Efficacy of bakuchiol-garlic combination against virulent genes of Candida albicans

Background: Polymicrobial biofilms are notorious for causing intraoral tissue destruction. Streptococcus sanguinis and Streptococcus mitis, commensals of oral cavities, have been found co-existing with C. albicans in resistant oral infections. There is an urgent need to find alternative treatment options. This study aims to assess the efficacy of garlic (G) and bakuchiol (Bk) combination against candida virulent genes and their subsequently secreted proteins.

Methods: In vitro single species biofilms of C. albicans, and mixed species biofilms formed in combination with streptococci were exposed to bakuchiol and garlic extract (Bk+G). Gene expression of agglutinin-like sequence (ALS1), (ALS3), adhesin-like wall proteins (HWP1) and aspartyl proteinases (SAP5) were determined using qPCR and their subsequent proteins were assessed through Western blotting.

Results: Virulent genes were significantly downregulated in single species biofilms when they were treated with Bk+G combination. However, Bk+G did not have significant effect on ALS1 and HWP1 gene in polymicrobial biofilms. ALS3 and SAP5 were significantly downregulated in Bk+G treated polymicrobial biofilm. Similar results were portrayed in Western blotting.

Conclusion: Bk+G combination exhibited antimicrobial effects against single and mixed species biofilms. The findings might provide insights for treating resistant candida infections. This combination could potentially serve as an herbal alternative to traditional antifungals following further research.