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Updated: Aug 30, 2025

Broth Microdilution In Vitro Screening: An Easy and Fast Method to Detect New Antifungal Compounds
Published on: February 14, 2018
Antifungal discovery
Nicole Robbins1, Leah E Cowen1
1Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
Abstract:
Fungi have a profound impact on human health, leading to billions of infections and millions of deaths worldwide each year. Exacerbating the public health burden is the continued emergence of drug-resistant fungal pathogens coupled with a dearth of treatment options to combat serious infections. Despite this health threat, scientific advances in chemistry, genetics, and biochemistry methodologies have enabled novel antifungal compounds to be discovered. Here, we describe current approaches for the discovery and characterization of novel antifungals, focusing on the identification of novel chemical matter and elucidation of the cellular target of bioactive compounds, followed by a review of the most promising emerging therapies in the antifungal-development pipeline.
Insights
Novel antifungal discovery is crucial due to widespread fungal infections and rising drug resistance. This study reviews methods for finding new antifungal compounds and promising therapies in development.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal infections cause millions of deaths globally each year.
- Emerging drug-resistant fungal pathogens and limited treatment options worsen the public health crisis.
- Scientific advancements are enabling the discovery of novel antifungal agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe current approaches for discovering and characterizing novel antifungal compounds.
- To focus on identifying new chemical matter and elucidating the cellular targets of bioactive compounds.
- To review promising emerging therapies in the antifungal development pipeline.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing chemistry, genetics, and biochemistry methodologies for antifungal discovery.
- Identifying novel chemical matter with antifungal activity.
- Elucidating the cellular targets of newly discovered bioactive compounds.
Main Results:
- Description of current methodologies for novel antifungal discovery and characterization.
- Identification of novel chemical matter and their targets.
- Review of promising antifungal therapies currently in development.
Conclusions:
- Despite challenges, scientific progress facilitates the discovery of new antifungal compounds.
- Understanding compound targets is key to developing effective treatments.
- Emerging therapies show promise in combating serious fungal infections.
Related Concept Videos
Antimicrobial Effectiveness
Overview of Fungi
Drug Discovery: Overview
Fungal Group Zygomycota
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
Fungal Phylum Ascomycota

