutic strategy that generally results from the simultaneous action of three factors: a molecule with high sensitivity to light, the photosensitizer, molecular oxygen in the triplet state, and light energy. There is much to be said about each of these three elements; however, the efficacy of the photosensitizer is the most determining factor for the success of this therapeutic modality. Porphyrins, chlorins, phthalocyanines, boron-dipyrromethenes, and cyanines are some of the N-heterocycle-bearing dyes' classes with high biological promise. In this review, a concise approach is taken to these and other families of potential photosensitizers and the molecular modifications that have recently appeared in the literature within the scope of their photodynamic application, as well as how these compounds and their formulations may eventually overcome the deficiencies of the molecules currently clinically used and revolutionize the therapies to eradicate or delay the growth of tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eurico Lima
- CQ-VR-Chemistry Centre of Vila Real, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Quinta de Prados, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Lucinda V Reis
- CQ-VR-Chemistry Centre of Vila Real, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Quinta de Prados, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
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Baeshen RS, Baz MM. Efficacy of Acacia nilotica, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, and Salix safsafs on the mortality and development of two vector-borne mosquito species, Culex pipiens and Aedes aegypti, in the laboratory and field. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16378. [PMID: 37251815 PMCID: PMC10220238 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquitoes are one of the most lethal animals in the world and transmit many dangerous human pathogens, causing millions of deaths each year. The search for modern and better mosquito control is an endless effort almost all over the world. Phytochemicals are promising biological agents for getting rid of pests that are harmful to human and animal health and crops, they are inexpensive, biodegradable, and have diverse modes of action. The efficacy of acetone and hexane leaf extracts of Acacia nilotica, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, and Salix safsafs was investigated against the 2nd and 4th larvae and pupae of two vectors, Culex pipiens and Aedes aegypti. The results showed the obvious effect of A. nilotica extract on the mortality of mosquito larvae, the reduction of female eggs, and a higher mortality rate in sunlight than in shadow (fluorescein). Data from field trials revealed that A. nilotica extracts had the greatest effect on larval reduction, reaching 89.8% in 24 h and having a 12-day stability. Polyethylene glycol, sesquiterpenes, and fatty acids were the most common compounds found in A. nilotica, E. camaldulensis, and S. safsafs, respectively. The acacia plant had promising larvicidal activity, safe and effective alternative to chemical insecticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowida S. Baeshen
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 71421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed M. Baz
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Benha University, Benha 13518, Egypt
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Yuan Y, Liu Q, Huang Y, Qi M, Yan H, Li W, Zhuang H. Antibacterial Efficacy and Mechanisms of Curcumin-Based Photodynamic Treatment against Staphylococcus aureus and Its Application in Juices. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27207136. [PMID: 36296729 PMCID: PMC9612228 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27207136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial Photodynamic Treatment (aPDT) is a non-thermal sterilization technology, which can inactivate common foodborne pathogens. In the present study, photodynamic inactivation on Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) with different concentrations of curcumin and light dose was evaluated and the mechanisms were also investigated. The results showed that curcumin-based aPDT could inactivate S. aureus cells by 6.9 log CFU/mL in phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Moreover, the modified Gompertz model presented a good fit at the inactivation data of S. aureus. Photodynamic treatment caused cell membrane damage as revealed by analyzing scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Leakage of intracellular constituents further indicated that cell membrane permeability was changed. Flow cytometry with double staining demonstrated that cell membrane integrity and the activity of nonspecific esterase were destroyed. Compared with the control group, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels caused by photodynamic treatment significantly increased. Furthermore, curcumin-based aPDT reduced S. aureus by 5 log CFU/mL in juices. The color of the juices was also tested using a Chromatic meter, and it was found that b* values were the most markedly influenced by photodynamic treatment. Overall, curcumin-based aPDT had strong antibacterial activity against S. aureus. This approach has the potential to remove foodborne pathogens from liquid food.
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