Naamidine A reveals a promising zinc-binding strategy for topical antifungal therapy.

Fungal disease affects over a billion people worldwide. Naamidine A inhibits the growth of diverse fungal pathogens through an unknown mechanism. Here, we show that the supplementation of medium with excess zinc abolishes the antifungal activity of naamidine A. Furthermore, we highlight that naamidine A has in vitro activity against terbinafine-resistant Trichophyton spp . and in vivo efficacy in a mouse model of dermatomycosis caused by T. mentagrophytes, highlighting its therapeutic potential as a topical treatment.
Competing Interests: L.E.C. and L.W. are co-founders and shareholders in Bright Angel Therapeutics, a platform company for the development of novel antifungal therapeutics. L.E.C. is a Science Advisor for Kapoose Creek, a company that harnesses the therapeutic potential of fungi.