Initiatives and approaches for antifungal research

Fungal infections have emerged as a major global health concern now but are often overshadowed by the focus on bacterial infections. With the increasing prevalence and mortality associated with fungal diseases, the Fungal Priority Pathogen List (FPPL), published in 2022, and appeals from fungal research groups worldwide have highlighted the growing threat of fungal infections and antifungal resistance. Over the recent years, great efforts and multiple approaches have been made by scientists to address this challenge. In this perspective, we outline the alarming threat posed by fungal infections and antifungal resistance, including the rise in fungal infections complicated by viral infections, the identification of new tumor-resident fungal species, the emergence of novel fungal pathogens, and antifungal resistance driven by climate change or agriculture practices. We summarize the strategies and limitations of current drug development methods and explore innovative approaches for creating effective antifungal therapies. Furthermore, we propose future research directions, particularly focusing on dual-target antifungal agents as a promising avenue for the development of innovative therapeutic molecules. This article aims to provide a concise overview of recent initiatives and novel approaches to advance effective antifungal drug development, ultimately improving therapeutic options for human health.