Innovations in Treating Sporotrichosis: Drug Repurposing and Lead Compound Synthesis

Abstract: Sporotrichosis, recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a neglected tropical disease and classified among significant fungal health concerns, remains both underestimated and underreported. There is a profound impact of sporotrichosis on public health, affecting both humans and domestic animals. The causative agents are fungi within the Sporothrix genus, primarily transmitted through traumatic exposure to contaminated soil, plants, decomposing materials, or through scratches from infected animals, notably cats. While sporotrichosis is a global concern, its prevalence is particularly noteworthy in tropical and subtropical regions. The limited treatment options for sporotrichosis, with itraconazole as the preferred choice, underscore the challenges posed by fungal infections. Issues such as toxicity and drug resistance further complicate effective management. Consequently, this review aims to elucidate key objectives: identification of novel synthetic compounds revealed in the literature, highlighting ongoing efforts to develop new treatments against sporotrichosis, examining promising anti-sporothrix natural products, and providing an overview of endeavors to repurpose approved drugs. The key findings from the study underscore the urgent need for diversified and effective drugs for the treatment of Sporotrichosis.