Researchers identify survival mechanism in deadly Candida auris fungus

A new study published in Nature Communications has identified a mechanism that allows the potentially deadly fungus Candida auris to survive antifungal treatments. Researchers from the University of Exeter and City St George’s, University of London, discovered that the fungus can create multiple copies of its entire genome, increasing the likelihood of developing mutations that evade drugs.

First identified in 2009, Candida auris has caused outbreaks in more than 60 countries and is classified as a critical-priority pathogen by the World Health Organization. It poses a significant threat to hospital patients, particularly in intensive care units, as it can persist on skin and medical equipment. If the infection enters a patient's bloodstream, the death rate is estimated at 45 per cent.

Additional research reviewed in the journal mSphere suggests that climate change may play a role in the fungus's ability to infect humans. While not proven, researchers hypothesize that rising global temperatures may allow fungi to adapt to higher temperatures, enabling them to colonize the human body. Other factors under investigation include the use of fungicides in agriculture.