Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 20, 2025

Whole Genome Sequencing of Candida glabrata for Detection of Markers of Antifungal Drug Resistance
Published on: December 28, 2017
Antifungal resistance on Sporothrix species: an overview
Stefanie Bressan Waller1, Daiane Flores Dalla Lana2, Priscilla Maciel Quatrin3
1Department of Preventive Veterinary, Faculty of Veterinary, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, 96010-900, Brazil. waller.stefanie@yahoo.com.br.
Introduction:
The treatment of human and animal sporotrichosis is often performed with antifungal agents; however, the emergence of antifungal-resistant strains of Sporothrix species has been reported. We aimed to discuss the ability of Sporothrix species in developing resistance to the conventional antifungals and mechanisms for this.
Methodology:
Published data on databases (PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar) were investigated using a combination of keywords from 2008 to 2019 by the StArt tool.
Results:
The minimal inhibitory concentrations values based on the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) from eight references were classified according to the epidemiological cutoff values in wild-type or non-wild-type strains. In this way, non-wild-type S. schenckii and, mainly, S. brasiliensis isolates were recognized on itraconazole, amphotericin B, terbinafine, and voriconazole, which are strains that deserve more attention toward antifungal control, with a probable risk of mutation to antifungal resistance. Among the few reviewed studied on antifungal resistance, the melanin production capacity (DHN-melanin, L-DOPA melanin, and pyomelanin), the low genetic diversity due to the abnormal number of chromosomes, and the mutation in cytochrome P450 are some of the factors for developing resistance mechanism.
Conclusions:
The emergence of Sporothrix species with in vitro antifungal resistance was evidenced and the possible mechanisms for resistance development may be due to the melanin production capacity, genetic diversity and mutations in cytochrome P450. Further studies should be carried out targeting gene expression for the development of antifungal resistance on Sporothrix species in order to prospect new therapeutic targets for human and veterinary use.
Insights
Antifungal resistance in Sporothrix species is emerging, with non-wild-type strains showing resistance to common antifungals. Mechanisms include melanin production and genetic mutations, necessitating further research for new treatments.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Sporotrichosis treatment relies on antifungal agents.
- Antifungal-resistant Sporothrix species strains are increasingly reported.
- Understanding resistance mechanisms is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the development of antifungal resistance in Sporothrix species.
- To explore the mechanisms underlying this resistance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published data from 2008-2019.
- Databases searched: PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar.
- Analysis of minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines.
Main Results:
- Non-wild-type strains of S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis exhibited resistance to itraconazole, amphotericin B, terbinafine, and voriconazole.
- Identified potential resistance mechanisms: melanin production (DHN-melanin, L-DOPA melanin, pyomelanin), low genetic diversity (abnormal chromosome number), and cytochrome P450 mutations.
- These non-wild-type strains require increased attention for antifungal control.
Conclusions:
- In vitro antifungal resistance in Sporothrix species is confirmed.
- Melanin production, genetic diversity, and cytochrome P450 mutations are probable mechanisms for resistance.
- Further research into gene expression is needed to identify new therapeutic targets for sporotrichosis.
Related Concept Videos
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
Fungal Group Zygomycota
Overview of Fungi
Fungal Phylum Ascomycota
Fungal Phylum Basidiomycota
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...

