What is the mechanism of action of caspofungin?

Caspofungin acts by inhibiting fungal cell wall synthesis. This drug belongs to the class of antifungal agents known as echinocandins, which specifically target the synthesis of β-glucan, an essential component of the fungal cell wall. By interfering with the production of β-glucan, caspofungin reduces the structural integrity of the cell wall, leading to cell lysis and ultimately the death of the fungal cell.

This mechanism is particularly effective against certain species of fungi, such as Candida and Aspergillus, which rely heavily on their cell walls to maintain shape and resist osmotic pressure. The selective targeting of the cell wall also provides a degree of safety, as human cells do not possess a comparable structure, thus minimizing potential toxicity to the host.

The other choices refer to different modes of action that are characteristic of other antifungal agents. For instance, disrupting the integrity of the fungal cell membrane is more typical of drugs like amphotericin B or azoles, which target ergosterol, a key component of fungal membranes. Interference with fungal DNA synthesis is generally associated with antifungal agents like flucytosine, while inhibiting fungal protein synthesis is seen with agents that target the ribosomal