Fungi

Definition

Fungi are eukaryotic organisms that include microorganisms such as yeasts, molds, and mushrooms. They can cause infections that require specific antifungal treatments distinct from antibiotics used for bacterial infections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fungi have unique cell walls made of chitin, which is a target for many antifungal drugs.
2. Common fungal infections in humans include athlete's foot, ringworm, and candidiasis.
3. Antifungal drugs like azoles and echinocandins work by inhibiting the synthesis of essential components of the fungal cell membrane or wall.
4. Unlike bacteria, fungi are more closely related to human cells, making them harder to target without affecting human cells.
5. Systemic fungal infections can be life-threatening and often occur in immunocompromised patients.

Review Questions

• What is the primary component of fungal cell walls that antifungal drugs often target?
• Name two common types of human fungal infections.
• Why are systemic fungal infections particularly dangerous?

Related terms

Yeasts: Unicellular fungi that can cause infections such as thrush and vaginal yeast infections.

Azoles:

A class of antifungal drugs that inhibit the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of the fungal cell membrane.

Echinocandins:

A class of antifungal drugs that inhibit glucan synthesis in the fungal cell wall.