Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Prime a Protective Immune Response in Galleria mellonella to Defend Against Candida albicans

• DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.766138
• Publication Date: 2021-12-10T06:28:25Z
• Authors: Mei-nian Xu; Li Li; Wen Pan; Huan-xin Zheng; Meng-lei Wang; Xiao-ming Peng; Si-qi Dai; Ying-mei Tang; Kang Zeng; Xiao-wen Huang
• Keywords: Galleria mellonella; Hemolymph

Purpose: Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have exerted antimicrobial properties. However, there is insufficient evaluation regarding the in vivo antifungal activity of ZnO-NPs. This study aimed to investigate efficacy and mechanism ZnO-NPs controlling Candida albicans invertebrate Galleria mellonella. Methods:Galleria mellonella larvae were injected with different doses determine their toxicity. Non-toxic chosen for prophylactic injection G. followed by C. infection. Then direct vitro effect against was evaluated. In addition, mode action assessed through assays: quantification hemocyte density, morphology observation hemocytes, characterization aggregation phagocytosis, measurement hemolymph phenoloxidase (PO) activity. Results: non-toxic at relatively low concentrations (≤20 mg/kg). ZnO-NP pretreatment significantly prolonged survival albicans-infected decreased fungal dissemination burden larvae. more related activation host defense rather than fungicidal capacities. Specifically, treatment increased promoted aggregation, enhanced activated PO Conclusion: Prophylactic lower protects from The innate immune response primed may be part reason protective effects. provides new evidence capacity enhancing immunity predicts that will attractive further anti-infection applications.