Chromatin Structure and Drug Resistance in Candida spp

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) receives significant attention, but antifungal resistance (AFR) is under-represented despite rising global health concerns.
• Increased numbers of immunocompromised individuals and climate change contribute to the urgent need to address fungal diseases and AFR.
• Fungal adaptation to antifungal stress is significantly influenced by chromatin structure and gene expression regulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of chromatin structure in antifungal resistance (AFR).
• To present evidence of chromatin modification in *Candida* species for survival against antifungal drugs.
• To discuss the potential of anti-chromatin therapies, like lysine deacetylase inhibitors, as adjuvants to combat AFR.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on chromatin structure, gene expression, and antifungal resistance mechanisms.
• Analysis of genetic and epigenetic factors influencing fungal adaptation to antifungal agents.
• Examination of the role of lysine deacetylase inhibitors in modulating AFR in *Candida* species.

Main Results:

• Pathogenic yeasts, particularly *Candida* species, alter chromatin structure to survive antifungal drug exposure.
• Epigenetic modifications of chromatin play a crucial role in the development and expression of antifungal resistance.
• Lysine deacetylase inhibitors demonstrate potential in influencing the acquisition and phenotypic expression of AFR.

Conclusions:

• Chromatin structure is a key determinant of antifungal resistance (AFR) in pathogenic fungi.
• Targeting chromatin modification presents a promising therapeutic strategy to combat AFR.
• Anti-chromatin therapies, such as lysine deacetylase inhibitors, may serve as effective adjuvants in treating fungal infections and mitigating AFR.