Work

Molecular Strategies and Regulatory Networks in the Early Infection Stages of Plant Pathogenic Fusarium Species

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Plant pathogenic fungi have evolved molecular arsenals that enable them to successfully invade their host plants and ultimately achieve colonization. These mechanisms involve multifaceted and complex processes that require spatiotemporal regulation of various genes. The cosmopolitan genus Fusarium has been recognized worldwide as an important group of plant pathogens that exhibit diverse virulence mechanisms. This review seeks a broad overview of (a) how the virulence factors and their regulatory mechanisms are specifically utilized during the early invasion process in Fusarium species, (b) the gene regulatory mechanisms that govern this process, and (c) future directions for molecular genetics in disease control by directly targeting virulence factors in plant pathogenic fungi. By integrating current knowledge of key virulence factors and intrinsic mechanisms in Fusarium-plant systems, this work aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Fusarium-mediated pathogenesis, with particular emphasis on the early stages of infection. Finally, we outline the shared and species-specific contributions of virulence factors, integrating findings from previous studies across individual Fusarium species.

Source: The Plant Pathology Journal

DOI: 10.5423/ppj.rw.09.2025.0131

Authors: Soobin Shin, Hokyoung Son

Institution: Seoul National University

Language: English

Topic: Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases

Subfield: Cell Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $850

Funders: National Research Foundation, Rural Development Administration, National Research Foundation of Korea