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Antifungal Agents: Innovations in the Battle against Fungal Pathogens

Abstract

Silverstein Melvin

Fungal infections pose a significant threat to human health, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. From superficial skin infections to lifethreatening systemic diseases, fungi can exploit vulnerabilities in the immune system, causing a range of illnesses. The emergence of drugresistant strains further complicates the treatment landscape, underscoring the urgent need for innovative antifungal agents. In recent years, researchers and pharmaceutical companies have made remarkable strides in developing novel approaches to combat fungal pathogens. Conventional antifungal agents, such as azoles, echinocandins and polyenes, have been mainstays in the treatment of fungal infections for decades. However, rising resistance and side effects associated with these drugs necessitate the exploration of alternative solutions. Fungal infections are particularly challenging due to the similarities between fungal and human cells, making it difficult to design drugs that selectively target the pathogen without harming the host.