Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Zinc oxide nanoparticles fighting Malassezia yeast in dogs
By Vazifehdust, Alaleh et al.·Published in Veterinary medicine and science·2026·Faculty of Veterinary Medicine·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: The Inhibitory Effects of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Clinical Isolates of Malassezia in Dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that zinc oxide nanoparticles can effectively fight a common skin yeast called Malassezia pachydermatis, which often causes skin infections and ear problems in dogs. The researchers tested different concentrations of these nanoparticles and discovered that they could inhibit the yeast's growth at very low levels. This could be a promising alternative to traditional antifungal medications, especially for dogs with recurring skin or ear infections. However, more research is needed to ensure these nanoparticles are safe and effective for use in pets.
People also search for: dog ear infection treatment · zinc oxide for dog skin problems · Malassezia in dogs treatment
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Malassezia pachydermatis is frequently detected among the microflora of endothermic vertebrates, acts opportunistically, and contributes to the development of dermatitis and otitis in humans and animals. Treating chronic or recurrent cases of external otitis can pose a challenge, and replacing common antibiotics and antifungal agents with nanoparticles can be crucial in mitigating drug resistance. The present study investigated zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles' antifungal effects on Malassezia pachydermatis clinical isolates and Phospholipase A2 and Aspartyl proteinase gene expression. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Zinc oxide nanoparticles were prepared using the direct precipitation method at a concentration of 2000 ppm. Its antifungal potential was evaluated at concentrations of 1.95 to 2000 ppm by disk diffusion and micro-dilution methods against ten isolates of Malassezia pachydermatis. The effect of this product on Phospholipase A2 and Aspartyl proteinase gene expression was investigated by Quantitative real-time PCR method. RESULTS: The results of the disk diffusion test showed that the highest inhibitory diameter was at the highest concentration of ZnO nanoparticles (23.9 mm), and the inhibitory zone was observed in dilutions up to 250 ppm. The minimum inhibitory concentration of ZnO nanoparticles was between 3.90 and 7.81 ppm, and the minimum fungicidal concentration was between 7.81 and 15.62 ppm. There was a significant reduction in Phospholipase A2 and Aspartyl proteinase gene expression in sub-MIC concentration (1.95-3.90 ppm) (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The present study provides evidence of the concentration-dependent antifungal activity of ZnO nanoparticles on Malassezia pachydermatis and suggests that they may be a viable alternative to traditional antifungal agents. Further research is necessary to explore the safety and efficacy of these nanoparticles in vivo.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41307483/