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Drugs currently under investigation for the treatment of invasive candidiasis
Matthew W McCarthy1, Thomas J Walsh2
1a Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical Center , Division of General Internal Medicine , New York , NY , USA.
Introduction:
The widespread implementation of immunosuppressants, immunomodulators, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and solid organ transplantation in clinical practice has led to an expanding population of patients who are at risk for invasive candidiasis, which is the most common form of fungal disease among hospitalized patients in the developed world. The emergence of drug-resistant Candida spp. has added to the morbidity associated with invasive candidiasis and novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. Areas covered: In this paper, we explore investigational agents for the treatment of invasive candidiasis, with particular attention paid to compounds that have recently entered phase I or phase II clinical trials. Expert opinion: The antifungal drug development pipeline has been severely limited due to regulatory hurdles and a systemic lack of investment in novel compounds. However, several promising drug development strategies have recently emerged, including chemical screens involving Pathogen Box compounds, combination antifungal therapy, and repurposing of existing agents that were initially developed to treat other conditions, all of which have the potential to redefine the treatment of invasive candidiasis.
Insights
New antifungal therapies are crucial for treating invasive candidiasis, a common fungal infection in hospitalized patients. Promising investigational agents and novel strategies are emerging to combat drug-resistant strains.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Invasive candidiasis is a significant threat in hospitalized patients, particularly those undergoing immunosuppression or transplantation.
- The rise of drug-resistant Candida species necessitates urgent development of novel therapeutic strategies.
- The increasing population at risk for invasive fungal infections highlights a critical unmet medical need.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review investigational agents for invasive candidiasis treatment.
- To focus on compounds in early-phase clinical trials (Phase I/II).
- To discuss emerging drug development strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of investigational antifungal agents.
- Analysis of compounds in Phase I and Phase II clinical trials.
- Exploration of novel therapeutic approaches.
Main Results:
- The antifungal drug development pipeline faces significant challenges, including regulatory and investment barriers.
- Several promising strategies are emerging, such as Pathogen Box compound screening.
- Combination antifungal therapy and repurposing of existing drugs show potential.
Conclusions:
- Despite pipeline limitations, novel strategies offer hope for treating invasive candidiasis.
- Investigational agents and innovative approaches may redefine the management of this infection.
- Addressing drug resistance in Candida requires continued research and development.