Antifungal activity of statins

作者：Lefebvre M^*; Alshawa K; Dupont B

来源：Journal de Mycologie Medicale, 2010, 20(3): 212-217.

DOI：10.1016/j.mycmed.2010.05.007

• Statins
• Aspergillus
• Candida
• Zygomycete
• Antifungal

Statins are the most prescribed of all current drugs. They are currently used for hyperlipidaemia control and cardiovascular protection. Moreover, there is emerging evidence for the potential use of statins in reducing the risk of infections and infection severity. The hypothesis that widespread use of statins in patients with diabetes could explain the reduction of zygomycoses in this category of patients has even been recently proposed. Statins lower cholesterol levels through their action on 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase, an essential enzyme for the biosynthesis of cholesterol. Fungal HMG-CoA reductase is also inhibited by statins, resulting in reduced levels of ergosterol and concomitant growth inhibition. Further effects of statins could also explain their antifungal activity. Statins exhibit in vitro antifungal activity against a range of yeasts and molds, especially Candida spp., Aspergillus spp., and zygomycetes, but side effects and interaction of statins with immunosuppressant drugs and azoles could alter the benefits of their use. Moreover, in vivo evidence of antifungal activity is scarce. Conclusions regarding the relevance of the use of statins as antifungal agents should therefore wait for the achievement of studies in humans.

• 出版日期2010-9