Fungal cell membrane phospholipid

Fungal cell membrane phospholipids are a diverse group of amphipathic lipids forming the structural basis of the fungal plasma membrane. Each phospholipid molecule contains a hydrophilic head group (such as choline, ethanolamine, serine, or inositol) and two hydrophobic fatty acid tails. These molecules self-assemble into a bilayer that confers membrane integrity, selective permeability, and serves as a platform for various signaling and pathogenicity-related processes[1][2][3][4][5][7][8][10]. In fungi, phospholipids like phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine are indispensable for cell growth and virulence. Perturbations in phospholipid synthesis or direct interaction with these molecules can disrupt membrane function, leading to cell death. Targeting fungal cell membrane phospholipids, or the enzymes that create them, represents a promising antifungal strategy, yet selectivity and resistance remain therapeutic challenges.

Other names

Phospholipids (fungal)Membrane phospholipids (fungi)Glycerophospholipids (fungal)Fungal plasma membrane phospholipids

Direct interaction with membrane phospholipids, causing membrane collapse and cell death (mandimycin); Inhibition of phospholipid biosynthesis enzymes, resulting in incomplete membrane assembly; Perturbation of membrane integrity, enhancing cell susceptibility to stress and antifungals.