Suppressing the virulence factors of Candida auris with baicalein through multifaceted mechanisms

Abstract

Candida auris, a rapidly spreading multi-drug‐resistant fungus, is causing lethal infections under certain conditions globally. Baicalin (BE), an active ingredient extracted from the dried root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, exhibits antifungal activity. However, studies have shown the distinctive advantages of Traditional Chinese medicine in combating fungal infections, while the effect of BE, an active ingredient extracted from the dried roots of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, on C. auris, remains unknown. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the potential of BE as an antifungal agent against the emerging multidrug‐resistant C. auris. Various assays and models, including microbroth dilution, time growth curve analysis, spot assays, adhesion tests, flocculation test, cell surface hydrophobicity assay, hydrolase activity assays, XTT assay, violet crystal assay, scanning electron microscope (SEM), confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM), flow cytometry, Live/dead fluorescent staining, reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell wall assay, aggregation assay, porcine skin model, Galleria mellonella larvae (G. mellonella larvae) infection model, and reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were utilized to investigate how baicalein suppresses C. auris through possible multifaceted mechanisms. The findings indicate that BE strongly inhibited C. auris growth, adhesion, and biofilm formation. It also effectively reduced drug resistance and aggregation by disrupting the cell membrane and cell wall while reducing colonization and invasion of the host. Transcriptome analysis showed significant modulation in gene expression related to different virulence factors post‐BE treatment. In conclusion, BE exhibits significant effectiveness against C. auris, suggesting its potential as a viable treatment option due to its multifaceted suppression mechanisms.

Graphical abstract

Schematic representation of this study. Baicalein (BE) can effectively hinder the growth and colonization of C. auris by disrupting the expression of multiple virulence factors. This results in a strong antifungal effect, providing protection to the host from infection.