BREAKING THE BIOFILM: Pouzolzia zeylanica vs. MULTIDRUG-RESISTANT Candida auris

Abstract

Abstract: Candida auris is a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen that poses serious global health challenges due to high mortality and rapid spread. Its resistance to conventional antifungals necessitates the search for novel therapies. In this study, an in silico drug design approach was used to evaluate bioactive compounds from Pouzolzia zeylanica (L.) Benn, a medicinal plant with diverse therapeutic properties. The target enzyme 14-alpha-demethylase, critical for ergosterol biosynthesis, was modelled using Swiss Model, Phyre2, and GalaxyWeb servers, with refinement and validation. Ligands were screened with SwissADME and Drulito for drug-likeness, followed by docking in AutoDock Vina. Compounds showed strong binding affinities of –8.2 and –8.4 kcal/mol, suggesting potential antifungal activity that warrants further experimental validation.