In vitro evaluation of antimicrobial activity of 1-lauroyl-rac-glycerol on Candidaalbicans biofilms

Monolaurin (also known as glycerol monolaurate) is a natural compound found in coconut oil and is known for its protective biological activities as an antimicrobial agent. The nature of oral candidiasis and the increased antifungal resistance, culminate the need for investigating novel antifungal therapeutic agents. In this study, we examine the antifungal activity of monolaurin against Candida albicans biofilms (strain ATCC: SC5314/MYA2876) in vitro and how monolaurin may alter specific host inflammatory markers, such as gene expression of inflammatory cytokines IL-1α and IL-1β, as illustrated in co-culture models. The results from three groups were compared: 1- monolaurin (in the range of 3.9-2500 μM), positive control fluconazole (322 μM), and vehicle control group 1% Ethanol (v/v) The MIC and MFC of monolaurin were in the range 62.5-125 µM and 125-250 µM, respectively. The results show significant reduction in Log (CFU/ ml) of biofilms treated with 1250 and 2500 µM of 1- monolaurin when compared to the control groups. There was also a significant down-regulation of IL-1α and IL-1β in the biofilms treated with monolaurin. It can be concluded that monolaurin has a potential antifungal activity against C. albicans and can modulate the host’s pro-inflammatory response.