Detailed analysis of potato late blight disease cycle caused by oomycete Phytophthora infestans. Covers primary inoculum sources (infected tubers, oospores), sporangial germination pathways (zoospore release in cool-wet conditions), rapid secondary asexual cycles (4-10 days), leaf and tuber colonization, and dispersal mechanisms crucial for crop disease management and prevention strategies.
Explains saprophytic nutrition through extracellular digestion mechanism involving exoenzyme secretion (cellulases, proteases, amylases), external breakdown, and nutrient absorption. Discusses ecological importance including nutrient cycling, waste removal, soil health improvement. Provides examples of common saprophytic fungi like mushrooms, bread molds, and bracket fungi essential for ecosystems.
Overview of human mycoses categorized as superficial/cutaneous, subcutaneous, or systemic infections. Covers causative agents (dermatophytes, Candida, Aspergillus, Cryptococcus), modes of contraction, clinical presentations, risk factors (immunodeficiency, diabetes, hospitalization), and geographic distribution for understanding fungal disease epidemiology.
Details parasitic feeding mechanisms in fungi including host penetration via appresoria, extracellular enzyme secretion, and haustorium formation. Classifies parasites as biotrophic, necrotrophic, or facultative saprophytes. Covers examples from plant rusts and molds to human dermatophytes and Candida, demonstrating ecological and medical significance of fungal parasitism.
Expert report on fungal infections (mycoses) covering epidemiology, classification (superficial to systemic), clinical syndromes, diagnosis methods (culture, antigen, molecular), antifungal chemotherapy, drug resistance, emerging pathogens like Candida auris, and One Health strategies to combat the hidden epidemic of fungal diseases affecting millions globally.