Oro-Graphene Complex: An Alternative Approach for the Treatment of Candida Biofilm-Associated Infections

Background and Aims Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen responsible for mucocutaneous infections such as vaginal candidiasis. The majority of infections caused by Candida spp. are associated with biofilm formation [1]. Reducing biofilm formation and disrupting mature biofilms is a promising strategy to combat the disease without harming the resident microbiota. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro activity of a novel oro-graphene complex against C. albicans biofilms, as well as its in vivo efficacy against Candida infections. The formulation, developed by IDI-Integratori Dietetici Italiani srl, was tested in both its pure complex form and as a component in topical creams. Methods The fungal strain used was C. albicans ATCC 10231. Tested samples included the oro-graphene complex and its formulations in creams containing the complex. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined following the CLSI protocol [2]. Biofilm formation and preformed biofilm reduction were assessed using the method previously described [3]. In vivo testing was conducted on Galleria mellonella larvae using three different infection models: systemic infection, burn wound infection, and abrasion infection models, following established protocols [4,5]. Each experiment was performed at least three times in duplicate. Results and Conclusions The results demonstrated that the oro-graphene complex inhibited biofilm formation by 70% and reduced mature biofilms by 94% without affecting the proliferation of planktonic cells. In vivo studies on the oro-graphene complex revealed low toxicity upon administration in larvae, both through hemocoel injection and topical application. The antifungal activity exhibited a dose-dependent effect, significantly reducing larval mortality following systemic treatment. Topical creams containing the complex effectively reduced fungal burden within 24 hours of treatment. Further studies will focus on its potential commercialization.