Antifungal Activity of Dexamethasone Against Fluconazole-Resistant <i>Candida Albicans</i> and its Activity Against Biofilms

Abstract

<b>Objective:</b> The present study investigated the antifungal action of dexamethasone disodium phosphate (Dex). <b>Methodology:</b> Susceptibility testing was performed using the Clinical & Laboratory Standards Institute protocol; M27-A3, checkerboard test and biofilm were evaluated with two isolates of <i>Candida albicans</i>, hyphal production test, molecular docking analysis and flow cytometry analysis. <b>Result:</b> Dex and fluconazole (FLC) together had a synergistic effect. Mature biofilm was reduced when treated with Dex alone or in combination. Dex and FLC promoted a decrease in the production of hyphae and changes in the level of mitochondrial depolarization, increased generation of reactive oxygen species, loss of membrane integrity, increased phosphatidylserine externalization and molecular docking; there was interaction with ALS3 and SAP5 targets. <b>Conclusion:</b> Dex showed antifungal activity against FLC-resistant <i>C. albicans</i> strains.