Applications of lupeol to manage fungal infections: a promising multi-target molecule

Lupeol, a pentacyclic triterpene found in various plant species, has gained prominence due to its antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antifungal properties, along with its low toxicity. In view of the increasing resistance to antifungal agents and the limited therapeutic arsenal available, research on natural bioactive compounds with antimicrobial potential, such as lupeol, has intensified. This review compiles and critically discusses evidence identified through a literature search performed in SciELO, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and additional relevant sources for studies published from 2003 to 2025, using combined descriptors related to lupeol, antifungal activity, fungal infections, Candida, Cryptococcus, Aspergillus, dermatophytes, biofilm, virulence factors, mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, nanoformulations, nanotechnology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics, and in silico approaches. The pharmacokinetic properties of lupeol and the nanotechnological strategies aimed at enhancing its biopharmaceutical potential are also discussed. In addition, in silico approaches that have contributed to understanding the molecular interactions of lupeol with fungal targets are presented, as well as the development of new derivatives. In summary, this article identifies lupeol as a promising multifunctional molecule for antifungal therapy in the face of increasing microbial resistance and the demand for more effective and less harmful antifungal agents.