Original Research Article (Experimental): Targeting fungal menace through copper nanoparticles and Tamrajal
Authors
Rinky Mudiar
Department of Biotechnology, University of Mumbai, Santacruz (E), Mumbai, 400098, India
Varsha Kelkar-Mane
Department of Biotechnology, University of Mumbai, Santacruz (E), Mumbai, 400098, India
Keywords:
Copper, Candida species, Germ tube, Biofilm
Abstract
WHO reports, an escalation of antibiotic resistance in opportunistic pathogens like Candida. Tamrajal, i.e., water stored in copper vessels has been proclaimed as health elixir by ancient Ayurveda. Vis-a-Vis the use of copper contact surfaces and nanoparticles has gained significance for their antimicrobial effects. It thus seems imperative to examine copper nanoparticles and tamrajal as promising alternatives to existing antifungals.
Objective
This study not only assessed the influence of Tamrajal and copper nanoparticles on the morphological alterations of the Candida and its biofilm forming ability, but also on their ability to destroy preformed biofilms.
Materials and methods
Copper oxide nanoparticles as well as Tamrajal were evaluated as complementary as well as stand-alone antimicrobial agents. ‘Time kill assay’ and ‘germ tube inhibition test’ were performed as end-point analysis for pathogenesis, while biofilm quantification, performed to assess the colonizing capability of Candida. Scanning Electron Microscope was used for visualizing the cells, whilst ICP-AES to determine the copper concentration.
Results
92–100% cytotoxicity to the fluconazole resistant Candida species was observed with copper oxide nanoparticles as well as tamrajal during 24hr time kill assay. The study also confirmed complete germ tube inhibition by copper in both its forms in addition to the reduction in the biofilm production.
Conclusion
Compared to the classes of antifungals like azoles, echinocandins etc, copper based anti-candidal agents highlight a potential way to combat resistant candidiasis. The possibility of accumulation of NP resulting in cytotoxicity puts tamrajal as the choice due to its efficacy as well as non-toxicity as per the EPA.
Keywords: Copper, Candida species, Germ tube, Biofilm
Click on "Archives" to access the full archive of scientific preprints. You may use the categories and the search functionality to find select preprints you're interested in.
