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Extracts of Cryptocarya species have been shown to reduce biofilms, demonstrating their antimicrobial effects. The extracts can be fractionated to optimize their potential. In this study, we evaluated the antimicrobial activity of Cryptocarya moschata fractions against planktonic cells and biofilms of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans . Four fractions were prepared: 100% hexane, acetate/hexane 1:1, 100% ethyl acetate, and water. The effect of the fractions on planktonic cells was assessed by counting the colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL). Biofilm tests included CFU/mL, cell metabolic activity, and qualitative analysis using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Results were analyzed by the Mann-Whitney U test (α = 0.05). The fractions contained lipophilic constituents, styrylpyrones, glycosylated flavonoids, and alkaloids. Acetate/hexane (1:1) and 100% ethyl acetate fractions reduced the CFU/mL of planktonic C. albicans. C. moschata fractions did not affect planktonic S. mutans . For biofilms, the fractions reduced the CFU/mL (from 2-5 logs) and cell metabolic activity (approximately 80% reduction in a single-species biofilm). CLSM showed the fractions reduced microorganism viability and damaged the extracellular matrix of biofilms. We conclude that the acetate/hexane 1:1 and 100% ethyl acetate C. moschata fractions exhibit antimicrobial effects against biofilms.

Understanding the interaction between oral keratinocytes (NOK-si) and Candida albicans is fundamental for the development of prevention strategies and new therapies for oral candidiasis. This study evaluated the dynamics and metabolic profile of these cells growing in co-culture by means of cell metabolism, number of CFU ml -1 , and production of enzymes, cytokines, and metabolites. The data were analyzed by ANOVAs and post hoc tests (α = 0.05). In co-cultures, there were significant decreases in the cell metabolism of NOK-si and C. albicans and increases in the CFU ml -1 values of C. albicans biofilm. There were also significant increases in the production of cytokines by NOK-si and proteinase by C. albicans biofilm after their interaction. The metabolic balance of the main metabolites, amino acids, and extracellular and intracellular metabolites was shifted in favor of the co-cultures, while aromatic alcohols were secreted in higher amounts by the biofilm of C. albicans . It was concluded that the interaction of cells in co-culture influenced their dynamics over time.

This study evaluated the effect of experimental coatings, containing zwitterion or hydrophilic monomers, on the adherence of Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Streptococcus mutans to an acrylic resin. Acrylic samples (smooth or rough surfaces) were left untreated (control) or coated with one of the following experimental coatings: 3-hydroxypropylmethacrylate (HP) or sulfobetaine methacrylate (S), at concentrations of 25, 30, or 35%. Half of the specimens were coated with saliva. The adhesion test was performed by incubating specimens in C. albicans, C. glabrata, and S. mutans suspensions at 37°C for 90 min. The number of adhered microorganisms was determined by metabolic activity (XTT) and by cell viability (CFU). All coated specimens exhibited lower absorbance and CFU values compared to control specimens. Saliva and roughness did not promote microorganism adherence. An XPS analysis confirmed the modification in the chemical composition of the coatings in the experimental samples. These experimental coatings significantly reduced the adherence of C. albicans, C. glabrata and S. mutans to acrylic resin.