Work

Unveiling the synergistic effect of icariin and azole drugs on Candida albicans

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction and Method The current study explores the synergistic effects of icariin, a flavonoid found in plants of the genus Epimedium , in ombination with selected antifungal agents, against Candida albicans in vitro . Results This flavonoid significantly enhanced the in vitro effect of fluconazole, by decreasing the minimum inhibitory concentration against C. albicans . This effect was also observed when combining icariin with ketoconazole and itraconazole of the azole family respectively. Interestingly, no activity-enhancing effect was observed when icariin was combined with other classes of antifungals, such as amphotericin B or caspofungin. Discussion We conclude that icariin may increase the sensitivity of C. albicans to azoles via a cell membrane mediated mechanism, based on our results from FUN-1 microscopy and coincubation with cell wall and cell membrane stressors. Further research is required to explore these effects in clinical isolates, particularly fluconazole-resistant C. albicans , with a view towards the clinical application of icariin as a co-adjuvant in antifungal azole therapy.

Source: Frontiers in Oral Health

DOI: 10.3389/froh.2025.1517210

Authors: Barbod Aliaghazadeh, Marina Pascual-Ortiz, Alba Martínez, Veronica Veses, Chirag C. Sheth

Institution: Universidad Cardenal Herrera CEU

Language: English

Topic: Antifungal resistance and susceptibility

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,077