Mycotoxins: pathogenicity factors or virulence factors?

摘要

Both terms namely pathogenicity and virulence describe the interaction of a pathogenic agent with a host (normally a macro-organism). In everyday language they are often used interchangeably, although it is felt that there might be a difference. Some people have proposed a clear-cut definition (Table I).Obviously this line of argumentation is not generally applicable and does not respect certain aspects. In particular, the term mycotoxin needs a different interpretation Alternaria spp. are well known plant pathogens, The damage they cause in a host definitely depends on the production of a host-specific toxin. Alternaria mali produces a metabolite toxic for apple trees, whereas a product of Alternaria citri only injures lemon trees. On the other hand the sensitivity of the host determines also the outcome, Toxin-deficient mutants exist in the field as non-pathogenic saprophytes.