In vitro activity of terpenes against Candida albicans and ultrastructural alterations.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vitro activity of terpene blends combined with tissue conditioner against Candida albicans and the effect on its morphology and sub-micro structure.

STUDY DESIGN

The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of terpenes, obtained from a by-product of kraft pulping, was determined using broth microdilution against C. albicans strains, and the activity of terpenes combined with Coe-Comfort tissue conditioner was assessed. Cell morphologic alterations were evaluated using scanning electronic microscopy and transmission electronic microscopy. Data was analyzed using Student's t test P < .05.

RESULTS

The MIC of terpene blends fluctuated between 0.097% and 0.39% (v/v). Coe-Comfort tissue conditioner mixed with terpenes exhibited a total inhibition of C. albicans (P < .05). Terpenes induced ultrastructural alterations, even at the MIC value, including an increase in size, shape modification, cell wall damage with perforations, pronounced disconnection between cell wall and cytoplasm, and cytoplasmic vacuoles.

CONCLUSIONS

Terpenes had pronounced effects against C. albicans alone and in combination with Coe-Comfort tissue conditioner, which mainly resulted in cell wall damage.