Novel Disk diffusion Assay for Filamentous Fungi Susceptibility to antifungals (DAFFS)

Abstract

Filamentous fungi are recognized as significant human pathogens, particularly in immunocompromised populations. The rise in antifungal resistance and geographical expansion due to environmental changes, including climate change, further complicates treatment efforts. Existing antifungal susceptibility testing methods often face challenges when applied to filamentous fungi. Variability in results, extended incubation times, and difficulties in standardization can compromise broth dilution and disk diffusion assays. Here, we present an improved method, the Disk diffusion Assay for Filamentous Fungi Susceptibility to antifungals (DAFFS), designed to overcome current challenges in antifungal susceptibility testing for filamentous fungi. DAFFS integrates optimized elements from standard methods for more efficient screening of filamentous fungi for susceptibility to established and novel antifungals. This approach offers a streamlined, reliable alternative for assessing fungal drug susceptibility by addressing the limitations of current testing methods.