Advances in Understanding Candida Species: Mechanisms of Antifungal Resistance and Emerging Therapies

Background. The rising incidence of fungal infections and the growing threat of antifungal resistance have heightened the clinical importance of medical mycology. Candida species, particularly Candida albicans, are major contributors to fungal diseases, including vulvovaginal and oral candidiasis. Methods. This mini review critically analyzed the current literature on Candida infection, primarily Candida albicans, growing antifungal resistance, and therapeutic limitations. Furthermore, this review also explored the emerging therapeutic strategies, including novel antifungal agents and nanotechnology-based strategies to overcome biofilm-related resistance. Results. Recent studies highlight a rising prevalence of non-albicans Candida species (NAC), many of which exhibit increased antifungal resistance and a tendency for persistent infections. Nevertheless, Candida albicans remains a major pathogenic species, capable of evading the host immune response through robust biofilm formation and other virulence factors. Conclusion. Infections caused by Candida species pose a significant healthcare challenge due to their rising incidence and increasing resistance to conventional antifungals. The complexity of the infection(s) is due to C.albicans accompanied by non-albicans species. This review emphasized on urgent need of emerging therapeutic strategies for biofilm-associated resistance.