RESUMEN

In recent years, considerable advances have been made in clearing up the phylogenetic relationships within the Arthrodermataceae family. However, certain closely related taxa still contain poorly resolved species boundaries. Here, we tried to elucidate the species composition of the Trichophyton benhamiae species complex using a combined approach consisting of multi-gene phylogenetic analysis based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and beta-tubulin (BT) gene regions, morphological analysis, and spectral comparison using MALDI-ToF. We confirmed the existence of 11 different monophyletic clades within the complex representing either species or genetically distinct groups within species. MALDI-ToF spectrometry analysis revealed that most of these clades were readily distinguishable from one another; however, some closely related sister clades, such as T. europaeum and T. japonicum, were often misidentified as their counterpart. The distinct "yellow" and "white" phenotypes of T. benhamiae do not have a clear genetic basis and should thus be considered as different morphotypes of the same species. Strains traditionally considered T. benhamiae can be divided into three main clades: (i) T. benhamiae, (ii) T. europaeum/T. japonicum, and (iii) the phylogenetically distant T. africanum. While T. europaeum and T. japonicum are distinguishable based on their genotype, spectral and morphological analysis did not provide clear delimiting characteristics.

RESUMEN

Nail is a strong and resistant structure, characterized by a low permeability to foreign molecules. Nails can be subjected to many diseases, among which fungal infections (e.g. onchomycosis) are the most common and responsible for nail structure alteration. Many formulations have been produced for the delivery of active ingredients to treat nail disorders, based on newly synthesized active molecules or containing chemical enhancers or chemically-modified polymers able to improve the drug transungual penetration. To avoid permanent alterations of the nail structure due to the use of chemical compounds or organic solvent-based formulation, researchers have developed novel formulations focusing on the use of new natural-based compounds. The purpose of this review is to provide information on the outcoming of natural ingredients-based formulations that have been developed in the last years as potential alternative to chemical-based formulations.

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RESUMEN

INTRODUCTION: Onchomycosis is the most common nail fungal disease afflicting toes and fingers with a high recurrence rate. The disease is caused by various types of fungi ranging from dermatophyte to non-dermatophyte, making it difficult to eradicate. AREAS COVERED: The present article focuses on the emergence of nail lacquers as prospective transungual delivery systems for the treatment of mild-to-moderate onchomycosis. Updates regarding emerging nail lacquers, research progress in terms of clinical studies and patents for better understanding of the disease are provided. Finally, the characterization techniques for the assessment of drug concentration in different layers of nail are reviewed. EXPERT OPINION: The conventional topical delivery systems have failed to improve nail adhesion and drug absorption due to the highly keratinized hydrophilic structure of nail which obstructs the passage of drugs. The surgical therapy systems are painful and invasive while systemic therapy produces serious side effects and a high degree of relapse. These issues have led to the advent of nail lacquers. Nail lacquers have an immense potential to improve nail adhesion as well as bioavailability. However, the nail barrier is still a challenge in imparting complete cure. Several novel approaches are being developed in order to offer better therapeutic action.

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RESUMEN

Fungal infections of skin are one of the most common infections in human beings. The areas which are likely to get infected include the scalp, the hands and the feet. Dermatophytes, yeasts and moulds are the three major fungi responsible for skin infections. Earlier oral antifungal agents were used for treatment of fungal infection in finger and toe nails. The disadvantages of oral antifungal agents are toxicity and longer treatment period. Now medicated nail lacquers have been developed for the treatment of fungal infections i.e. onychomycosis, which has less toxicity and shorter treatment period.