Impact of Metal-Functionalized Fullerenes on the Proliferation of Pathogenic Fungi

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Given the trajectory and prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms like Candida auris, the dearth of available antifungal drugs and the global need for effective therapeutics, the exploration of safe antifungals with broad-spectrum potential and novel antimicrobial mechanisms is imperative for future treatment strategies. Herein, the broad-spectrum potential of previously synthesized silver and copper coordinated chlorine functionalized fullerene nanoparticles (Ag–C 60 –Cl and Cu–C 60 –Cl) against two clinically significant fungal pathogens, Candida albicans and C. auris is investigated. The experimental results show enhanced antifungal activity of Ag–C 60 –Cl compared to Cu–C 60 –Cl, C 60 –Cl, and fluconazole. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of Ag–C 60 –Cl and Cu–C 60 –Cl are 15.62 and 250 μg/mL, respectively, against C. albicans . Notably, the MIC of the Ag–C 60 –Cl against C. auris is 3.9 μg/mL, whereas the MIC of Cu–C 60 –Cl is 250 μg/mL. Analysis of fungal growth kinetics shows that Ag–C 60 –Cl significantly delayed the growth of C. albicans and suppressed the growth of C. auris . Mechanistic studies highlight that Ag–C 60 –Cl produced higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) and triggered catalase enzymes by acting as oxidants. Additionally, the NPs exhibited physical interactions with yeast cells, indicating a dual mode of action. These findings establish the potential of Ag–C 60 –Cl as a new and potentially transformative antifungal strategy against two clinically significant pathogens.