Application of Probiotic Yeasts on <i>Candida</i> Species Associated Infection

• Main Authors: Lohith Kunyeit, Anu-Appaiah K A, Reeta P. Rao
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-09-01
• Series: Journal of Fungi
• Subjects: <i>Candida albicans</i>; non-albicans <i>Candida</i> species; <i>Candida auris</i>; <i>Saccharomyces boulardii</i>; <i>Saccharomyces cerevisiae</i>; aromatic alcohols
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2309-608X/6/4/189

Superficial and life-threatening invasive <i>Candida</i> infections are a major clinical challenge in hospitalized and immuno-compromised patients. Emerging drug-resistance among <i>Candida</i> species is exacerbated by the limited availability of antifungals and their associated side-effects. In the current review, we discuss the application of probiotic yeasts as a potential alternative/ combination therapy against <i>Candida</i> infections. Preclinical studies have identified several probiotic yeasts that effectively inhibit virulence of <i>Candida</i> species, including <i>Candida albicans</i>, <i>Candida tropicalis</i>, <i>Candida glabrata</i>, <i>Candida parapsilosis</i>, <i>Candida krusei</i> and <i>Candida auris.</i> However, <i>Saccharomyces cerevisiae</i> var. <i>boulardii</i> is the only probiotic yeast commercially available. In addition, clinical studies have further confirmed the in vitro and in vivo activity of the probiotic yeasts against <i>Candida</i> species. Probiotics use a variety of protective mechanisms, including posing a physical barrier, the ability to aggregate pathogens and render them avirulent. Secreted metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids effectively inhibit the adhesion and morphological transition of <i>Candida</i> species. Overall, the probiotic yeasts could be a promising effective alternative or combination therapy for <i>Candida</i> infections. Additional studies would bolster the application of probiotic yeasts.