Posted by The formation of biofilms is one of the most important virulence factors of the opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans. This polymorphic yeast can shift between yeast, pseudohyphal, and hyphal forms, and these morphological transitions are closely linked to its pathogenicity. These behaviors are regulated by quorum sensing, a cell-to-cell communication system. One key quorum-sensing molecule is farnesol, which can block morphological switching and thereby influence the architecture and stability of biofilms.
In our study, we set out to explore the bioactive potential of cyclodextrins to attenuate biofilm formation in C. albicans. The concentration-dependent effects of both native cyclodextrins and specific derivatives were studied at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 12.5 mM. Besides, the efficiency of various combinations of cyclodextrins and farnesol, as an antifungal substance, were examined.
Our results revealed that cyclodextrins exert diverse, structure- and concentration-dependent effects on C. albicans biofilm formation, showing both stimulatory and inhibitory outcomes. In some cases, we also observed an increased number of hyphal forms compared to the control, depending on the specific type and concentration of cyclodextrin used. We found that randomly methylated α-CD (RAMEA) and randomly methylated γ-CD (RAMEG) exhibited significant antifungal properties, as evidenced by a reduction in the biofilm formation capacity of C. albicans.
Furthermore, RAMEB and RAMEG enhanced the antifungal activity of farnesol against C. albicans. Consequently, their synergistic effect with farnesol could provide an excellent opportunity to produce a reduced-dose but more effective antifungal formulation.
Márton, R., Hermann, H., Kiss, V. T., Fenyvesi, É., Szente, L., & Molnár, M. (2025). Cyclodextrins in Action: Modulating Candida albicans Biofilm Formation and Morphology. Biotechnology Reports, e00912. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.btre.2025.e00912