Synthesis and evaluation of metallic nanoparticles-based vaccines against Candida albicans infections

Candida albicans infections have been particularly critical among nosocomial infections in immune-compromised and hospitalized patients. The interaction of microbes with various types of nanoparticles is a crucial stage in determining the biological consequences. The present study aimed to synthesize and evaluate nanomaterial-based vaccines using C. albicans ghosts. The silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) were environmentally prepared using green biological chemistry using C. albicans ghosts prepared using a modified sponge-like protocol. The interaction of Ag-NPs or Au-NPs with the cell membrane of C. albicans ghost was confirmed by utilizing Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) tools. Experimental rats were injected with different doses of C. albicans ghost mixed with Ag-NPs or Au-NPs to evaluate their effects on the immune system. The ions of Ag-NPs or Au-NPs are entirely converted to zero-valent atoms due to the reduction and stabilization effect of the C. albicans ghost. The prepared nanoparticles exhibited small nanosized with good monodispersity and were stable without noticeable agglomeration at room temperature for two months. Enhancement of both humoral and cellular immune responses was noticed. Au-NPs or Ag-NPs to C. albicans ghost resulted in activation of the immune system and increased serum levels of Interferon Gamma (IFN-γ), a lymphocyte-derived pro-inflammatory cytokine.