Linking approaches in the study of fungal pathogenesis: a commentary

Thus far, it has not been possible to demonstrate that fungal pathogens possess specific extracellular enzymes with important roles in pathogenesis. In contrast, candidate gene knock-out experiments have revealed regulatory networks that appear to be specific to pathogenesis. The tracings of these networks may have already been described in the well-known cell differentiation pathways of many nonpathogens. The challenge for fungal pathologists will be to link these signaling pathways to the host environment and to the expression of determinants that advance the disease state.