In VivoAnti-CandidaActivity of Phenolic Extracts and Compounds: Future Perspectives Focusing on Effective Clinical Interventions

Abstract

Candida species have increasingly deserved a special attention among the medical community. In spite of the presence of Candida species as a human commensal, alarming rates of local and systemic infections have been observed, varying from moderate to severe impact. Currently available antifungal drugs have progressively lost their effectiveness, pointing urgently the problem of the microorganisms with acquired-resistance. Natural matrices are secularly used for numerous purposes, being inclusive and highly effective as antimicrobials. Increasing evidence gives a particular emphasis to the contribution of phenolic extracts and related individual compounds. In vitro studies clearly confirm their prominent effects, but the confirmation through in vivo studies, including the involved mechanisms of action, is not so much deepened. Therefore, the present report aims to provide extensive knowledge about all these aspects, highlighting the most efficient phytochemical formulations, including therapeutic doses. Further studies need to be incited to deepen knowledge on this area, namely, focused on clinical trials to provide safer and more effective antimicrobials than the current ones.

Phenolic Compounds as Nutraceuticals or Functional Food Ingredients

“…Despite the scientific relevance of these studies, biochemical, physiological or metabolic parameters are not considered [2,3,148]. Thus, there has been an exponential increase in the number of in vivo studies using rats, mice and rabbits; however, studies involving humans are still very scarce [149]. Unfortunately, there is a large number of studies on the in vitro properties of different natural matrices that did not advance to in vivo studies.…”

Utilizing Liposomal Quercetin and Gallic Acid in Localized Treatment of Vaginal Candida Infections

“…Among natural molecules, polyphenols have gained increasing interest in the last few years as potential candidates for Candida treatment [8,9]. Polyphenols are phytochemicals that can be principally found in cereals, grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables and in beverages, e.g., tea, coffee, fruit juice and cocoa [10].…”

Detailed phytochemical characterization and bioactive properties of Myrtus nivelii Batt & Trab

“…6 Moreover, phenolic compounds, such as phenolic acids, flavonoids and tannins, have been isolated from different plant sources and have inhibited various pathogenic bacteria 8 and fungi. 3 Myrtaceae is a widespread plant family in the Mediterranean area, especially in Algeria, where a great number of species from the genus of this family can be found. In this family, there are numerous endemic species that are used in traditional therapy, in order to cure or prevent a diverse number of pathologies.…”