Dermatophyte

Dermatophytes are a specialized group of filamentous fungi that require keratin for growth and survival, primarily belonging to the genera Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton [StatPearls, 2023]. These organisms colonize keratinized tissues such as the stratum corneum of the skin, hair shafts, and nails, leading to infections collectively known as dermatophytoses or tinea [NIH, 2022]. They possess unique enzymes, such as keratinases, which allow them to break down and utilize keratin as a nutrient source [PubMed, 2021]. While not a single molecular target, they are the biological focus of various antifungal therapies that disrupt essential fungal processes like ergosterol biosynthesis or microtubule formation [Wikipedia, 2024]. Treatment often involves topical or systemic agents depending on the severity and location of the infection [CDC, 2023]. These fungi are classified based on their primary habitat as anthropophilic, zoophilic, or geophilic, which influences the clinical presentation and inflammatory response in the host [StatPearls, 2023].

Other names

RingwormTineaKeratinophilic fungiTrichophytonMicrosporumEpidermophyton

Antifungal drugs targeting dermatophytes primarily act by inhibiting ergosterol biosynthesis, a critical component of the fungal cell membrane. Allylamines like terbinafine inhibit squalene epoxidase, while azoles like itraconazole inhibit lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase [StatPearls, 2023]. Additionally, griseofulvin disrupts fungal mitosis by binding to tubulin and interfering with microtubule assembly [PubMed, 2020].