The potential of bacteriocins in invasive fungal infections: Antifungal activities and intestinal protection.

Invasive fungal infections are life-threatening complications in immunocompromised and critically ill patients. Invasive candidiasis may arise from endogenous fungal reservoirs, particularly under conditions of intestinal barrier disruption. Although conventional antifungal agents remain the therapeutic foundation, their clinical use is increasingly challenged by the emergence of resistant fungal pathogens, such as Candida auris. Bacteriocins are ribosomally synthesized antimicrobial peptides produced by microorganisms. Beyond their well-established applications in the food industry, bacteriocins have attracted increasing attention in recent years for their antifungal properties. In this review, we provide an overview of bacteriocins with reported antifungal activity and summarize their underlying mechanisms. In addition, we discuss the potential protective effects of bacteriocins on the microbial, mechanical, chemical, and immune barriers of the intestine. Finally, we evaluate the potential clinical applications of these bacteriocins, along with future challenges and research directions related to invasive fungal infections.