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BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies

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Open Access 01-12-2017 | Research article

Membrane of Candida albicans as a target of berberine

Authors: Nataša Zorić, Ivan Kosalec, Siniša Tomić, Ivan Bobnjarić, Mario Jug, Toni Vlainić, Josipa Vlainić

Published in: BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies | Issue 1/2017

Abstract

Background

We investigated the mechanisms of anti-Candida action of isoquinoline alkaloid berberine, active constituent of medically important plants of Barberry species.

Methods

The effects on membrane, morphological transition, synthesis of ergosterol and the consequent changes in membrane permeability have been studied. Polarization and lipid peroxidation level of the membrane following berberine treatment have been addressed.

Results

Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of berberine against C. albicans was 17.75 μg/mL. Cytotoxic effect of berberine was concentration dependent, and in sub-MIC concentrations inhibit morphological transition of C. albicans cells to its filamentous form. Results showed that berberine affects synthesis of membrane ergosterol dose-dependently and induces increased membrane permeability causing loss of intracellular material to the outer space (DNA/protein leakage). Berberine also caused membrane depolarization and lipid peroxidation of membrane constituents indicating its direct effect on the membrane. Moreover, ROS levels were also increased following berberine treatment indicating further the possibility of membrane damage.

Conclusion

Based on the obtained results it seems that berberine achieves its anti-Candida activity by affecting the cell membrane.

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Title: Membrane of Candida albicans as a target of berberine
Authors: Nataša Zorić
Ivan Kosalec
Siniša Tomić
Ivan Bobnjarić
Mario Jug
Toni Vlainić
Josipa Vlainić
Publication date: 01-12-2017
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies / Issue 1/2017
Electronic ISSN: 2662-7671
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-017-1773-5

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Springer Medicine

Membrane of Candida albicans as a target of berberine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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