Crosstalk Between The Antioxidant And Cell Wall Integrity Systems In Fungi By 2-Hydroxy-4-Methoxybenzaldehyde

We would like to comment on a recent study where the redox-modulatory anti-protozoal drug chloroquine has shown to trigger a crosstalk between the antioxidant and cell wall integrity systems in the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiae. This note discusses the redox-active potential of the natural compound 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde (2H4M) which could also serve as a potent redox-cycler in fungal (yeast, molds) pathogens. UsingS. cerevisiaeas a molecular tool, we determined how 2H4M negatively affected both the antioxidant and cell wall integrity systems of fungi, thus indicating a similar crosstalk between the two systems under 2H4M-induced toxicity. The crosstalk functions as a fungal defense against redox-active drugs/compounds or environmental cues, and therefore, could be an effective target for antifungal treatment.