# Mitracarpus frigidus in the Treatment of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Its Therapeutic Properties

## TL;DR

This study explores the antifungal potential of Mitracarpus frigidus against Candida infections, showing it can reduce fungal growth without harming human cells.

## Contribution

The study provides new evidence of M. frigidus's antifungal efficacy and mechanism against Candida in both in vitro and in vivo models.

## Key findings

- MFH showed fungistatic effects against Candida with MICs between 250 and 1000 μg/mL.
- MFH disrupted fungal cell envelopes and mitochondrial membranes without mammalian cell toxicity.
- In vivo experiments showed MFH reduced fungal infection in a vulvovaginal candidiasis model.

## Abstract

Mitracarpus frigidus (Rubiaceae)
is a Brazilian native species traditionally used in folk medicine
and has been associated with a range of biological activities, including
anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal effects. Among the
relevant targets, Candida spp. stand
out as opportunistic fungi responsible for infections such as vulvovaginal
candidiasis, a widespread public health concern aggravated by the
growing limitations and reduced efficacy of conventional antifungal
therapies. Thus, this study investigated the cytotoxic and in vitro
and in vivo antifungal activities of M. frigidus hexanic extract (MFH) against Candida species and its possible mechanism of action. Eleven compounds were
identified in MFH, including pentalongin and stigmasterol. In vitro assays revealed that MFH exhibited minimum inhibitory
concentrations (MIC) between 250 and 1000 μg/mL against Candida strains, indicating fungistatic effects.
Mechanism of action assays revealed that MFH disrupted fungal cell
envelopes, damaged mitochondrial membranes, and inhibited growth phases.
MFH reduced fungal cell viability without causing mammalian cell cytotoxicity.
In vivo, MFH reduced fungal infection in an experimental model of
vulvovaginal candidiasis. These results emphasize the potential of M. frigidus as a therapeutic agent against Candida-associated infections, particularly vulvovaginal
candidiasis, and encourage further studies, including those involving
human volunteers.