The Sound of Evolution
Caspofungin
Mechanism of action:
Caspofungin is an echinocandin derivative and a beta-(1,3)-D-glucan synthase inhibitor. One of the main components of the fungal cell wall is beta-(1,3)-D-glucan, which is synthesized by beta-(1,3)-D-glucan synthase. Caspofungin binds to the Fks1p subunit of this enzyme and inhibits its activity. As a result, the cell wall becomes fragile, permeability increases, and fungal cells become more easily damaged and lose their ability to grow.
Reference(s):
1. Sucher AJ et al. (2009). Echinocandins: the newest class of antifungals. Ann Pharmacother.
2. Morrison VA et al. (2005). Caspofungin: an overview. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther.
3. McCormack PL et al. (2005). Caspofungin: a review of its use in the treatment of fungal infections. Drugs.