Antifungal Activity of Silver Nanoparticles, Copper Nanoparticles, Their Combination and with Amphotericin B against Candida glabrata In vitro and In vivo

Abstract Background: Candida glabrata is the fourth most common cause of blood infection in America and, due to its resistance to amphotericin B, we have to look for new therapies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antifungal properties of silver nanoparticles, copper and combine them together with amphotericin B in order to produce an effective drug. Materials and Methods: Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) for nano silver copper and combining them together and amphotericin B was conducted by macro dilution. By intraperitoneal injection, anti-fungal effect of nano silver, copper and combining them together and amphotericin B was evaluated in a mouse model. Results: The amounts of MIC and MFC for silver nanoparticles, copper nanoparticles and their combination were 31 and 62.50 ppm, 31 and 62.50 ppm, and 31and 15.50 ppm, respectively. The amounts of MIC and MFC for the combination of silver nanoparticles and amphotericin B were 8 and 15.5 ppm, also, 15.5 and 31 ppm for the combination of copper nanoparticles and amphotericin B. Mouse model study confirmed the effect of silver nanoparticles, copper nanoparticles and combining them together and amphotericin B against Candida glabrata. The combination of silver and copper nanoparticles had maximum effect and the combination of silver and copper nanoparticles with amphotericin B had minimum effect in animal model. Conclusion: The combination of silver and copper nanoparticles has a better effect than other groups