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The Sound of Evolution
Undecylenic acid
Mechanism of action:
Undecylenic acid is an unsaturated fatty acid antifungal agent and an 11-carbon monounsaturated fatty acid. Because it is lipophilic, undecylenic acid can insert into the lipid layer of fungal cell membranes, especially those of dermatophytes, altering membrane fluidity and permeability. This causes leakage of intracellular ions and small molecules, thereby inhibiting fungal growth or leading to loss of fungal viability.
Reference(s):
1. Ross J et al. (1945). The Polymerization of Undecylenic Acid. J Am Chem Soc.
2. Shi D et al. (2016). Antifungal effects of undecylenic acid on the biofilm formation of Candida albicans. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther.
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