Amanda Pohlmann Bonfim, Karina Mayumi Sakita, Daniella Renata Faria, Glaucia Sayuri Arita, Franciele Abigail Vilugron Rodrigues Vendramini, Isis Regina Grenier Capoci, Andressa Gimenes Braga, Rafaela Said dos Santos, Marcos Luciano Bruschi, Tania Cristina Alexandrino Becker, Admilton Gonçalves de Oliveira Junior, Érika Seki Kioshima, Patrícia de Souza Bonfim-Mendonça, Terezinha Inez Estivalet Svidzinski
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common vaginitis that affects women, especially in childbearing age, caused by Candida albicans in almost 80% of cases. Considering the limited drug arsenal available and the increasing fungal resistance profile, the search for new therapeutic sources with low toxicity and easy administration should be supported. Propolis has been used as a traditional medicine for multiple diseases, considering its particular composition and pharmaceutical properties that permits its wide applicability; it has also emerged as a potential antifungal agent. Thus, this study performed an in vitro and in vivo investigation into the efficacy of a new mucoadhesive thermoresponsive platform for propolis delivery (MTS-PRPe) in a preclinical murine model of VVC treatment caused by C. albicans. The methodologies involved chemical analysis, an assessment of the rheological and mucoadhesive properties of propolis formulations, in vitro and in vivo antifungal evaluations, histological evaluations and electron microscopy of the vaginal mucosa. The results demonstrated the antifungal activity of propolis extract and MTS-PRP against the standard strain and a fluconazole-resistant clinical isolate of C. albicans, in both in vitro and in vivo assays. These results were similar and even better, depending on the propolis concentration, when compared to nystatin. Thus, the formulation containing propolis exhibited good performance against C. albicans in a vulvovaginal candidiasis experimental model, representing a promising opportunity for the treatment of this infection.
* THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.