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Updated: Jan 21, 2026

Implementation of In Vitro Drug Resistance Assays: Maximizing the Potential for Uncovering Clinically Relevant Resistance Mechanisms
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Implementation of In Vitro Drug Resistance Assays: Maximizing the Potential for Uncovering Clinically Relevant Resistance Mechanisms

Published on: December 9, 2015

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Epigenetic mechanisms of drug resistance in fungi

Zanetta Chang1, Vikas Yadav1, Soo Chan Lee2

  • 1Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.

Fungal Genetics and Biology : FG & B
|July 21, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Drug-resistant fungi are a growing threat, especially to immunocompromised individuals. Targeting epigenetic pathways offers a promising strategy for developing new, broad-spectrum antifungal drugs.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Drug Discovery

Background:

  • Drug-resistant fungi present a significant and increasing global health challenge.
  • Limited antifungal drug classes and emerging resistance necessitate novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in fungal adaptation and drug resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of epigenetic pathways in mediating antifungal drug resistance.
  • To explore the potential of targeting epigenetic pathways for developing new antifungal drugs.
  • To highlight the significance of epigenetic mechanisms in fungal pathogenesis and treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on fungal epigenetics and drug resistance.
  • Analysis of epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation, chromatin modification) in pathogenic fungi.
  • Examination of shared epigenetic pathways across fungal pathogens.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic changes alter gene expression, contributing to antifungal drug resistance.
  • Targeting conserved epigenetic pathways may lead to broad-spectrum antifungal agents.
  • Epigenetic modifications are influenced by host-pathogen interactions.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic pathways are critical regulators of drug resistance in fungi.
  • Targeting fungal epigenetics represents a viable strategy for novel antifungal drug development.
  • Understanding these pathways can inform the creation of effective treatments against resistant fungal infections.
Keywords:
Antifungal drugCandida albicansEpimutationHistone modificationLong non-coding RNAMucor

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