Aspartic acid, cysteine, and glutamic acid prevent biofilm formation and disrupt mature biofilms of Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus

Biofilms are surface-associated microbial communities that dominate natural and host-associated environments and serve as major reservoirs for infections. Current therapeutics primarily target planktonic cells and are often ineffective against biofilms, highlighting the need for biofilm-specific strategies. Here, we investigated naturally occurring L-amino acids as antibiofilm agents against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus . Administration of aspartic acid, cysteine, and glutamic acid reduced biofilm formation and established biofilm biomass in both single- and dual-species settings. Moreover, composite amino acid treatment enhanced fluconazole activity during C. albicans biofilm formation. These findings indicate that targeted amino acid administration, alone or in combination with existing antimicrobials, could provide a novel strategy for preventing and treating biofilm-associated infections.