Flavonoids are a class of phenolic compounds commonly found in fruits, vegetables, grains, flowers, tea, and wine. They differ in their chemical structures and characteristics. Such compounds show various biological functions and have antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro interactions of flavonoids with fluconazole against Candida tropicalis strains resistant to fluconazole, investigating the mechanism of synergism. Three combinations formed by the flavonoids (+)-catechin hydrated, hydrated quercetin, and (−)-epigallocatechin gallate at a fixed concentration with fluconazole were tested. Flavonoids alone had no antifungal activity within the concentration range tested, but when they were used as a cotreatment with fluconazole, there was significant synergistic activity. From this result, we set out to evaluate the possible mechanisms of cell death involved in this synergism. Isolated flavonoids did not induce morphological changes or changes in membrane integrity in the strains tested, but when they were used as a cotreatment with fluconazole, these changes were quite significant. When evaluating mitochondrial damage and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) only in the cotreatment, changes were observed. Flavonoids combined with fluconazole were shown to cause a significant increase in the rate of damage and the frequency of DNA damage in the tested strains. The cotreatment also induced an increase in the externalization of phosphatidylserine, an important marker of early apoptosis. It is concluded that flavonoids, when combined with fluconazole, show activity against strains of C. tropicalis resistant to fluconazole, promoting apoptosis by exposure of phosphatidylserine in the plasma membrane and morphological changes, mitochondrial depolarization, intracellular accumulation of ROS, condensation, and DNA fragmentation.

The utilization of electrochemical detection techniques in paper-based analytical devices (PADs) has revolutionized point-of-care (POC) testing, enabling the precise and discerning measurement of a diverse array of (bio)chemical analytes. The application of electrochemical sensing and paper as a suitable substrate for point-of-care testing platforms has led to the emergence of electrochemical paper-based analytical devices (ePADs). The inherent advantages of these modified paper-based analytical devices have gained significant recognition in the POC field. In response, electrochemical biosensors assembled from paper-based materials have shown great promise for enhancing sensitivity and improving their range of use. In addition, paper-based platforms have numerous advantageous characteristics, including the self-sufficient conveyance of liquids, reduced resistance, minimal fabrication cost, and environmental friendliness. This study seeks to provide a concise summary of the present state and uses of ePADs with insightful commentary on their practicality in the field. Future developments in ePADs biosensors include developing novel paper-based systems, improving system performance with a novel biocatalyst, and combining the biosensor system with other cutting-edge tools such as machine learning and 3D printing.