Biogenesis, germination, and pathogenesis of spores.

SUMMARYSpores are primary infectious propagules for the majority of human fungal pathogens; however, relatively little is known about their fundamental biology. One strategy to address this deficiency has been to develop the basidiospores of into a model for pathogenic spore biology. Here, we provide an update on the state of the field with a comprehensive review of the data generated from the study of basidiospores from their formation (sporulation) and differentiation (germination) to their roles in pathogenesis. Importantly, we provide support for the presence of basidiospores in nature, define the key characteristics that distinguish basidiospores from yeast cells, and clarify their likely roles as infectious particles. This review is intended to demonstrate the importance of basidiospores in the field of research and provide a solid foundation from which researchers who wish to study sexual spores in any fungal system can launch their studies.