Ergosterol

Definition

Ergosterol is a sterol component found in fungal cell membranes, similar to cholesterol in animal cells. It is targeted by certain antifungal drugs due to its crucial role in maintaining cell membrane integrity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ergosterol is essential for the structure and function of fungal cell membranes.
2. Many antifungal drugs, such as amphotericin B and azoles, target ergosterol or its biosynthesis.
3. Disruption of ergosterol can lead to increased membrane permeability and ultimately cell death.
4. Ergosterol is not found in animal cells, making it a selective target for antifungal therapy.
5. The synthesis of ergosterol involves multiple enzymatic steps that can be inhibited by specific drugs.

Review Questions

• What role does ergosterol play in fungal cells?
• Why is ergosterol a target for many antifungal drugs?
• How do azole antifungals affect ergosterol?

Related terms

Cholesterol:

A sterol found in animal cell membranes that helps maintain membrane fluidity.

Amphotericin B:

An antifungal drug that binds to ergosterol, creating pores in the fungal cell membrane.

Azoles:

A class of antifungal drugs that inhibit the synthesis of ergosterol by targeting specific enzymes.