Comparing effects of stilbenoid compounds on growth, morphology, and gene dysregulation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Abstract

Antifungal resistance is an emerging threat, exasperated by a lack of knowledge and novel treatments, and misuse of antifungal drugs. The stilbene SK-03-92 shows promise as an antifungal drug due to its effectiveness on fungi while remaining safe in a mouse model. Like other stilbenes, SK-03-92’s exact mechanism of action is not well understood. This work was designed to extend what is known about the effects of stilbenes on Saccharomyces cerevisiae. First, I showed synergistic effects between SK- 03-92 and pterostilbene, and SK-03-92 and curcumin. Second, qPCR showed that four genes are dysregulated in a similar manner in yeast cells treated with all three stilbenes (SK-03-92, pterostilbene, and curcumin). Third, mitochondrial morphology and survival of SK-03-92 treated yeast cells were previously characterized; these studies were repeated on cells treated with pterostilbene and curcumin and I found similar effects, albeit to a lesser extent. In summary, this work identified similarities in how three different stilbene compounds affected yeast cells. Elucidation of the mechanism of action of stilbenes will help determine the class of fungi these compounds will be effective in treating. In the fight against antifungal resistance, this knowledge could help save the lives of patients.