Overview on fungal and protozoan carbonic anhydrases.

An overview of carbonic anhydrases (CAs) in fungi and protozoa is provided, emphasizing their evolutionary significance, functional diversity, and implications for human health. CAs are metalloenzymes that catalyze the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide, playing crucial roles in cellular homeostasis, pH regulation, and metabolic adaptation. In fungi, α- and β-class CAs are predominant, facilitating growth and virulence, particularly in pathogenic species such as Candida spp., Cryptococcus neoformans and many others. Protozoa exhibit a broader range of CA classes, including the recently identified η-class in Plasmodium falciparum, which is vital for the survival of the parasite and presents a significant potential as a drug target. The evolutionary trajectories of CAs reflect adaptations to diverse ecological niches, with gene duplication leading to functional diversification. Understanding the biochemical properties and regulatory mechanisms of CAs in these organisms can lead to innovative therapeutic strategies against fungal and protozoan infections, highlighting their potential as drug and diagnostic targets.