Evaluation of anti candida activity of Probiotic Consortium

Abstract

Candida species are opportunistic fungal pathogens responsible for infections that can range from mucosal to systemic candidiasis. Candida albicans, the most prevalent, accounts for about 50% of these infections, with other significant species including Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, Candida tropicalis, and Candida krusei. These infections are particularly challenging in immunocompromised individuals such as those with HIV, cancer, or on immunosuppressive therapy. The emergence of drug-resistant Candida strains has prompted the exploration of alternative treatments, including probiotics. newlineProbiotics, which are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts, are investigated for their potential to counter candidiasis. They may achieve this by restoring microbial balance, producing antimicrobial agents that inhibit Candida growth, competing for nutrients and adhesion sites, and boosting immune responses. Additionally, Bacillus tequilensis, a spore-forming gram-positive bacterium sourced from environments like tequila, has shown promise against Candida due to its production of antimicrobial compounds such as bacteriocins and lipopeptides. newlineThis thesis assesses the anti-Candida activity of a probiotic formulation based on Bacillus tequilensis. Our research includes formulating a probiotic consortium, enhancing its activity through optimal strain combinations, and evaluating its effectiveness in controlling candidiasis. Preliminary findings suggest that certain Bacillus cultures exhibit significant anti-Candida activities, thereby supporting the potential of this novel probiotic approach as an alternative treatment for candidiasis. In achieving the first objective, we developed an optimal growth medium tailored for Bacillus species, crucial for their robust growth and the production of bioactive compounds with anti-Candida properties. Through rigorous screening, specific Bacillus isolates demonstrated potent anti-Candida activity, forming the basis of our probiotic consortium.