Extracellularly Released Molecules by the Multidrug-Resistant Fungal Pathogens Belonging to the Genus: An Overview Focused on Their Ecological Significance and Pathogenic Relevance

The multidrug-resistant species belonging to the genus are well recognized as saprophytic filamentous fungi found mainly in human impacted areas and that emerged as human pathogens in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals. It is well recognized that some fungi are ubiquitous organisms that produce an enormous amount of extracellular molecules, including enzymes and secondary metabolites, as part of their basic physiology in order to satisfy their several biological processes. In this context, the molecules secreted by species are key weapons for successful colonization, nutrition and maintenance in both host and environmental sites. These biologically active released molecules have central relevance on fungal survival when colonizing ecological places contaminated with hydrocarbons, as well as during human infection, particularly contributing to the invasion/evasion of host cells and tissues, besides escaping from the cellular and humoral host immune responses. Based on these relevant premises, the present review compiled the published data reporting the main secreted molecules by species, which operate important physiopathological events associated with pathogenesis, diagnosis, antimicrobial activity and bioremediation of polluted environments.