Utilizing metabolomic approach to study the mode of action of fungicides and corresponding resistance in plant pathogens

Fungicides are an indispensable tool in plant disease control. Various modes of action (MOAs) have been identified in different fungicides to suppress plant pathogens. The combined use of fungicides with distinct MOAs has been recommended to prevent the development of pathogen resistance. In studying MOAs, metabolomics has been proven to be a robust and high-throughput method. Because metabolites are unique and distinct depending on the biological activities of an organism, MOAs can be identified and classified by establishing metabolic fingerprinting and metabolic profiles. Similarly, if fungicide resistance is developed in a pathogen, the metabolome will change, which can be identified. In this review, we have discussed the principles and advanced applications of metabolomics in the study of MOAs and resistance mechanisms of fungicides, and the potential of metabolic data in understanding the interaction between fungicides and pathogens. Challenges are also discussed in the application of metabolomics, improvement of the study on the mechanism of fungicides in their functions against pathogens and advancing the development of novel fungicides.