Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy mediated by phenothiazine photosensitizers against Candida albicans and Candida auris: a systematic review.
Giovanna Fontgalland-Ferreira, Sarah Marinho Figueiredo, Karla Nogueira Matos et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluated the efficacy of phenothiazine-mediated antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) against Candida albicans and Candida auris in in vitro studies. The review included 40 studies and found that aPDT generally reduced fungal viability, with greater effects observed in planktonic models compared to biofilms. Methylene blue was the most commonly studied photosensitizer, showing variable antifungal responses.
Key findings
- aPDT was associated with reductions in fungal viability, particularly in planktonic models.
- Methylene blue was the most frequently investigated photosensitizer, applied across various concentrations.
- C. auris showed lower susceptibility compared to C. albicans, especially in biofilm models.
- Substantial variability in experimental protocols limited direct comparisons across studies.
Why it matters
Fungal infections from Candida species are increasingly challenging due to resistance and biofilm formation. Understanding the potential of aPDT could provide alternative treatment strategies, particularly as traditional antifungal options become less effective.
What to keep in mind
The review noted substantial methodological heterogeneity among the included studies, affecting the ability to draw direct comparisons.