Evaluation of citrus pectin capped copper sulfide nanoparticles against Candidiasis causing Candida biofilms

The incidence of candidiasis has significantly increased globally in recent decades, and it is a significant source of morbidity and mortality, particularly in critically ill patients. Candida sp. ability to generate biofilms is one of its primary pathogenic traits. Drug-resistant strains have led to clinical failures of traditional antifungals, necessi-tating the development of a more modern therapy that can inhibit biofilm formation and enhance Candida sp. sensitivity to the immune system. The present study reports the anticandidal potential of pectin-capped copper sulfide nanoparticles (pCuS NPs) against Candida albicans. The pCuS NPs inhibit C. albicans growth at a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 31.25 mu M and exhibit antifungal action by compromising membrane integrity and overproducing reactive oxygen species. The pCuS NPs, at their biofilm inhibitory concentration (BIC) of 15.63 mu M, effectively inhibited C. albicans cells adhering to the glass slides, confirmed by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Phase contrast microscopy pictures revealed that NPs controlled the morpho-logical transitions between the yeast and hyphal forms by limiting conditions that led to filamentation and reducing hyphal extension. In addition, C. albicans showed reduced exopolysaccharide (EPS) production and exhibited less cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH) after pCuS NPs treatment. The findings suggest that pCuS NPs may be able to inhibit the emergence of virulence traits that lead to the formation of biofilms, such as EPS, CSH, and hyphal morphogenesis. The results raise the possibility of developing NPs-based therapies for C. albicans infections associated with biofilms.

Automated summary

The incidence of candidiasis has increased globally in recent decades, posing a significant threat to critically ill patients. Candida sp. is known for its ability to form biofilms, which has led to resistance to traditional antifungal drugs. This study investigates the potential of pectin-capped copper sulfide nanoparticles (pCuS NPs) in inhibiting Candida albicans biofilm formation. The results show that pCuS NPs effectively inhibit C. albicans growth and disrupt membrane integrity. They also control the transition between yeast and hyphal forms and reduce the production of virulence traits associated with biofilm formation. These findings suggest that pCuS NPs may be a promising therapeutic approach for C. albicans infections associated with biofilms.