Inhibitory effect of ficin on Candida albicans biofilm formation and pre-formed biofilms

BACKGROUND: To investigate the effect of ficin, a type of proteases, on Candida albicans (C. albicans) biofilm, including forming and pre-formed biofilms. METHODS: Crystal violet tests together with colony forming unit (CFU) counts were used to detect fungal biofilm biomass. Live/dead staining of biofilms observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to monitor fungal activity. Finally, gene expression of C. albicans within biofilms was assessed by qRT-PCR. RESULTS: According to our results, biofilm biomass was dramatically reduced by ficin in both biofilm formation and pre-formed biofilms, as revealed by the crystal violet assay and CFU count (p < 0.05). Fungal activity in biofilm formation and pre-formed biofilms was not significantly influenced by ficin according to live/dead staining. Fungal polymorphism and biofilm associated gene expression were influenced by ficin, especially in groups with prominent antibiofilm effects. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, ficin effectively inhibited C. albicans biofilm formation and detached its preformed biofilm, and it might be used to treat C. albicans biofilm associated problems.