Nanoformulation of a novel potent ebselen analog for treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis

Abstract

Background: Vulvovaginal candidiasis is primarily caused by Candida albicans ( C. albicans). Here, a novel organoselenium compound (G20) was synthesized and evaluated for anti- Candida activity. Methods: Growth-inhibition studies and medium acidification assays to assess the inhibition of the yeast plasma membrane H+-ATPase (Pma1p) were carried out in vitro using G20. A self-nanoemulsifying formulation (SNEP) of G20 was prepared and evaluated for antimycotic activity in a mouse model. Results: G20 inhibited the growth of C. albicans through a mechanism that, at least in part, involves the inhibition of Pma1p. The G20-SNEP formulation significantly reduced vaginal colonization and vaginal inflammation relative to yeast-infected but untreated control mice. Conclusion: G20-SNEP exhibits potent antimycotic activity in a mouse model of vulvovaginal candidiasis.