Malassezia (genus)

Malassezia is a genus of lipid-dependent yeasts naturally present in the skin microbiome of humans and animals[1][3][7]. While generally harmless, Malassezia species can become pathogenic under certain conditions, contributing to common skin disorders such as pityriasis versicolor, seborrheic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, folliculitis, and dandruff[2][4][7]. They are also known for occasional systemic infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or those with indwelling catheters[2][6]. Malassezia species require external lipids for growth, possess unique physiological characteristics such as catalase positivity and specific Tween utilization, and are identified by morphological and genetic tests[3][5]. Antifungal treatments include topical and systemic azoles, polyenes, and experimental drugs; however, eradicating these commensals is not typically the therapeutic goal—rather, the aim is to control their overgrowth to manage disease symptoms[2][4][7]. Note: Malassezia, as entered, is *not* a molecular or receptor target but a genus of yeast; thus, it is not classified as a conventional "drug target"—its role in disease is complex, involving the whole organism rather than a single molecular entity[1][2][4][7].

Other names

Pityrosporum (historically)Malassezia spp. (referring to multiple species)

Fungal cell membrane disruption or synthesis inhibition (via ergosterol pathway interference: azoles, amphotericin B) Cell wall synthesis inhibition (terbinafine)