Insects-Derived Antifungal Peptides and Compounds: A Review of Their Potential and Mechanisms

Fungal infections are an escalating global health challenge, exacerbated by increasing antifungal resistance and limited treatment options. Insects have emerged as a promising reservoir, possessing robust immune defenses that enable them to thrive in microbe-rich environments. Their ability to fend off fungal pathogens through the production of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), enzymes, and secondary metabolites provides a new avenue for antifungal drug development. Insect-derived antifungal compounds exhibit diverse mechanisms of action. AMPs such as defensins (from beetles and flies), cecropins (from moths, flies, and bees), and diptericin (from Drosophila melanogaster) disrupt fungal cell membranes, inhibit cell wall synthesis, and interfere with metabolic pathways. Honeybees, for instance, defend their colonies against fungal threats through immune responses and the production of propolis, a resinous substance with potent antifungal properties. In addition, compounds like thanatin (from soldier bugs), coprisin (from dung beetles), and metchnikowin (from fruit flies) have demonstrated strong antifungal activity, even against drug-resistant fungi. However, challenges remain, including large-scale production, regulatory hurdles, and ecological concerns. Addressing these limitations through interdisciplinary research could lead to innovative solutions for managing fungal infections, reinforcing the importance of insects as a largely untapped resource in the fight against antifungal resistance.