Membrane Transport Inhibition as Mode of Action of Polyene Antimycotics: Recent Data Supported by Old Ones

Recent studies demonstrate that the actual interactions of polyenes with membrane sterols are the basis for their antimycotic toxicity and not, as previously assumed, their potential to form pores. Therefore, sterols must play a vital role in membranes and this function is seriously disturbed once p...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Miroslava Opekarová, Widmar Tanner
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: University of Zagreb Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology 2014-01-01
Series:Food Technology and Biotechnology
Subjects:
Online Access:http://hrcak.srce.hr/file/175199
Description
Summary:Recent studies demonstrate that the actual interactions of polyenes with membrane sterols are the basis for their antimycotic toxicity and not, as previously assumed, their potential to form pores. Therefore, sterols must play a vital role in membranes and this function is seriously disturbed once polyenes bind to and/or sequester them. Essential membrane proteins obviously require sterols for their activity. Among the various membrane protein/ergosterol interactions discussed herein, transport proteins of the plasma membrane are most likely the primary target for polyenes. All data available which support this notion are summarized in this review. Even data obtained almost 40 years ago could be useful in guiding future research.
ISSN:1330-9862
1334-2606