Chemistry and Pharmacology of Luliconazole (Imidazole Derivative): A Novel Bioactive Compound to Treat Fungal Infection-A Mini Review

Background: Currently, ringworm treatment drugs include two major categories: first, propylene amine drugs, such as terbinafine, butenafine and naftifine, which exert their bactericidal effects through inhibiting squalene cyclase, causing the lack of ergosterol and accumulation of squalene. The second category of imidazole drugs includes miconazole, econazole, clotrimazole, ketoconazole and bifonazole. Mechanism: These synthetic antifungal agents exhibits their action by inhibiting the lanosterol 14α- demethylation activity of fungal cell, leading to the prevention of the ergosterol synthesis of cell membrane, changing the cell membrane permeability, and resulting in the loss of important intracellular fungal material and causing fungal death. Applications: At present, Imidazole antifungal agents are commonly used drugs in clinical treatment of ringworm with extensive clinical applications. Conclusion: The present review covers the chemistry and detailed pharmacology aspects of luliconazole.