In recent years, the development of new molecular biology tools and the elucidation of whole genome sequences have revolutionized research on pathogenic fungi. Such advances have led to the development of faster, more reliable, diagnostic techniques for medically important pathogens such as Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Cryptococcus neoformans. In addition, they have led to a major breakthrough in the approach for the generation of novel anti-fungal agents. Now it is possible to search for agents that target essential genes. Research in this area has never been more exciting. In this book, a panel of expert international mycologists critically review the most important cutting-edge topics. Chapters are written from a molecular and genomic perspective, and through the provision of extensive reference sections positively encourage readers to pursue the subject in greater detail. Topics include: gene expression and regulation, heterozygosity in Candida, molecular diagnosis

This book, together with its companion volume Pathogenic Fungi: Structural Biology and Taxonomy, brings together expert international authors who critically review current topics, and through the provision of extensive reference sections positively encourage readers to pursue the subject in greater detail. The book is divided into two sections: Fungal Interactions with the Host and Antifungal Antibiotics. The emphasis of the first section is focused on the two-way recognition systems that exist between the host and the fungus. Experts in fungal-host interactions discuss new initiatives for alternatives to drug therapy through the development of vaccines and passive antibody therapy. In the Antifungal Antibiotics section, new target development, molecular modeling, and drug resistance, both at the individual organism level, and in a biofilm, are featured.

During the past decade we have witnessed a mushrooming of papers in the area of medical mycology, detailing major advances in areas such as genomics, molecular and cellular biology, molecular epidemiology, immune response and vaccine development, and strategies to combat infections in humans. This sheer volume of information makes it extremely difficult for the busy research scientist and/or teacher of medical mycology to keep abreast of all the latest advances. This book, together with its companion volume Pathogenic Fungi: Host Interactions and Emerging Strategies for Control, brings together expert international authors who critically review current topics, and through the provision of extensive reference sections positively encourage readers to pursue the subject in greater detail. The book is divided into two sections: Fungal Dimorphism and Pathogenicity and New Taxonomic Tools. The first section focuses on morphogenesis, the cell cycle, and the cell wall of human pathogens. T