About this Research Topic
Hypocrealean Insect Pathogenic Fungi (HIPF) are a fascinating subject within the field of entomopathogenic microorganisms due to their unique mode of action through direct contact with an insect’s cuticle. This characteristic places them at the forefront of developing alternative pest control strategies globally. Recent studies have revealed that HIPF possess additional roles beyond their entomopathogenic capabilities, such as functioning as endophytes, promoting plant growth, inducing resistance, and competing within the rhizosphere. These fungi also mediate multitrophic relationships at various ecological levels. Despite these promising findings, there remains a significant gap in understanding the full extent of HIPF's multifunctionality and their potential applications within integrated pest management (IPM) programs. Addressing these gaps requires a comprehensive investigation into the interactions between HIPF, plants, and other organisms, as well as the underlying mechanisms driving these interactions.
This research topic aims to explore the multifunctionality of HIPF and their emerging roles in plant protection and production. Specifically, the objective is to delve into the mechanisms by which these fungi promote plant growth, induce systemic or localized resistance, and mediate complex trophic interactions. By answering these questions, the research seeks to provide a robust scientific foundation for incorporating HIPF into IPM programs, thereby enhancing sustainable agricultural practices. The goal is to foster a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from entomology, plant biology, molecular biology, and histology to achieve comprehensive and actionable conclusions.
To gather further insights into the multifunctionality of HIPF, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- HIPF as endophytes: molecular insights into this function.
- HIPF as plant growth promoters and insect controllers.
- HIPF as inductors of resistance.
- Multitrophic interactions mediated by HIPF.
This research topic aims to explore the multifunctionality of HIPF and their emerging roles in plant protection and production. Specifically, the objective is to delve into the mechanisms by which these fungi promote plant growth, induce systemic or localized resistance, and mediate complex trophic interactions. By answering these questions, the research seeks to provide a robust scientific foundation for incorporating HIPF into IPM programs, thereby enhancing sustainable agricultural practices. The goal is to foster a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from entomology, plant biology, molecular biology, and histology to achieve comprehensive and actionable conclusions.
To gather further insights into the multifunctionality of HIPF, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- HIPF as endophytes: molecular insights into this function.
- HIPF as plant growth promoters and insect controllers.
- HIPF as inductors of resistance.
- Multitrophic interactions mediated by HIPF.
Keywords: hipf, insect pathogen fungi, plant pathogens, fungi, endophytes
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
