Scientists rethink chemical ‘arms race’ against fungi

New research is showing that fungi are protected from antifungals not only by genetic mutations but also by making more copies of protective genes, suggesting that the strategy of dousing fungal pathogens with antifungals may be nearing its end.

For a long time, fungal infections have meant itchy skin, discoloured nails and sometimes hair loss — symptoms collectively called dermatophytosis caused by dermatophytes.

However, fungi like Candida auris, which has become a menace in the last two decades, are showing new forms of resistance, prompting scientists to reconsider the chemical arms race against them.