Effect of cinnamaldehyde on 1, 3-beta-D-glucans in cell wall of Candida albicans in immunosuppressed BALB/c mice

Objective: Invasive pulmonary candidiasis is a disease with high incidence, difficult treatment, poor prognosis, and high mortality. The present study analyzed the influence of cinnamaldehyde on 1,3-beta-D-glucans in the cell wall of Candida albicans in order to provide a theoretical basis for the research of antifungal drugs. Methods: An immunosuppressed BALB/c mouse model with invasive pulmonary candidiasis was established by nasal perfusion of 50 mu L of C. albicans suspension (10(7) cfu/mL). 1,3-beta-D-glucans examination and electron microscopy were carried out. Fluconazole was used as the control. Results: Cinnamaldehyde was administered at a dose of 240 mg/kg/d for 14 consecutive days, and the measured value of 1,3-beta-D-glucans was (1160.62 +/- 89.65) pg/mL, whereas that of fluconazole was (4285.87 +/- 215.62) pg/mL. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Electron microscopy observation indicated that the 2-3 layers outside the cell wall of C. albicans (1,3-beta-D-glucans layer) were rough, deformed, and incomplete, although the cell membrane was clear and intact. Conclusion: Cinnamaldehyde demonstrated special efficacy on 1,3-beta-D-glucans in the cell wall of C. albicans. (c) 2018 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Tianjin Press of Chinese Herbal Medicines.