Biosynthesis of ergosterol

Ergoterol is a sterol found in fungi and yeast cell membranes that serves the same function as cholesterol in animal cells. It is synthesized from lanosterol through several steps. The synthesis of ergosterol is a target for antifungal drugs, as it is important for membrane function. Amphotericin B binds to ergosterol in the membrane to create pores, while azole drugs inhibit the enzyme lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase to block synthesis. Disruption of ergosterol synthesis is an effective way to kill fungi and some protozoa.