Projects per year
Abstract
Proper structure and function of the fungal cell wall are controlled by metabolic processes, as well as an interplay between a range of cellular organelles. Somewhat surprisingly, mitochondrial function has been shown to be important for proper cell wall biogenesis and integrity. Mitochondria also play a role in the susceptibility of fungi to cell wall-targeting drugs. This is true in a range of fungal species, including important human fungal pathogens. The biochemical mechanisms that explain the roles of mitochondria in cell wall biology have remained elusive, but studies to date strongly support the idea that mitochondrial control over cellular lipid homeostasis is at the core of these processes. Excitingly, recent evidence suggests that the mitochondria-lipid linkages drive resistance to the echinocandin drug caspofungin, a clinically important therapeutic that targets cell wall biosynthesis. Here, we review the state of affairs in mitochondria-fungal cell wall research and propose models that could be tested in future studies. Elucidating the mechanisms that drive fungal cell wall integrity through mitochondrial functions holds promise for developing new strategies to combat fungal infections, including the possibility to potentiate the effects of antifungal drugs and curb drug resistance.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | The Fungal Cell Wall |
Subtitle of host publication | An Armour and a Weapon for Human Fungal Pathogens |
Editors | Jean-Paul Latge |
Place of Publication | Switzerland |
Publisher | Springer |
Pages | 277-296 |
Number of pages | 20 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9783030499280 |
ISBN (Print) | 9783030499273 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2020 |
Publication series
Name | Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology |
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Publisher | Springer |
Volume | 425 |
ISSN (Print) | 0070-217X |
ISSN (Electronic) | 2196-9965 |
Projects
- 2 Finished
-
An investigation into pathogen-specific factors required for drug-resistance and viability of Candida albicans
Traven, A., Beddoe, T. & Lithgow, T.
National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) (Australia)
1/01/12 → 31/12/14
Project: Research