Efficacy of Ibrexafungerp (SCY-078) against Candida auris in an In Vivo Guinea Pig Cutaneous Infection Model

M Ghannoum1,2, N Isham3, D Angulo4

  • 1Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA mahmoud.ghannoum@case.edu.

Insights

Ibrexafungerp (IBX) shows promise in treating skin infections caused by Candida auris. This antifungal agent significantly reduced fungal burden and lesion severity in a guinea pig model, suggesting potential for hospitalized patients.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Candida auris poses a significant risk for skin colonization in hospital settings, potentially driving nosocomial infections.
  • Effective treatments are needed to manage C. auris skin burden and prevent its spread in healthcare environments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of ibrexafungerp (IBX) in a preclinical skin model of Candida auris infection.
  • To assess the impact of IBX on clinical signs, fungal burden, and tissue histology in a guinea pig model.

Main Methods:

  • A guinea pig model was utilized to simulate Candida auris skin colonization.
  • Animals received oral dosing of 10 mg/kg ibrexafungerp (IBX).
  • Evaluations included clinical appearance, tissue fungal burden, histology, and pharmacokinetics.

Main Results:

  • Oral ibrexafungerp (IBX) treatment significantly reduced the severity of skin lesions.
  • A substantial decrease in Candida auris fungal burden within infected tissues was observed in IBX-treated animals compared to controls.
  • Pharmacokinetic and histological data supported the observed antifungal effects.

Conclusions:

  • Ibrexafungerp (IBX) demonstrates significant potential for controlling Candida auris skin infections and colonization.
  • These findings support the investigation of IBX as a therapeutic option for hospitalized patients at risk of C. auris skin colonization.

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