What lies beyond genetic diversity in Sporothrix schenckii species complex? New insights into virulence profiles, immunogenicity and protein secretion in S. schenckii sensu stricto isolates

In the last few years there has been an increasing interest in studying the biology of the dimorphic fungus Sporothrix schenckii, and particular attention has been focused on its molecular phylogeny which has undoubtedly improved our knowledge of the taxonomy, and most importantly, of the epidemiology of this pathogenic fungus. Currently, S. schenckii is recognized as a cryptic species complex that includes six phylogenetically closely related species, most of which are capable of causing serious life-threatening infections in humans and other animals. For decades, researchers around the world have reported differences in virulence among S. schenckii isolates but in light of recent taxonomic changes that have affected this species, the question of whether the observed striking variability is really due to different isolates of the same species or whether it is attributable to different species of the cryptic complex remains speculative and unresolved. A compelling response to this question comes from a recent research, published in this issue of Virulence, which reports new insights into virulence profiles, immunogenicity and protein secretion in S. schenckii sensu stricto isolates