GRAPHENE-MODIFIED CuAlNi ALLOY: IN VITRO EVALUATION OF ANTIBIOFILM ACTIVITY AGAINST Candida albicans
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate, in vitro, the antibiofilm activity of a graphene-functionalized CuAlNi alloy against Candida albicans. Methods: An in vitro laboratory study was conducted using the reference strain Candida albicans ATCC 90028. After revival on Sabouraud dextrose agar, the fungal suspension was standardized to 0.5 McFarland. Sterilized metallic discs were placed on inoculated plates and incubated at 35 ± 2 °C for 24 to 48 h. The analysis focused on the qualitative observation of biofilm formation around the discs and on comparative image assessment using ImageJ software. Results: The graphene-containing alloy (CuAlNiGO) showed lower apparent biofilm density and dispersion than the alloy without graphene (CuAlNi), suggesting reduced surface colonization by Candida albicans under the tested conditions. Conclusion: Graphene functionalization of the CuAlNi alloy showed promising qualitative antibiofilm activity against Candida albicans. These findings indicate potential applicability in dental biomaterials; however, additional quantitative studies, including appropriate controls and direct biocompatibility assays, are still required. Keywords: Alloys; Graphene; Candida albicans; Biofilms; Biomaterials.
Author Biographies
Master’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering.
Ph.D. in Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases.
Master’s degree in Natural and Bioactive Products.
Undergraduate student in Materials Engineering.
Undergraduate student in Materials Engineering.
Bachelor’s degree in Dentistry.
Master’s degree in Dental Sciences.
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