Drug Repurposing in Mycology: Finasteride and NSAIDs Efficacy as Potential Antifungals Against Yeast Strains Isolated From the International Space Station
Abstract
The rise of antimicrobial resistance has exacerbated the threat of fungal infections, especially among immunocompromised individuals. Yeasts, typically harmless commensals, can turn into formidable pathogens under stress conditions similar to those found in space, such as variable temperatures, altered oxygen levels, and microgravity. This scenario is particularly concerning for astronauts, making otherwise non-threatening yeast strains into significant health risks. Traditional antifungals, including azoles and polyenes, often fail to combat these infections effectively, highlighting the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies. Repurposing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) emerges as a swift, cost-effective, and safe approach to address this challenge. This study explores the antifungal potential of Finasteride, Flufenamic acid, and Tolfenamic acid against four yeast strains isolated from the International Space Station: Candida parapsilosis, Candida albicans, Cryptosporidium laurentii, and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. Our goal is to identify effective treatments for potential fungal infections by leveraging existing medications in novel ways.
Drug Repurposing in Mycology: Finasteride and NSAIDs Efficacy as Potential Antifungals Against Yeast Strains Isolated From the International Space Station
The rise of antimicrobial resistance has exacerbated the threat of fungal infections, especially among immunocompromised individuals. Yeasts, typically harmless commensals, can turn into formidable pathogens under stress conditions similar to those found in space, such as variable temperatures, altered oxygen levels, and microgravity. This scenario is particularly concerning for astronauts, making otherwise non-threatening yeast strains into significant health risks. Traditional antifungals, including azoles and polyenes, often fail to combat these infections effectively, highlighting the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies. Repurposing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) emerges as a swift, cost-effective, and safe approach to address this challenge. This study explores the antifungal potential of Finasteride, Flufenamic acid, and Tolfenamic acid against four yeast strains isolated from the International Space Station: Candida parapsilosis, Candida albicans, Cryptosporidium laurentii, and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. Our goal is to identify effective treatments for potential fungal infections by leveraging existing medications in novel ways.