Ascorbic acid as a modulator of inflammatory response against Candida albicans

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the behavior of oral keratinocytes in the presence of Vitamin C (Vit C) and its anti-inflammatory potential. Materials & methods: Oral keratinocytes were initially exposed to 0.1–2.5 mM of Vit C and the metabolic activity and cell migration were evaluated using MTS assay and Ibidi culture inserts, respectively. After, the cells were challenged with Candida albicans and inflammatory markers were analyzed by qPCR. Results: The treatment was not cytotoxic, and the highest concentrations increased the metabolic activity at 24 h. Vit C delayed the cell migration at 48 and 72 h. Interestingly, it downregulated the genes IL-8 and IL-1β. Conclusion: Vit C could be an interesting adjuvant to anti-fungal treatment due to its anti-inflammatory potential.

Plain language summary

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a vitamin commonly found in fruits and vegetables. It is popular for supporting our immune system, so is commonly taken as a supplement. We looked at the action of vitamin C on cells from the mouth and its potential to reduce inflammation in a fungal disease of the mouth – oral candidiasis. We showed that vitamin C is not toxic to cells of the mouth and may reduce inflammation in cells infected by the fungus. This suggests that vitamin C could be used as a complementary therapy for oral candidiasis.

Graphical abstract

Summary points

• Vitamin C is an antioxidant agent that has been investigated for the treatment of different microbial and inflammatory conditions.

• Previous studies demonstrated that this compound may present modulatory effects on C. albicans virulence factors.

• Alternative methods to reduce the use of antifungals agents are desired.

• This study evaluated for the first time the effects of Vit C on in vitro model of oral candidiasis.

• Vit C increased the metabolic activity of the cells at 24 h and delayed the cell migration at 48 and 72 h.

• Vit C downregulated the pro-inflammatory genes IL-8 and IL-1β.

• The data indicated that Vit C could be in interesting adjunct for the treatment of oral candidiasis.

Keywords: :

• anti-inflammatory
• ascorbic acid
• candidiasis
• infection model
• vitamin C

Financial disclosure

This work was supported by the São Paulo State Research Foundation (FAPESP) [2022/04598-7; 2022/04723-6; 2019/05856-7] and by funds from the Indiana University School of Dentistry. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

Competing interests disclosure

The authors have no competing interests or relevant affiliations with any organization or entity with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Writing disclosure

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the São Paulo State Research Foundation (FAPESP) [2022/04598-7; 2022/04723-6; 2019/05856-7] and by funds from the Indiana University School of Dentistry.