Antifungal compounds that target fungal membranes: applications in plant disease control

The fungal membrane has the fundamental role of maintaining cell order and integrity. Therefore, a number of disease-control methods have involved compounds that directly or indirectly target fungal membranes or their components. Some of these antifungal compounds affect the synthesis of specific membrane components (e.g., sterol biosynthesis inhibitors) and are among the Most effective antifungals in plant disease control. However, these Compounds are prone to pathogen resistance development that greatly shortens their effective life span. Conversely, some antifungal possess generalized effects On fungal membrane integrity. These Compounds are typically not as effective, but they are less likely to induce resistance in sensitive fungi. The use of both classes of antifungals is still of great relevance in plant pathology, in particular ill the case of integrated pest management. The correct use of antifungals that target fungal membranes Could be the basis of a promising strategy to lower applications of synthetic pesticides while lengthening the effective life span of the disease control measure.