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Updated: Jun 23, 2025

Whole Genome Sequencing of Candida glabrata for Detection of Markers of Antifungal Drug Resistance
Published on: December 28, 2017
Antifungal resistance: why are we losing this battle?
Jamile de Paiva Macedo1, Vanessa Cordeiro Dias2
1Master's Student in Biological Science, Federal University of Juiz de Fora - UFJF Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, s/n, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036 900, Brazil.
Abstract:
The emergence of fungal pathogens and changes in the epidemiological landscape are prevalent issues in clinical mycology. Reports of resistance to antifungals have been reported. This review aims to evaluate molecular and nonmolecular mechanisms related to antifungal resistance. Mutations in the ERG genes and overexpression of the efflux pump (MDR1, CDR1 and CDR2 genes) were the most reported molecular mechanisms of resistance in clinical isolates, mainly related to Azoles. For echinocandins, a molecular mechanism described was mutation in the FSK genes. Furthermore, nonmolecular virulence factors contributed to therapeutic failure, such as biofilm formation and selective pressure due to previous exposure to antifungals. Thus, there are many public health challenges in treating fungal infections.
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