Background:
Candida infections present a growing health concern worldwide. With the rising trend in antifungal resistance, there is an urgent need for alternative treatments.
Egg whites are an abundant reservoir of bioactive proteins, such as lysozyme (Lyz), which have been shown to possess potent antimicrobial activities. These proteins function as innate immune factors, providing a first-line defense against microbial invasion. The development of egg-white protein fractionation processes at scale with our industry partners has enabled the possibility of exploring their anti-candida activities, providing a platform for their commercial development.
Aims & Objectives:
• To investigate and evaluate the antifungal efficacy of Ovotransferrin (OTf) and lysozyme (Lyz) derived from egg whites against pathogenic Candida strains.
• Using the Galleria mellonella insect model, the research aims to elucidate the therapeutic and prophylactic potential of these proteins in combating Candida infections.
• To explore the development and utilization of egg white proteins as a strategic therapeutic against Candida infections.
Materials & Methods:
• Antifungal Susceptibility Testing: Determine the sensitivity of Candida strains to OTf and lyz.
• Checkerboard Testing: Assess synergistic effects of combining OTf, lyz, and known anti-candida drugs (e.g. caspofungin, Amphotericin B)
• Biofilm Quantification: Measure the ability of Candida to form protective biofilms in the presence of egg white proteins.
• Microscopy Analysis: Visualize direct interactions between Candida cells and the proteins.
• In vivo testing: Evaluate the survival and health of infected Galleria mellonella larvae following treatment with OTf/Lyz
Results:
OTf and lyz exhibited notable in vitro antifungal activity against Candida. A marked decrease in the biofilm formation capability of Candida was observed when exposed to these proteins. The synergistic effects were particularly strong when OTf and lyz were combined, especially with Amphotericin, suggesting their potential use as an adjunctive treatment against Candida infections. In the Galleria mellonella model, larvae treated with OTf and lyz exhibited enhanced survival rates.
Future Directions:
Further research will focus on the Galleria mellonella model, emphasizing the study of the prophylactic capabilities of ovotransferrin and lysozyme against Candida infections. Additionally, more infection assays will be performed to analyse the response of innate immune cells to Candida when treated with the egg white proteins, with comprehensive results expected by December 2023.
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