Journal of Fungi

8 pages, 1355 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Localized Versus Diffuse Corneal Invasion in Fungal Keratitis: Histological Insights from Candida albicans and Fusarium falciforme

by Johanna Theuersbacher, Lukas Haug, Alexander Maximilian Aldejohann, Grit Walther, Oliver Kurzai, Daniel Kampik and Jost Hillenkamp

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090688 - 22 Sep 2025

Viewed by 451

Abstract

Fungal keratitis is a severe infection that often requires surgical intervention and is associated with poor outcomes. Penetrating keratoplasty allows for the complete removal of the fungal infiltrate and thus can be a turning point in therapy. The depth of pathogen invasion, which [...] Read more.

Fungal keratitis is a severe infection that often requires surgical intervention and is associated with poor outcomes. Penetrating keratoplasty allows for the complete removal of the fungal infiltrate and thus can be a turning point in therapy. The depth of pathogen invasion, which cannot always be reliably assessed by slit lamp examination, can be accurately determined through histological analysis of the corneal trephinate. In this study, we histologically analyzed two corneal trephinates obtained during an emergency keratoplasty performed for uncontrollable mycotic infections. In case 1, caused by Candida albicans, the infiltrate remained localized at the site of pathogen entry. In contrast, in case 2, Fusarium falciforme demonstrated extensive tissue invasion, spreading destructively throughout the cornea. This invasion pattern suggests that Fusarium keratitis is difficult to control due to its aggressive spreading behavior within the tissue. This explains the high rate of penetrating keratoplasty required in such cases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into the Current Understanding of Host–Fungal Interactions, 2nd Edition)

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32 pages, 6606 KB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity of Culturable Fungi in Two-Phase Olive Mill Waste, a Preliminary Evaluation of Their Enzymatic Potential, and Two New Trichoderma Species

by Vassiliki Fryssouli, Io Kefalogianni, Elias Polemis, Milton A. Typas and Georgios I. Zervakis

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 687; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090687 - 22 Sep 2025

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Abstract

This study investigates the diversity and provides a preliminary evaluation of the enzymatic potential of culturable fungi present in two-phase olive mill waste (TPOMW), a lignocellulose- and phenolic-rich agro-industrial by-product generated in large quantities in olive oil-producing countries. Ninety-four isolates, representing 31 species [...] Read more.

This study investigates the diversity and provides a preliminary evaluation of the enzymatic potential of culturable fungi present in two-phase olive mill waste (TPOMW), a lignocellulose- and phenolic-rich agro-industrial by-product generated in large quantities in olive oil-producing countries. Ninety-four isolates, representing 31 species of the phyla Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Mucoromycota, were obtained and identified by using ITS, 28S, tef1-α, tub2, rpb2, act, and/or cal sequences. Among the identified taxa, two new Trichoderma species within the Harzianum clade, namely Trichoderma amurcicola (phylogenetically related to T. simile and T. guizhouense) and Trichoderma olivarum (phylogenetically related to T. simmonsii), were described following a multilocus phylogenetic analysis combined with a study of their morphoanatomical features. A rather high phylogenetic divergence was detected in Candida boidinii, Pleurostoma richardsiae, and Mucor circinelloides, while Cladosporium limoniforme, Mucor pseudolusitanicus, Stagonosporopsis ailanthicola, and Talaromyces nanjingensis were recorded for the first time in TPOMW. A preliminary screening revealed 29 species with cellulolytic and/or xylanolytic activities; 26 species displayed dye decolorization capacity, while ligninolytic and laccase activities were restricted to a few taxa. The most promising degraders of lignocellulosics included strains of Cladosporium limoniforme, C. ramotenellum, Fuscoporia ferrea, Peniophora lycii, and Pseudophlebia setulosa. Fungi detected in TPOMW are promising biotechnological tools to be exploited in the frame of circular economy applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Evolution, Biodiversity and Systematics)

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24 pages, 6908 KB

Open AccessArticle

Botryosphaeriaceae Species Causing Stem Blight and Dieback of Blueberries in Serbia

by Miloš Marić, Mira Vojvodić, Darko Jevremović, Bojana Vasilijević, Tanja Vasić, Miljan Grkinić and Aleksandra Bulajić

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 686; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090686 - 22 Sep 2025

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Abstract

In the main growing areas in Serbia, plants with symptoms of stem blight were sampled in nine orchards with American highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), cultivar ‘Duke’, with high disease incidence, and 153 samples were taken. A total of 128 Botryosphaeriaceae isolates [...] Read more.

In the main growing areas in Serbia, plants with symptoms of stem blight were sampled in nine orchards with American highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), cultivar ‘Duke’, with high disease incidence, and 153 samples were taken. A total of 128 Botryosphaeriaceae isolates were characterized on the basis of morphology, sequence analysis, multilocus phylogeny based on ITS, TEF1-α and TUB2 sequences and pathogenicity, and belonged to one of the four species Neofusicoccum parvum, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Diplodia seriata and Lasiodiplodia iraniensis. Both D. seriata and L. iraniensis were detected for the first time on blueberries in Serbia, and L. iraniensis was detected for the first time on blueberries worldwide. Comparative morphological and TEF1-α sequence analyses allowed a clear separation of L. iraniensis from the phylogenetically closely related L. fujianensis, L. thailandica and L. endophytica. Of the nine blueberry cultivars ‘Aurora’, ‘Barbara Ann’, ‘Bluecrop’, ‘Bluejay’, ‘Draper’, ‘Duke’, ‘Huron’, ‘Patriot’ and ‘Spartan’ inoculated with L. iraniensis (isolate 421-19), the cultivar ‘Duke’ was the most susceptible. In our study, the majority of orchards were in their second or third year of production, implying that the planting material is likely to be the source of infection, emphasizing the importance of pathogen-free planting material. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungi in Agriculture and Biotechnology)

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23 pages, 2338 KB

Open AccessArticle

Candida intermedia Supplementation Enhances Immune Response and Modulates the Gut Microbiome in SARS-CoV-2 Vaccinated Mice

by Renan E. A. Piraine, Neida L. Conrad, Vitória S. Gonçalves, Jeferson V. Ramos, Júlia L. Froldi, Fausto Almeida and Fábio P. L. Leite

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 685; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090685 - 20 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Non-Saccharomyces yeasts are emerging as promising new probiotics with a beneficial effect equal to or greater than the reference probiotic yeast, Saccharomyces boulardii. Candida intermedia, a non-albicans species not considered a common human pathogen, previously demonstrated probiotic potential. In [...] Read more.

Non-Saccharomyces yeasts are emerging as promising new probiotics with a beneficial effect equal to or greater than the reference probiotic yeast, Saccharomyces boulardii. Candida intermedia, a non-albicans species not considered a common human pathogen, previously demonstrated probiotic potential. In this work, our objective was to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of C. intermedia ORQ001 in mice vaccinated with inactivated SARS-CoV-2, seeking further evidence of its probiotic activity. Murine macrophages were stimulated with C. intermedia, followed by mRNA transcription analysis via qPCR. Mice were supplemented with C. intermedia prior to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Antibody production was assessed by ELISA, and fecal microbiomes were analyzed using next-generation sequencing. C. intermedia significantly increased Il4 and Il13 expression while decreasing Stat3 in macrophages. Splenocytes from supplemented mice exhibited elevated transcription levels of Tnf, Ifng, Il4, Bcl6, and Stat3 after exposure to stimulatory molecules. These mice showed increased levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and sIgA isotypes, along with higher abundances of Bacteroides spp. and Clostridium spp. in their gut microbiome. In conclusion, C. intermedia supplementation modulated the expression of key immune-related genes and enhanced humoral responses in mice. Furthermore, its influence on gastrointestinal microbiota suggests a synergistic effect on vaccine immunogenicity. These findings support the potential of C. intermedia as a novel probiotic candidate with immunomodulatory properties applicable to vaccine adjuvanticity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Cell Biology)

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16 pages, 1660 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanism of Enzyme Activity Regulation and Strain-Specific Response of Lentinula edodes Cultivation Adaptability Under Peach Wood Substrate

by Ning Jiang, Hao-Ran Dong, Long Tian, Tai-Zeng Xin, Shou-Xian Wang, Yu Li, Mei-Na He and Hai-Long Yu

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 684; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090684 - 20 Sep 2025

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Abstract

The resource utilization of peach wood as agricultural waste holds significant importance for the sustainable development of the edible fungi industry, yet its regulatory effects on the physiology and safety of Lentinula edodes (L. edodes) remain unclear. This study selected four [...] Read more.

The resource utilization of peach wood as agricultural waste holds significant importance for the sustainable development of the edible fungi industry, yet its regulatory effects on the physiology and safety of Lentinula edodes (L. edodes) remain unclear. This study selected four L. edodes (F2, 0912, N5, and 215) and systematically analyzed their cultivation adaptability across five peach wood substrate proportions (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%). Results indicated that while high peach wood proportions inhibited laccase activity and delayed mycelial growth, high carboxymethyl cellulase and xylanase activity formed a critical compensatory effect, ultimately enhancing total yield. Peach wood improved production through strain-specific mechanisms. F2 increased via single mushroom weight gain, while N5 relied on xylanase-driven primordia differentiation to boost mushroom numbers. Adding peach wood significantly increased crude protein, crude lipid, and total polysaccharide in F2, maintaining normal agronomic traits and increasing secondary mushroom proportion. Safety risks focused on arsenic accumulation, with 80% peach wood causing F2 to exceed control levels, albeit remaining far below the national standards. This study is among the first to elucidate peach wood’s temporal enzyme regulation for the maintenance of L. edodes yield. Future optimization through peach wood pretreatment and low arsenic strain selection could provide technical support for the high value utilization of agricultural waste. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungi in Sustainable Applications and the Circular Economy: A Themed Issue Dedicated to Academician Yu Li)

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21 pages, 3902 KB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Trichoderma spp., Their Biomanagement Against Fusarium proliferatum, and Growth Promotion of Zea mays

by Eman G. A. M. El-Dawy, Youssuf A. Gherbawy, Pet Ioan and Mohamed A. Hussein

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 683; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090683 - 19 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Species of Trichoderma are currently in high demand as eco-friendly and commercial biocontrol agents due to the proliferation of organic farming methods. This study focused on the potential biocontrol agents of Trichoderma against plant-pathogenic fungi. Trichoderma strains were isolated from different sources (soil, [...] Read more.

Species of Trichoderma are currently in high demand as eco-friendly and commercial biocontrol agents due to the proliferation of organic farming methods. This study focused on the potential biocontrol agents of Trichoderma against plant-pathogenic fungi. Trichoderma strains were isolated from different sources (soil, grapevine tissues, lemon fruit, and maize seeds), and were characterized morphologically on two culture media, i.e., Potato Dextrose Agar and Malt Extract Agar, and molecularly using two gene regions: translation elongation factor 1 (TEF) and nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS). Phylogenetic trees were constructed. As a result, two Trichoderma species were identified, i.e., T. afroharzianum and T. longibrachiatum. The biocontrol effects of all isolated strains of Trichoderma on Fusarium plant damping-off and the promotion of plant growth were evaluated. Additionally, the antagonistic efficiency of Trichoderma spp. against F. proliferatum using the dual-culture method was evaluated. Under greenhouse conditions, T. afroharzianum strains AEMCTa3 and AEMCTa6 were used to treat maize plants infected with Fusarium. The application of Trichoderma significantly reduced the disease index to 15.6% and 0%, respectively. Additionally, maize seedlings showed significant improvements in shoot and root lengths and fresh and dry weights and increased photosynthetic pigment contents compared to Fusarium-infected plants and the untreated control. The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of T. afroharzianum extracts identified a variety of bioactive compounds. These compounds included antifungal substances like N-ethyl-1,3-dithioisoindoline, as well as plant growth-promoting hormones like 6-pentyl-α-pyrone and gibberellic acid. Interestingly, the analysis also revealed new phenylacetic acid derivatives that may play important roles in both plant health and disease resistance. From a practical perspective, developing diverse application methods for Trichoderma is essential to optimize its role as a biocontrol agent and a plant growth promoter, thereby supporting sustainable agriculture through improved adaptability and effectiveness across different farming systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungi in Agriculture and Biotechnology)

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19 pages, 9263 KB

Open AccessArticle

Unveiling Species Diversity Within Early-Diverging Fungi from China IX: Four New Species of Mucor (Mucoromycota)

by Zi-Ying Ding, Xin-Yu Ji, Fei Li, Wen-Xiu Liu, Shi Wang, Heng Zhao and Xiao-Yong Liu

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 682; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090682 - 19 Sep 2025

Viewed by 653

Abstract

Mucor species are fast-growing filamentous fungi, widespread in natural ecosystems. As opportunistic pathogens, some species can cause mucormycoses in humans and animals, while others hold significant economic value in food fermentation and bioengineering. In this study, four novel species were identified from soil [...] Read more.

Mucor species are fast-growing filamentous fungi, widespread in natural ecosystems. As opportunistic pathogens, some species can cause mucormycoses in humans and animals, while others hold significant economic value in food fermentation and bioengineering. In this study, four novel species were identified from soil samples collected in Xizang Autonomous Region and Yunnan Province, China, and their establishment as new species was supported by morphological characteristics and molecular data (ITS-LSU-RPB1), with phylogenetic analyses conducted using the Maximum Likelihood (ML) and Bayesian Inference (BI) methods. M. globosporus sp. nov. is characterized by producing globose chlamydospores. M. multimorphus sp. nov. is distinguished by swelling in the sporangiophores. M. polymorphus sp. nov. is differentiated by polymorphic chlamydospores. And M. xizangensis sp. nov. reflects its geographical origin in the Xizang Autonomous Region. Comprehensive descriptions of each novel taxon are presented herein. This study constitutes the ninth segment in an ongoing series elucidating early-diverging fungal diversity in China, expanding the understanding of the phylogeny of Mucor fungi and extending the worldwide number of known Mucor species to 137. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Fungal Taxonomy: Novel Approaches to Species Identification and Diversity Assessment)

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12 pages, 1438 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Biocontrol Activity of Debaryomyces hansenii Against Spoilage Molds in Synthetic and Meat-Derived Media

by Francisco J. Ruiz-Castilla, Ana L. Pérez-Fernández, Pablo I. Villamagua-Rojas, Helena Chacón-Navarrete and José Ramos

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 681; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090681 - 19 Sep 2025

Viewed by 591

Abstract

The increasing interest in natural preservatives has driven the search for effective microbial agents capable of controlling spoilage molds in cured meat products. In this study, the efficacy of Debaryomyces hansenii strains as biocontrol agents against spoilage molds in dry-cured meat products was [...] Read more.

The increasing interest in natural preservatives has driven the search for effective microbial agents capable of controlling spoilage molds in cured meat products. In this study, the efficacy of Debaryomyces hansenii strains as biocontrol agents against spoilage molds in dry-cured meat products was evaluated through a dual experimental approach using both synthetic (PDA) and meat-derived media (LBM). While all D. hansenii strains demonstrated strong antifungal activity in nutrient-rich synthetic media, their performance in meat-like conditions was moderate to high, with significant differences depending on the mold species, the yeast strain, and their interaction with the culture medium. Our results highlight that antifungal efficacy is strongly influenced by the growth environment, underscoring the limitations of traditional in vitro assays that depend solely on synthetic media. Incorporating food-mimicking systems early in the screening process proved critical to identify strain–mold–medium combinations with the highest potential. These findings support the potential application of native D. hansenii strains as natural preservatives to enhance the safety and shelf life of dry-cured meats, emphasizing the importance of testing in conditions that closely resemble the target food environment to select the most effective biocontrol solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development and Utilization of Yeast Resources, 2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 2713 KB

Open AccessReview

Phase Separation-Regulated Fungal Growth, Sexual Development, Adaptation and Synthetic Biology Applications

by Xinxin Tong, Daixi Zhang and Zhenhong Zhu

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090680 - 17 Sep 2025

Viewed by 660

Abstract

Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a fundamental biophysical process in which proteins and nucleic acids dynamically demix from the cellular milieu to form membraneless organelles (MLO) with liquid-like properties. Environmental cues, such as light, temperature fluctuations, and pathogen interactions, induce LLPS of fungal [...] Read more.

Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a fundamental biophysical process in which proteins and nucleic acids dynamically demix from the cellular milieu to form membraneless organelles (MLO) with liquid-like properties. Environmental cues, such as light, temperature fluctuations, and pathogen interactions, induce LLPS of fungal proteins with intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) or multimerization domains, thereby regulating fungal hyphal growth, sexual reproduction, pathogenesis, and adaptation. Recently, LLPS has emerged as a powerful tool for biomolecular research, innovative biotechnological application, biosynthesis and metabolic engineering. This review focuses on the current advances in environmental cue-triggered fungal condensates assembled by LLPS, with a focus on their roles in regulating the fungal physical biology and cellular processes including transcription, RNA modification, translation, posttranslational modification process (PTM), transport, and stress response. It further discusses the strategies of engineering synthetic biomolecular condensates in microbial cell factories to enhance production and metabolic efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenic Fungi: Morphogenesis, Pathogenicity and Biosynthesis of Secondary Metabolites—Second Edition)

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16 pages, 6473 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Mitogenome Analysis of Colletotrichum Species Causing Anthracnose of Rubber Trees Unveils Distinct Species Complex-Specific Evolution Trajectories Within the Genus

by Yehao Wu, Fan Zhou, Qingqin Chen, Lijuan He, Yining Zang, Zirui Wang, Chunhua Lin, Weiguo Miao and Zhigang Li

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090679 - 16 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Colletotrichum spp. are the causative agents of anthracnose of rubber trees, one of the most destructive diseases, resulting in substantial economic losses. To investigate the evolutionary characteristics of these pathogenic species, we first assembled the complete mitogenomes of four dominant pathogens, i.e., C. [...] Read more.

Colletotrichum spp. are the causative agents of anthracnose of rubber trees, one of the most destructive diseases, resulting in substantial economic losses. To investigate the evolutionary characteristics of these pathogenic species, we first assembled the complete mitogenomes of four dominant pathogens, i.e., C. siamense, C. fructicola, C. wanningense and C. bannaense. Comparative analyses revealed that variations in their mitogenome size were primarily driven by intron expansion and expansion/contraction within the cox1, cob and nad genes. Moreover, we observed the strong conservation of gene content, mitochondrial DNA copy number, gene order and intron features within species complexes, but a clear divergence between them. Notably, further studies indicated that patterns such as genomic organization, selective pressures and codon usage were consistent across the genus, suggesting that Colletotrichum species complexes had followed distinct evolutionary trajectories, particularly in the arrangement of protein-coding genes. Therefore, this study systematically characterized the mitogenomes of the four major Colletotrichum species associated with rubber tree anthracnose and provided novel insights into the broad evolutionary mechanisms shaping Colletotrichum species complexes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Evolution, Biodiversity and Systematics)

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16 pages, 4320 KB

Open AccessArticle

Properties of Putative APSES Transcription Factor AfpA in Aspergillus fumigatus

by Young-Ho Choi, Min-Woo Lee and Kwang-Soo Shin

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 678; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090678 - 16 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Aspergillus fumigatus is a major opportunistic pathogenic fungus that causes invasive aspergillosis with high mortality rates in immunocompromised patients. APSES family transcription factors regulate fungal development and virulence, but the function of the putative APSES-type transcription factor AfpA (AFUA_5g11390) remains uncharacterized. To investigate [...] Read more.

Aspergillus fumigatus is a major opportunistic pathogenic fungus that causes invasive aspergillosis with high mortality rates in immunocompromised patients. APSES family transcription factors regulate fungal development and virulence, but the function of the putative APSES-type transcription factor AfpA (AFUA_5g11390) remains uncharacterized. To investigate the roles of AfpA in A. fumigatus, we constructed the ΔafpA mutant and performed phenotypic analyses, RT-qPCR analyses, and virulence studies. The ΔafpA mutant exhibited reduced vegetative growth but increased conidiation, with upregulation of asexual developmental regulators brlA, abaA, and wetA. AfpA positively regulated cAMP-PKA signaling, resulting in delayed conidia germination. Furthermore, the mutant responded differently to external stresses and displayed enhanced virulence in neutropenic mice. In conclusion, AfpA functions as a multifaceted regulator balancing growth, development, and pathogenicity in A. fumigatus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Genomics, Genetics and Molecular Biology)

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12 pages, 14706 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ectomycorrhizal Fungi Associated with Pinus cembroides subsp. orizabensis, an Endemic Pine in the Arid Zones of the Oriental Basin, Puebla, Mexico

by Yajaira Baeza-Guzmán, Marian Silvana Vásquez-Jiménez, Elvira Morgado-Viveros, Luz Amelia Sánchez-Landero and Dora Trejo-Aguilar

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090677 - 16 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) associated with the roots of Pinus cembroides subsp. orizabensis, a key pinyon pine species for local forestry in the Oriental Basin, Puebla, Mexico, were identified and analyzed. The study aimed to evaluate the diversity of EMF in this endemic [...] Read more.

Ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) associated with the roots of Pinus cembroides subsp. orizabensis, a key pinyon pine species for local forestry in the Oriental Basin, Puebla, Mexico, were identified and analyzed. The study aimed to evaluate the diversity of EMF in this endemic pine across three sampling transects (T1, T2, T3), each located in sites with different vegetation compositions and pine cover. In each site, a 100 m × 25 m transect was established, and root tips colonized by EMF were collected for morphological and molecular identification. Alpha (α) and beta (β) diversity were calculated for each transect. A total of 16 EMF morphotypes were identified, and molecular analysis confirmed four taxa: Geopora arenicola, Rhizopogon aff. subpurpurascens, Tomentella sp. 1, and Tricholoma sp. 1. The transect with the highest P. cembroides cover showed the greatest fungal richness. Beta diversity, as measured by Sørensen index partitioning, revealed a 30% species turnover between T1 and T2 and a 60% turnover between T2 and T3, suggesting distinct fungal communities. In contrast, no turnover but a nested pattern was observed between T1 and T3, indicating that the less diverse community is a subset of the richer one. These results show that EMF composition varies with pine cover and vegetation heterogeneity, highlighting the influence of disturbance on fungal diversity. This is the first report of EMF fungi associated with Pinus cembroides subsp. orizabensis, as well as the first record of G. arenicola in arid pine forests in Mexico. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mycological Research in Mexico)

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17 pages, 2815 KB

Open AccessArticle

National Belgian Study on Terbinafine Resistance in Trichophyton interdigitale/mentagrophytes/indotineae (2022–2023): Epidemiology and Molecular Features

by Rosalie Sacheli, Sabrina Egrek, Khalid El Moussaoui, Bahoz Kurt, Emilie Machowski, Saadia Harag and Marie-Pierre Hayette

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090676 - 13 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Objectives: Trichophyton indotineae, a dermatophyte closely related to T. interdigitale and T. mentagrophytes, is of growing concern due to its high terbinafine resistance and widespread presence in India. Its emergence in Europe calls for enhanced surveillance. Resistance is linked to [...] Read more.

Objectives: Trichophyton indotineae, a dermatophyte closely related to T. interdigitale and T. mentagrophytes, is of growing concern due to its high terbinafine resistance and widespread presence in India. Its emergence in Europe calls for enhanced surveillance. Resistance is linked to mutations in the squalene epoxidase (SQLE) gene. This multicentric national study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, terbinafine susceptibility, and phylogenomics of T. interdigitale/mentagrophytes/indotineae strains in Belgium, with a focus on SQLE substitutions. Methods: Between February 2022 and April 2023, 137 isolates from 16 Belgian labs were analyzed for antifungal susceptibility using the EUCAST E.Def.11.0 method. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed via Illumina sequencing method. Results: Phylogenomic analysis identified 8 T. indotineae, 91 T. interdigitale, and 38 T. mentagrophytes (including 7 genotype VII strains). Terbinafine resistance (5.1%) was mainly found in T. indotineae (87.5%), always linked to SQLE substitutions. T. interdigitale was fully susceptible. T. mentagrophytes showed mildly elevated MICs, often associated with K276N substitution. Conclusions: Terbinafine-resistant T. indotineae is emerging in Belgium, mostly via imported cases. Continued molecular surveillance and species-specific treatment strategies are essential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Superficial Fungal Infections)

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15 pages, 3045 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cloning and Characterization of the Mycovirus MpChrV2 from Macrophomina phaseolina

by Peimeng Sun, Luyang Song, Mengyuan Mu, Jiayi Ma, Xinyu Li, Kunni Tian, Mengyuan Zhang, Mingyue Zhang, Yuanyuan Zhang, Caiyi Wen, Jing Wang and Ying Zhao

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 675; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090675 - 12 Sep 2025

Viewed by 568

Abstract

Macrophomina phaseolina is a widely distributed soilborne phytopathogenic fungus that causes destructive diseases such as charcoal rot and stem canker, posing serious threats to crop yield and quality. In recent years, mycoviruses have gained attention as potential biological control agents. In this study, [...] Read more.

Macrophomina phaseolina is a widely distributed soilborne phytopathogenic fungus that causes destructive diseases such as charcoal rot and stem canker, posing serious threats to crop yield and quality. In recent years, mycoviruses have gained attention as potential biological control agents. In this study, a novel double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) virus was identified from M. phaseolina strain 22C-8, isolated from sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) charcoal rot samples in Fuyang, Anhui Province, China. The viral genome comprised four dsRNA segments, each encoding a single open reading frame (ORF) predicted to encode RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), coat protein (CP), and two hypothetical proteins. Phylogenetic analysis classified the virus as a new member of the genus Betachrysovirus in the family Chrysoviridae, and it was designated Macrophomina phaseolina chrysovirus 2 (MpChrV2). Pathogenicity assays in sesame seedlings revealed that MpChrV2 infection significantly reduced the virulence of M. phaseolina strain 22C-8. In contrast, virus-free derivatives (22C-8-VF18), obtained via protoplast regeneration, caused more severe symptoms and exhibited enhanced growth rates, indicating that MpChrV2 alters fungal physiology and pathogenicity. These findings suggest that MpChrV2 possesses a typical hypovirulence phenotype and holds promise as a biocontrol agent for sesame charcoal rot. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mycoviruses: Emerging Investigations on Virus-Fungal Host Interaction, 2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 5382 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Transformation and Protein Expression of the Edible Mushroom Stropharia rugosoannulata Protoplasts by Agrobacterium-tumefaciens-Mediated Transformation

by Dongjie Yin and Hairong Xiong

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090674 - 12 Sep 2025

Viewed by 595

Abstract

Stropharia rugosoannulata is a cultivated edible mushroom characterized by its nutritional composition and efficient cellulolytic enzymatic systems. However, the lack of genetic tools has significantly impeded the investigation of its molecular mechanisms, severely constraining the study of functional genomic and precision breeding in [...] Read more.

Stropharia rugosoannulata is a cultivated edible mushroom characterized by its nutritional composition and efficient cellulolytic enzymatic systems. However, the lack of genetic tools has significantly impeded the investigation of its molecular mechanisms, severely constraining the study of functional genomic and precision breeding in S. rugosoannulata. It was demonstrated in this study that the Agrobacterium-tumefaciens-mediated genetic transformation (ATMT) system is applicable for the transformation of S. rugosoannulata protoplasts. Through this proposal, we successfully achieved the expression of exogenous genes (mCherry gene encoding red fluorescent protein, hph gene encoding hygromycin B phosphotransferase, and GUS gene encoding β-glucuronidase) and the endogenous mutant gene SDI encoding the iron-sulfur protein subunit of succinate dehydrogenase in S. rugosoannulata. Furthermore, this study employed endogenous promoters of GPD encoding glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and SDI to enhance transformation efficiency and drive target gene expression. This study establishes the feasibility of ATMT in S. rugosoannulata systems, while achieving stable expression of a panel of selectable marker genes and reporter genes critical for genetic research in S. rugosoannulata. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Genomics, Genetics and Molecular Biology)

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12 pages, 2265 KB

Open AccessArticle

T-DNA Mutagenesis Reveals FpPer1 as a Dual-Function Regulator of Virulence and Fungicide Resistance in Fusarium pseudograminearum

by Haiyang Li, Panpan Zhang, Xueqian Song, Huiying Li, Cong Chen, Limin Wang, Zhifang Wang, Lingjun Hao, Yun Li, Xinlong Wang, Jiangang Kang, Honglian Li, Min Wang and Shengli Ding

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 673; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090673 - 12 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Fusarium crown rot (FCR), caused by Fusarium pseudograminearum, is a devastating wheat disease leading to significant yield losses worldwide. However, the pathogenic mechanism of F. pseudograminearum and its resistance to fungicides remain poorly understood. In this study, we identified a hypothetical gene [...] Read more.

Fusarium crown rot (FCR), caused by Fusarium pseudograminearum, is a devastating wheat disease leading to significant yield losses worldwide. However, the pathogenic mechanism of F. pseudograminearum and its resistance to fungicides remain poorly understood. In this study, we identified a hypothetical gene encoding GPI-anchored protein, designated FpPer1, by screening a T-DNA insertion mutant library of F. pseudograminearum for tebuconazole resistance. The ΔFpper1 mutant exhibited increased sensitivity to the triazole antifungal drugs and fludioxonil. Additionally, the deletion of FpPER1 impaired fungal growth, conidiation, and pathogenicity in barley leaves and wheat coleoptiles. Furthermore, the ΔFpper1 mutant displayed enhanced susceptibility to various environmental stresses, including NaCl, CR, sorbitol, H₂O₂, and SDS. The mutant also showed reduced penetration peg formation and impaired reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging ability during infection. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that FpPer1-GFP co-localized with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) marker RFP-HDEL in both conidia and hyphae, indicating its localization in the ER. In summary, our findings demonstrate that FpPER1 plays an important role in pathogenicity and fungicide resistance in F. pseudograminearum. This study not only provides a theoretical foundation for understanding fungal virulence mechanisms but also offers practical insights for developing novel fungicide strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Pathogens and Mycotoxins)

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20 pages, 1547 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

What Do We Know About Cryptococcus spp. in Portugal? One Health Systematic Review in a Comprehensive 13-Year Retrospective Study (2013–2025)

by Ricardo Lopes, Andreia Garcês, Hugo Lima de Carvalho, Vanessa Silva, Filipe Sampaio, Cátia Fernandes, Gonçalo Barros, Alexandre Sardinha de Brito, Ana Rita Silva, Elsa Leclerc Duarte, Luís Cardoso and Ana Cláudia Coelho

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090672 - 12 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Cryptococcosis, caused by the Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii species complexes (pathogenic Cryptococcus spp.), is an environmentally acquired mycosis of One Health relevance. This study integrates a PRISMA-compliant systematic review (2000–2025) of Portuguese animal, human, and environmental reports with a 13-year retrospective dataset [...] Read more.

Cryptococcosis, caused by the Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii species complexes (pathogenic Cryptococcus spp.), is an environmentally acquired mycosis of One Health relevance. This study integrates a PRISMA-compliant systematic review (2000–2025) of Portuguese animal, human, and environmental reports with a 13-year retrospective dataset of laboratory-confirmed veterinary cryptococcosis cases (2013–2025). Clinical specimens were cultured and identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and associations were assessed using χ² and Fisher’s exact tests. Of 1059 submissions, 48 (4.5%) were culture-positive: 6.8% of canine, 5.3% of feline samples, and 4.0% of avian samples, with no detections in other vertebrate groups (p = 0.705). Cryptococcus neoformans predominated in carnivores (73.7%), while Papiliotrema laurentii (formerly Cryptococcus laurentii) was most frequent in birds (86.2%). Infection was not associated with sex or age. Seasonality was evident, with a July peak and summer predominance (p = 0.010). Most cases were from the Centre region (62.5%), with significant regional variation of Cryptococcus spp. distribution (p < 0.001). The systematic review confirmed autochthonous C. gattii complex disease and widespread C. neoformans contamination in pigeon guano and arboreal niches. These findings demonstrate a compartmentalised eco-epidemiology, reinforcing the need for integrated molecular typing, antifungal susceptibility testing, and coordinated human–animal–environment surveillance to inform targeted prevention and control strategies in Portugal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Pathogenesis and Disease Control)

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11 pages, 441 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characteristics and Outcomes of Hospitalized Patients with Histoplasmosis: Comparison of Immunocompromised and Non-Immunocompromised Adult Patients

by Liam M. Dalton, Carol A. Kauffman and Marisa H. Miceli

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 671; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090671 - 12 Sep 2025

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Abstract

We sought to investigate the role of immunocompromise in patients with newly diagnosed histoplasmosis in an era when AIDS is less prevalent. We performed a retrospective comparison of immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised adults hospitalized at Michigan Medicine from 2015 to 2024. Of 51 patients, [...] Read more.

We sought to investigate the role of immunocompromise in patients with newly diagnosed histoplasmosis in an era when AIDS is less prevalent. We performed a retrospective comparison of immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised adults hospitalized at Michigan Medicine from 2015 to 2024. Of 51 patients, 37 (73%) were immunocompromised, 32 from solid organ transplantation or tumor necrosis factor antagonist/disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Of these 37, 34 had disseminated and 3 had pulmonary histoplasmosis; of the 14 non-immunocompromised patients, 8 had disseminated and 6 had pulmonary histoplasmosis, p = 0.004. Fever was the only symptom/sign that was more common in the immunocompromised cohort (86% vs. 36%, p = 0.003). Laboratory/radiological studies showed no major differences between immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised cohorts. Histoplasma urinary antigen was positive for all immunocompromised vs. 79% non-immunocompromised patients, p = 0.003. Median antigen levels were 17.5 (IQR 6.2–19.7) ng/mL for immunocompromised vs. 1.9 (0.6–19.7) ng/mL for non-immunocompromised patients, p = 0.004. Cultures for Histoplasma were more often positive in the immunocompromised cohort, p = 0.025. All-cause 90-day mortality was 14% in each cohort (five immunocompromised and two non-immunocompromised patients); all deaths occurred in those with disseminated histoplasmosis, and four were in the first week of hospitalization. Disseminated histoplasmosis in both immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised patients continues to be a serious, often fatal infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Invasive Fungal Infections: Recent Advances in Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment)

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15 pages, 647 KB

Open AccessArticle

Candidemia in a General Hospital in Kuwait: Epidemiology, Species Distribution, Risk Factors, and Antifungal Susceptibility Patterns over a 10-Year Period (2015–2024)

by Khalifa Al Benwan, Sarah Ahmed, Dalal Al Banwan and Maria John

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 670; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090670 - 12 Sep 2025

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Abstract

This 10-year retrospective observational study (2015–2024) conducted at Al-Amiri Hospital in Kuwait aimed to analyze the epidemiology, species distribution, and key risk factors associated with Candida bloodstream infections. Data were collected on patient demographics and clinical risk factors, and the distribution of Candida [...] Read more.

This 10-year retrospective observational study (2015–2024) conducted at Al-Amiri Hospital in Kuwait aimed to analyze the epidemiology, species distribution, and key risk factors associated with Candida bloodstream infections. Data were collected on patient demographics and clinical risk factors, and the distribution of Candida species was determined based on isolates recovered from patients with confirmed candidemia. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with candidemia outcomes. Cases significantly increased from 33 (2015–2016) to 93 (2023–2024), predominantly affecting elderly patients (≥65 years) and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. A shift in species distribution was observed, with a decline in Candida albicans and a marked increase in Candidozyma auris (formerly Candida auris) and C. parapsilosis. Antifungal susceptibility patterns were species-specific: C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, and C. tropicalis remained highly susceptible to all tested antifungals, while Nakaseomyces glabratus (formerly Candida glabrata) showed fluconazole resistance in 25% of isolates. C. auris exhibited resistance to fluconazole (97%) and variable resistance to echinocandins and voriconazole. Echinocandins retained broad-spectrum activity across most species. Independent risk factors included ICU admission, advanced age, and comorbidities. N. glabratus and C. auris infections were linked to higher mortality. This study highlights the growing candidemia burden in Kuwait, driven by emerging non-albicans Candida (NAC) spp. and related species. Early species identification and susceptibility testing are crucial for effective treatment and improved outcomes, necessitating enhanced infection control and antifungal stewardship. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Pathogenesis and Disease Control)

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5 pages, 187 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Diagnosis and Treatment of Superficial Fungal Infections

by Suzana Otašević and Aleksandra Ignjatović

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 669; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090669 - 12 Sep 2025

Viewed by 749

Abstract

On a global scale, one of the major challenges associated with superficial fungal infections (SFIs) of the skin and mucosa is their extremely high prevalence, along with the considerable proportion of patients who develop chronic infections [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Treatment of Superficial Fungal Infections)

16 pages, 6483 KB

Open AccessArticle

Surface Changes Induced by Brushing Increase Candida albicans Biofilms on 3D-Printed Denture Base Resin

by Rafaelly Camargo, Jonatas Silva de Oliveira, Amanda Costa Ferro, Beatriz Ribeiro Ribas, Alan Augusto Valério Alves and Janaina Habib Jorge

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090668 - 12 Sep 2025

Viewed by 736

Abstract

Studies assessing the long-term effects of brushing with cleaning and disinfecting agents on surface roughness and biofilm accumulation on the three-dimensionally (3D) printed resins remain scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different solutions and simulated brushing times on the surface [...] Read more.

Studies assessing the long-term effects of brushing with cleaning and disinfecting agents on surface roughness and biofilm accumulation on the three-dimensionally (3D) printed resins remain scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different solutions and simulated brushing times on the surface roughness and biofilm formation on heat-cured and 3D-printed denture base resins. Discs samples (10 mm × 1.2 mm) were prepared and randomly assigned to brushing treatments using the following solutions: distilled water, disinfectant liquid soap and dentifrice. The specimens (n = 9) were subjected to 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 cycles to simulate 1, 2 and 5 years of brushing, respectively. The control group consisted of unbrushed samples. Surface roughness (Ra) was measured. Candida albicans biofilm formation was evaluated by counting colony forming units, cellular metabolic activity, and qualitative and quantitative analysis through confocal fluorescence microscopy. A significant increase in roughness was observed in both resins after two years of simulated brushing, mainly with dentifrice. After two years of brushing, an increase in the number of cells and metabolism of C. albicans was observed, in agreement with the fluorescence and biofilm thickness results. Brushing with dentifrice increased the roughness of heat-cured and 3D-printed resins and potentially increased C. albicans biofilm formation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Cell Biology, Metabolism and Physiology)

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20 pages, 9792 KB

Open AccessArticle

Discovery and Identification of Four Novel Species of Distoseptispora (Distoseptisporaceae, Distoseptisporales) on Decaying Wood from Hainan and Fujian Provinces, China

by Wenwen Liu, Changzhun Yin, Yang Jiang, Xigang Yan, Xingsheng Wang, Xiuguo Zhang and Shi Wang

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090667 - 11 Sep 2025

Viewed by 783

Abstract

Decaying wood, as a unique substrate, which contains cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and nitrogen-containing compounds, harbors significant fungal biodiversity, particularly among dematiaceous hyphomycete species. This study uses a combination of morphological and molecular systematics methods. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS, LSU, RPB2 and TEF1 sequences [...] Read more.

Decaying wood, as a unique substrate, which contains cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and nitrogen-containing compounds, harbors significant fungal biodiversity, particularly among dematiaceous hyphomycete species. This study uses a combination of morphological and molecular systematics methods. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS, LSU, RPB2 and TEF1 sequences were conducted using the maximum likelihood (ML) and the Bayesian inference (BI) method. Combined with the morphological characteristics, four new species of Distoseptispora, D. bawanglingensis sp. nov., D. changjiangensis sp. nov., D. daanyuanensis sp. nov. and D. jianfenglingensis sp. nov., were identified from decaying wood collected in Hainan and Fujian provinces, China. This study provides detailed descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic trees with the aim of clarifying the taxonomic status of these four new species, thereby enhancing our understanding of the species diversity of Distoseptispora in Hainan and Fujian provinces, China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Evolution, Biodiversity and Systematics)

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10 pages, 646 KB

Open AccessPerspective

Can We Have Guidelines or Just Guidance for Rare Fungal Infections?

by Nancy N. Vuong and Dimitrios P. Kontoyiannis

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090666 - 11 Sep 2025

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Abstract

In this perspective, we discuss the limitations of medical guidelines as it relates to the management of uncommon invasive fungal infections (IFIs) or infrequent manifestations of more common IFIs. We emphasize the difficulties to define “gold standards” for diagnostics and treatment based on [...] Read more.

In this perspective, we discuss the limitations of medical guidelines as it relates to the management of uncommon invasive fungal infections (IFIs) or infrequent manifestations of more common IFIs. We emphasize the difficulties to define “gold standards” for diagnostics and treatment based on limited and low-quality evidence. We posit that such “guidelines” based on scarce data may be suboptimal and could be in some cases even harmful. Specifically, guidelines are often seen as rigid rules to follow which can prevent a critical examination of the nuanced management of individual patients with rare IFIs. We also emphasize that guidelines are often not updated frequently enough and therefore may not reflect the current treatment landscape. For all those reasons, we suggest that the term “guidance” may be more appropriate than “guidelines” for rare IFIs. Finally, we pose several questions regarding constructing future “Guidelines”/“Guidance for such entities”. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current and Future Development of Mycology: The 10th Anniversary of Journal of Fungi)

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12 pages, 607 KB

Open AccessArticle

Virulence of Candida Isolates in Patients with Tuberculosis and Oral/Oesophageal Candidiasis: Co-Infection Evaluation

by Rayana Larissa Pinheiro Soares Ferreira, Alessandra Teixeira Macedo, Conceição de Maria Pedrozo e Silva de Azevedo, Sirlei Garcia Marques, Marliete Carvalho Costa, João Carlos Maia Dornelas de Oliveira, Paulo Henrique Fonseca do Carmo, Yankee Costa Magalhães Diniz, Heylane Ferreira Cutrim, Cristina Andrade Monteiro, Maria Rosa Quaresma Bomfim, Daniel Assis Santos, Rodrigo Assuncao Holanda and Julliana Ribeiro Alves Santos

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090665 - 11 Sep 2025

Viewed by 646

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC), which can be exacerbated by fungal infections. This study evaluated the clinical characteristics and virulence of Candida spp. in patients with tuberculosis. Antifungal sensitivity, phospholipase and proteinase production, biofilm formation, phagocytic index, [...] Read more.

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC), which can be exacerbated by fungal infections. This study evaluated the clinical characteristics and virulence of Candida spp. in patients with tuberculosis. Antifungal sensitivity, phospholipase and proteinase production, biofilm formation, phagocytic index, and reactive oxygen (ROS) and nitrogen (RNS) species were assessed. Candida spp. were isolated from 14 patients, 28.5% women and 71.4% men, mainly from sputum and tracheal secretions. Five (35.7%) patients were co-infected with Mycobacterium, Candida, and HIV. Candida albicans (78.6%) and Candida tropicalis (21.4%) were identified in all 14 patients. All isolates showed sensitivity to amphotericin B and dose-dependent responses to fluconazole (16 μg/mL). Phospholipase activity was detected in 35.7% of the isolates, whereas all isolates showed proteinase activity (100%). A significant difference in phospholipase activity, phagocytosis, and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrogen species (RNS) was observed when Candida isolates from patients with TB, living with or without HIV, were compared to Candida isolates from healthy individuals. All isolates were biofilm producers. This study highlights the relevance of mycoses diagnosis in patients with TB, since Candida spp. may be more virulent and contribute to the deterioration of the clinical condition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Systemic and Emerging Mycoses)

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9 pages, 442 KB

Open AccessOpinion

The Use of Genetics and Immunology in the Diagnosis and Care of Advanced Coccidioidomycosis: Where Are We Going?

by Kavitha Thiagarajan, Shikha Mishra, Rob Purdie, Bianca Torres, Royce H. Johnson and Manish J. Butte

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090664 - 11 Sep 2025

Viewed by 632

Abstract

Coccidioidomycosis (CM) is an endemic disease in the western United States, northern Mexico, and Central and South America. The severity of coccidioidal infection is highly variable, with potential factors including comorbidities and the patient’s innate and adaptive immune response. Based on data from [...] Read more.

Coccidioidomycosis (CM) is an endemic disease in the western United States, northern Mexico, and Central and South America. The severity of coccidioidal infection is highly variable, with potential factors including comorbidities and the patient’s innate and adaptive immune response. Based on data from a predominantly healthy and mainly Caucasian male survey conducted nearly a century ago, approximately 60% of infections are asymptomatic, with an estimated 40% of people experiencing some respiratory symptoms; with 10% of those diagnosed with CM. Disseminated disease occurs in approximately 1% of cases and can involve the meninges and, potentially, any place in the body. It is not yet fully understood why some people experience severe disease while many people do not; it is understood that the immune response has a major role. Immunomodulators, including dupilumab and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), have shown promise in treating patients with disseminated infection. This article summarizes the latest genetic and immunologic evidence demonstrating immune dysfunction. Immunomodulators and potential therapeutic strategies based on the above are reviewed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Mycology)

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20 pages, 10422 KB

Open AccessArticle

Metagenomic Insights into Disease-Induced Microbial Dysbiosis and Elemental Cycling Alterations in Morchella Cultivation Soils: Evidence from Two Distinct Regions

by Zong-Lin Deng, Feng-Ming Yu, Xiang Ma, Qi Zhao and Jian-Kui Liu

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090663 - 10 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Soil-borne diseases represent a major constraint on the sustainable cultivation of morel mushrooms (Morchella spp.), yet the microbial ecological mechanisms driving disease occurrence and progression remain poorly understood. In this study, we conducted comparative metagenomic analyses of rhizosphere and root-adhering soils associated [...] Read more.

Soil-borne diseases represent a major constraint on the sustainable cultivation of morel mushrooms (Morchella spp.), yet the microbial ecological mechanisms driving disease occurrence and progression remain poorly understood. In this study, we conducted comparative metagenomic analyses of rhizosphere and root-adhering soils associated with healthy and diseased Morchella crops from two major production regions in China, aiming to elucidate shifts in microbial community composition, assembly processes, and functional potential. Disease conditions were linked to pronounced microbial dysbiosis, with community assembly shifting from stochastic to deterministic processes, particularly within fungal communities under host selection and pathogen pressure. Co-occurrence network analysis revealed substantial reductions in connectivity, modularity, and clustering coefficients in diseased soils, indicating the loss of ecological stability and keystone taxa. Functional annotations using CAZy, COG, and KEGG databases showed that healthy soils were enriched in genes related to carbohydrate metabolism, aerobic respiration, and ecosystem resilience, whereas diseased soils exhibited higher abundance of genes associated with stress responses, proliferation, and host defense. Furthermore, elemental cycling analysis demonstrated that healthy soils supported pathways involved in aerobic carbon degradation, nitrogen fixation, phosphate transport, and sulfur oxidation, while diseased soils favored fermentation, denitrification, phosphorus limitation responses, and reductive sulfur metabolism. Collectively, these results highlight the importance of microbial functional integrity in maintaining soil health and provide critical insights into microbiome-mediated disease dynamics, offering a foundation for developing microbiome-informed strategies for sustainable fungal crop management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ascomycota: Diversity, Taxonomy and Phylogeny, 3rd Edition)

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13 pages, 1331 KB

Open AccessReview

Malassezia Folliculitis: An Underdiagnosed Mimicker of Acneiform Eruptions

by Natalia V. Chalupczak and Shari R. Lipner

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090662 - 10 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Malassezia folliculitis, previously known as Pityrosporum folliculitis, is a common yet frequently misdiagnosed dermatologic condition caused by Malassezia yeast overgrowth in hair follicles. Its monomorphic, pruritic papules and pustules closely mimic acne vulgaris, often leading to inappropriate antibiotic use. This review summarizes current [...] Read more.

Malassezia folliculitis, previously known as Pityrosporum folliculitis, is a common yet frequently misdiagnosed dermatologic condition caused by Malassezia yeast overgrowth in hair follicles. Its monomorphic, pruritic papules and pustules closely mimic acne vulgaris, often leading to inappropriate antibiotic use. This review summarizes current evidence on the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management of Malassezia folliculitis. A high index of clinical suspicion is critical in patients with recalcitrant acneiform eruptions. Diagnosis is supported by dermoscopy, potassium hydroxide preparation, Wood’s lamp, and response to antifungal therapy. Topical and oral antifungal agents are highly effective although relapses are common and access to off-label treatments may be limited. Greater awareness of the distinct clinical features of Malassezia folliculitis and treatment response can improve diagnostic accuracy and enhance patient outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Pathogenesis and Disease Control)

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16 pages, 2522 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Predicted Structure of S. cerevisiae Ssp1 Reveals Parallel Evolution in the Pil1 BAR Domain Family Proteins of Ascomycetes

by Yasuyuki Suda and Aaron M. Neiman

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090661 - 9 Sep 2025

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Abstract

BAR domains are a superfamily of widely conserved membrane binding motifs. In fungi, Pil1 family proteins are BAR domain containing proteins involved in organizing the plasma membrane. S. pombe encodes a sporulation-specific Pil1 family protein, Meu14, which has a specialized role in shaping [...] Read more.

BAR domains are a superfamily of widely conserved membrane binding motifs. In fungi, Pil1 family proteins are BAR domain containing proteins involved in organizing the plasma membrane. S. pombe encodes a sporulation-specific Pil1 family protein, Meu14, which has a specialized role in shaping the forespore membrane during sporulation. The functional analog of Meu14 in S. cerevisiae is Ssp1. While Ssp1 has no primary sequence homology to Pil1 or Meu14, AlphaFold predicts that it contains a Pil1-related BAR domain. Consistent with this structural prediction, mutation of residues in the putative lipid binding face of Ssp1 or in a residue implicated in multimerization disrupt sporulation. Characterization of the mutant proteins indicates that the BAR domain is necessary for recruitment of Ssp1 to the highly curved leading edge of the prospore membrane and multimerization of Ssp1 at that location is required for assembly of the leading edge complex. The distribution of Pil1 family proteins across an evolutionary tree of Ascomycetes reveals that Meu14 and Ssp1 arose independently in the lineages leading to S. pombe and S. cerevisiae, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current and Future Development of Mycology: The 10th Anniversary of Journal of Fungi)

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14 pages, 1290 KB

Open AccessArticle

Secreted Protein VdCUE Modulates Virulence of Verticillium dahliae Without Interfering with BAX-Induced Cell Death

by Haonan Yu, Haiyuan Li, Xiaochen Zhang, Mengmeng Wei, Xiaoping Hu and Jun Qin

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090660 - 8 Sep 2025

Viewed by 503

Abstract

Verticillium wilt, caused by Verticillium dahliae, severely threatens various crops and trees worldwide. This study aimed to characterize the function of a CUE (coupling of ubiquitin conjugation to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) degradation)-domain-containing protein, VdCUE, in V. dahliae, which exhibits sequence divergence [...] Read more.

Verticillium wilt, caused by Verticillium dahliae, severely threatens various crops and trees worldwide. This study aimed to characterize the function of a CUE (coupling of ubiquitin conjugation to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) degradation)-domain-containing protein, VdCUE, in V. dahliae, which exhibits sequence divergence between the defoliating strain XJ592 and the non-defoliating strain XJ511. We generated ∆VdCUE-knockout mutants and evaluated their phenotypes in growth and virulence. Functional analyses included verifying the signal peptide activity of VdCUE, testing its ability to induce cell death or inhibit BAX-induced cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves, and identifying host targets via yeast two-hybrid screening. The ∆VdCUE mutants showed reduced formation of melanized microsclerotia but no other obvious growth defects. Cotton plants infected with the ∆VdCUE mutants exhibited a significantly lower disease index and defoliation rate. VdCUE was confirmed to be secreted via a functional signal peptide, but it neither triggered cell death nor inhibited BAX-induced cell death. Three putative host targets were identified and supported by AI-based three-dimensional structural modeling, including tRNA-specific 2-thiouridylase, peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase, and 40S ribosomal protein, which may mediate VdCUE-dependent virulence regulation. These findings reveal VdCUE as a key virulence factor in V. dahliae, contributing to our understanding of its pathogenic mechanism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Virulence of Plant Pathogenic Fungi, 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 1876 KB

Open AccessArticle

Azole Resistance in Aspergillus Species Isolated from Clinical Samples: A Nine-Year Single-Center Study in Turkey (2015–2023)

by Zeynep Yazgan, Reyhan Çalışkan and Gökhan Aygün

J. Fungi 2025, 11(9), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11090659 - 7 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1398

Abstract

Azole-resistant mycotic infections pose an escalating global health threat, with an estimated 6.5 million invasive fungal infections (IFIs) annually leading to 3.8 million deaths, 68% directly caused by IFIs. While azole antifungals are the cornerstone of treatment, emerging resistance, mainly due to gene [...] Read more.

Azole-resistant mycotic infections pose an escalating global health threat, with an estimated 6.5 million invasive fungal infections (IFIs) annually leading to 3.8 million deaths, 68% directly caused by IFIs. While azole antifungals are the cornerstone of treatment, emerging resistance, mainly due to gene mutations and efflux pump overexpression, is a major concern. This study, spanning 2015–2023, investigated azole resistance in clinical Aspergillus isolates in Turkey, a region lacking comprehensive surveillance. Of 200 causative isolates, A. fumigatus accounted for 45% and respiratory samples 57%. Overall azole resistance was 7%, rising to 11% for A. fumigatus. Findings highlight the persistent challenge of azole resistance, emphasizing the critical need for continued local and global surveillance to inform treatment guidelines and public health interventions. Despite limitations, including a single-center focus, this research provides crucial epidemiological insights into the evolving landscape of antifungal resistance in Turkey. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Azole Resistance in Aspergillus spp., 2nd Edition)

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