Jerveratrum-Type Steroidal Alkaloids Inhibit β-1,6-Glucan Biosynthesis in Fungal Cell Walls
Karen Kubo, Kaori Itto‐Nakama, Shinsuke Ohnuki, Yoko Yashiroda, Sheena C. Li, Hiromi Kimura, Yumi Kawamura, Yasuhiro Shimamoto, Ken‐ichi Tominaga, Daisuke Yamanaka, Yoshiyuki Adachi, Shinichiro Takashima, Yoichi Noda, Charles Boone, Yoshikazu Ohya
Abstract
species (NCAC) are on the rise as a cause of mycosis. Many antifungal drugs are less effective against NCAC, limiting the available therapeutic agents. Here, we report that jervine, a jerveratrum-type steroidal alkaloid, is effective against NCAC and phytopathogenic fungi. Jervine acts on Kre6 and Skn1, which are involved in β-1,6-glucan biosynthesis. The skeleton of jerveratrum-type steroidal alkaloids has been well studied, and more recently, their anticancer properties have been investigated. Therefore, jerveratrum-type alkaloids could potentially be applied as treatments for fungal infections and cancer.