Researchers at the University of Arizona have found 140 novel antifungal compounds with the potential to treat cryptococcosis. These compounds have anti-Cryptococcus neoformans activity with IC50 less than 10 uM. Background: Fungal infections, although not very contagious, have affected 300 million people worldwide. Cryptococcosis is caused by opportunistic fungal pathogens Cryptococcus neoformans (Cne) and Cryptococcus gattii (Cga). Immunocompromised individuals are the most affected. Approximately 223,100 human patients are affected by cryptococcosis meningitis globally, with 180,000 deaths annually. Cne and Cga initially affect lungs and in severe condition the brain leading to meningitis. Currently AmphotericinB alone or in combinaiton with 5-Fc is used to treat cryptococcosis infections, however drug resistance is on the rise and there is a need for antifungal drug development. Applications:
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