Antifungal, Antibiofilm and Anticytotoxic Properties of Biogenic CuO Nanoparticles Derived From Moringa oleifera Leaves Against Vaginal Candidiasis
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Objective: Moringa oleifera leaf extract can mediate green synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles with potential antimicrobial properties. This study evaluated copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) synthesized using M. oleifera for antifungal, antibiofilm, and cytocompatibility effects in a vaginal-simulant medium. Methods: CuO NPs were synthesized using M. oleifera leaf extract and characterized by FT-IR, XRD, UV–Vis, SEM, and EDX. 10 Candida albicans isolates and ATCC 90028 were screened for biofilm production; strong biofilm producers were selected for detailed testing. Antifungal activity (viability assays, MIC 50 , MIC 90 , MFC) and dose–response relationships were determined. Effects at sub-inhibitory concentrations on EPS production, cell-surface hydrophobicity, membrane permeability, ROS generation, germ tube formation, and biofilm formation/disruption were assessed. In vitro biocompatibility was evaluated by MTT assays on L929 fibroblasts, RAW 264.7 macrophages, MCF-12F epithelial cells, PBMCs, and by hemolysis assay. Results: CuO NPs produced a concentration-dependent reduction in Candida viability with high dose–response correlation (R2 = 0.967– 0.9779). MIC 50 , MIC 90 , and MFC values ranged 44.5– 103 μg/mL (ATCC 90028: MIC 50 44.5 μg/mL, MIC 90 86.5 μg/mL, MFC 91 μg/mL; C. albicans 6: MIC 50 51.5 μg/mL, MIC 90 79.5 μg/mL, MFC 103 μg/mL). At sub-inhibitory concentrations, CuO NPs reduced EPS production and cell-surface hydrophobicity, increased membrane permeability and ROS generation, inhibited germ tube formation, and limited biofilm formation and integrity. Biocompatibility testing showed concentration-dependent cytotoxicity in fibroblasts and macrophages at higher doses, relative tolerance of MCF-12F cells, low hemolysis, and acceptable PBMC viability at lower concentrations. Conclusion: M. oleifera -mediated CuO NPs exhibit potent in vitro antifungal and antibiofilm activity against C. albicans and affect multiple virulence-related pathways, with a distinguishable therapeutic window based on cell-type–dependent cytotoxicity. These findings support further development and optimization of topical intravaginal formulations of green-synthesized CuO NPs for candidal biofilm-associated infections, with additional in vivo safety and efficacy studies needed. Keywords: Moringa oleifera , vaginal candidiasis, CuO nanoparticles, antifungal, anti-biofilm
DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s567527
Authors: Mohammad Zubair, Yazeed Albalawi, Roba Alatawy
Institution: University of Tabuk
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,836
OpenAlex ID: W4416854537