The Susceptibility of Candida albicans to Gamma-Radiations and Ketoconazole Depends on Transitional Filamentation

Abstract

Abstract:The virulence of C. albicans is associated with the transitional evolution from yeast to filamentous forms. We were interested in the effects amphotericin B (AMB), ketoconazole (KTC) and -radiations might have on these broadly defined phenotypes as determined by the CFU procedure. By using collagen gel as the 3-dimensional support of cell culture, diverse experimental conditions were contemplated in order to modulate the differentiation of Candida during sessile and planktonic growth. These conditions included the co-culture with human epithelial and endothelial cells and treatment with farnesol, tyrosol and conditioned medium from P. aeruginosa. The overall results were as follows: 1) The survival of Candida was inhibited by the exposure to -radiations, but only after the organism was induced to progress into excess filamentation, while in normal growth conditions it proved to be radioresistant; 2) AMB inhibited the growth of yeast forms, while KTC was specifically toxic to filamentous forms and 3) the combined treatment of filamentous Candida with KTC and -radiations resulted in the synergistic inhibition of the organism. These findings indicate that both the radiosensitivity of C. albicans and its response to the synergistic effects of -radiations and KTC are filamentation-dependent pharmacological processes.

Modulation of the nanoscale motion rate of Candida albicans by X-rays

“…On the other hand, ionizing radiation influences Candida cells themselves, which can potentially modify their virulence and sensitivity to antifungal drugs. In vitro studies demonstrate that ionizing radiation can either inhibit Candida proliferation or it can potentiate its virulence, the outcome depending on the source of irradiation, Candida strain, and culture conditions ( Ueta et al, 2001 ; Ben-Yosefa et al, 2005 ; Cagnacci et al, 2008 ). It should be emphasized that ionizing radiation effects strongly depend on the phase of the cell cycle.…”

Impact of Gamma Irradiation on the Properties of Magnesium-Doped Hydroxyapatite in Chitosan Matrix

“…et al [ 17 ] have highlighted that gamma radiation enhances the antimicrobial activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles against various bacterial strains ( Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Candida albicans (ATCC 90028), etc.). In addition, in previous studies it was highlighted that the use of gamma irradiation together with antimycotic drugs may inhibit the development of Candida albicans fungal cells [ 18 ].…”