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The increasing severity of fungal infections globally and the limited availability of effective treatments necessitate novel therapeutic strategies. In this study, we prepared copper‐polyphenol nanocomplexes (CPE NPs) through a one‐step synthetic process by the coordination self‐assembly of copper sulfate (CuSO4), protocatechuic acid (PA), and ϵ‐poly‐L‐lysine (EPL). CPE NPs demonstrated peroxidase‐like activities, which could catalyze H2O2 to generate hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH) to effectively eradicate fungi. CPE NPs were stable in a physiological neutral environment. However, since metal‐phenolic coordination interaction was unstable in acidic pH, CPE NPs could be dissociated in acidic environments, such as fungal infection sites, leading to effective release of Cu2+ and EPL, thereby exerting antifungal effects. CPE NPs exhibited excellent fungicidal ability at both pH 7.4 and 6.0 against Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus. More importantly, CPE NPs could effectively eradicate fungi in 20 % Sabouraud dextrose broth (SDB) medium containing rich inorganic salts and proteins, in which dissociative Cu2+ completely lost its fungicidal ability. In summary, CPE NPs could effectively deliver Cu2+ to fungal surface for enhanced fungal eradication by generating ⋅OH, highlighting their great potential as a promising nano‐therapeutic agent for the treatment of fungal infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Candida albicans is an emerging pathogen that poses a significant challenge due to its multidrug-resistant nature. There are two types of antifungal agents, fungicidal and fungistatic, with distinct mechanisms of action against fungal pathogens. Fungicidal agents kill fungal pathogens, whereas fungistatic agents inhibit their growth. The growth can be restored once the agent is removed and favorable conditions are established. Recognizing this difference is crucial as it influences treatment selection and infection prognosis. We present a technique based on optical nanomotion detection (ONMD) (i.e., observing the movement of the cells using an optical microscope) to discriminate rapidly between fungicidal (caspofungin) and fungistatic (fluconazole) drugs. The technique is based on the change in a yeast cell's nanomotion as a function of time during a two-hour treatment with the antifungal of interest followed by a one-hour growth period. The cells are entrapped in microwells in a microfluidic chip, which allows a quick exchange of growth medium and antifungal agent, enabling ONMD measurements on the same individual cells before and after treatment. This procedure permits to discriminate between fungicidal and fungistatic antifungals in less than 3 h, with single-cell resolution by observing if the nanomotion recovers after removing the treatment and reintroducing growth medium (YPD), or continues to drop. The simplicity of the approach holds promise for further development into a user-friendly device for rapid antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST), potentially being implemented in hospitals and medical centers worldwide in developed and developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundAmphotericin-B (AmB) is an essential medication for the treatment of life-threatening systemic mycoses but the incidence and risk factors for acute kidney injury (AKI) after its administration are not known in dogs.ObjectiveDetermine the incidence of and risk factors for AKI in dogs receiving AmB.AnimalsFifty-one client owned dogs receiving AmB for the treatment of systemic mycoses.MethodsRetrospective study. Signalment, potential risk factors, AKI development (creatinine ≥0.3 mg/dL from baseline), drug formulation (deoxycholate [AmB-D] or lipid complex [ABLC]), dose, and treatment duration were recorded. The probability of an AKI diagnosis was evaluated using a log-rank test. The incidence of AKI and odds ratios were calculated for potential risk factors.ResultsIncidence of AKI was 5/12 (42%) for dogs receiving AmB-D and 14/39 (36%) for dogs receiving ABLC. Of the 19 dogs that developed AKI, 16 (84%) continued treatment after a pause in the planned dosing protocol. Fifty percent of dogs received a cumulative dose of 6.9 mg/kg for AmB-D and 22.5 mg/kg for ABLC (P

Serratula coronata L. is known in folk medicine as an astringent, choleretic, anti-inflammatory, antifever, antiemetic and sedative. The article presents the results of studies assessing the phytocenotic state and biological activity of Serratula coronata L., growing in Northern Kazakhstan (Kokchetav Upland). The antibacterial and antifungal activities of Serratula coronata L. against strains of bacteria Escherichia coli, yeast Candida parapsilosis, and mould fungi Aspergillus niger were studied using microbiological methods. An alcohol tincture and an aqueous decoction of the roots of Serratula coronate L. were distinguished by antibacterial activity, which suppressed the growth of E. coli to a dilution of 1:512 (alcohol tincture), 1:8 (aqueous decoction). Aqueous extracts of Serpukha crowned have pronounced bacteriostatic properties against E. coli. An aqueous infusion of the roots of Serratula coronate L. was found to have fungicidal activity against the yeast C. parapsilosis, while an alcoholic infusion of the roots of the plant, showed fungicidal and fungistatic activity against the opportunistic mould fungi A. niger when diluted, to 1:8. Oily and hydroalcoholic extracts of above-ground and underground vegetative organs of Serratula coronata L. have pronounced antiparasitic activity. At the same time, the intensity of antiparasitic properties is higher in aqueous-alcoholic extracts of the above-ground organs of Serpukha crowned. It has been established that Serratula coronate L. can successfully be used as a raw material for producing veterinary and pharmaceutical drugs and food and feed additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macroalgae seaweeds such as Ulva lactuca and Gracilaria verrucosa cause problems on the northern coast of the Italian Adriatic Sea because their overabundance hinders the growth of cultivated clams, Rudatapes philippinarum. This study focused on the green synthesis of CuO nanoparticles from U. lactuca and G. verrucosa. The biosynthesized CuO NPs were successfully characterized using FTIR, XRD, HRTEM/EDX, and zeta potential. Nanoparticles from the two different algae species are essentially identical, with the same physical characteristics and almost the same antimicrobial activities. We have not investigated the cause of this identity, but it seems likely to arise from the reaction of Cu with the same algae metabolites in both species. The study demonstrates that it is possible to obtain useful products from these macroalgae through a green synthesis approach and that they should be considered as not just a cause of environmental and economic damage but also as a potential source of income. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pesticides are indispensable in agricultural development, but their effectiveness is often hindered by natural factors like rain‐off and degradation. Herein, tebuconazole nanopesticides (TEB NPs) with leaf‐adhesive, water‐stable, and small‐sized were successfully prepared by flash nanoprecipitation using the biodegradable polyethylene glycol‐b‐poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) as a carrier. The nanopesticides could be efficiently deposited on plant leaves with uniform distribution and exhibited a 14° lower contact angle with foliage compared to commercial suspensions. The encapsulation of TEB within the polymer enhanced its resistance to photolysis, resulting in a 5‐h extension of its half‐life. TEB NPs were readily taken up by fungi and plants, thereby enhancing fungicidal efficacy. This nanopesticide could achieve the desired antifungal effect with reduced dosage and improved pesticide utilization. Therefore, the work is expected to provide a simple nanoplatform for improving pesticide utilization and promoting green agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal infections cause 1.7 million deaths annually, which can be attributed not only to fungus-specific factors, such as antifungal resistance and biofilm formation, but also to drug-related challenges. In this study, the potential of Amphotericin (AmB) loaded polymeric nanoparticles (AmB-NPs) combined with murine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) (i.e., CC5 and DD11) was investigated as a strategy to overcome these challenges. To achieve this goal, AmB-NPs were prepared by nanoprecipitation using different polymers (polycaprolactone (PCL) and poly(D,L-lactide) (PLA)), followed by comprehensive characterization of their physicochemical properties and in vitro biological performance. The results revealed that AmB-loaded NPs exhibited no cytotoxicity toward mammalian cells (baby hamster kidney cells—BHK and human monocyte cells—THP-1). Conversely, both AmB-NPs demonstrated a cytotoxic effect against C. albicans, C. neoformans, and H. capsulatum throughout the entire evaluated range (from 10 µg/mL to 0.1 µg/mL), with a significant MIC of up to 0.031 µg/mL. Moreover, the combination of AmB-NPs with mAbs markedly intensified antifungal activity, resulting in a synergistic effect that was two to four times greater than that of AmB-NPs alone. These findings suggest that the combination of AmB-NPs with mAbs could be a promising new treatment for fungal infections that is potentially more effective and less toxic than current antifungal treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association of endophytic fungi with plants was recorded from an early stage of evolution. Endophytic fungi of medicinally important plants are given importance as they mimic the synthesis of bioactive compounds by the host plant. Chromolaena odorata is a wild medicinal plant used in ethnomedicine by different communities. From the root part of C. odorata, an endophytic fungus, Chaetomium sp. R1C1, was isolated, and its biological activities were evaluated. The ITS-rDNA gene sequencing of Chaetomium sp. R1C1 showed 99.21% similarity with Chaetomium globosum. Chaetomium sp. R1C1 was found to secrete protease, amylase, lipase, and cellulose and also produce ammonia. The isolate shows strong antifungal activities against all the nine tested phytopathogens, with the highest inhibition against U. virens (97.45%), followed by A. flavus (94.70%), C. lunata (89.09%), A. brassicicola (78.41%), F. oxysporum (77.71%), R. solani (70.27%), C. capsici (64.41%), A. niger (57.06%), and A. alternata (45.35%). The antibacterial activity evaluated using the agar-well diffusion method and 96-well microtitre method shows that the crude extract was more efficient against gram-negative bacteria, with the highest activity against S. typhi. The DPPH radical scavenging activity shows inhibition of 60.18% and an IC50 value of 85.88 µg/mL, which makes it a strong antioxidant. GC-MS and LC-MS are powerful tools employed to reveal the compounds present in the secondary metabolite of Chaetomium sp. R1C1. This study highlights the importance and applications of the endophytic fungus Chaetomium sp. R1C1 in the fields of agriculture, medicine, and industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a well-known agent with a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It is a colorless liquid and commercially available in aqueous solution over a wide concentration range. It has been extensively used in the food industry by virtue of its strong oxidizing property and its ability to cause cellular oxidative damage in microbial cells. This review comprehensively documents recent research on the antimicrobial activity of H2O2 against organisms of concern for the food industry, as well as its effect against SARS-CoV-2 responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, factors affecting the antimicrobial effectiveness of H2O2, different applications of H2O2 as a sanitizer or disinfectant in the food industry as well as safety concerns associated with H2O2 are discussed. Finally, recent efforts in enhancing the antimicrobial efficacy of H2O2 are also outlined.

The synthetic process, type of precursor material, and the phytochemical materials involved in the biological synthesis of metal nanoparticles influence the properties of the resulting nanoparticles. The physicochemical attributes of synthesized nanoparticles, in turn, influence their applicability for various purposes, hence the need to standardize synthetic processes and characterize nanoparticle outputs for reproducibility and optimal utility. The objective of this study was to utilize bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) extract in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), characterize the nanoparticles, and then evaluate the same for antimicrobial activities. The V. amygdalina extract was produced by the soxhlet extraction process after the leaves were subjected to standard pre-extraction treatments using methanol as the extraction solvent. The solid extract was separated by rotary evaporation, and a predetermined quantity was mixed with 0.1 M silver nitrate solution under controlled concentration, temperature, and pressure. The resulting nanoparticles were characterized for morphological, optical, spectroscopic, and other physicochemical properties and then evaluated for antibacterial activities. The mean particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential of the nanoparticles were 74.231 ± 0.43 nm, 0. 645 ± 0.04, and 32.045 ± 0.054 mV, respectively. The Fourier transform infrared analysis suggested an association between the silver nanoparticles and the extract biomolecules, while x-ray diffraction showed particle crystallinity. The nanoparticles were effective against selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It was concluded that the procedure and materials used resulted in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles from the silver nitrate salt through a biogenic reduction process.

The present study focuses on the evaluation of the DNA and BSA binding capability, anti‐fungal, metal chelation, and larvicidal activity of extracts of Azadirachta indica A Juss flower. The different extracts of A. indica was prepared by soxhlet extraction using Petroleum Ether (PE), acetone (AC), and hydroalcohol (HA) as solvents. DNA and BSA binding ability of HA extract was calculated through the UV–Visible titrimetric method. The phytochemicals present in the extract show good binding ability towards DNA and BSA. H2O2 and NO scavenging activity were evaluated and HA extracts shows good antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 62 and 48 μg/mg, respectively. The metal chelating property was calculated, where HA shows good chelating ability with the IC50 value of 32.23 μg/mg. The antifungal activity of these extracts was evaluated against different fungal stains; among them, hydroalcoholic extract shows a higher zone of inhibition in all the fungal stains than Petroleum Ether and acetone extracts and acetone extracts (i.e., 50 μg/μL MIC). The potential extract (i.e., HA extract) was used to estimate the larvicidal activity of parasites. The % of mortality was evaluated through a dose‐dependent assay and it is confirmed that when concentration increases, the mortality rate increases. The correlation between metal chelating activity and total flavonoid and phenolic content was calculated and it was found that there is a good correlation (R2 –.743 and.902, respectively). These results proved that HA extract possesses biologically important phytochemicals that contribute to pharmaceutical and biological activities and could be a natural remedy for various real‐time applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavonoids are a group of plant polyphenols which received an increased attention during the recent past due to their important antimicrobial activities. Those compounds could be a reliable source of new antifungals, used to efficiently control infections caused by pathogenic fungi such as Candida spp. Candida species represents a leading cause of mortality all around the world, posing a serious threat to medical systems. Therefore, finding new compounds with antifungal activity for treatment of Candida infections is a real challenge of modern medicine. This review focuses on the antifungal activity of natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic flavonoids against the most prevalent pathogenic Candida species. In addition, the review outlines the mechanisms of action and the possible use of flavonoids as anti-virulence agents to withstand Candida pathogenicity and antifungal resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of natural and environmentally friendly pesticides is a key area of interest for the agrochemical industry, with many potentially active compounds being sourced from numerous plant species. In this study, we report the bioassay-guided isolation and identification of phytotoxic and antifungal compounds from the ethyl acetate extract of Helietta parvifolia stems. We identified eight compounds, consisting of two coumarins and six alkaloids. Among these, a new alkaloid, 2-hydroxy-3,6,7-trimethoxyquinoline-4-carbaldehyde (6), was elucidated, along with seven known compounds. The phytotoxicity of purified compounds was evaluated, and chalepin (4) was active against Agrostis stolonifera at 1 mM with 50% inhibition of seed germination and it reduced Lemna pausicotata (duckweed) growth by 50% (IC50) at 168 μM. Additionally, we evaluated the antifungal activity against the fungal plant pathogen Colletotrichum fragariae using a thin-layer chromatography bioautography assay, which revealed that three isolated furoquinoline alkaloids (flindersiamine (3), kokusagenine (7), and maculine (8)) among the isolated compounds had the strongest inhibitory effects on the growth of C. fragariae at all tested concentrations. Our results indicate that these active natural compounds, i.e., (3), (4), (7), and (8), could be scaffolds for the production of more active pesticides with better physicochemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal effect of Iranian oak Jaft extract on Penicillium italicum and Penicillium digitatum, as an indicator of mold spoilage after citrus fruits harvest. Different extraction methods were used to obtain tannins and flavonoids from the Oak Jaft. The study investigated the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Fungicidal Concentration (MFC), and non-growth diameter of the molds using three different methods: tube dilution, surface culture, and diffusion in agar well. The results showed that different concentrations of aqueous extract had varying effects on the non-growth diameter of the molds. The antifungal effect was significantly increased with a concentration of 40 and 80 mg/ml of aqueous extract. In comparison, the control group, which used Fludioxonil 25% poison, showed a significant difference in mold growth. Therefore, the extract of Iranian oak Jaft can be used as an alternative to control fungal spoilage of citrus fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Amphotericin‐B (AmB) is an essential medication for the treatment of life‐threatening systemic mycoses but the incidence and risk factors for acute kidney injury (AKI) after its administration are not known in dogs. Objective Determine the incidence of and risk factors for AKI in dogs receiving AmB. Animals Fifty‐one client owned dogs receiving AmB for the treatment of systemic mycoses. Methods Retrospective study. Signalment, potential risk factors, AKI development (creatinine ≥0.3 mg/dL from baseline), drug formulation (deoxycholate [AmB‐D] or lipid complex [ABLC]), dose, and treatment duration were recorded. The probability of an AKI diagnosis was evaluated using a log‐rank test. The incidence of AKI and odds ratios were calculated for potential risk factors. Results Incidence of AKI was 5/12 (42%) for dogs receiving AmB‐D and 14/39 (36%) for dogs receiving ABLC. Of the 19 dogs that developed AKI, 16 (84%) continued treatment after a pause in the planned dosing protocol. Fifty percent of dogs received a cumulative dose of 6.9 mg/kg for AmB‐D and 22.5 mg/kg for ABLC (P

Macroalgae seaweeds such as Ulva lactuca and Gracilaria verrucosa cause problems on the northern coast of the Italian Adriatic Sea because their overabundance hinders the growth of cultivated clams, Rudatapes philippinarum. This study focused on the green synthesis of CuO nanoparticles from U. lactuca and G. verrucosa. The biosynthesized CuO NPs were successfully characterized using FTIR, XRD, HRTEM/EDX, and zeta potential. Nanoparticles from the two different algae species are essentially identical, with the same physical characteristics and almost the same antimicrobial activities. We have not investigated the cause of this identity, but it seems likely to arise from the reaction of Cu with the same algae metabolites in both species. The study demonstrates that it is possible to obtain useful products from these macroalgae through a green synthesis approach and that they should be considered as not just a cause of environmental and economic damage but also as a potential source of income.

Candida albicans is an emerging pathogen that poses a significant challenge due to its multidrug-resistant nature. There are two types of antifungal agents, fungicidal and fungistatic, with distinct mechanisms of action against fungal pathogens. Fungicidal agents kill fungal pathogens, whereas fungistatic agents inhibit their growth. The growth can be restored once the agent is removed and favorable conditions are established. Recognizing this difference is crucial as it influences treatment selection and infection prognosis. We present a technique based on optical nanomotion detection (ONMD) (i.e., observing the movement of the cells using an optical microscope) to discriminate rapidly between fungicidal (caspofungin) and fungistatic (fluconazole) drugs. The technique is based on the change in a yeast cell’s nanomotion as a function of time during a two-hour treatment with the antifungal of interest followed by a one-hour growth period. The cells are entrapped in microwells in a microfluidic chip, which allows a quick exchange of growth medium and antifungal agent, enabling ONMD measurements on the same individual cells before and after treatment. This procedure permits to discriminate between fungicidal and fungistatic antifungals in less than 3 h, with single-cell resolution by observing if the nanomotion recovers after removing the treatment and reintroducing growth medium (YPD), or continues to drop. The simplicity of the approach holds promise for further development into a user-friendly device for rapid antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST), potentially being implemented in hospitals and medical centers worldwide in developed and developing countries.

Fungal infections cause 1.7 million deaths annually, which can be attributed not only to fungus-specific factors, such as antifungal resistance and biofilm formation, but also to drug-related challenges. In this study, the potential of Amphotericin (AmB) loaded polymeric nanoparticles (AmB-NPs) combined with murine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) (i.e., CC5 and DD11) was investigated as a strategy to overcome these challenges. To achieve this goal, AmB-NPs were prepared by nanoprecipitation using different polymers (polycaprolactone (PCL) and poly(D,L-lactide) (PLA)), followed by comprehensive characterization of their physicochemical properties and in vitro biological performance. The results revealed that AmB-loaded NPs exhibited no cytotoxicity toward mammalian cells (baby hamster kidney cells—BHK and human monocyte cells—THP-1). Conversely, both AmB-NPs demonstrated a cytotoxic effect against C. albicans, C. neoformans, and H. capsulatum throughout the entire evaluated range (from 10 µg/mL to 0.1 µg/mL), with a significant MIC of up to 0.031 µg/mL. Moreover, the combination of AmB-NPs with mAbs markedly intensified antifungal activity, resulting in a synergistic effect that was two to four times greater than that of AmB-NPs alone. These findings suggest that the combination of AmB-NPs with mAbs could be a promising new treatment for fungal infections that is potentially more effective and less toxic than current antifungal treatments.

Flavonoids are a group of plant polyphenols which received an increased attention during the recent past due to their important antimicrobial activities. Those compounds could be a reliable source of new antifungals, used to efficiently control infections caused by pathogenic fungi such as Candida spp. Candida species represents a leading cause of mortality all around the world, posing a serious threat to medical systems. Therefore, finding new compounds with antifungal activity for treatment of Candida infections is a real challenge of modern medicine. This review focuses on the antifungal activity of natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic flavonoids against the most prevalent pathogenic Candida species. In addition, the review outlines the mechanisms of action and the possible use of flavonoids as anti-virulence agents to withstand Candida pathogenicity and antifungal resistance.

At present, when the whole world is intensively switching to organic farming, the refusal or minimization of the usage of chemical plant protection products and synthesized fertilizers is a very urgent issue for the agro-industrial complex (AIC). Accordingly, the solution to the problems of increasing yields and ensuring the fight against pathogenic components should be carried out in accordance with the principles of "green" chemistry. In this regard, the usage of heteroleptic complexes based on carboxylic and amino acids with biogenic metals is dictated not only by their availability, low cost, and ability to increase crop yields but also by fungicidal activity, lower toxicity, and easy biodegradability, which lists them among the "green" and cost-effective plant biostimulants. In the present work, for the first time, a heteroleptic complex based on succinic acid and glycine, with the formula [Cu(succ)(gly)], was developed for usage as a fungicidal biostimulant, which has the ability to significantly reduce the number of pathogens. We found that this compound has a layered structure and was able to increase soybean germination up to 100%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Design. A prospective, multicenter, open-label, randomized, comparative clinical study. Objective. To compare the efficacy and safety of Flucovag (sertaconazole) vaginal suppositories, 300 mg (OTCPharm JSC, Russia; manufactured by Altpharm LLC, Russia) and the brand-name drug Zalain (sertaconazole), 300 mg (Egis Pharmaceuticals PLC, Hungary) in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis. Materials and methods. The study included female patients (1855 years old) with uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis treated in outpatient settings. In total, 220 patients were randomized into two groups: group 1 (n=110) received a single dose of Flucovag vaginal suppositories, and group 2 (n=110) received a single dose of Zalain vaginal suppositories. Seven days after the treatment, its clinical efficacy was evaluated. In case of incomplete clinical improvement after 7 days, patients received an additional dose of Flucovag (n=4) or Zalain (n=5) suppositories, respectively. Results. At the end of therapy in the study groups, the clinical cure rates (99.1% vs. 96.3%, p0.05), microscopic, and culture results were comparable. No serious adverse events were reported in both groups throughout the study. Conclusion. The study results demonstrate a favorable safety profile and high antifungal activity of sertaconazole.

Nancy A Phillips, Maria Rocktashel, Lena Merjanian Department Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USACorrespondence: Nancy A Phillips, Department Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 125 Paterson Street CAB 2102, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA, Tel +1 732-235-7755, Fax +1 732-235-6600, Email phillina@rutgers.eduAbstract: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is experienced by an estimated 75% of women at least once in their lifetime and is recurrent, defined as three or more infections per year (RVVC) in 5– 9%. Candida albicans is the most common causative agent, but up to 19% of infections may be related to non-albicans species. Available treatment options for VVC have consisted of oral and topical azoles (except for topical nystatin, a polyene). Oral polyenes are not absorbed and therefore not effective for VVC. Fluconazole is the only oral medication FDA approved for VVC. None of these treatments are FDA approved for RVVC. Ibrexafungerp, a triterpenoid fungicidal agent, was FDA approved in 2021, becoming the first oral non-azole agent for VVC. Ibrexafungerp reaches concentrations up to 9-fold higher in vaginal tissues versus plasma. In Phase 2 clinical trials, ibrexafungerp had a clinical cure rate comparable to fluconazole at day 10, but significantly better at day 25. In Phase 3 clinical trials, ibrexafungerp had both a higher clinical and mycologic cure rate versus placebo at both days 10 and 25. In December 2022, Ibrexafungerp received FDA approval for once monthly dosing to decrease the incidence of RVVC. This approval was based on data from the CANDLE STUDY, which showed 65.4% resolution of symptoms and culture negative success through week 24, compared to 53.1% of placebo. Ibrexafungerp provides an alternative oral option for treatment of acute, severe VVC. It is the only FDA approved antifungal for RVVC. Currently, the population likely to benefit from this drug are those with azole allergy, non-albicans or azole resistant albicans species, or other azole contraindications such as drug interactions (like statins or tricyclics). Side effects are mostly gastrointestinal and mild in nature. Ibrexafungerp, like fluconazole, should be used with caution in women who are or may become pregnant.Keywords: fungicidal, yeast infection, ibrexafungerp, vulvovaginal candidiasis, recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis

The phyto nanotechnology strategy was executed for the genesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles by applying bark aqueous extract of Acacia nilotica (AN-ZnO NPs). The AN-ZnO NPs emergence was substantiated through a distinct peak at 350 nm in the ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. The fourier transform infrared spectroscopy exposed the phyto-organic moieties engaged as reduction and stabilization factors in fabricating nanoparticles. The crystalline trait, elemental proportions, spherical and hexagonal geometry of AN-ZnO NPs was witnessed by X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The high-resolution transmission electron microscopic technique provided the average size of 35 nm. AN-ZnO NPs presented larger inhibition zone against Candida albicans (22.7 ± 0.32 mm) at 40 µg/mL as an effectual fungicidal agent. Execution of in vitro antiradical scavenging assay of AN-ZnO NPs applying 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO), hydroxyl radical (OH–), 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) displayed radical scavenging trait with the minimum inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 34.54 µg/mL, 38.0 µg/mL, 41.34 µg/mL, and 35.41 µg/mL, respectively. Cytotoxic feature against MCF-7 cell line was in a dose-manner with IC50 value of 37.15 µg/mL in addition to apoptotic proteins expressions were displayed by AN-ZnO NPs. An appreciable larvicidal role of AN-ZnO NPs was rendered against Anopheles stephensi with LD50 (0.31 ppm) and LD90 (0.59 ppm), besides acetylcholinesterase inhibition. Further, biofilm origination was remarkably ceased by the Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. All our experimented reports on AN-ZnO NPs attested the credible applicability of ZnO NPs in biomedical care for health troubles.

A 6-year-old male leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) was presented with a 2-year history of recurrent dysecdysis involving the ocular surface of both eyes. Ophthalmic examination revealed ocular surface desiccation and multifocal superficial ulcerative keratitis with patchy remnants of retained shed. Other abnormalities included stomatitis and mandibular and maxillary osteomyelitis. Topical and systemic antibiotic therapy, oral vitamin A, and improved husbandry conditions resolved the stomatitis and osteomyelitis but did not improve the ocular surface. Corneal cytology collected with a cytobrush revealed branching hyphae and budding yeast consistent with fungal keratitis. Fungal culture grew Acremonium sp. and Trichosporon sp. The addition of topical antifungal therapy improved the ocular surface health, but the patient was euthanized 7 weeks after initial presentation for persistent vomiting and dyspnea. Necropsy was declined. This case describes the first case of fungal keratitis caused by Acremonium sp. and Trichosporon sp. in a reptile.

The identification of natural and environmentally friendly pesticides is a key area of interest for the agrochemical industry, with many potentially active compounds being sourced from numerous plant species. In this study, we report the bioassay-guided isolation and identification of phytotoxic and antifungal compounds from the ethyl acetate extract of Helietta parvifolia stems. We identified eight compounds, consisting of two coumarins and six alkaloids. Among these, a new alkaloid, 2-hydroxy-3,6,7-trimethoxyquinoline-4-carbaldehyde (6), was elucidated, along with seven known compounds. The phytotoxicity of purified compounds was evaluated, and chalepin (4) was active against Agrostis stolonifera at 1 mM with 50% inhibition of seed germination and it reduced Lemna pausicotata (duckweed) growth by 50% (IC50) at 168 μM. Additionally, we evaluated the antifungal activity against the fungal plant pathogen Colletotrichum fragariae using a thin-layer chromatography bioautography assay, which revealed that three isolated furoquinoline alkaloids (flindersiamine (3), kokusagenine (7), and maculine (8)) among the isolated compounds had the strongest inhibitory effects on the growth of C. fragariae at all tested concentrations. Our results indicate that these active natural compounds, i.e., (3), (4), (7), and (8), could be scaffolds for the production of more active pesticides with better physicochemical properties.

The aim of this study was to investigate the biological durability of particleboard, containing silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs) to Trametes versicolor, white-rot fungus of hardwoods. NPs were mixed and sprayed with applied resin, to cover wood particles volumetrically. Bio-deterioration of specimens was measured through average mass loss after 4–16 weeks of exposure to T. versicolor. The results displayed a significant impact of Ag-NPs and Cu-NPs on the antifungal resistance of particleboard. The highest resistance to fungal attack is experienced by sample containing 15% Ag-NPs with the mass loss of 0.9% for 4 weeks to 3.24% after 16 weeks of exposure to T. versicolor which was classified as a very durable sample. Maximum mass loss of 45.5% was observed for the control specimens after 16 weeks. The presence of Ag-NPs and Cu-NPs on the wood particle surface was verified by the Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy. Scanning Electron Microscopy analysis confirmed the uniform distribution of NPs in bondline covered the surface of the wood particles properly, which seems to be an impressive barrier to fungal attack by inhibiting fungal hyphae growth. Because of the high thermal conductivity of metallic NPs, internal bonding properties of particleboard containing NPs were improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An Irish strain of the dinoflagellate Amphidinium carterae was previously shown to produce antibacterial amphidinol derivatives of unknown masses. Inspection of the major metabolites present in a bulk culture of this strain led to the isolation and structure elucidation of a new amphidinol derivative named amphidinol C featuring an unprecedented tetrahydropyran ring between the positions C-7 and C-11. The structure was determined using extensive analyses of NMR and MS data and comparison with data of analogues. The new ring was proposed to stem from a nucleophilic substitution of the sulphate present on the side chain of Amphidinol B. The major metabolites isolated were tested for their antibacterial and antifungal activities and Amphidinol C showed moderate fungicidal activity against yeast and filamentous fungi at 8–16 µg mL−1. [Display omitted] • Amphidinol C was isolated from an Irish strain of the dinoflagellate Amphidinium carterae. • Amphidinol C features an unusual tetrahydropyrane ring between the positions C-7 and C-11. • The tetrahydropyrane ring could result from the substitution of the sulphate group of amphidinol B. • Amphidinol C exhibited moderate fungicidal activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the rising costs, accessibility of conventional medication and traditional beliefs, a good number of the populace, especially in the third world tend to rely on traditional herbs as a preferred form of medication. The scientific backing for the wide use of these herbs needs to be established. In this study, the leaves of two plants used as herbs, Senna occidentalis and Boswellia Dalziel, were extracted using methanol and n-hexane. The antifungal activities of the crude extracts were then tested against C. Albicans, C. pseudotropicalis, A. niger, and A. flavus using the agar incorporation method. At 10, 20, and 30 mg/ml concentrations, Senna occidentalis and Boswellia dalzielii suppressed the growth of Candida albicans, Candida pseudotropicalis, and Aspergillus niger, but had minimal effect on Aspergillus flavus. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for the various species was found to be between 3.75 and 30 mg/ml, whereas the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was found to be between 3.75 mg/ml and 30 mg/ml. The minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was 3.75-30 mg/ml, whereas the maximum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was in the range of 3.75-30 mg/ml. The ability of the two herbs, tested, to suppress fungal isolates revealed their wide usage in the treatment of fungal infections and diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based bioactive compounds have been utilized to cure diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms and as a substitute to reduce the side effects of chemically synthesized drugs. Therefore, in the present study, Azadirachta indica oil nanohydrogel was prepared to be utilized as an alternate source of the antimicrobial compound. The total phenolic compound in Azadirachta indica oil was quantified by chromatography analysis and revealed gallic acid (0.0076 ppm), caffeic acid (0.077 ppm), and syringic acid (0.0129 ppm). Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of Azadirachta indica oil revealed the presence of bioactive components, namely hexadecenoic acid, heptadecanoic acid, ç-linolenic acid, 9-octadecanoic acid (Z)-methyl ester, methyl-8-methyl-nonanoate, eicosanoic acid, methyl ester, and 8-octadecane3-ethyl-5-(2 ethylbutyl). The nanohydrogel showed droplet size of 104.1 nm and −19.3 mV zeta potential. The nanohydrogel showed potential antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans with minimum inhibitory, bactericidal, and fungicidal concentrations ranging from 6.25 to 3.125 (µg/mL). The nanohydrogel showed a significantly (p < 0.05) higher (8.40 log CFU/mL) value for Gram-negative bacteria E. coli compared to Gram-positive S. aureus (8.34 log CFU/mL), and in the case of pathogenic fungal strain C. albicans, there was a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in log CFU/mL value (7.79–6.94). The nanohydrogel showed 50.23–82.57% inhibition in comparison to standard diclofenac sodium (59.47–92.32%). In conclusion, Azadirachta indica oil nanohydrogel possesses great potential for antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities and therefore can be used as an effective agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in the occurrence of antifungal-resistant Candida albicans infections necessitates more research to explore alternative effective and safe agents against this fungus. In this work, Phibilin, a new antimicrobial peptide obtained from Philomycus bilineatus and used in traditional Chinese medicine, effectively inhibits the growth and activities of C. albicans , including the clinical resistant strains. Phibilin is a fungicidal antimicrobial peptide that exhibited its antimicrobial effect against C. albicans mainly by disrupting the membrane and interacting with the DNA of the fungi. In particular, Phibilin induces the necrosis of C. albicans via the ROS-related pathway. Moreover, this antifungal compound inhibited the biofilm formation of C. albicans by preventing the development of hyphae in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, Phibilin and clotrimazole displayed a synergistic effect in inhibiting the growth of the fungi. In the mouse cutaneous infection model, Phibilin significantly inhibited the formation of skin abscesses and decreased the counts of C. albicans cells in the infected area. Overall, Phibilin is potentially an effective agent against skin infections caused by C. albicans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Cucumber downy mildew (CDM) is a severe plant disease and affects the yield of cucumber production worldwide. As the resistance toward conventional fungicides is emerging as a ubiquitous issue, it is urgent to discover efficient fungicides with unique structures. RESULTS: In this study, a series of novel phenylpyridine derivatives were designed and synthesized. Bioassays revealed that most of these compounds possessed excellent fungicidal activities against CDM. Among the phenylpyridine compounds, 2‐(4‐(4‐(tert‐butyl)benzyl)piperazin‐1‐yl)‐6‐phenylnicotinonitrile (C8) [half‐maximal effective concentration (EC50) = 4.40 mg L−1] displayed the highest activity, which was better than those of the commercial fungicides, such as azoxystrobin (EC50 = 42.77 mg L−1) and flumorph (EC50 = 41.94 mg L−1). Furthermore, the molecular electrostatic potential of high‐activity compound C8 indicated that nitrogen atom of the cyano group on the pyridine ring was in the negative region and may easily form hydrogen bonds and allow for electrostatic interactions with potential receptors. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that the novel N‐substituted piperazine‐containing phenylpyridine derivatives could be further developed as a candidate compound to control CDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Biofilms associated with implantable medical devices and wounds are clinically relevant, often requiring repeated use of antibiotics without success. A search for non-antibiotic antimicrobial and antibiofilm solutions is warranted, in line with antimicrobial stewardship. Our study aimed to evaluate the broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy of tetrasodium EDTA, ethanol and chlorhexidine hydrochloride (HCl) alone and in combination against clinically relevant planktonic and biofilm cells of bacterial and fungal pathogens. Methods: MICs and MBCs were determined for tetrasodium EDTA, ethanol and chlorhexidine HCl against planktonic cells of test pathogens. The MBEC Assay® biofilm inoculator device was used to evaluate the biofilm eradication ability of test antimicrobials alone and in combination against clinically relevant pathogens. The checkerboard microbroth dilution assay was performed to analyze the synergism between test antimicrobials. Results: Against planktonic cells, the combination of tetrasodium EDTA with ethanol or chlorhexidine HCl resulted in synergistic to indifferent activity, with no antagonism observed. Against mature biofilms, all combinations were synergistic. The MBEC of each test antimicrobial was decreased from 4- to -64-fold when used in combination as compared to when agents were used alone. We optimised the concentration of antimicrobials to achieve rapid eradication of pre-formed biofilms. A triple combination of 3% tetrasodium EDTA, 20% ethanol and 2.5 μg/mL chlorhexidine HCl completely eradicated 48-h-old biofilms of all test strains within 2 h. Conclusion: All three antimicrobial agents can be used together for prevention and treatment of biofilms and biofilm-related infections. The observed in vitro efficacy should be tested further through in vivo and clinical studies.

The increase in the occurrence of antifungal-resistant Candida albicans infections necessitates more research to explore alternative effective and safe agents against this fungus. In this work, Phibilin, a new antimicrobial peptide obtained from Philomycus bilineatus and used in traditional Chinese medicine, effectively inhibits the growth and activities of C. albicans, including the clinical resistant strains. Phibilin is a fungicidal antimicrobial peptide that exhibited its antimicrobial effect against C. albicans mainly by disrupting the membrane and interacting with the DNA of the fungi. In particular, Phibilin induces the necrosis of C. albicans via the ROS-related pathway. Moreover, this antifungal compound inhibited the biofilm formation of C. albicans by preventing the development of hyphae in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, Phibilin and clotrimazole displayed a synergistic effect in inhibiting the growth of the fungi. In the mouse cutaneous infection model, Phibilin significantly inhibited the formation of skin abscesses and decreased the counts of C. albicans cells in the infected area. Overall, Phibilin is potentially an effective agent against skin infections caused by C. albicans.

Fusarium wilt in tobacco caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. nicotianae is a disease‑management challenge worldwide, as there are few effective and environmentally benign chemical agents for its control. This challenge results in substantial losses in both the quality and yield of tobacco products. Based on an in vitro analysis of the effects of different phenylpropanoid intermediates, we found that the early intermediates trans‑cinnamic acid and para‑coumaric acid effectively inhibit the mycelial growth of F. oxysporum f. sp. nicotianae strain FW316F, whereas the downstream intermediates quercetin and caffeic acid exhibit no fungicidal properties. Therefore, our in vitro screen suggests that trans‑cinnamic acid and para‑coumaric acid are promising chemical agents and natural lead compounds for the suppression of F. oxysporum f. sp. nicotianae growth.

Sayed E El-Sayed,1 Ghadir S El-Housseiny,2 Neveen A Abdelaziz,1 Mona R El-Ansary,3 Khaled M Aboshanab2 1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, Giza, Egypt; 2Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt; 3Department of Biochemistry, Modern University for Technology and Information (MTI), Cairo, EgyptCorrespondence: Khaled M Aboshanab Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of PharmacyAin Shams University, Organization of African Unity St., Abbassia, Cairo 11566, EgyptTel +011201001547800Fax +01120224051107Email aboshanab2012@pharma.asu.edu.egPurpose: We aimed to optimize the factors affecting the production of the allylamine antifungal, terbinafine, by Lysinibacillus isolate MK212927, a natural producer of this broad-spectrum fungicidal compound.Methods: We employed a central composite design to optimize the five most important variables influencing the production of terbinafine which were carbon source, nitrogen source, temperature, pH and agitation.Results: The optimum conditions were found to be starch 5 g/L, ammonium chloride 5 g/L, temperature 32°C, agitation 150 rpm and pH 7. The actual response (inhibition zone diameter) was highly comparable to the value predicted by the model, indicating a valid model. Using the standard calibration curve of terbinafine, the optimized conditions resulted in an increase in the antifungal metabolite production (terbinafine) by about 1.6-fold (1814.662 μg/mL compared to 1165.550 μg/mL under standardized conditions).Conclusion: This is the first report, to the best of our knowledge, on optimized production of terbinafine by Lysinibacillus species. Hence, these findings may be useful as baseline data for scaling up the production of terbinafine from a natural microbial source.Keywords: fungicidal, optimization, central composite design, terbinafine

Tomato grey mould has been one of the destructive fungal diseases during tomato production. Ten mM of menadione sodium bisulfite (MSB) was applied to tomato plants for eco-friendly control of the grey mould. MSB-reduced tomato grey mould in the 3rd true leaves was prolonged at least 7 days prior to the fungal inoculation of two inoculum densities (2 × 104 and 2 × 105 conidia/ ml) of Botrytis cinerea. Protection efficacy was significantly higher in the leaves inoculated with the lower disease pressure of conidial suspension compared to the higher one. MSB-pretreatment was not effective to arrest oxalic acid-triggered necrosis on tomato leaves. Plant cell death and hydrogen peroxide accumulation were restricted in necrotic lesions of the B. cinerea inoculated leaves by the MSB-pretreatment. Decreased conidia number and germ-tube elongation of B. cinerea were found at 10 h, and mycelial growth was also impeded at 24 h on the MSB-pretreated leaves. MSBmediated disease suppressions were found in cotyledons and different positions (1st to 5th) of true leaves inoculated with the lower conidial suspension, but only 1st to 3rd true leaves showed decreases in lesion sizes by the higher inoculum density. Increasing MSB-pretreatment times more efficiently decreased the lesion size by the higher disease pressure. MSB led to inducible expressions of defence-related genes SlPR1a, SlPR1b, SlPIN2, SlACO1, SlChi3, and SlChi9 in tomato leaves prior to B. cinerea infection. These results suggest that MSB pretreatment can be a promising alternative to chemical fungicides for environment-friendly management of tomato grey mould.

In recent decades, increasing attention has been paid to food safety and organic horticulture. Thus, people are looking for natural products to manage plant diseases, pests, and weeds. Essential oils (EOs) or EO-based products are potentially promising candidates for biocontrol agents due to their safe, bioactive, biodegradable, ecologically, and economically viable properties. Born of necessity or commercial interest to satisfy market demand for natural products, this emerging technology is highly anticipated, but its application has been limited without the benefit of a thorough analysis of the scientific evidence on efficacy, scope, and mechanism of action. This review covers the uses of EOs as broad-spectrum biocontrol agents in both preharvest and postharvest systems. The known functions of EOs in suppressing fungi, bacteria, viruses, pests, and weeds are briefly summarized. Related results and possible modes of action from recent research are listed. The weaknesses of applying EOs are also discussed, such as high volatility and low stability, low water solubility, strong influence on organoleptic properties, and phytotoxic effects. Therefore, EO formulations and methods of incorporation to enhance the strengths and compensate for the shortages are outlined. This review also concludes with research directions needed to better understand and fully evaluate EOs and provides an outlook on the prospects for future applications of EOs in organic horticulture production.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using extracellular filtrates of some Lysinibacillus sphaericus (Ls) strains under simple conditions. Ls synthesized AgNPs showed the optical absorption peaks at 388–412 nm as detected by UV-visible spectrophotometer. Transmission electron micrographs of bacterial synthesized AgNPs revealed that they were polycrystalline with spherical, hexagonal, cuboidal, rod and irregular shapes. The average diameter of the tested AgNPs were ranged from 14–21 nm and they were negatively charged as detected by DLS (−18.2 to −28.9). FTIR spectra showed the presence of nitrogenous biomolecules capping the synthesized AgNPs. The filtrates of tested Ls strains showed nitrate reductase activity (1.45–2.56 µmol/ml/min). Tested AgNPs showed bactericidal activity against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria, fungicidal activity against yeast and filamentous fungi, and virucidal activity against rotavirus. In addition, it showed synergistic antimicrobial effect to cephradine and nizoarm against all tested microorganisms. Cytotoxicity test revealed the safety of the tested nanoparticles at tested concentrations. Finally, Ls strains represent microbial sources for ecofriendly, simple and economic biosynthesis of antimicrobial AgNPs. Also, this research may contribute to the medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical industry for the development of new products used for the public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article starts with literature review on secondary metabolites, namely the iridoids contained in Linaria species (Scrophulariaceae). It describes the biological activity of the iridoid glycosides; the importance and the benefits of the secondary metabolites and their eventual application in organic plant cultivation. Is further elucidated the profile of the biologically active substances predominant in the purified extract of Linaria genistifolia (L.) Mill., named by us genistifoliosides. Are investigated the biological activity and the stimulating effect of genistifolioside aqueous solution in concentration 0.01% on the tomato seed germination, plants’ productivity (which is 33.9% higher) and the biochemical characteristics of the tomato fruit. It was elucidated, for the first time, the inhibitory effect of genistifolioside on the development of Alternaria alternata pathogenic fungi, affecting the vegetable crops; the 0.1% aqueous solution of genistifoliosides has the diameter of the fungi zone of inhibition 5.8 times bigger in comparison to the control sample and 4 times bigger in comparison to the certificated biopreparation. The purified extract of genistifoliosides exhibits properties of plant growth regulator as well as fungicidal properties and can be used in ecological agriculture.

Development of natural nano-based plant-protection formulations represents an emerging phenomenon that has been widely improved for crops protection and for enhancing the efficiency and safety of pesticides. In the present study we isolated the essential oil from the fruits of Citrus trifoliata L. and investigated it using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Limonene (78.46%) was the major component followed by β-Myrcene (7.94%) and Caryophyllene (4.20%). Citrus trifoliata essential oil (CTEO) loaded nano-cubosomes were successfully prepared by the emulsification technique. The insecticidal and fungicidal activities of formulated CTEO nano-cubosomes and unformulated CTEO were tested. While both of them exhibited substantial activities, CTEO nano-cubosomes were more effective than unformulated oil. It is the first time to formulate CTEO in nano-cubosomes and examine their insecticidal and fungicidal activities. In light of the current study, CTEO as it is or as nano-cubosomes is recommended as a promising candidate for pest and fungal pathogens control. Supplemental data for this article can be accessed at . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the composition of the essential oil of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) leaves and the antifungal effects of the essential oil on food-borne molds isolated from meat products were investigated. The α-pinene (21.64 %), γ-terpinene (21.09 %), terpinen-4-ol (17.31 %), limonene (9.37 %), and o-cymene (6.54 %) were found to be the major components of M. alternifolia essential oil. The essential oil showed the highest antifungal activity on Aspergillus niger (25.82 mm zone diameter), followed by Aspergillus fumigatus (22.27 mm), Aspergillus flavus (21.092 mm), and Penicillium notatum (20.30 mm) (p<0.05), respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of M. alternifolia essential oil on the mold species used in the study varied between 0.032 and 0.376 mg/L, and the value of minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) values ranged from 0.021 to 0.341 mg/L (p<0.05). The MIC/MFC ratio of M. alternifolia essential oil on 10 different mold species varies between 1.05 and 1.68 mg/L. According to the MIC/MFC ratio, the M. alternifolia essential oil showed a lethal effect on all of the mold species studied in this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based bioactive compounds have been utilized to cure diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms and as a substitute to reduce the side effects of chemically synthesized drugs. Therefore, in the present study, Azadirachta indica oil nanohydrogel was prepared to be utilized as an alternate source of the antimicrobial compound. The total phenolic compound in Azadirachta indica oil was quantified by chromatography analysis and revealed gallic acid (0.0076 ppm), caffeic acid (0.077 ppm), and syringic acid (0.0129 ppm). Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of Azadirachta indica oil revealed the presence of bioactive components, namely hexadecenoic acid, heptadecanoic acid, ç-linolenic acid, 9-octadecanoic acid (Z)-methyl ester, methyl-8-methyl-nonanoate, eicosanoic acid, methyl ester, and 8-octadecane3-ethyl-5-(2 ethylbutyl). The nanohydrogel showed droplet size of 104.1 nm and −19.3 mV zeta potential. The nanohydrogel showed potential antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans with minimum inhibitory, bactericidal, and fungicidal concentrations ranging from 6.25 to 3.125 (µg/mL). The nanohydrogel showed a significantly (p < 0.05) higher (8.40 log CFU/mL) value for Gram-negative bacteria E. coli compared to Gram-positive S. aureus (8.34 log CFU/mL), and in the case of pathogenic fungal strain C. albicans, there was a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in log CFU/mL value (7.79–6.94). The nanohydrogel showed 50.23–82.57% inhibition in comparison to standard diclofenac sodium (59.47–92.32%). In conclusion, Azadirachta indica oil nanohydrogel possesses great potential for antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities and therefore can be used as an effective agent.

Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) is a well-known agent with a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It is a colorless liquid and commercially available in aqueous solution over a wide concentration range. It has been extensively used in the food industry by virtue of its strong oxidizing property and its ability to cause cellular oxidative damage in microbial cells. This review comprehensively documents recent research on the antimicrobial activity of H 2 O 2 against organisms of concern for the food industry, as well as its effect against SARS-CoV-2 responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, factors affecting the antimicrobial effectiveness of H 2 O 2, different applications of H 2 O 2 as a sanitizer or disinfectant in the food industry as well as safety concerns associated with H 2 O 2 are discussed. Finally, recent efforts in enhancing the antimicrobial efficacy of H 2 O 2 are also outlined., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Fungal biofilm-related infections are increasingly occurring. We previously identified a fungicidal antibiofilm combination, consisting of miconazole (MCZ) and the quaternary ammonium compound domiphen bromide (DB). DB eliminates tolerance rather than altering the susceptibility to MCZ of various Candida spp. Here we studied the mode of action of the MCZ-DB combination in more detail. We found that DB's action increases the permeability of the plasma membrane as well as that of the vacuolar membrane of Candida spp. Furthermore, the addition of DB affects the intracellular azole distribution. MCZ is a fungicidal azole that, apart from its well-known inhibition of ergosterol biosynthesis, also induces accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Interestingly, the MCZ-DB combination induced significantly more ROS in C. albicans biofilms as compared to single compound treatment. Co-administration of the antioxidant ascorbic acid resulted in abolishment of the ROS generated by MCZ-DB combination as well as its fungicidal action. In conclusion, increased intracellular MCZ availability due to DB's action results in excess of ROS and enhanced fungal cell killing.

Despite using antimycotic drugs in the treatment of dermatomycoses as an age long practice, the fungicidal activities of indigenous plants on spores of dermatophytes from germinating in vitro need to be investigated further. In this study, methanol extract of Acacia mearnsii was assessed for its antifungal activity against dermatophytic pathogenic fungi by agar diffusion and broth dilution methods. The cytotoxicity activity of the extract was determined by the brine shrimp lethality assay. The study showed that the mean ± standard deviation of the inhibition zones ranged between 13 and 24 ± 0.58 mg/ml and the activity of the extract was concentration dependent. While the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 0.3125 - 2.5 mg/ml, the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) values ranged between 0.3125 mg/ml and 5 mg/ml. The susceptibility of the yeast to the extract was more than those of the molds. The MIC of the yeasts ranged between 0.3125 and 1.25 mg/ml while those of the molds ranged between 0.625 and 2.5 mg/ml. The mechanism of antibiosis showed that the extract was 7.69% fungistatic and 92.31% fungicidal wielding more killing effects on the fungi than potentiating their growth. The cytotoxicity assay showed that the crude methanolic extract with the LC50 being 101.59 µg/ml was pharmacologically active and nontoxic (LC50 > 100 μg/ml). The antifungal activity of this plant can be exploited as an alternative or complementary means of treating fungal infections to eliminate fungal spread. The study further justified the folkloric use of A. mearnsii in the treatment of a variety of microbial infections.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether fungicidal versus fungistatic pharmacotherapy of invasive candidiasis/candidemia yields superior outcomes. Data sources included MEDLINE (1966–June 2017), EMBASE (1980–June 2017), PubMed (1966–June 2017), Global Health-Ovid (inception to June 2017), LILACS Virtual Health Library (inception to June 2017) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (to 2nd quarter 2017). The ClinicalTrial.gov database, the SCOPUS database, SIGLE (System for Information on Grey Literature) and Google Scholar were also utilised to search for relevant studies. Randomised studies of any pharmacotherapy of invasive candidiasis including candidemia using a fungicidal (amphotericin B or echinocandin compound) versus a fungistatic (triazole) compound in adolescent or adult non-neutropenic patients. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Pooled odds ratios demonstrated an advantage of fungicidal therapy with respect to early therapeutic success (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.27–2.03, p

The pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms affect human health directly or indirectly and become increasingly important in most countries. Novel antimicrobial agents and disinfectants have become necessary due to the rise of antibiotic resistance phenomena. The current study investigate the inhibitory infect of ANOSAN on pathogenic bacteria and toxigenic fungi. Chemical analysis was performed for ANOSAN. The antimicrobial activity of ANOSAN was carried out using agar well diffusion assay and mean growth inhibition percentage and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). The antibiofilm activity was conducted using Biofilm formation assay and the impact of the disinfectant on the preformed biofilm was visualized by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The chemical composition of ANOSAN comprised very low amount of Sodium (0.034%), Chloride (0.01%), Hypochlorite (0.014%) and Organic matter (0.0062%). ANOSAN low concentration showed a broad spectrum of antibacterial activities against Gram positive, Gram negative bacteria and fungi. The MIC (0.781 mg/ml) was observed for Vibrio cholerae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Sub-inhibitory concentrations of ANOSAN have successfully inhibited biofilm formation of the above mentioned bacterial patho gens. The ANOSAN appeared to be effective as bactericidal against Ps. aeruginosa and Staph. aureus. The time kill assay was observed between (0-6h) and between (0-3h) of exposure for both pathogens, respectively, and the viable bacterial counts remained undetectable after the previous time in a confirmatory experiment. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was conducted to confirm the antimicrobial activity of ANOSAN against Staph. aureus and Ps. aeruginosa. These data directly illustrate the destructive effects of the ANOSAN on the pathogenic bacteria. This work clarified that ANOSAN water had bactericidal and fungicidal activity along with inhibiting the ability of pathogenic bacteria to form biofilms, thus providing a good alternative to the use of traditional antimicrobials in food industry, pharmaceutical and medical applications.