Fungi membrane disruption

Biological membranes are indispensable to the proper functioning of all cells, including bacteria and fungi. Hence, any agent that disrupts the membrane or otherwise interferes with its integrity or function is a potential threat to the life of the cell. 

In fungi, ergosterol, synthesised from acetyl-CoA, is the major sterol (Figure 4.2 Mercer2) and has an essential role in the maintenance of membrane function such that a reduction in its availability disrupts membrane integrity. 

It is not surprising that the membranes of prokaryotic cells such as bacteria and fungi have characteristics differing considerably from eukaryotic cells. Compounds that will disrupt the functions of these membranes, but not similarly affect mammalian cells, may be useful as selectively toxic antimicrobials. In fact, there now exist a number of important antifungal and antibacterial drugs that do just that—they disrupt the membranes of these pathogens. 

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