• YAKHAK HOEJI
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• v.49 no.5
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• pp.422-427
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• 2005

Our previous data showed the protein isolated from Coptidis Rhizoma (CRP) had antifungal activity. In present study, we examined mode of action of the CRP and its activity against subcutaneous candidiasis due to C. albicans yeast cells. Results showed that the CRP blocked hyphal production from yeast form of C. albicans. The CRP also activated RAW 264.7 monocyte/macrophage cell line, which resulted in nitiric oxide (NO) production from the cells. This activation seemed to increase macrophage phagocytosis to destroy the invaders. Like other antimicrobial peptides, CRP was influenced by ionic strength, thus resulting in a decrease of antifungal activity. In murine model of a subcutaneous candidiasis, the sizes of infected areas of the nude mice given the CRP after subcutaneous injection of C. albicans yeast cells to the dorsal skin were $90\%$ less than those of the nude mice groups that received DPBS instead of the CRP. All data indicate that the CRP, which appeared to act like an antimicrobial peptide and to inhibit the morphological transition from blastoconidia, was effec­tive against the subcutaneous disease.