Fungal cell wall and cell membrane interface

The fungal cell wall and cell membrane interface is a complex structural region essential for the survival, growth, and virulence of fungal pathogens (Gow et al., 2017, Nature Reviews Microbiology). This interface consists of the plasma membrane, which contains the fungal-specific sterol ergosterol, and the overlying cell wall composed of chitin, glucans, and mannoproteins (Garcia-Rubio et al., 2020, Journal of Fungi). It serves as the site for critical enzymatic activities, most notably the synthesis of 1,3-beta-glucan by membrane-bound synthase complexes (Latgé, 2007, Molecular Microbiology). Because the structural components of the fungal cell wall and the specific composition of the membrane differ significantly from human cells, this interface is a primary target for antifungal chemotherapy (Odds et al., 2003, Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy). Polyene antibiotics like Amphotericin B act here by binding to ergosterol and forming lethal pores, while echinocandins inhibit the synthesis of wall components at the membrane level (Perfect, 2017, Nature Reviews Drug Discovery). Disruption of this interface leads to loss of osmotic control, cell wall weakening, and eventual fungal cell death.

Other names

Fungal cell envelopeFungal cell surfaceCell wall-plasma membrane complex

Inhibition of 1,3-beta-glucan synthesis, disruption of membrane integrity via ergosterol binding, and inhibition of ergosterol biosynthesis (Odds et al., 2003, Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy; Perfect, 2017, Nature Reviews Drug Discovery).