Fungal Cell Biology

Dear Colleagues,

Fungi are remarkable eukaryotic organisms characterized by unique cellular structures and complex developmental processes that enable them to inhabit a wide array of ecological niches. Central to their biology is the cell wall—a dynamic, polysaccharide-rich structure that ensures cellular integrity, regulates morphogenesis, and serves as their primary interface with the external environment. The essential role of the cell wall, coupled with the fungal-specific enzymes involved in its biosynthesis, makes it an attractive target for antifungal therapies. Antifungal agents targeting the cell wall have significant therapeutic potential, though they too face the challenges posed by evolving resistance mechanisms.

Recent advances in fungal cell biology have shed light on critical aspects of hyphal growth, polarized cell extension, intracellular trafficking, and the formation of complex multicellular structures, such as mycelia and fruiting bodies. Nonetheless, numerous fundamental questions remain unanswered. Importantly, the interactions between fungal cells and the host immune system are a key area of investigation. Understanding how fungal cell structures modulate or evade immune responses is crucial for elucidating pathogenic mechanisms and developing novel therapeutic strategies, particularly in the context of opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals.

This Special Issue invites contributions that explore the cellular and molecular biology of fungi, with a particular interest in studies addressing the structure and function of the fungal cell wall, morphogenetic pathways, host–pathogen interactions, and the cellular basis of immune recognition and response. Submissions employing advanced methodologies—including genetic, biochemical, and imaging approaches—are especially encouraged, as we aim to showcase cutting-edge research that deepens our understanding of fungal cell biology and its biomedical implications.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Fausto Almeida
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Fungi is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• fungal cell biology
• fungal cell wall
• host–pathogen interactions
• antifungal targets
• morphogenesis
• immune evasion