Inhibition of Candida albicans biofilm and hyphae formation by biocompatible oligomers.

ABSTRACT

Candida albicans is a yeast pathogen known for its virulence and high morbidity rate, and it easily colonizes host tissues and implant devices and forms mature biofilms, which play an important role in pathogenesis and drug resistance. In this study, we investigated the abilities of thermoresponsive oligomers of N-vinylcaprolactam (OVCLs) to inhibit biofilm formation by C. albicans. One synthetic and four commercial OVCLs (≤MW 240 000) at a concentration of 5 µg ml-1 were found to decrease C. albicans biofilm formation by more than 90% at 37°C, but to be less effective at 25°C. Microscopic observations showed that OVCLs clearly inhibited hyphal formation and cell aggregation by C. albicans, and this appeared to be responsible for their antibiofilm effects. In addition, effective antibiofouling coatings of OVCL/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) polymer blends were prepared on glass surfaces. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The emergence of multidrug-resistant Candida strains has prompted searches for new antifungals. The antibiofilm and antihyphae properties of OVCLs and OVCL coating against a fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans strain are present in this study. These findings suggest that OVCL and OVCL-coated biomaterials are potentially useful for controlling fungal biofilm formation by and the virulence of antifungal-resistant C. albicans.