A novel approach: targeting virulence factors of Candida albicans with essential oil components

Abstract

Abstract Aims Focusing on phytochemicals to target the virulence factors of Candida albicans is a promising avenue for novel antifungal compounds. Given the limited prior research on essential oil (EO) components and their specific effects on C. albicans virulence, our study aimed to explore their impact and uncover the underlying mechanisms. Methods and results We examined the effects on viability, dimorphic transition, biofilm formation, and changes in the expression of critical virulence-related genes. The results showed that Dehydrocostus lactone, displayed the most potent growth-inhibiting activity with the lowest MIC value, followed by Thymol and Costunolide. A substantial, dose-dependent decrease in germ tube formation occurred after exposure to sub-inhibitory concentrations of the EO components, with Carvacrol, Dehydrocostus Lactone, and Thymol exerting the most potent inhibitory effects. Across sub-inhibitory concentrations, Alpha Bisabolol consistently showcased the most potent antibiofilm activity, followed by lower but significant inhibitory effects with Dehydrocostus Lactone, Thymol, Alpha Pinene, Costunolide, Carvone, and Carvacrol. Alpha Bisabolol, Alpha Pinene, and Dehydrocostus Lactone caused almost total downregulation of ACT1 while minimal changes occurred in expression of HWP1, SAP4, ALS3, and ECE1. Conclusions Considering that actin is essential for various cellular processes, including budding, cell shape maintenance, and the formation of filaments in C. albicans, it is a plausible hypothesis that inhibiting ACT1 or disturbing actin’s normal functioning could potentially affect the fungus’s virulence, which warrants additional research and exploration. This study underscores the potent antifungal and anti-virulence properties of various EO components, which effectively cripple C. albicans and reduce its disease-causing ability. This innovative approach holds promise for effective clinical therapies.