Gold nanorods non-functionalised and associated with gallic acid exhibit activity against non-albicans Candida species

Author(s)

Carmo, Paulo Henrique Fonseca ; da Costa, Maria Fernanda Siqueira Fernandes ; Lage, Anna Carolina Pinheiro ; Terra Garcia, Maira ; Junqueira, Juliana Campos

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: BIOFOULING; v. 41, n. 5, p. 13-pg., 2025-05-09.

Abstract

Strategies focusing on natural compounds and nanotechnology have been explored to overcome the limitations of conventional therapies in managing Candida infections. In this context, metal nanoparticles, both non-functionalised and combined with gallic acid, may offer a promising alternative. This study investigated the effects of gold nanoparticles non-functionalised (AuNp) and associated with gallic acid (AuNpGA) against planktonic cells and biofilms of Nakaseomyces glabratus, Pichia kudriavzevii, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida tropicalis. Both AuNp and AuNpGA inhibited the growth of all strains at 1.56 mu g/mL and exhibited fungicidal effects at concentrations ranging from 1.56 to 3.12 mu g/mL. The time-kill curve revealed that AuNpGA and AuNp completely inhibited the viability of all strains in planktonic cultures at 8 and 24 h, respectively, exhibiting greater antifungal activity compared to fluconazole. Treatment with AuNp increased ROS production against N. glabratus and P. kudriavzevii. Oxidative stress was enhanced against all strains after treatment with AuNpGA, and exposure to this compound reduced ergosterol levels of P. kudriavzevii and C. parapsilosis. Furthermore, AuNpGA and AuNp significantly decreased the viability of all Candida biofilms at 7.8 and 15.6 mu g/mL, respectively. In summary, both gold nanoparticles exhibited activity against planktonic cells and biofilms, suggesting their potential as agents for treating Candida infections. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 22/15548-0 - Evaluation of the antifungal and immunomodulatory effects of inorganic nanoparticles associated with natural polyphenols on Candida albicans and Oral Candidiasis
• Grantee: Juliana Campos Junqueira
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 22/06127-1 - Evaluation of the antifungal and immunomodulatory effects of inorganic nanoparticles associated with natural polyphenols on Candida albicans and Oral Candidiasis
• Grantee: Paulo Henrique Fonseca do Carmo
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral