This research examines how scientists use metabolomics – the study of small molecules produced by organisms – to better understand fungi. This advanced analytical approach helps researchers identify different fungi species, discover new compounds they produce, and understand how fungi interact with plants and respond to environmental stress. Here’s how this impacts everyday life: • Helps develop better antifungal medications and treatments for fungal infections • Improves our ability to use beneficial fungi in food production and fermentation • Enables better crop protection by understanding how harmful fungi attack plants • Leads to discovery of new natural compounds from fungi that could be used in medicines • Advances our understanding of how fungi contribute to environmental processes and ecosystem health