The Effects of Combretum zeyheri Leaf Extract on Ergosterol Synthesis in Candida albicans

Abstract

The in vitro effects of Combretum zeyheri leaf ethanol extract (CZLE) on ergosterol biosynthesis of Candida albicans were investigated by quantifying the ergosterol in C. albicans in the presence and absence of the extract using UV-visible spectrophotometric analyses. Miconazole was used as the positive control. CZLE showed ergosterol biosynthesis inhibition at sub-inhibitory concentration for growth of C. albicans and also at the MIC (0.08 mg.mL⁻¹). The decrease in ergosterol in C. albicans cells was dose-dependant with 67%, 79%, and 100% after growing in 20, 40, and 80 μg.mL⁻¹ of CZLE, respectively. CZLE exerted its fungicidal effects by targeting the ergosterol biosynthesis in C. albicans and disrupting the membrane integrity.

KEYWORDS:

• Inhibitory effects
• fungicidal
• biosynthesis
• 14 α-demethylase

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the study.

Additional information

Funding

This study was sponsored by the International Foundation in Sciences, Stockholm, Sweden, Grant Number F/3413-03F. Support from the International Science Programmes through the International Program in the Chemical Sciences (IPICS: ZIM01), Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden and the University of Zimbabwe Research Board (Harare, Zimbabwe) is also acknowledged.