A group of scientists from various institutions around the world have issued a warning about the potential escalation in resistance in fungal diseases, which could have devastating health impacts on individuals, especially older or immunocompromised individuals. The commentary, published in The Lancet, emphasizes that many fungal pathogens identified by the World Health Organization are already resistant or rapidly acquiring resistance to antifungal drugs. This poses a significant challenge in treating invasive fungal infections and highlights the need for a broader focus on antimicrobial resistance beyond just bacteria.
Most currently available antifungal classes are facing resistance, making it increasingly difficult to effectively treat fungal infections caused by pathogens such as Aspergillus, Candida, Nakaseomyces glabratus, and Trichophyton indotineae. Dr. Norman van Rhijn from The University of Manchester, along with Professor Ferry Hagen from the University of Amsterdam, coordinated the comment, stressing the importance of addressing the threat posed by fungal pathogens in the ongoing debate on antimicrobial resistance. The close similarities between fungal and human cells present challenges in developing treatments that target fungi while minimizing toxicity to patients.
Despite efforts to develop new antifungal agents, the emergence of fungicide-resistant pathogens, driven in part by the agrochemical industry, has set back progress in combating fungal resistance. Professor Hagen highlighted the need for collaboration on solutions and regulations that balance the necessity of antifungal protection for food security with the potential consequences of antimicrobial resistance in fungi. The scientists recommend worldwide agreement on restricting the use of specific antifungal molecules, prioritizing antimicrobial resistance to fungal infections in global discussions such as the United Nations meeting in September.
The scientists argue that the threat of fungal pathogens and antifungal resistance, while a growing global issue, has been largely overlooked in discussions on antimicrobial resistance. The commentary emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that includes addressing resistance in fungal pathogens alongside bacterial resistance. With millions of deaths attributed to resistant fungal infections each year, there is a pressing need to broaden the focus on antimicrobial resistance to encompass fungal diseases in addition to bacterial infections.
Efforts to develop novel antifungal treatments have been met with challenges, including the development of cross-resistant pathogens due to similarities in modes of action between different fungicides. This setback underscores the complexity of tackling antimicrobial resistance in fungi and highlights the importance of global cooperation in finding sustainable solutions. By prioritizing discussions on fungal resistance and advocating for regulations that balance the need for antifungal protection with the risks of resistance, the scientific community aims to address the growing threat posed by resistant fungal infections.
In conclusion, the commentary underscores the urgency of addressing resistance in fungal pathogens and the need for collaborative efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance comprehensively. By raising awareness of the challenges posed by resistant fungal infections, the scientists hope to influence global discussions and policy decisions on antimicrobial resistance. With millions of lives at stake and the potential for further escalation in resistance, it is imperative that all stakeholders work together to develop sustainable solutions that protect human health while ensuring food security and animal health.
