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Broth Microdilution In Vitro Screening: An Easy and Fast Method to Detect New Antifungal Compounds
Published on: February 14, 2018
In vitro interactions between antifungals and methotrexate against Aspergillus spp
Jianxun Yang1, Zhe Wan, Xiaohong Wang
1Department of Dermatology, Research Center of Medical Mycology, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, No. 8 Xishiku St., West District, 100034, Beijing, China.
Mycopathologia
|June 24, 2009
Summary
This study found that combining terbinafine with methotrexate showed synergistic effects against Aspergillus infections in vitro, offering a potential new treatment for immunocompromised patients. Further clinical research is recommended.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Methotrexate is a key treatment for osteosarcoma, lymphoma, and leukemia.
- Immunocompromised patients on methotrexate are susceptible to opportunistic Aspergillus infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro interactions between methotrexate and common antifungal agents against Aspergillus species.
- To identify potential synergistic or antagonistic effects for improved treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Microdilution checkerboard and disk diffusion assays were used.
- Twenty-three clinical isolates of Aspergillus spp. were tested.
- Interactions with voriconazole, itraconazole, terbinafine, and amphotericin B were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Terbinafine and methotrexate demonstrated synergy against 60.9% of Aspergillus strains.
- Methotrexate showed no significant interaction with itraconazole or amphotericin B.
- Voriconazole showed indifference or antagonism when combined with methotrexate.
Conclusions:
- The combination of terbinafine and methotrexate exhibits promising synergistic activity against Aspergillus in vitro.
- This combination warrants further investigation in clinical settings for immunocompromised patients.
- Optimizing antifungal therapy alongside methotrexate is crucial for managing opportunistic infections.
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