ANTIFUNGAL AGENTS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF MECHANISMS AND APPLICATIONS

Main Article Content

Manju Singh
Neha
Gurpreet
Arvind Rathour
Uma Dey
Dr. Praveen Kumar Gaur
Vijay Kumar

Keywords

Antifungal agents, Mechanisms of action, Immunomodulation, Azoles, Antifungal Therapy

Abstract

Introduction: Antifungal resistance poses a significant challenge in the management of fungal infections. Understanding the mechanisms of action of antifungal agents is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies.


Objective: This comprehensive review delves into the intricate world of antifungal agents, offering insights into their diverse mechanisms, current applications, and potential future directions.


Mechanisms of Action: Polyene Antifungals: Disruption of fungal cell membrane integrity through binding to ergosterol. Azoles: Inhibition of ergosterol biosynthesis via binding to lanosterol 14α-demethylase. Echinocandins: Inhibition of β-(1,3)-D-glucan synthesis, leading to cell wall destabilization. Allylamines: Inhibition of squalene epoxidase, a key enzyme in ergosterol biosynthesis. Pyrimidine Analogues: Interference with nucleic acid synthesis by inhibiting dihydrofolate reductase. Efflux pumps: Extrusion of antifungal agents from fungal cells, reducing intracellular drug concentrations. Target alteration: Mutations in drug targets, such as lanosterol 14α-demethylase or β-(1,3)-D-glucan synthase, impairing drug binding. Ergosterol pathway alterations: Upregulation of alternative pathways bypassing drug targets. Biofilm formation: Enhanced resistance through biofilm-mediated protection. Systemic Treatment of invasive fungal infections, including candidiasis and aspergillosis. Topical Management of superficial fungal infections like dermatophytosis and candidiasis. Prevention of fungal infections in high-risk patients, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplantation. Control of fungal infections in animals, improving livestock health and production.


Challenges and Future Perspectives: Emergence of multidrug-resistant fungal strains. Development of novel antifungal agents with improved efficacy and safety profiles. Strategies to overcome resistance mechanisms, including combination therapy and drug repurposing. Importance of surveillance programs to monitor antifungal resistance trends globally.


Conclusion: Antifungal agents play a critical role in the management of fungal infections. Continued research efforts are necessary to address challenges associated with antifungal resistance and to develop innovative therapeutic approaches.

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