Role of TMPMP and TMAP on virulence factors of C. albicans

Abstract

During last decade, human fungal diseases gained importance as few pathogens cause life-threatening infections and Candida albicans is one among them. The recent antifungal resistance exhibited by C.albicans and other related fungi demand new drugs. Since natural products are potent source of antimicrobial compounds, an attempt was made using two terpenoids, viz., 1-2, 4, 5- Tri Methoxy Phenyl -1'- Methoxy Propionaldehyde (TMPMP) and 1-2, 4, 5- Tri Methoxy Acetophenone (TMAP), extracted from traditional Indian medicinal plant, Acorus calamus for its antifungal efficacy. The present study demonstrates the efficacy of these two terpenoids by exploring their effect on the virulence factors of the chosen organism. Results reveal the major virulence factors, namely, acidic, alkaline and neutral proteases, secreted aspartyl protease, lipase, phospholipase, elastase and keratinase activities have been completely reduced in the presence of TMPMP and TMAP compared to control. The reduction in virulence factors was on par with standard antifungal drug Fluconazole.