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Updated: Aug 31, 2025
Whole Genome Sequencing of Candida glabrata for Detection of Markers of Antifungal Drug Resistance
Published on: December 28, 2017
Development and research progress of anti-drug resistant fungal drugs
Xiangyi Cui1, Lanlin Wang1, Yuhong Lü1
1Key Laboratory of Microbial Drugs Innovation and Transformation of Yan'an, School of Basic Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an 716000, Shaanxi, China; Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources,Yan'an University, NO.580 Shengdi Road, Baota District, Yan'an 716000, Shaanxi, China.
Abstract:
With the widespread use of immunosuppressive agents and the increase in patients with severe infections, the incidence of fungal infections worldwide has increased year by year. The fungal pathogens Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans and Aspergillus fumigatus cause a total of more than 1 million deaths each year. Long-term use of antifungal drugs can easily lead to fungal resistance, and the prevalence of drug-resistant fungi is a major global health challenge. In order to effectively control global fungal infections, there is an urgent need for new drugs that can exert effective antifungal activity and overcome drug resistance. We must promote the discovery of new antifungal targets and drugs, and find effective ways to control drug-resistant fungi through different ways, so as to reduce the threat of drug-resistant fungi to human life, health and safety. In the past few years, certain progress has been made in the research and development of antifungal drugs. In addition to summarizing some of the antifungal drugs currently approved by the FDA, this review also focuses on potential antifungal drugs, the repositioned drugs, and drugs that can treat drug-resistant bacteria and fungal infections, and provide new ideas for the development of antifungal drugs in the future.
Insights
The rise in fungal infections and resistance necessitates novel antifungal drugs. This review explores approved, potential, and repurposed drugs to combat drug-resistant fungi and reduce global health threats.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Increasing incidence of global fungal infections, particularly among immunocompromised patients.
- Significant mortality (over 1 million deaths annually) caused by Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, and Aspergillus fumigatus.
- Growing challenge of antifungal drug resistance due to prolonged use of existing therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the urgent need for new antifungal drugs effective against resistant strains.
- To explore novel antifungal targets and strategies for controlling drug-resistant fungi.
- To review current FDA-approved antifungal drugs and emerging therapeutic options.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of antifungal drug research and development.
- Analysis of approved antifungal medications.
- Evaluation of potential new antifungal drugs, including repurposed agents.
- Investigation of drugs targeting both bacterial and fungal infections.
Main Results:
- Identification of progress in antifungal drug research and development.
- Summary of currently FDA-approved antifungal agents.
- Highlighting of promising investigational drugs and drug repositioning candidates.
- Exploration of dual-action drugs for resistant bacterial and fungal infections.
Conclusions:
- Emphasizing the critical need for innovative antifungal therapies to combat rising resistance.
- Suggesting new avenues for antifungal drug development based on current research.
- Providing insights into strategies for mitigating the threat of drug-resistant fungi to public health.
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