The Effect of Catechin on Fungal Biofilm Formation of Standard Susceptible and Resistant Strains of Candida albicans

Candida albicans is the most common cause of fungal infections which is increasing all over the world. Finding new methods or agents for control of these fungal infections is necessary. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of Catechin against standard strain of C.albicans. This experimental study was conducted at Tarbiat Modares University of Medical Sciences in 2010. Serial dilutions of Catechin solution were prepared in 96 well micro plates. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was assessed by Microdilution broth technique. Biofilms of C. albicans were developed on flat-bottomed 96-well microtiter plates and the antifungal effect of Catechin was evaluated. Data were analyzed using t-test statistical method. MIC50 of 5.77 µg/ml, MIC90 of 8.33 µg/ml and MFC of 9.47 µg/ml were found for Catechin. Biofilm inhibitory concentration of Catechin and fluconazole for susceptible strain of C. albicans was19.35, 4 µg/ml and for resistant strain was 23.53, 8 µg/ml respectively. Catechin had suitable antifungal effect against C.albicans biofilms in comparison with fluconazole. It seems that this herbal agent can be used for the elimination of Candida.