Explain why antifungal therapy is hampered by the similarity between fungal and animal cells Flashcards
What is a major reason antifungal therapy is challenging?
The similarity between fungal and animal cells.
True or False: Fungal cells have a significantly different cellular structure compared to animal cells.
False.
Fill in the blank: Antifungal drugs target specific components of fungal cells, but these components are often similar to those found in _____ cells.
animal.
What structural component of fungal cells is often targeted by antifungal therapies?
The cell wall.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a common target for antifungal agents?
Ergosterol.
What is ergosterol?
A sterol found in fungal cell membranes, similar to cholesterol in animal cells.
True or False: Because of the similarity between fungal and animal cells, antifungal therapies can be developed without side effects.
False.
Name one class of antifungal drugs that targets the cell membrane.
Polyenes.
How does the similarity in cellular processes between fungi and animals affect the development of antifungal drugs?
It complicates the identification of selective targets for therapy.
What is one potential consequence of using antifungal therapy on humans?
Toxicity due to the effects on human cells.
