Novel Nitric Oxide-Releasing Formulations Show Fungicidal Potential for Superficial Dermatophyte Infection

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Superficial fungal infections, such as dermatophytosis, are common.
• Nitric oxide (NO)-releasing solution (NORS) has shown in vitro efficacy.
• A NO-releasing gel (NORG) may offer improved patient self-application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy and safety of NORS for tinea pedis.
• To evaluate the in vitro antifungal activity and dermal penetration of NORG.
• To complement existing data on NO formulations for superficial dermatophyte infections.

Main Methods:

• In vitro time-kill assays, zone of inhibition tests, and scanning electron microscopy were used for NORG.
• A randomized, controlled pilot study assessed NORS for tinea pedis over three days with a 31-day follow-up.
• Antifungal efficacy and safety were evaluated.

Main Results:

• NORG exhibited rapid fungicidal activity against Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
• NORG demonstrated effective dermal membrane penetration and caused significant fungal cell damage.
• NORS treatment reduced tinea pedis symptom severity by 67% with no significant safety concerns.

Conclusions:

• NO-releasing formulations, including NORS and NORG, show potential as therapies for superficial fungal infections.
• Further clinical investigation of NO formulations for dermatophytosis is warranted.
• The findings support the role of NO in treating superficial fungal infections.