EN
Entomopathogenic fungi attack the host insect and therefore may be potentially used for insect control. Penetration of cuticle is achieved by a combination of mechanical pressure and enzymatic degradation. The entomopathogenic fungi produce a variety of exocellular hydrolytic enzymes: proteases, chitinases and lipases, which are capable to digest the major components of insect cuticle. This review describes the characteristics of these enzymes and their role in pathogenesis.