Improving antifungal lipid-based drug delivery against Candida: a review

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Fungal infections, particularly those caused by <i>Candida</i> spp. have increased in recent years. A primary contributor to this surge was the COVID-19 pandemic, where many hospitalized patients had secondary fungal infections. Additionally, the emergence of resistant and multi-resistant fungal strains has become increasingly problematic due to the limited therapeutic options available in antifungal treatments. AREAS COVERED: This review presents a comprehensive analysis of recent studies focused on the development and characterization of lipid-based nanosystems as an emerging and promising therapeutic alternative. These systems have been evaluated for their potential to deliver antifungal agents specifically targeting resistant <i>Candida</i> spp. strains, offering a controlled and sustained release of drugs. EXPERT OPINION: Lipid-based nanomaterials are promising tools for the controlled and sustained release of drugs, particularly in treating <i>Candida</i> spp. infections. Although substantial research has been dedicated to development of these nanomaterials, only a few have reached clinical application, such as liposomal amphotericin B, for example. Therefore, it is critical to push forward with advancements to bring these nanomedicines into clinical practice, where they can contribute meaningfully to mitigating the challenge of resistant and lethal fungal strains.