Work

Genetic Manipulation in Sporothrix Species: Molecular Tools, Challenges, and Applications

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Sporothrix species are thermally dimorphic fungi responsible for sporotrichosis, a globally prevalent subcutaneous mycosis and an emerging zoonotic threat, particularly in South America. The high virulence of Sporothrix brasiliensis and its efficient transmission from cats to humans have intensified recent outbreaks, underscoring the importance of understanding the pathogenic mechanisms. While several putative virulence factors have been identified, such as melanin production, cell wall remodeling, extracellular vesicles, and thermotolerance, functional studies remain hampered by limited molecular tools. Recent advances, including random mutagenesis, protoplast-mediated transformation, Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation, RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing, are changing this landscape. These methods have enabled the functional validation of key virulence factors and the investigation of gene function in both environmental and clinical strains. In this review, we summarize the genetic toolbox available for Sporothrix, outline current challenges, and discuss how these strategies are reshaping the study of fungal virulence and host–pathogen interactions.

Source: Journal of Fungi

DOI: 10.3390/jof12010061

Authors: Mafalda Barros, Matheus Tavares, Ricardo Silvestre, Roberta Peres da Silva, Fernando Rodrigues

Institutions: University of Minho, Universidade Federal de São Paulo

Language: English

Topic: Fungal Infections and Studies

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137