Resistance of fungal pathogens to fungicides frequently involves mutations triggered by environmental stressors. In fungi, stress signals resulting from osmotic, oxidative or cell wall stress are integrated into signaling pathways such as mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) system that regulate genes countering the stresses. Of note, mutations in MAPK system result in resistance to fludioxonil or strobilurin fungicides. In a chemogenetic-based target discovery platform to disrupt mycotoxin production or to overcome fungal resistance to conventional fungicides, Saccharomyces cerevisiae served as a model fungus to examine stress responses and to test antimycotic compounds. Data obtained were translated into the procedures for control of pathogenic fungi, such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, Candida, etc. Results support development of a target gene-specific strategy for an effective and safe approach to mycotoxin and fungal pathogen control. Moreover, activities of conventional fungicides could be greatly enhanced if used in combination with certain redox-active compounds.

Management of fungicide resistance, mycotoxin production, and food safety risks by modulating molecular targets in fungal pathogens

248th National Meeting (2014)

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