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Hoenigl M, Arastehfar A, Arendrup MC, Brüggemann R, Carvalho A, Chiller T, Chen S, Egger M, Feys S, Gangneux JP, Gold JAW, Groll AH, Heylen J, Jenks JD, Krause R, Lagrou K, Lamoth F, Prattes J, Sedik S, Wauters J, Wiederhold NP, Thompson GR. Novel antifungals and treatment approaches to tackle resistance and improve outcomes of invasive fungal disease. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024:e0007423. [PMID: 38602408 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00074-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYFungal infections are on the rise, driven by a growing population at risk and climate change. Currently available antifungals include only five classes, and their utility and efficacy in antifungal treatment are limited by one or more of innate or acquired resistance in some fungi, poor penetration into "sequestered" sites, and agent-specific side effect which require frequent patient reassessment and monitoring. Agents with novel mechanisms, favorable pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles including good oral bioavailability, and fungicidal mechanism(s) are urgently needed. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of novel antifungal agents, with both improved known mechanisms of actions and new antifungal classes, currently in clinical development for treating invasive yeast, mold (filamentous fungi), Pneumocystis jirovecii infections, and dimorphic fungi (endemic mycoses). We further focus on inhaled antifungals and the role of immunotherapy in tackling fungal infections, and the specific PK/pharmacodynamic profiles, tissue distributions as well as drug-drug interactions of novel antifungals. Finally, we review antifungal resistance mechanisms, the role of use of antifungal pesticides in agriculture as drivers of drug resistance, and detail detection methods for antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hoenigl
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BiotechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Amir Arastehfar
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maiken Cavling Arendrup
- Unit of Mycology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Roger Brüggemann
- Department of Pharmacy and Radboudumc Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboudumc-CWZ Center of Expertise in Mycology, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Tom Chiller
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sharon Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, NSW South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthias Egger
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Simon Feys
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jean-Pierre Gangneux
- Centre National de Référence des Mycoses et Antifongiques LA-AspC Aspergilloses chroniques, European Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM EC), Centre hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Jeremy A W Gold
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Andreas H Groll
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Infectious Disease Research Program, Center for Bone Marrow Transplantation, University Children's Hospital, Muenster, Germany
| | - Jannes Heylen
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeffrey D Jenks
- Department of Public Health, Durham County, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robert Krause
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BiotechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Katrien Lagrou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and National Reference Center for Mycosis, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Lamoth
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Institute of Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Service, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Juergen Prattes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BiotechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Sarah Sedik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Joost Wauters
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nathan P Wiederhold
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - George R Thompson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases University of California-Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, USA
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Pecho T, Zeitlinger M. Preclinical Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Studies and Clinical Trials in the Drug Development Process of EMA-Approved Antifungal Agents: A Review. Clin Pharmacokinet 2024; 63:13-26. [PMID: 37971649 PMCID: PMC10786742 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-023-01327-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Antifungal drug development is essential as invasive fungal disease is still associated with a very high mortality rate and the emergence of resistant species in the last decade. In Europe, the European Medical Agency (EMA) approves antifungals and publishes the European Public Assessment Report (EPAR) including the information leading up to the authorisation. We looked at EMA-approved antifungals and their reports within the last 23 years. We focused primarily on the role of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic indices in antifungal development and the level of information depicted in their corresponding report. Furthermore, we investigated guidelines applicable to the development process at the time and compared the content with a focus on pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies and preclinical requirements. Since 2000, six new antifungal substances have been authorised. Most were authorised for treatment of Candida infections or Aspergillus infections but also included rarer pathogens. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic indices were scarcely investigated and/or mentioned in the report. Current antifungal EMA guidelines started emphasising investigating pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic indices in 2010 and then again in 2016. It remains to be seen how this translates into the authorisation process for new antifungals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Pecho
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Zeitlinger
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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Ordaya EE, Clement J, Vergidis P. The Role of Novel Antifungals in the Management of Candidiasis: A Clinical Perspective. Mycopathologia 2023; 188:937-948. [PMID: 37470902 PMCID: PMC10687117 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-023-00759-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Mucosal and invasive candidiasis can be challenging to treat in the setting of drug intolerance, antifungal resistance, drug-drug interactions, or host immune status. Antifungals with novel mechanisms of action and distinct pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties have been developed in recent years. Rezafungin is an echinocandin with high-tissue penetration and an extended half-life that allows for once-weekly administration, making it a convenient treatment option for invasive candidiasis while obviating the need for central catheter placement. Ibrexafungerp is an oral glucan synthase inhibitor that is active against most echinocandin-resistant Candida species. At present, it is approved for the treatment of acute vulvovaginal candidiasis and is under investigation as an oral step-down therapy following initial treatment with an echinocandin for cases of invasive candidiasis. Oteseconazole is a long-acting tetrazole that exhibits a higher affinity for the fungal enzyme CYP51, resulting in a potentially lower risk of drug-drug interactions and side effects compared to other azoles. It is currently approved for the treatment of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. Fosmanogepix has a novel mechanism of action and potent activity against several Candida strains resistant to other antifungals. Due to its considerable bioavailability and tissue penetration, it holds promise as a potential treatment option in patients with invasive candidiasis, including those with chorioretinitis or meningitis. Results from clinical trials and observational studies will further delineate the role of these agents in the management of candidiasis. As the usage of these novel antifungals becomes widespread, we expect to acquire a greater understanding of their efficacy and potential benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloy E Ordaya
- Division of Public Health, Infectious Disease, and Occupational Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
| | - Josh Clement
- Department of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Paschalis Vergidis
- Division of Public Health, Infectious Disease, and Occupational Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
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Gupta AK, Talukder M, Carviel JL, Cooper EA, Piguet V. Combatting antifungal resistance: Paradigm shift in the diagnosis and management of onychomycosis and dermatomycosis. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2023; 37:1706-1717. [PMID: 37210652 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Antifungal resistance has become prevalent worldwide. Understanding the factors involved in spread of resistance allows the formulation of strategies to slow resistance development and likewise identify solutions for the treatment of highly recalcitrant fungal infections. To investigate the recent explosion of resistant strains, a literature review was performed focusing on four main areas: mechanisms of resistance to antifungal agents, diagnosis of superficial fungal infections, management, and stewardship. The use of traditional diagnostic tools such as culture, KOH analysis and minimum inhibitory concentration values on treatment were investigated and compared to the newer techniques such as molecular methods including whole genome sequencing, and polymerase chain reaction. The management of terbinafine-resistant strains is discussed. We have emphasized the need for antifungal stewardship including increasing surveillance for resistant infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditya K Gupta
- Mediprobe Research Inc., London, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mesbah Talukder
- Mediprobe Research Inc., London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Vincent Piguet
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Dermatology, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Flanagan S, Walker H, Ong V, Sandison T. Absence of Clinically Meaningful Drug-Drug Interactions with Rezafungin: Outcome of Investigations. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0133923. [PMID: 37154682 PMCID: PMC10269561 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01339-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Rezafungin is a novel once-weekly echinocandin for intravenous injection currently in development for the treatment of Candida infections and the prevention of Candida, Aspergillus, and Pneumocystis infections in allogeneic blood and marrow transplant recipients. While in vitro data indicated that rezafungin exposure was unlikely to be affected by commonly prescribed medicines, interactions resulting in the altered systemic exposure of some drugs coadministered with rezafungin could not be excluded. Two phase 1 open label crossover studies, conducted in healthy subjects, examined drug interactions between rezafungin and multiple drug probe cytochrome P450 (CYP) substrates and/or transporter proteins, immunosuppressants, and cancer therapies. Statistical analysis compared the outcomes for drugs coadministered with rezafungin to those for the drugs administered alone. The geometric mean ratio was reported, and a default 90% confidence interval (CI) no-effect equivalence range of 80 to 125% was used for the maximal plasma concentration (Cmax), the area under the curve from time zero to the final sampling time point (AUC0-t), and the AUC from time zero to infinity (AUC0-∞). Most probes and concomitant drugs were within the equivalence range. For tacrolimus, ibrutinib, mycophenolic acid, and venetoclax, the AUC or Cmax was reduced (10 to 19%), with lower bounds of the 90% CI values falling outside the no-effect range. The rosuvastatin AUC and Cmax and the repaglinide AUC0-∞ were increased (12 to 16%), with the 90% CI being marginally above the upper bound. Overall, the in vitro and in vivo data demonstrated a low drug interaction potential with rezafungin via CYP substrate/transporter pathways and commonly prescribed comedications, suggesting that coadministration was unlikely to result in clinically significant effects. Treatment-emergent adverse events were typically mild, and rezafungin was generally well tolerated. IMPORTANCE Antifungal agents used to treat life-threatening infections are often associated with severe drug-drug interactions (DDIs) that may limit their usefulness. Rezafungin, a newly approved once-weekly echinocandin, has been shown to be free of DDIs based on extensive nonclinical and clinical testing described in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Voon Ong
- Cidara Therapeutics, Inc., San Diego, California, USA
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6
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Abstract
Rezafungin (Rezzayo™), an intravenous once-weekly echinocandin that inhibits 1,3-β-D-glucan synthase, is being developed by Cidara Therapeutics. In March 2023, rezafungin received approval in the USA for the treatment of candidaemia and invasive candidiasis in patients aged ≥ 18 years who have limited or no alternative treatment options. Rezafungin is also being developed for the prevention of invasive fungal diseases in blood and marrow transplant recipients. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of rezafungin leading to the first approval for the treatment of candidaemia and invasive candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahiya Y Syed
- Springer Nature, Mairangi Bay, Private Bag 65901, Auckland, 0754, New Zealand.
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Bosetti D, Neofytos D. Invasive Aspergillosis and the Impact of Azole-resistance. Curr Fungal Infect Rep 2023; 17:1-10. [PMID: 37360857 PMCID: PMC10024029 DOI: 10.1007/s12281-023-00459-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review IA (invasive aspergillosis) caused by azole-resistant strains has been associated with higher clinical burden and mortality rates. We review the current epidemiology, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies of this clinical entity, with a special focus on patients with hematologic malignancies. Recent Findings There is an increase of azole resistance in Aspergillus spp. worldwide, probably due to environmental pressure and the increase of long-term azole prophylaxis and treatment in immunocompromised patients (e.g., in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients). The therapeutic approaches are challenging, due to multidrug-resistant strains, drug interactions, side effects, and patient-related conditions. Summary Rapid recognition of resistant Aspergillus spp. strains is fundamental to initiate an appropriate antifungal regimen, above all for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients. Clearly, more studies are needed in order to better understand the resistance mechanisms and optimize the diagnostic methods to identify Aspergillus spp. resistance to the existing antifungal agents/classes. More data on the susceptibility profile of Aspergillus spp. against the new classes of antifungal agents may allow for better treatment options and improved clinical outcomes in the coming years. In the meantime, continuous surveillance studies to monitor the prevalence of environmental and patient prevalence of azole resistance among Aspergillus spp. is absolutely crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Bosetti
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dionysios Neofytos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, Geneva, Switzerland
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Li H, Yang J, Zhang X, Xu X, Song F, Li H. Biocontrol of Candida albicans by Antagonistic Microorganisms and Bioactive Compounds. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:1238. [PMID: 36140017 PMCID: PMC9495215 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11091238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is an endogenous opportunistic pathogenic fungus that is harmless when the host system remains stable. However, C. albicans could seriously threaten human life and health when the body’s immune function declines or the normal flora is out of balance. Due to the increasing resistance of candidiasis to existing drugs, it is important to find new strategies to help treat this type of systemic fungal disease. Biological control is considered as a promising strategy which is more friendly and safer. In this review, we compare the bacteriostatic behavior of different antagonistic microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) against C. albicans. In addition, natural products with unique structures have attracted researchers’ attention. Therefore, the bioactive nature products produced by different microorganisms and their possible inhibitory mechanisms are also reviewed. The application of biological control strategies and the discovery of new compounds with antifungal activity will reduce the resistance of C. albicans, thereby promoting the development of novel diverse antifungal drugs.
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Cui X, Wang L, Lü Y, Yue C. Development and research progress of anti-drug resistant fungal drugs. J Infect Public Health 2022; 15:986-1000. [PMID: 35981408 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
With the widespread use of immunosuppressive agents and the increase in patients with severe infections, the incidence of fungal infections worldwide has increased year by year. The fungal pathogens Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans and Aspergillus fumigatus cause a total of more than 1 million deaths each year. Long-term use of antifungal drugs can easily lead to fungal resistance, and the prevalence of drug-resistant fungi is a major global health challenge. In order to effectively control global fungal infections, there is an urgent need for new drugs that can exert effective antifungal activity and overcome drug resistance. We must promote the discovery of new antifungal targets and drugs, and find effective ways to control drug-resistant fungi through different ways, so as to reduce the threat of drug-resistant fungi to human life, health and safety. In the past few years, certain progress has been made in the research and development of antifungal drugs. In addition to summarizing some of the antifungal drugs currently approved by the FDA, this review also focuses on potential antifungal drugs, the repositioned drugs, and drugs that can treat drug-resistant bacteria and fungal infections, and provide new ideas for the development of antifungal drugs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyi Cui
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Drugs Innovation and Transformation of Yan'an, School of Basic Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an 716000, Shaanxi, China; Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources,Yan'an University, NO.580 Shengdi Road, Baota District, Yan'an 716000, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Lanlin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Drugs Innovation and Transformation of Yan'an, School of Basic Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an 716000, Shaanxi, China; Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources,Yan'an University, NO.580 Shengdi Road, Baota District, Yan'an 716000, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yuhong Lü
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Drugs Innovation and Transformation of Yan'an, School of Basic Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an 716000, Shaanxi, China; Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources,Yan'an University, NO.580 Shengdi Road, Baota District, Yan'an 716000, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Changwu Yue
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Drugs Innovation and Transformation of Yan'an, School of Basic Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an 716000, Shaanxi, China; Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources,Yan'an University, NO.580 Shengdi Road, Baota District, Yan'an 716000, Shaanxi, China.
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Rivera-Yañez CR, Ruiz-Hurtado PA, Reyes-Reali J, Mendoza-Ramos MI, Vargas-Díaz ME, Hernández-Sánchez KM, Pozo-Molina G, Méndez-Catalá CF, García-Romo GS, Pedroza-González A, Méndez-Cruz AR, Nieto-Yañez O, Rivera-Yañez N. Antifungal Activity of Mexican Propolis on Clinical Isolates of Candida Species. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175651. [PMID: 36080417 PMCID: PMC9457601 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by micro-organisms of the genus Candida are becoming a growing health problem worldwide. These fungi are opportunistic commensals that can produce infections—clinically known as candidiasis—in immunocompromised individuals. The indiscriminate use of different anti-fungal treatments has triggered the resistance of Candida species to currently used therapies. In this sense, propolis has been shown to have potent antimicrobial properties and thus can be used as an approach for the inhibition of Candida species. Therefore, this work aims to evaluate the anti-Candida effects of a propolis extract obtained from the north of Mexico on clinical isolates of Candida species. Candida species were specifically identified from oral lesions, and both the qualitative and quantitative anti-Candida effects of the Mexican propolis were evaluated, as well as its inhibitory effect on C. albicans isolate’s germ tube growth and chemical composition. Three Candida species were identified, and our results indicated that the inhibition halos of the propolis ranged from 7.6 to 21.43 mm, while that of the MFC and FC50 ranged from 0.312 to 1.25 and 0.014 to 0.244 mg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the propolis was found to inhibit germ tube formation (IC50 ranging from 0.030 to 1.291 mg/mL). Chemical composition analysis indicated the presence of flavonoids, including pinocembrin, baicalein, pinobanksin chalcone, rhamnetin, and biochanin A, in the Mexican propolis extract. In summary, our work shows that Mexican propolis presents significant anti-Candida effects related to its chemical composition, and also inhibits germ tube growth. Other Candida species virulence factors should be investigated in future research in order to determine the mechanisms associated with antifungal effects against them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Rebeca Rivera-Yañez
- Carrera de Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- Unidad de Morfofisiología y Función, Laboratorio de Inmunología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
| | - Porfirio Alonso Ruiz-Hurtado
- Laboratorio de Toxicología de Productos Naturales, Departamento de Farmacia, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Av. Wilfrido Massieu, Gustavo A. Madero 07738, Mexico
| | - Julia Reyes-Reali
- Carrera de Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- Unidad de Morfofisiología y Función, Laboratorio de Inmunología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
| | - María Isabel Mendoza-Ramos
- Carrera de Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- Unidad de Morfofisiología y Función, Laboratorio de Inmunología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
| | - María Elena Vargas-Díaz
- Laboratorio de Química de Productos Naturales, Departamento de Química Orgánica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Prol. de Carpio y Plan de Ayala, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico
| | - Karla Mariela Hernández-Sánchez
- Laboratorio de Química de Productos Naturales, Departamento de Química Orgánica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Prol. de Carpio y Plan de Ayala, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico
| | - Glustein Pozo-Molina
- Carrera de Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Genética y Oncología Molecular, Laboratorio 5, Edificio A4, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
| | - Claudia Fabiola Méndez-Catalá
- Laboratorio de Genética y Oncología Molecular, Laboratorio 5, Edificio A4, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- División de Investigación y Posgrado, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
| | - Gina Stella García-Romo
- Carrera de Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- Unidad de Morfofisiología y Función, Laboratorio de Inmunología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
| | - Alexander Pedroza-González
- Carrera de Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- Unidad de Morfofisiología y Función, Laboratorio de Inmunología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
| | - Adolfo René Méndez-Cruz
- Carrera de Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- Unidad de Morfofisiología y Función, Laboratorio de Inmunología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
| | - Oscar Nieto-Yañez
- Carrera de Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- Correspondence: (O.N.-Y.); (N.R.-Y.); Tel.: +52-5522-476-721 (N.R.-Y.)
| | - Nelly Rivera-Yañez
- Carrera de Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- División de Investigación y Posgrado, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- Correspondence: (O.N.-Y.); (N.R.-Y.); Tel.: +52-5522-476-721 (N.R.-Y.)
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11
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Lamoth F, Lewis RE, Kontoyiannis DP. Investigational Antifungal Agents for Invasive Mycoses: A Clinical Perspective. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 75:534-544. [PMID: 34986246 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab1070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) remains challenging, because of the limitations of the current antifungal agents (ie, mode of administration, toxicity, and drug-drug interactions) and the emergence of resistant fungal pathogens. Therefore, there is an urgent need to expand our antifungal armamentarium. Several compounds are reaching the stage of phase II or III clinical assessment. These include new drugs within the existing antifungal classes or displaying similar mechanism of activity with improved pharmacologic properties (rezafungin and ibrexafungerp) or first-in-class drugs with novel mechanisms of action (olorofim and fosmanogepix). Although critical information regarding the performance of these agents in heavily immunosuppressed patients is pending, they may provide useful additions to current therapies in some clinical scenarios, including IFIs caused by azole-resistant Aspergillus or multiresistant fungal pathogens (eg, Candida auris, Lomentospora prolificans). However, their limited activity against Mucorales and some other opportunistic molds (eg, some Fusarium spp.) persists as a major unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Lamoth
- Infectious Diseases Service and Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital of Lausanne and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Russell E Lewis
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, S'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italyand
| | - Dimitrios P Kontoyiannis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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12
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Wiederhold NP. Pharmacodynamics, Mechanisms of Action and Resistance, and Spectrum of Activity of New Antifungal Agents. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080857. [PMID: 36012845 PMCID: PMC9410397 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Several new antifungals are currently in late-stage development, including those with novel pharmacodynamics/mechanisms of action that represent new antifungal classes (manogepix, olorofim, ATI-2307, GR-2397). Others include new agents within established classes or with mechanisms of action similar to clinically available antifungals (ibrexafungerp, rezafungin, oteseconazole, opelconazole, MAT2203) that have been modified in order to improve certain characteristics, including enhanced pharmacokinetics and greater specificity for fungal targets. Many of the antifungals under development also have activity against Candida and Aspergillus strains that have reduced susceptibility or acquired resistance to azoles and echinocandins, whereas others demonstrate activity against species that are intrinsically resistant to most clinically available antifungals. The tolerability and drug–drug interaction profiles of these new agents also appear to be promising, although the number of human subjects that have been exposed to many of these agents remains relatively small. Overall, these agents have the potential for expanding our antifungal armamentarium and improving clinical outcomes in patients with invasive mycoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan P Wiederhold
- Fungus Testing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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13
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Jauregizar N, Quindós G, Gil-Alonso S, Suárez E, Sevillano E, Eraso E. Postantifungal Effect of Antifungal Drugs against Candida: What Do We Know and How Can We Apply This Knowledge in the Clinical Setting? J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8070727. [PMID: 35887482 PMCID: PMC9317160 DOI: 10.3390/jof8070727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The study of the pharmacological properties of an antifungal agent integrates the drug pharmacokinetics, the fungal growth inhibition, the fungicidal effect and the postantifungal activity, laying the basis to guide optimal dosing regimen selection. The current manuscript reviews concepts regarding the postantifungal effect (PAFE) of the main classes of drugs used to treat Candida infections or candidiasis. The existence of PAFE and its magnitude are highly dependent on both the fungal species and the class of the antifungal agent. Therefore, the aim of this article was to compile the information described in the literature concerning the PAFE of polyenes, azoles and echinocandins against the Candida species of medical interest. In addition, the mechanisms involved in these phenomena, methods of study, and finally, the clinical applicability of these studies relating to the design of dosing regimens were reviewed and discussed. Additionally, different factors that could determine the variability in the PAFE were described. Most PAFE studies were conducted in vitro, and a scarcity of PAFE studies in animal models was observed. It can be stated that the echinocandins cause the most prolonged PAFE, followed by polyenes and azoles. In the case of the triazoles, it is worth noting the inconsistency found between in vitro and in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerea Jauregizar
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Bilbao, Spain;
- Correspondence:
| | - Guillermo Quindós
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Bilbao, Spain; (G.Q.); (S.G.-A.); (E.S.); (E.E.)
| | - Sandra Gil-Alonso
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Bilbao, Spain; (G.Q.); (S.G.-A.); (E.S.); (E.E.)
| | - Elena Suárez
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Bilbao, Spain;
| | - Elena Sevillano
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Bilbao, Spain; (G.Q.); (S.G.-A.); (E.S.); (E.E.)
| | - Elena Eraso
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Bilbao, Spain; (G.Q.); (S.G.-A.); (E.S.); (E.E.)
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14
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Vassilopoulos S, Mylonakis E. Avenues for antifungal drug discovery and development: where to now? Expert Opin Drug Discov 2022; 17:667-672. [PMID: 35790187 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2098950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanos Vassilopoulos
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Eleftherios Mylonakis
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
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15
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Travi BL. Current status of antihistamine drugs repurposing for infectious diseases. Medicine in Drug Discovery 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medidd.2022.100140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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16
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Barantsevich N, Barantsevich E. Diagnosis and Treatment of Invasive Candidiasis. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11060718. [PMID: 35740125 PMCID: PMC9219674 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11060718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida species, belonging to commensal microbial communities in humans, cause opportunistic infections in individuals with impaired immunity. Pathogens encountered in more than 90% cases of invasive candidiasis include C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis. The most frequently diagnosed invasive infection is candidemia. About 50% of candidemia cases result in deep-seated infection due to hematogenous spread. The sensitivity of blood cultures in autopsy-proven invasive candidiasis ranges from 21% to 71%. Non-cultural methods (beta-D-glucan, T2Candida assays), especially beta-D-glucan in combination with procalcitonin, appear promising in the exclusion of invasive candidiasis with high sensitivity (98%) and negative predictive value (95%). There is currently a clear deficiency in approved sensitive and precise diagnostic techniques. Omics technologies seem promising, though require further development and study. Therapeutic options for invasive candidiasis are generally limited to four classes of systemic antifungals (polyenes, antimetabolite 5-fluorocytosine, azoles, echinocandins) with the two latter being highly effective and well-tolerated and hence the most widely used. Principles and methods of treatment are discussed in this review. The emergence of pan-drug-resistant C. auris strains indicates an insufficient choice of available medications. Further surveillance, alongside the development of diagnostic and therapeutic methods, is essential.
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17
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Abstract
Invasive fungal diseases due to resistant yeasts and molds are an important and increasing public health threat, likely due to a growing population of immunosuppressed hosts, increases in antifungal resistance, and improvements in laboratory diagnostics. The significant morbidity and mortality associated with these pathogens bespeaks the urgent need for novel safe and effective therapeutics. This review highlights promising investigational antifungal agents in clinical phases of development: fosmanogepix, ibrexafungerp, rezafungin, encochleated amphotericin B, oteseconazole (VT-1161), VT-1598, PC945, and olorofim. We discuss three first-in-class members of three novel antifungal classes, as well as new agents within existing antifungal classes with improved safety and tolerability profiles due to enhanced pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha E Jacobs
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10029-5674, USA
| | - Panagiotis Zagaliotis
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Thomas J Walsh
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA.,Departments Pediatrics and Microbiology & Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
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18
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Abstract
Candida auris infections present a critical problem to the healthcare system in many parts of the world. This yeast clinically manifests as a disseminated candidiasis which can be life-threating for susceptible individuals, as well as cutaneous and wound infections. Moreover, C. auris can colonize the skin and act as a nidus of infection. Importantly, this emerging yeast unlike other Candida spp. has demonstrated multidrug resistance; thus its eradication can be challenging. Animal models are important to gain insight into the pathogenesis of this infection, as well as play a significant role in drug development. In this chapter, we describe two C. auris animal models: a cutaneous infection guinea pig model and a skin decolonization mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Herrada
- Center for Medical Mycology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ahmed Gamal
- Center for Medical Mycology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Lisa Long
- Center for Medical Mycology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mahmoud A Ghannoum
- Center for Medical Mycology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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19
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Ong V, Wills S, Watson D, Sandison T, Flanagan S. Metabolism, Excretion, and Mass Balance of [ 14C]-Rezafungin in Animals and Humans. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021;:AAC0139021. [PMID: 34662192 DOI: 10.1128/AAC.01390-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Rezafungin is a novel echinocandin being developed for treatment of candidemia and invasive candidiasis and for prevention of invasive fungal disease caused by Candida, Aspergillus, and Pneumocystis spp. in recipients of blood and marrow transplantation. Studies using [14C]-radiolabeled rezafungin were conducted in rats, monkeys, and humans to characterize the mass balance, excretion, and pharmacokinetics of [14C]-rezafungin and to evaluate relative amounts of rezafungin metabolites compared with parent drug. Fecal excretion was the main route of elimination in rats, monkeys, and humans. Radioactivity was primarily excreted as unchanged drug, with ≥95% average total recovery in rats (through 336 h) and monkeys (through 720 h). In humans, cumulative recovery of radioactivity through the first 17 days was 52% (38% in feces, 14% in urine) with estimated mean overall recovery through day 60 of 88.3% (73% in feces, 27% in urine). The clinical pharmacokinetics of rezafungin following a single 400-mg intravenous infusion (200 μCi of [14C]-rezafungin) were similar in plasma, plasma total radioactivity, and whole blood total radioactivity. Unchanged rezafungin represented the majority of total radioactivity in plasma, and the partitioning of total radioactivity into red blood cells was negligible. Across species, rezafungin was primarily metabolized by hydroxylation of the terphenyl, pentyl ether side chain. In these excretion/mass balance, metabolism, and PK studies, clinical observations were consistent with findings in the rat and monkey demonstrating the minimal metabolism and slow elimination of rezafungin after intravenous administration, with fecal excretion as the major route of elimination.
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20
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Hoenigl M, Sprute R, Egger M, Arastehfar A, Cornely OA, Krause R, Lass-Flörl C, Prattes J, Spec A, Thompson GR, Wiederhold N, Jenks JD. The Antifungal Pipeline: Fosmanogepix, Ibrexafungerp, Olorofim, Opelconazole, and Rezafungin. Drugs 2021; 81:1703-1729. [PMID: 34626339 PMCID: PMC8501344 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-021-01611-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The epidemiology of invasive fungal infections is changing, with new populations at risk and the emergence of resistance caused by the selective pressure from increased usage of antifungal agents in prophylaxis, empiric therapy, and agriculture. Limited antifungal therapeutic options are further challenged by drug-drug interactions, toxicity, and constraints in administration routes. Despite the need for more antifungal drug options, no new classes of antifungal drugs have become available over the last 2 decades, and only one single new agent from a known antifungal class has been approved in the last decade. Nevertheless, there is hope on the horizon, with a number of new antifungal classes in late-stage clinical development. In this review, we describe the mechanisms of drug resistance employed by fungi and extensively discuss the most promising drugs in development, including fosmanogepix (a novel Gwt1 enzyme inhibitor), ibrexafungerp (a first-in-class triterpenoid), olorofim (a novel dihyroorotate dehydrogenase enzyme inhibitor), opelconazole (a novel triazole optimized for inhalation), and rezafungin (an echinocandin designed to be dosed once weekly). We focus on the mechanism of action and pharmacokinetics, as well as the spectrum of activity and stages of clinical development. We also highlight the potential future role of these drugs and unmet needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria.
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Clinical and Translational Fungal-Working Group, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Rosanne Sprute
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), University Hospital Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Chair Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University Hospital Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Matthias Egger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Amir Arastehfar
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ, USA
| | - Oliver A Cornely
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), University Hospital Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Chair Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University Hospital Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (ZKS Köln), University Hospital Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Robert Krause
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Cornelia Lass-Flörl
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Juergen Prattes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Andrej Spec
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MI, USA
| | - George R Thompson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Departments of Internal Medicine and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Nathan Wiederhold
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Jenks
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
- Clinical and Translational Fungal-Working Group, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
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21
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Abstract
In many ways, fungal diseases are forgotten or neglected. Given the significantly lower frequency compared to similar bacterial etiologies across the spectrum of infectious syndromes, it makes sense that anti-bacterial agents have seen the bulk of development in recent decades. The vast majority of new antifungal medications approved for use in the past 10 years have been new versions in the same class as existing agents. Clinical mycology is crying out for new mechanisms of action in the setting of rising resistance and emergence of new organisms. Fortunately, this trend appears to be reversing. There are numerous agents in advanced stages of development offering novel dosing regimens and mechanisms of action to combat these threats. Herein we review seven antifungal agents that we hope to see come to market in the coming years to aid physicians in the treatment of mucocutaneous and invasive fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd Patrick McCarty
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States.,Department of Medicine, Birmingham Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Peter G Pappas
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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22
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Arastehfar A, Carvalho A, Houbraken J, Lombardi L, Garcia-Rubio R, Jenks J, Rivero-Menendez O, Aljohani R, Jacobsen I, Berman J, Osherov N, Hedayati M, Ilkit M, Armstrong-James D, Gabaldón T, Meletiadis J, Kostrzewa M, Pan W, Lass-Flörl C, Perlin D, Hoenigl M. Aspergillus fumigatus and aspergillosis: From basics to clinics. Stud Mycol 2021; 100:100115. [PMID: 34035866 PMCID: PMC8131930 DOI: 10.1016/j.simyco.2021.100115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The airborne fungus Aspergillus fumigatus poses a serious health threat to humans by causing numerous invasive infections and a notable mortality in humans, especially in immunocompromised patients. Mould-active azoles are the frontline therapeutics employed to treat aspergillosis. The global emergence of azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates in clinic and environment, however, notoriously limits the therapeutic options of mould-active antifungals and potentially can be attributed to a mortality rate reaching up to 100 %. Although specific mutations in CYP 51A are the main cause of azole resistance, there is a new wave of azole-resistant isolates with wild-type CYP 51A genotype challenging the efficacy of the current diagnostic tools. Therefore, applications of whole-genome sequencing are increasingly gaining popularity to overcome such challenges. Prominent echinocandin tolerance, as well as liver and kidney toxicity posed by amphotericin B, necessitate a continuous quest for novel antifungal drugs to combat emerging azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates. Animal models and the tools used for genetic engineering require further refinement to facilitate a better understanding about the resistance mechanisms, virulence, and immune reactions orchestrated against A. fumigatus. This review paper comprehensively discusses the current clinical challenges caused by A. fumigatus and provides insights on how to address them.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Arastehfar
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ, 07110, USA
| | - A. Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães/Braga, Portugal
| | - J. Houbraken
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - L. Lombardi
- UCD Conway Institute and School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - R. Garcia-Rubio
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ, 07110, USA
| | - J.D. Jenks
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA
- Clinical and Translational Fungal-Working Group, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - O. Rivero-Menendez
- Medical Mycology Reference Laboratory, National Center for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, 28222, Spain
| | - R. Aljohani
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - I.D. Jacobsen
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology—Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute for Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - J. Berman
- Research Group Microbial Immunology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology—Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - N. Osherov
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler School of Medicine Ramat-Aviv, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - M.T. Hedayati
- Invasive Fungi Research Center/Department of Medical Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - M. Ilkit
- Division of Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Çukurova University, 01330, Adana, Turkey
| | | | - T. Gabaldón
- Life Sciences Programme, Supercomputing Center (BSC-CNS), Jordi Girona, Barcelona, 08034, Spain
- Mechanisms of Disease Programme, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), Barcelona, Spain
- ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J. Meletiadis
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - W. Pan
- Medical Mycology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - C. Lass-Flörl
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - D.S. Perlin
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ, 07110, USA
| | - M. Hoenigl
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036, Graz, Austria
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
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23
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Abstract
Rezafungin is a novel antifungal agent of the echinocandin class with potent activity against species of Candida and Aspergillus, including subsets of resistant strains, and Pneumocystis jirovecii. The objective of this analysis was to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PK) model to characterize the disposition of rezafungin in plasma following intravenous (IV) administration in healthy volunteers and in patients with candidemia and/or invasive candidiasis. The population PK model was based on a previous model from phase 1 data; formal covariate analyses were conducted to identify any relationships between subject characteristics and rezafungin PK variability. A four-compartment model with linear elimination and zero-order drug input provided a robust fit to the pooled data. Several statistically significant relationships between subject descriptors (sex, infection status, serum albumin, and body surface area [BSA]) and rezafungin PK parameters were identified, but none were deemed clinically relevant. Previous dose justification analyses conducted using data from phase 1 subjects alone are expected to remain appropriate. The final model provided a precise and unbiased fit to the observed concentrations and can be used to reliably predict rezafungin PK in infected patients.
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24
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Abstract
Introduction: Invasive fungal infection carries a high morbidity, mortality and economic cost. In recent times, a rising incidence of fungal infection and antifungal resistance is occurring which has prompted the development of novel antifungal agents.Areas covered:In this perspective, the authors describe the current status of registered antifungals and their limitations in the treatment of invasive fungal infection. They also go on to describe the new antifungal agents that are in the clinical stage of development and how they might be best utilized in patient care in the future.Expert opinion: The antifungal drug development pipeline has responded to a growing need for new agents to effectively treat fungal disease without concomitant toxicity or issues with drug tolerance. Olorofim (F901318), ibrexafungerp (SCY-078), fosmanogepix (APX001), rezafungin (CD101), oteseconazole (VT-1161), encochleated amphotericin B (MAT2203), nikkomycin Z (NikZ) and ATI-2307 are all in the clinical stage of development and offer great promise in offering clinicians better agents to treat these difficult infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam G Stewart
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.,Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Brisbane, Australia
| | - David L Paterson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.,Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Brisbane, Australia
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25
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Abstract
Invasive fungal diseases due to resistant yeasts and molds are an important and increasing public health threat, likely due to a growing population of immunosuppressed hosts, increases in antifungal resistance, and improvements in laboratory diagnostics. The significant morbidity and mortality associated with these pathogens bespeaks the urgent need for novel safe and effective therapeutics. This review highlights promising investigational antifungal agents in clinical phases of development: fosmanogepix, ibrexafungerp, rezafungin, encochleated amphotericin B, oteseconazole (VT-1161), VT-1598, PC945, and olorofim. We discuss three first-in-class members of three novel antifungal classes, as well as new agents within existing antifungal classes with improved safety and tolerability profiles due to enhanced pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha E. Jacobs
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10029-5674, USA
| | - Panagiotis Zagaliotis
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Thomas J. Walsh
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Departments Pediatrics and Microbiology & Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
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26
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Abstract
Invasive fungal diseases continue to cause substantial mortality in the enlarging immunocompromised population. It is fortunate that the field has moved past amphotericin B deoxycholate as the only available antifungal drug but despite new classes of antifungal agents both primary and secondary drug resistance in molds and yeasts abound. From the rise of multiple-drug-resistant Candida auris to the agrochemical selection of environmental azole-resistant Aspergillus fumigatus, it is and will be critical to understand antifungal drug resistance and both prevent and treat it with new strategies and agents.
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27
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Vahedi-Shahandashti R, Lass-Flörl C. Novel Antifungal Agents and Their Activity against Aspergillus Species. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:E213. [PMID: 33050302 PMCID: PMC7711508 DOI: 10.3390/jof6040213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a need for new antifungal agents, mainly due to increased incidence of invasive fungal infections (IFI), high frequency of associated morbidity and mortality and limitations of the current antifungal agents (e.g., toxicity, drug-drug interactions, and resistance). The clinically available antifungals for IFI are restricted to four main classes: polyenes, flucytosine, triazoles, and echinocandins. Several antifungals are hampered by multiple resistance mechanisms being present in fungi. Consequently, novel antifungal agents with new targets and modified chemical structures are required to combat fungal infections. This review will describe novel antifungals, with a focus on the Aspergillus species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cornelia Lass-Flörl
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical University Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
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28
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Wirth F, Ishida K. Antifungal drugs: An updated review of central nervous system pharmacokinetics. Mycoses 2020; 63:1047-1059. [PMID: 32772402 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in the central nervous system (CNS) are particularly hard to treat and are associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Four chemical classes of systemic antifungal agents are used for the treatment of IFIs (eg meningitis), including polyenes, triazoles, pyrimidine analogues and echinocandins. This review will address all of these classes and discuss their penetration and accumulation in the CNS. Treatment of fungal meningitis is based on the antifungal that shows good penetration and accumulation in the CNS. Pharmacokinetic data concerning the entry of antifungal agents into the intracranial compartments are faulty. This review will provide an overview of the ability of systemic antifungals to penetrate the CNS, based on previously published drug physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetic data, for evaluation of the most promising antifungal drugs for the treatment of fungal CNS infections. The studies selected and discussed in this review are from 1990 to 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Wirth
- Laboratory of Antifungal Chemotherapy, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kelly Ishida
- Laboratory of Antifungal Chemotherapy, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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29
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Zhao Y, Perlin DS. Review of the Novel Echinocandin Antifungal Rezafungin: Animal Studies and Clinical Data. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6040192. [PMID: 32998224 PMCID: PMC7712954 DOI: 10.3390/jof6040192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rezafungin is a novel echinocandin drug being developed as a first-line option for treatment and prevention of invasive fungal infections. As a result of a structural modification in its parent molecule anidulafungin, rezafungin has acquired unique chemical stability conferring prolonged pharmacokinetics, as well as an administration advantage in the clinical setting compared to other drugs in the same class. Rezafungin displays potent in vitro activity against a wide spectrum of fungal pathogens, which is reflected in robust in vivo efficacy and/or pharmacodynamic studies using various animal models as well as in promising clinical trials data. This review describes in vivo characterization of rezafungin using animal models, current status of clinical development and key findings from these studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Zhao
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA;
- Department of Medical Sciences, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-201-880-3503
| | - David S. Perlin
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA;
- Department of Medical Sciences, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
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30
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Cota JM, Giancola SE, Benavides TM, Wiederhold NP. Implications of Evolving and Emerging Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Research for Triazoles and Echinocandins. Curr Fungal Infect Rep 2020; 14:258-67. [DOI: 10.1007/s12281-020-00391-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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