Posted by The challenges related to biofilm-associated infections and diseases have prompted scientists to develop strategies aimed at reducing biofilm-forming capacity. Cells embedded in biofilms demonstrate a high level of tolerance to antimicrobial therapy, making Candida albicans biofilms much less susceptible to antifungal agents than planktonic cells.
In our previous research, we investigated the concentration-dependent effects of native CDs and various CD derivatives, aiming to identify mechanisms that could reduce biofilm formation. Our findings revealed that randomly methylated derivatives exhibited significant antifungal activity, with a marked reduction in the biofilm-forming ability of Candida albicans. Building on these results, our new study explores a broader concentration range to more thoroughly characterize the impact of CDs on biofilm development and to further elucidate the underlying mechanisms of inhibition.
Using crystal violet and XTT reduction assays, we observed that randomly methylated α-CD (RAMEA) and randomly methylated γ-CD (RAMEG) consistently decreased both total biofilm biomass and metabolic activity in a concentration-dependent manner. Randomly methylated β-CD (RAMEB) exhibited a biphasic effect, with low to moderate concentrations significantly reducing biofilm formation, while higher doses unexpectedly resulted in increased biofilm production.
Microscopic analysis revealed that elevated cyclodextrin concentrations induced the formation of hyphae. Optical density measurements and membrane permeability assays indicated that none of the cyclodextrins had a notable cytotoxic effect or compromised cell membrane integrity. Moreover, elevated intracellular ROS levels were detected, suggesting a potential stress-inducing effect.
Although the underlying mechanisms are still partly unexplored, our results clearly illustrate that randomly methylated CD derivatives can influence Candida albicans biofilm formation and affect its morphological transitions. These findings enhance our understanding of the complex interactions between cyclodextrin derivatives and fungal cells, underscoring their potential as biofilm-modulating agents.
Márton, R., Fenyvesi, É., Szente, L., Kese, I., & Molnár, M. (2025). Impact of Randomly Methylated Cyclodextrins on Candida albicans: Biofilm Formation, Morphogenesis and Oxidative Stress. Periodica Polytechnica Chemical Engineering. https://doi.org/10.3311/PPch.41530