Abstract
BACKGROUND: Candida species are commensal fungi that can become opportunistic pathogens under specific host and environmental conditions. The emergence of multidrug-resistant Candida strains poses a significant challenge. Nanotechnology represents a cutting-edge field offering precise and targeted delivery systems for combating fungal infections, leveraging the unique properties of plant-derived bioactive compounds. This investigation employed a biogenic approach utilizing polyherbal leaf extracts from Citrus limon and Citrus medica, known for their abundant Citral content. RESULTS: Citrus sp. extracts were used to synthesize Citrusfusion silver nanoparticles (CitAgNPs) through a green synthesis method. Characterization of CitAgNPs was carried out using advanced analytical methods ensuring the quality, uniformity, size, and charge. The synthesized CitAgNPs exhibited non toxic effect when tested on Vigna radiata and Danio rerio, highlighting their potential for sustainability and safe therapeutic use. Antifungal assays demonstrated the potent efficacy of CitAgNPs in various Candida strains, with low MIC and MFC. CitAgNPs exhibited remarkable biofilm inhibition capabilities and elucidated specific mechanisms of action in Candida species, surpassing the performance of fluconazole. CONCLUSION: This study underscores the immense potential of nanotechnology-driven approaches harnessing Citrus leaf extract for synthesizing highly effective antifungal nanoparticles. The fusion of biogenic nanoparticles with Citrus bioactive compounds presents a sustainable strategy for addressing the escalating challenge of azole-resistant Candida infections. The research outcomes suggest that CitAgNPs have promising applications in inhibiting Candida biofilms, offering potential solutions for infections caused by diaper rashes and onychomycosis, providing safe and effective alternatives to antifungal therapies.