Novel strategies against Candida biofilms: interest of synthetic compounds

Future Microbiol. 2016;11(1):69-79. doi: 10.2217/fmb.15.118. Epub 2015 Dec 17.

Abstract

A biofilm is a consortium of microbial cells that are attached to a substratum or an interface. It should be considered a reservoir that may induce serious infections. Indeed, Candidaspp. biofilms may be involved in the persistence or worsening of some chronic inflammatory diseases as well as in systemic infections, which may lead to high morbidity and mortality rates. New strategies are currently being explored, utilizing several synthetic compounds to prevent or fight these Candida biofilms. This article focuses on active synthetic compounds classified with regards to their modes of action: inhibition of early adherence phase, inhibition or control of biofilm maturation and finally elimination of already formed biofilms. Some of them show promise in fighting biofilm.

Keywords: Candida; antibiofilm; antifungal; biofilm; synthetic compounds.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / chemical synthesis*
  • Antifungal Agents / metabolism*
  • Biofilms / drug effects*
  • Candida / drug effects*
  • Candida / physiology*
  • Candidiasis / microbiology
  • Drug Discovery / trends
  • Humans

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents