Exploring the antifungal potential and action mechanism of pomegranate peel extract against Candida species in planktonic and biofilm conditions.

Candidiasis, a fungal infection caused by Candida spp., poses a growing clinical challenge due to the development of antifungal resistance. This study assessed the efficacy of dry crude pomegranate peel extract (DCPPE) as an antifungal agent against Candida infections (C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei and C. glabrata) by investigating its effects on fungal growth, biofilm disruption, and fungal cell membrane integrity, as well as evaluating its safety regarding hemolysis at different concentrations. The DCPPE exhibited inhibitory activity against all tested Candida strains, with MIC of 1 % (10 mg/mL). These results may be associated with the phenolic composition of the peel extract, which includes compounds like gallic acid, punicalagin A, punicalagin B, and ellagic acid. Furthermore, the DCPPE disrupted Candida biofilms and demonstrated safety with respect to hemolysis at concentrations up to 60 mg/mL. However, no evidence of a direct interaction with the fungal cell wall or ergosterol in the fungal membrane was found. Thus, our results highlight the potential of DCPPE as a promising alternative for the treatment of candidiasis. Nevertheless, further research is needed to fully clarify the underlying mechanisms and optimize its clinical efficacy.