Molecular Docking studies on the Anti-fungal activity of Allium sativum (Garlic) against Mucormycosis (black fungus) by BIOVIA discovery studio visualizer 21.1.0.0

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is a major concern. However, its association and rising cases of mucormycosis, also known as black fungus make the scenario even more troublesome. In addition, no specific medication against mucormycosis/black fungus makes things even worse. Objective: Garlic phytoconstituents have shown remarkable antifungal properties against various fungal species in various studies. Thus, the objective of the study was to check the potency of garlic phytoconstituents against the 1,3-beta-glucan synthase fungal protein using in-silico methods. Method: Auto Dock was used to evaluate selected garlic phytochemical molecules against 1,3-beta-glucan synthase fungal protein, and Discovery studio visualizer was used to create 3D and 2D interaction photos. Results: Five out of 9 phytoconstituents were found to form conventional hydrogen bonds, and only alliin formed the highest number of hydrogen bonds. However, the binding energy and inhibition constant of all nine phytoconstituents were determined. Interestingly, Z-ajoene showed the lowest binding energy of -5.07 kcal/mol and inhibition constant of 192.57µM. Conclusion: The results of our investigation suggested that garlic phytochemicals can have a good impact against black fungi, pertaining to the significant binding energies of phytoconstituents during blind docking. Specifically, Z-ajoene could be a good alternate against black fungi. However, detailed research is required to explore the antifungal activity of garlic against mucormycosis.