Why in the News?
Researchers at Fudan University found that overuse of the fungicide tebuconazole is causing azole-resistant Candida tropicalis to emerge — a deadly fungus with a 55–60% mortality rate.
About Candida tropicalis:
- Overview: Candida tropicalis is a fungal pathogen prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, including India.
- Type: It is a yeast species that causes invasive candidiasis, affecting the bloodstream and internal organs.
- High-Risk Groups: The fungus is opportunistic, primarily infecting immunocompromised individuals such as cancer patients and those in ICUs.
- Mortality Rate: The infection has a high mortality rate, estimated at 55–60% when it becomes systemic.
- Drug Treatment: Standard treatments include azole-class antifungals such as fluconazole and voriconazole (widely used during COVID-19 induced Black Fungus).
- Adaptability: The pathogen shows strong genomic plasticity, allowing it to survive hostile environments and develop drug resistance.
Reasons for Spread and Resistance:
- Agricultural Influence: Studies show that azole fungicides like tebuconazole, used in farming, contribute to azole-resistant C. tropicalis
- Environmental Exposure: These fungicides accumulate in soil and water, promoting the evolution of resistant strains.
- Genetic Adaptations: Resistant strains develop aneuploidy (extra chromosomes), aiding resistance but reducing growth in drug-free environments.
- Efflux Pumps: Some strains duplicate genes like TAC1, boosting drug-efflux pumps (e.g., ABC transporters) to eject antifungals from the cell.
- Increased Virulence: Resistant strains have proven more virulent in animal studies, posing greater public health risks.
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