Fungal Cell Membrane Ergosterol Synthesis Enzymes

The fungal cell membrane ergosterol synthesis enzymes comprise a group of enzymes essential for the biosynthesis of ergosterol, a sterol unique to fungi and some protists that is crucial for maintaining cell membrane integrity and function. These enzymes are key targets for antifungal drugs because mammals utilize cholesterol instead of ergosterol. The pathway involves multiple enzymatic steps, starting from acetyl-CoA and culminating in the production of ergosterol. Key enzymes include squalene epoxidase (Erg1) and lanosterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51/Erg11). Inhibition of these enzymes leads to impaired fungal growth or death, making them essential targets for antifungal therapies. Resistance can develop via mutations or overexpression in key ERG genes.

Other names

Ergosterol biosynthesis pathway enzymesERG enzymesFungal sterol synthesis enzymes

Inhibition of ergosterol synthesis, leading to membrane disruption or accumulation of toxic sterol intermediates