Antifungal Activity of 2′-Hydroxychalcone Loaded in Nanoemulsion Against <i>Paracoccidioides</i> Spp.

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> This study aimed to evaluate the activity of 2'-hydroxychalcone-loaded in nanoemulsion (NLS + 2'chalc), the cytotoxic effect and toxicity against <i>Paracoccidioides brasiliensis</i> and <i>Paracoccidioides lutzii</i> using a zebrafish model. <b>Materials & methods:</b> Preparation and physical-chemical characterization of nanoemulsion (NLS) and NLS + 2'chalc were performed. MIC and minimum fungicide concentration, cytotoxicity and toxicity were also evaluated in the <i>Danio rerio</i> model. <b>Results:</b> NLS + 2'chalc showed fungicidal activity against <i>Paracoccidioides</i> spp. without cytotoxicity in MRC5 and HepG2 lines. It also had high selectivity index values and no toxicity in the zebrafish model based on MIC values. <b>Conclusion:</b> NLS + 2'chalc is a potential new alternative treatment for paracoccidioidomycosis.