New Delhi, Dec 30 (NationPress) A recent study spearheaded by Indian scientists reveals that the drug-resistant fungal species Candida auris is becoming increasingly lethal and is also spreading across the globe.

Candida auris is a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen known for its unique capacity to thrive and persist on human skin.

The research conducted by scientists from the Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute at the University of Delhi, in partnership with teams from the National Institutes of Health in the United States, indicates that invasive fungal infections are on the rise worldwide, growing in their virulence and currently affecting approximately 6.5 million individuals annually.

These infections are often linked to alarmingly high mortality rates, frequently surpassing 50 percent, even when antifungal treatments are administered.

According to the researchers, C. auris has developed cunning cellular strategies for survival, including morphogenesis that enables it to transition from yeast growth to filament-driven spread, as well as forming multicellular aggregates and altering its genetic expression based on environmental changes.

The fungus is particularly adept at colonizing human skin, with molecular evidence suggesting that its cell wall proteins act like a glue, adhering to both mammalian cells and non-living surfaces.

The long-term colonization of patients by C. auris poses a serious medical challenge, as these individuals can facilitate both inter- and intra-hospital transmission of the fungus.

Moreover, patients colonized by C. auris face an increased risk of developing more severe systemic infections, as noted by the research team.

While the host immune system attempts to combat C. auris, current science suggests that the pathogen can develop proactive mechanisms to evade immune responses.

Diagnostic challenges persist, as most traditional laboratory tests often misidentify C. auris as other related yeasts, which complicates and delays appropriate treatment.

However, there is a rising awareness of the burden posed by this relatively new threat, prompting a surge in research to meet clinical needs.

The researchers emphasize, "Collectively, these findings highlight the urgent need to create new antifungal agents with broad-spectrum efficacy against human fungal pathogens, improve diagnostic tests, and explore immune- and vaccine-based adjunct therapies for high-risk patients."

Additionally, the study advocates for heightened awareness regarding fungal diseases, particularly by developing better surveillance systems in resource-limited regions.