Activity of propolis from Mexico on the proliferation and virulence factors of Candida albicans

Background This research evaluated the anti- Candida albicans effect of Mexican propolis from Chihuahua.

Chemical composition of the ethanolic extract of propolis was determined by GC-MS, HPLC-DAD, and HPLC-MS.

The presence of anthraquinone, aromatic acid, fatty acids, flavonoids, and carbohydrates was revealed.

Results The anti- Candida activity of propolis was determined.

The inhibitions halos were between 10.0 to 11.8 mm; 25% minimum inhibitory concentration (0.5 mg/ml) was fungistatic, and 50% minimum inhibitory concentration (1.0 mg/ml) was fungicidal.

The effect of propolis on the capability of C. albicans to change its morphology was evaluated.

25% minimum inhibitory concentration inhibited to 50% of germ tube formation.

Staining with calcofluor-white and propidium iodide was performed, showing that the propolis affected the integrity of the cell membrane.

INT1 gene expression was evaluated by qRT-PCR.

Propolis significantly inhibited the expression of the INT1 gene encodes an adhesin (Int1p).

Chihuahua propolis extract inhibited the proliferation of Candida albicans , the development of the germ tube, and the synthesis of adhesin INT1.

Conclusions Given the properties demonstrated for Chihuahua propolis, we propose that it is a candidate to be considered as an ideal antifungal agent to help treat this infection since it would not have the toxic effects of conventional antifungals.