Virulence ofand relatives using themodel.

Abstract

sectionencompasses multiple species, withbeing significant for human health because of its dual role as a major aflatoxin producer and opportunist. However, the mechanisms underlying its virulence remain incompletely understood. This study evaluates the pathogenic potential ofand its relatives using theinfection model. Twenty-sixisolates (clinical and environmental) and 17 relatives/domesticated species were tested in, with larval survival monitored over 7 d. Histology, direct microscopy, and culture were used to validate the infection. Growth kinetics and spore sizes were measured to evaluate correlations with pathogenicity. Allisolates demonstrated high virulence, causing 90%, and 100% mortality oflarvae within 3 and 7 d, respectively, with no significant differences between sources. Aflatoxin-producers exhibited higher virulence, resulting in 100% mortality oflarvae within 5 d (&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). Related species exhibited lower virulence; larval mortalities ranging from 20% to 70% within 3 d, ranked as>>>>>. Growth kinetics and spore size were correlated with virulence, as rapid growth and smaller spores were associated with increased pathogenicity.exhibits higher virulence than its relatives, with growth rate, and spore size influencing pathogenicity. Themodel proves effective for comparative virulence studies. These findings highlight the potential health risks of, including its domesticated relatives used in food fermentations, necessitating further investigations into their pathogenic potential.