Journal of Fungi

14 pages, 8796 KiB

Open AccessArticle

MoHG1 Regulates Fungal Development and Virulence in Magnaporthe oryzae

by Xin Pu, Aijia Lin, Chun Wang, Sauban Musa Jibril, Xinyun Yang, Kexin Yang, Chengyun Li and Yi Wang

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090663 (registering DOI) - 21 Sep 2024

Abstract

Magnaporthe oryzae causes rice blast disease, which threatens global rice production. The interaction between M. oryzae and rice is regarded as a classic model for studying the relationship between the pathogen and the host. In this study, we found a gene, MoHG1, [...] Read more.

Magnaporthe oryzae causes rice blast disease, which threatens global rice production. The interaction between M. oryzae and rice is regarded as a classic model for studying the relationship between the pathogen and the host. In this study, we found a gene, MoHG1, regulating fungal development and virulence in M. oryzae. The ∆Mohg1 mutants showed more sensitivity to cell wall integrity stressors and their cell wall is more easily degraded by enzymes. Moreover, a decreased content of chitin but higher contents of arabinose, sorbitol, lactose, rhamnose, and xylitol were found in the ∆Mohg1 mutant. Combined with transcriptomic results, many genes in MAPK and sugar metabolism pathways are significantly regulated in the ∆Mohg1 mutant. A hexokinase gene, MGG_00623 was downregulated in ∆Mohg1, according to transcriptome results. We overexpressed MGG_00623 in a ∆Mohg1 mutant. The results showed that fungal growth and chitin contents in MGG_00623-overexpressing strains were restored significantly compared to the ∆Mohg1 mutant. Furthermore, MoHG1 could interact with MGG_00623 directly through the yeast two-hybrid and BiFC. Overall, these results suggest that MoHG1 coordinating with hexokinase regulates fungal development and virulence by affecting chitin contents and cell wall integrity in M. oryzae, which provides a reference for studying the functions of MoHG1-like genes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Pathogenesis and Disease Control)

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21 pages, 3959 KiB

Open AccessReview

Central Role of the Actomyosin Ring in Coordinating Cytokinesis Steps in Budding Yeast

by Magdalena Foltman and Alberto Sanchez-Diaz

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090662 (registering DOI) - 21 Sep 2024

Abstract

Eukaryotic cells must accurately transfer their genetic material and cellular components to their daughter cells. Initially, cells duplicate their chromosomes and subsequently segregate them toward the poles. The actomyosin ring, a crucial molecular machinery normally located in the middle of the cells and [...] Read more.

Eukaryotic cells must accurately transfer their genetic material and cellular components to their daughter cells. Initially, cells duplicate their chromosomes and subsequently segregate them toward the poles. The actomyosin ring, a crucial molecular machinery normally located in the middle of the cells and underneath the plasma membrane, then physically divides the cytoplasm and all components into two daughter cells, each ready to start a new cell cycle. This process, known as cytokinesis, is conserved throughout evolution. Defects in cytokinesis can lead to the generation of genetically unstable tetraploid cells, potentially initiating uncontrolled proliferation and cancer. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms by which budding yeast cells build the actomyosin ring and the preceding steps involved in forming a scaffolding structure that supports the challenging structural changes throughout cytokinesis. Additionally, we describe how cells coordinate actomyosin ring contraction, plasma membrane ingression, and extracellular matrix deposition to successfully complete cytokinesis. Furthermore, the review discusses the regulatory roles of Cyclin-Dependent Kinase (Cdk1) and the Mitotic Exit Network (MEN) in ensuring the precise timing and execution of cytokinesis. Understanding these processes in yeast provides insights into the fundamental aspects of cell division and its implications for human health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Yeast Cytokinesis)

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9 pages, 835 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Diagnostic Value of Serum Biomarkers for Invasive Aspergillosis in Haematologic Patients

by Isabel Montesinos, Imane Saad Albichr, Elodie Collinge, Bénédicte Delaere, Te-Din Huang, Pierre Bogaerts, Corentin Deckers, Mai Hamouda, Patrick M. Honoré, Pierre Bulpa and Anne Sonet

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090661 (registering DOI) - 20 Sep 2024

Abstract

Background: Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with haematological malignancies. Accurate diagnosis of IA is challenging due to non-specific symptoms and the impact of antifungal prophylaxis on biomarker sensitivity. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated the diagnostic [...] Read more.

Background: Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with haematological malignancies. Accurate diagnosis of IA is challenging due to non-specific symptoms and the impact of antifungal prophylaxis on biomarker sensitivity. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated the diagnostic performance of three serum biomarkers: Aspergillus Galactomannan Ag VirClia Monotest^® (VirClia), Wako β-D-Glucan Test^® (Wako BDG), and MycoGENIE Real-Time PCR^® (MycoGENIE PCR). True positives were defined as patients with proven or probable IA (n = 14), with a positive Platelia Aspergillus Antigen^® (Platelia) serving as a mycological criterion. True negatives were identified as patients with a positive Platelia assay but classified as non-probable IA (n = 10) and outpatients who consistently tested negative with the Platelia test throughout the study period (n = 20). Results: Most patients diagnosed with proven or probable IA were acute myeloid leukaemia or myelodysplastic syndrome patients receiving mould-active antifungal prophylaxis or treatment (71%). VirClia demonstrated high sensitivity (100%) for detecting IA, with a specificity of 83%. Wako BDG and MycoGENIE PCR showed lower sensitivities for IA (57% and 64%, respectively). MycoGENIE PCR detected Aspergillus spp. and Mucorales in two patients. Conclusions: Accurate diagnosis of IA remains challenging, especially in patients who have received mould-active antifungal treatment. VirClia showed comparable performance to Platelia, suggesting its potential for routine use. However, Wako BDG and MycoGENIE PCR results were less favourable in our study cohort. Nevertheless, MycoGENIE PCR detected two probable co-infections with Aspergillus spp. and Mucorales. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Diseases)

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37 pages, 5818 KiB

Open AccessReview

Colletotrichum Species Associated with Apple Bitter Rot and Glomerella Leaf Spot: A Comprehensive Overview

by Vojislav Trkulja, Bojana Čojić, Nenad Trkulja, Andrija Tomić, Slavica Matić, Jela Ikanović and Tatjana Popović Milovanović

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090660 (registering DOI) - 19 Sep 2024

Abstract

Species of the genus Colletotrichum are among the most important plant pathogens globally, as they are capable of infecting many hosts—apple (Malus spp.) and other fruit and woody plant species—but also vegetable crops, cereals, legumes, and other annual and perennial herbaceous plants. [...] Read more.

Species of the genus Colletotrichum are among the most important plant pathogens globally, as they are capable of infecting many hosts—apple (Malus spp.) and other fruit and woody plant species—but also vegetable crops, cereals, legumes, and other annual and perennial herbaceous plants. The apple (Malus spp.) is attacked by various species from the genus Colletotrichum, whereby 27 different species from this genus have been described as the causative agents of apple bitter rot (ABR) and 15 as the cause of Glomerella leaf spot (GLS). These species generally belong to one of three species complexes: Colletotrichum acutatum, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and Colletotrichum boninense. The largest number of apple pathogens of the genus Colletotrichum belong to the species complex C. acutatum and C. gloeosporioides. However, further data on these species and the interactions between the species complexes of the genus Colletotrichum that cause these two apple diseases is needed for the development of effective control measures, thus ensuring successful and profitable apple cultivation. To contribute to this endeavor, a comprehensive review of the causative agents of ABR and GLS from the genus Colletotrichum is provided. In addition to presenting the species’ current names, distribution, economic significance, and the symptoms they cause in apple, their development cycle, epidemiology, and molecular detection strategies are described, with a particular emphasis on control measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Dark Side of Sordariomycetes)

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20 pages, 3351 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential Bioactivities, Chemical Composition, and Conformation Studies of Exopolysaccharide-Derived Aspergillus sp. Strain GAD7

by Mohamed I. A. Ibrahim, Hassan A. H. Ibrahim, Tatsuki Haga, Atsuhiko Ishida, Tatsuo Nehira, Koichi Matsuo and Ahmed M. Gad

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090659 - 19 Sep 2024

Abstract

This research identified a marine fungal isolate, Aspergillus sp. strain GAD7, which produces an acidic and sulfated extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) with notable anticoagulant and antioxidant properties. Six fungal strains from the Egyptian Mediterranean Sea were screened for EPS production, with Aspergillus sp. strain [...] Read more.

This research identified a marine fungal isolate, Aspergillus sp. strain GAD7, which produces an acidic and sulfated extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) with notable anticoagulant and antioxidant properties. Six fungal strains from the Egyptian Mediterranean Sea were screened for EPS production, with Aspergillus sp. strain GAD7 (EPS-AG7) being the most potent, yielding ~5.19 ± 0.017 g/L. EPS-AG7 was characterized using UV-Vis and FTIR analyses, revealing high carbohydrate (87.5%) and sulfate (24%) contents. HPLC and GC-MS analyses determined that EPS-AG7 is a heterogeneous acidic polysaccharide with an average molecular weight

(\bar{M w})

of ~7.34 × 10³ Da, composed of mannose, glucose, arabinose, galacturonic acid, galactose, and lyxose in a molar ratio of 6.6:3.9:1.8:1.3:1.1:1.0, linked through α- and β-glycosidic linkages as confirmed by NMR analysis. EPS-AG7 adopted a triple helix-like conformation, as evidenced by UV-Vis (Congo Red experiment) and circular dichroism (CD) studies. This helical arrangement demonstrated stability under various experimental conditions, including concentration, ionic strength, temperature, and lipid interactions. EPS-AG7 exhibited significant anticoagulant activity, doubling blood coagulation time at a concentration of 3.0 mg/mL, and showed significant antioxidant activity, with scavenging activities reaching up to 85.90% and 58.64% in DPPH and ABTS⁺ assays at 5.0 mg/mL, and EC50 values of 1.40 mg/mL and 3.80 mg/mL, respectively. These findings highlight the potential of EPS-AG7 for therapeutic applications due to its potent biological activities. Full article

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15 pages, 1754 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Diversity and Distribution of Fungal Infections in Rwanda: High Risk and Gaps in Knowledge, Policy, and Interventions

by Claude Mambo Muvunyi, Jean Claude Semuto Ngabonziza, Masaisa Florence, Isabelle Mukagatare, Marc Twagirumukiza, Ayman Ahmed and Emmanuel Edwar Siddig

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090658 - 18 Sep 2024

Abstract

Fungal infections (FIs) are spreading globally, raising a significant public health concern. However, its documentation remains sparse in Africa, particularly in Rwanda. This report provides a comprehensive review of FIs in Rwanda based on a systematic review of reports published between 1972 and [...] Read more.

Fungal infections (FIs) are spreading globally, raising a significant public health concern. However, its documentation remains sparse in Africa, particularly in Rwanda. This report provides a comprehensive review of FIs in Rwanda based on a systematic review of reports published between 1972 and 2022. The findings reveal a rich diversity of fungal pathogens, including Blastomyces, Candida, Cryptococcus, Histoplasma, Microsporum, Pneumocystis, Rhinosporidium, and Trichophyton caused human infections. Candida infections predominantly affect the vagina mucosa, while Histoplasma duboisi was linked to disseminated infections. Other pathogens, such as Blastomyces dermatitidis and Rhinosporidium seeberi, were associated with cerebellar and nasal mucosa infections, respectively. The widespread observation of soilborne fungi affecting bean crops highlights the pathogens’ threat to agricultural productivity, food security, and socioeconomic stability, as well as potential health impacts on humans, animals, and the environment. Of particular importance is that there is no information about FIs among animals in the country. Moreover, the analysis underscores significant limitations in the detection, reporting, and healthcare services related to FIs in the country, indicating gaps in diagnostic capacity and surveillance systems. This is underscored by the predominant use of traditional diagnostic techniques, including culture, cytology, and histopathology in the absence of integrating more sensitive and specific molecular tools in investigating FIs. Developing the diagnostic capacities and national surveillance systems are urgently needed to improve the health of crops, animals, and humans, as well as food security and socioeconomic stability in Rwanda. Also, it is important to indicate severe gaps in the evidence to inform policymaking, guide strategic planning, and improve healthcare and public health services, underscoring the urgent need to build national capacity in fungal diagnosis, surveillance, and research. Raising awareness among the public, scientific community, healthcare providers, and policymakers remains crucial. Furthermore, this report reveals the threats of FIs on public health and food insecurity in Rwanda. A multisectoral one health strategy is essential in research and intervention to determine and reduce the health and safety impacts of fungal pathogens on humans, animals, and the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel, Emerging and Neglected Fungal Pathogens for Humans)

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3 pages, 716 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Seo et al. A Timeline of Biosynthetic Gene Cluster Discovery in Aspergillus fumigatus: From Characterization to Future Perspectives. J. Fungi 2024, 10, 266

by Hye-Won Seo, Natalia S. Wassano, Mira Syahfriena Amir Rawa, Grant R. Nickles, André Damasio and Nancy P. Keller

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090657 - 18 Sep 2024

Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

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24 pages, 3133 KiB

Open AccessReview

Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) in the Era of Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) Modulators

by Paulami Chatterjee, Carson Tyler Moss, Sarah Omar, Ekroop Dhillon, Carlos Daniel Hernandez Borges, Alan C. Tang, David A. Stevens and Joe L. Hsu

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090656 - 18 Sep 2024

Abstract

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a hypersensitivity disease caused by Aspergillus fumigatus (Af), prevalent in persons with cystic fibrosis (CF) or asthma. In ABPA, Af proteases drive a T-helper cell-2 (Th2)-mediated allergic immune response leading to inflammation that contributes to permanent [...] Read more.

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a hypersensitivity disease caused by Aspergillus fumigatus (Af), prevalent in persons with cystic fibrosis (CF) or asthma. In ABPA, Af proteases drive a T-helper cell-2 (Th2)-mediated allergic immune response leading to inflammation that contributes to permanent lung damage. Corticosteroids and antifungals are the mainstays of therapies for ABPA. However, their long-term use has negative sequelae. The treatment of patients with CF (pwCF) has been revolutionized by the efficacy of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator therapy. Pharmacological improvement in CFTR function with highly effective elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) provides unprecedented improvements in lung function and other clinical outcomes of pwCF. The mechanism behind the improvement in patient outcomes is a continued topic of investigation as our understanding of the role of CFTR function evolves. As ETI therapy gains traction in CF management, understanding its potential impact on ABPA, especially on the allergic immune response pathways and Af infection becomes increasingly crucial for optimizing patient outcomes. This literature review aims to examine the extent of these findings and expand our understanding of the already published research focusing on the intersection between ABPA therapeutic approaches in CF and the rapid impact of the evolving CFTR modulator landscape. While our literature search yielded limited reports specifically focusing on the role of CFTR modulator therapy on CF-ABPA, findings from epidemiologic and retrospective studies suggest the potential for CFTR modulator therapies to positively influence pulmonary outcomes by addressing the underlying pathophysiology of CF-ABPA, especially by decreasing inflammatory response and Af colonization. Thus, this review highlights the promising scope of CFTR modulator therapy in decreasing the overall prevalence and incidence of CF-ABPA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology, Immunology, Epidemiology, and Therapy of Fungal Infections: A Themed Issue Dedicated to Professor David A. Stevens)

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27 pages, 87036 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Five New Species of Wood-Decaying Brown-Rot Fungi within Postiaceae (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) from Xinjiang, Northwest China

by Tai-Min Xu, Dong-Mei Wu, Neng Gao, Long Zeng, Yi-Hua Xu, Xiang-Ping Fan, Yi-Fei Sun and Bao-Kai Cui

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090655 - 17 Sep 2024

Abstract

Brown-rot fungi are an important group of wood-decaying fungi, but there has been limited research on the species diversity of brown-rot fungi in Xinjiang, China. During an investigation of brown-rot fungi in Xinjiang, from July 2018 to July 2023, five new species belonging [...] Read more.

Brown-rot fungi are an important group of wood-decaying fungi, but there has been limited research on the species diversity of brown-rot fungi in Xinjiang, China. During an investigation of brown-rot fungi in Xinjiang, from July 2018 to July 2023, five new species belonging to the family Postiaceae were discovered based on morphological and molecular evidence. Amaropostia altaiensis is characterized by a conchate pileus, circular pores (5–8 per mm), and growing on Populus. Amaropostia tianshanensis is characterized by a flabelliform-to-conchate pileus, angular pores (5–6 per mm), and growing on Picfea. Cyanosporus latisporus is characterized by a hirsute and dark greyish blue pileal surface with fresh, larger pores (3–6 per mm) and broad basidiospores (4.3–5.9 × 1.4–2 µm). Cyanosporus tianshanensis is characterized by a smooth and white-to-cream pileal surface with fresh, smaller pores (6–9 per mm). Osteina altaiensis is characterized by a light mouse-grey-to-honey-yellow pileal surface, smaller pores (4–6 per mm), and slightly wide basidiospores (5–6 × 1.7–2.2 µm). Each of these five new species form independent lineages in phylogenetic analyses based on the seven gene loci (ITS + nLSU + nSSU + mtSSU + TEF1 + RPB1 + RPB2). This research enriches the diversity of brown-rot fungi species, while also demonstrating the substantial discovery potential and research value of brown-rot fungi in Xinjiang. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Phylogeny and Ecology of Forest Fungi)

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9 pages, 495 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Central Nervous System Fungal Diseases in Children with Malignancies: A 16-Year Study from the Infection Working Group of the Hellenic Society of Pediatric Hematology Oncology

by Loizos Petrikkos, Maria Kourti, Kondylia Antoniadi, Tatiana-Sultana Tziola, Angeliki-Eleni Sfetsiori, Vasiliki Antari, Sofia Savoukidou, Georgia Avgerinou, Maria Filippidou, Eugenia Papakonstantinou, Sophia Polychronopoulou, Emmanuel Hatzipantelis, Dimitrios Doganis, Antonios Kattamis, Vassilios Papadakis, Emmanuel Roilides and Athanasios Tragiannidis

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 654; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090654 - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

We analyzed data on pediatric invasive fungal diseases of the central nervous system (CNS-IFDs) reported by five of a total of eight Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Departments in Greece for 16 years (2007–2022). A total of twelve patients (11 boys, median age: 9.5 years, range: [...] Read more.

We analyzed data on pediatric invasive fungal diseases of the central nervous system (CNS-IFDs) reported by five of a total of eight Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Departments in Greece for 16 years (2007–2022). A total of twelve patients (11 boys, median age: 9.5 years, range: 2–16) were reported suffering from CNS-IFDs. The underlying malignancy was acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 9/12 and acute myeloid leukemia, Ewing sarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma in one each. Eleven patients presented with CNS-related symptoms (i.e., seizures, headache, cerebral palsy, ataxia, hallucination, seizures, blurred vision, amaurosis). All patients had pathological MRI findings. Multifocal fungal disease was observed in 6/12 patients. Nine proven and three probable CNS-IFD cases were diagnosed. Causative pathogens in proven cases were Aspergillus spp. and Candida albicans (n = 2 each), Mucor spp., Rhizopus arrhizus, Absidia spp., Fusarium oxysporum and Cryptococcus neoformans (n = 1 each). Causative pathogens in probable cases were Aspergillus spp. (n = 2) and Candida spp. (n = 1). All patients received appropriate antifungal therapy (median duration: 69.5 days, range 19–364). Two patients underwent additional surgical treatment. Six patients were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit due to complications. Three patients (25%) died, two due to IFD and one due to an underlying disease. Early recognition and prompt intervention of CNS-IFDs may rescue the patients and improve overall survival. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pediatric Fungal Infections)

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14 pages, 2066 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Global Analysis of Natural Products Biosynthetic Diversity Encoded in Fungal Genomes

by Shu Zhang, Guohui Shi, Xinran Xu, Xu Guo, Sijia Li, Zhiyuan Li, Qi Wu and Wen-Bing Yin

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090653 - 13 Sep 2024

Abstract

Fungal secondary metabolites (SMs) represent an invaluable source of therapeutic drugs. Genomics-based approaches to SM discovery have revealed a vast and largely untapped biosynthetic potential within fungal genomes. Here, we used the publicly available fungal genome sequences from the NCBI public database, as [...] Read more.

Fungal secondary metabolites (SMs) represent an invaluable source of therapeutic drugs. Genomics-based approaches to SM discovery have revealed a vast and largely untapped biosynthetic potential within fungal genomes. Here, we used the publicly available fungal genome sequences from the NCBI public database, as well as tools such as antiSMASH, BIG-SLiCE, etc., to analyze a total of 11,598 fungal genomes, identifying 293,926 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), which were subsequently categorized into 26,825 gene cluster families (GCFs). It was discovered that only a tiny fraction, less than 1%, of these GCFs could be mapped to known natural products (NPs). Some GCFs that only contain a single BGC internally are crucial for the biodiversity of fungal biosynthesis. Evident patterns emerged from our analysis, revealing popular taxa as prominent sources of both actual and potential biosynthetic diversity. Our study also suggests that the genus rank distribution of GCF is generally consistent with NP diversity. It is noteworthy that genera Xylaria, Hypoxylon, Colletotrichum, Diaporthe, Nemania, and Calonectria appear to possess a higher potential for SM synthesis. In addition, 7213 BGCs match possible known compound structures, and homologous gene clusters of well-known drugs can be located in different genera, facilitating the development of derivatives that share structural similarity to these drugs and may potentially possess similar biological activity. Our study demonstrated the various types of fungi with mining potential, assisting researchers in prioritizing their research efforts and avoiding duplicate mining of known resources to further explore fungal NP producers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Discovery and Biosynthesis of Fungal Natural Products, 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 12746 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Pathogenicity of Colletotrichum truncatum Causing Hylocereus undatus Anthracnose through the Changes of Cell Wall-Degrading Enzymes and Components in Fruits

by Shuwu Zhang, Yun Liu, Jia Liu, Enchen Li and Bingliang Xu

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 652; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090652 - 13 Sep 2024

Abstract

Anthracnose is one of the destructive diseases of pitaya that seriously affects the plant growth and fruit quality and causes significant yield and economic losses worldwide. However, information regarding the species of pathogens that cause anthracnose in pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) fruits [...] Read more.

Anthracnose is one of the destructive diseases of pitaya that seriously affects the plant growth and fruit quality and causes significant yield and economic losses worldwide. However, information regarding the species of pathogens that cause anthracnose in pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) fruits in Gansu Province, China, and its pathogenic mechanism is unknown. Thus, the purposes of our present study were to identify the species of pathogens causing H. undatus fruits anthracnose based on the morphological and molecular characteristics and determine its pathogenic mechanism by physiological and biochemical methods. In our present study, forty-six isolates were isolated from the collected samples of diseased H. undatus fruits and classified as three types (named as H-1, H-2, and H-3), according to the colony and conidium morphological characteristics. The isolation frequencies of H-1, H-2, and H-3 types were 63.04%, 21.74%, and 15.22%, respectively. The representative single-spore isolate of HLGTJ-1 in H-1 type has significant pathogenicity, and finally we identified Colletotrichum truncatum as the pathogen based on the morphological characteristics as well as multi-locus sequence analysis. Moreover, the H. undatus fruits inoculated with C. truncatum had a significantly increased activity of cell wall-degrading enzymes (CWDEs) cellulase (Cx), β-glucosidase (β-Glu), polygalacturonase (PG), and pectin methylgalacturonase (PMG), while having a decreased level of cell wall components of original pectin and cellulose in comparison to control. The average increased activities of Cx, β-Glu, PG, and PMG were 30.73%, 40.40%, 51.55%, and 32.23% from day 0 to 6 after inoculation, respectively. In contrast, the average decreased contents of original pectin and cellulose were 1.82% and 16.47%, respectively, whereas the average increased soluble pectin content was 38.31% in comparison to control. Our results indicate that C. truncatum infection increased the activities of CWDEs in H. undatus fruits to disassemble their cell wall components, finally leading to the fruits’ decay and deterioration. Thus, our findings will provide significant evidence in the controlling of pitaya anthracnose in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control of Postharvest Fungal Diseases)

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22 pages, 10668 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Genomic Analyses of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum Pathotypes with Different Virulence Levels and Lifestyles

by Ma. Irene Morelos-Martínez, Horacio Cano-Camacho, Karla Morelia Díaz-Tapia, June Simpson, Everardo López-Romero and María Guadalupe Zavala-Páramo

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 651; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090651 - 13 Sep 2024

Abstract

Colletotrichum lindemuthianum is the most frequent pathogenic fungus of the common bean Phaseolus vulgaris. This filamentous fungus employs a hemibiotrophic nutrition/infection strategy, which is characteristic of many Colletotrichum species. Due to host–pathogen coevolution, C. lindemuthianum includes pathotypes with a diversity of virulence [...] Read more.

Colletotrichum lindemuthianum is the most frequent pathogenic fungus of the common bean Phaseolus vulgaris. This filamentous fungus employs a hemibiotrophic nutrition/infection strategy, which is characteristic of many Colletotrichum species. Due to host–pathogen coevolution, C. lindemuthianum includes pathotypes with a diversity of virulence against differential common bean varieties. In this study, we performed comparative genomic analyses on three pathotypes with different virulence levels and a non-pathogenic pathotype, isolated from different geographical areas in Mexico. Our results revealed large genomes with high transposable element contents that have undergone expansions, generating intraspecific diversity. All the pathotypes exhibited a similar number of clusters of orthologous genes (COGs) and Gene Ontology (GO) terms. TFomes contain families that are typical in fungal genomes; however, they show different contents between pathotypes, mainly in transcription factors with the fungal-specific TF and Zn2Cys6 domains. Peptidase families mainly contain abundant serine peptidases, metallopeptidases, and cysteine peptidases. In the secretomes, the number of genes differed between the pathotypes, with a high percentage of candidate effectors. Both the virulence gene and CAZyme gene content for each pathotype was abundant and diverse, and the latter was enriched in hemicellulolytic enzymes. We provide new insights into the nature of intraspecific diversity among C. lindemuthianum pathotypes and the origin of their ability to rapidly adapt to genetic changes in its host and environmental conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Virulence of Plant Pathogenic Fungi)

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15 pages, 2518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Regulation of Conidiation and Aflatoxin B1 Biosynthesis by a Blue Light Sensor LreA in Aspergillus flavus

by Kunzhi Jia, Yipu Jia, Qianhua Zeng, Zhaoqi Yan and Shihua Wang

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 650; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090650 - 13 Sep 2024

Abstract

Conidia are important for the dispersal of Aspergillus flavus, which usually generates aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and poses a threat to the safety of agricultural food. The development of conidia is usually susceptible to changes in environmental conditions, such as nutritional status and [...] Read more.

Conidia are important for the dispersal of Aspergillus flavus, which usually generates aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and poses a threat to the safety of agricultural food. The development of conidia is usually susceptible to changes in environmental conditions, such as nutritional status and light. However, how the light signal is involved in the conidiation in A. flavus is still unknown. In this study, LreA was identified to respond to blue light and mediate the promotion of conidiation in A. flavus, which is related to the central development pathway. At the same time, blue light inhibited the biosynthesis of AFB1, which was mediated by LreA and attributed to the transcriptional regulation of aflR and aflS expression. Our findings disclosed the function and mechanism of the blue light sensor LreA in regulating conidiation and AFB1 biosynthesis, which is beneficial for the prevention and control of A. flavus and mycotoxins. Full article

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16 pages, 4025 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Plasma Membrane H+-ATPase Promoter Driving the Expression of FADX Enables Highly Efficient Production of Punicic Acid in Rhodotorula toruloides Cultivated on Glucose and Crude Glycerol

by Daniela Krajciova and Roman Holic

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 649; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090649 - 13 Sep 2024

Abstract

Punicic acid (PuA) is a conjugated fatty acid with a wide range of nutraceutical properties naturally present in pomegranate seed oil. To meet the rising demand for pomegranate seed oil, a single-cell oil enriched in PuA provides a sustainable biomass-derived alternative. This study [...] Read more.

Punicic acid (PuA) is a conjugated fatty acid with a wide range of nutraceutical properties naturally present in pomegranate seed oil. To meet the rising demand for pomegranate seed oil, a single-cell oil enriched in PuA provides a sustainable biomass-derived alternative. This study describes the production of a PuA-enriched single-cell oil through the engineering of the red yeast Rhodotorula toruloides grown in glucose and a low-cost substrate, crude glycerol. The gene for Punica granatum fatty acid conjugase, PgFADX, was randomly integrated into the genome of R. toruloides without disrupting the carotenoid synthesis. In shake flask studies, the effects of three promoters (P_PGI1, P_NAR1, and P_PMA1) on PuA production were evaluated. PuA titers of 105.77 mg/L and 72.81 mg/L were obtained from engineered cells expressing PgFADX from the P_PMA1 promoter cultivated for 72 h in glucose and for 168 h in crude glycerol, respectively. Furthermore, the detailed lipid analysis revealed a high enrichment PuA in the triacylglycerol lipid structures, even without substantial modifications to the metabolic pathways. This report demonstrates the high potential of R. toruloides in the upcycling of a low-cost substrate, crude glycerol, into a value-added product such as PuA. The findings support the feasibility of using engineered R. toruloides for sustainable production of PuA-enriched single-cell oil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Yeast Lipid Production)

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24 pages, 2773 KiB

Open AccessReview

Epigenetic Regulation of Fungal Secondary Metabolism

by Yufei Zhang, Wenbin Yu, Yi Lu, Yichuan Wu, Zhiwei Ouyang, Yayi Tu and Bin He

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 648; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090648 - 13 Sep 2024

Abstract

Secondary metabolism is one of the important mechanisms by which fungi adapt to their living environment and promote survival and reproduction. Recent studies have shown that epigenetic regulation, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, plays key roles in fungal secondary [...] Read more.

Secondary metabolism is one of the important mechanisms by which fungi adapt to their living environment and promote survival and reproduction. Recent studies have shown that epigenetic regulation, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, plays key roles in fungal secondary metabolism and affect fungal growth, survival, and pathogenicity. This review describes recent advances in the study of epigenetic regulation of fungal secondary metabolism. We discuss the way in which epigenetic markers respond to environmental changes and stimulate the production of biologically active compounds by fungi, and the feasibility of these new findings applied to develop new antifungal strategies and optimize secondary metabolism. In addition, we have deliberated on possible future directions of research in this field. A deeper understanding of epigenetic regulatory networks is a key focus for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Fungal Secondary Metabolism, 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 6375 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Myosin-V Myo51 and Alpha-Actinin Ain1p Cooperate during Contractile Ring Assembly and Disassembly in Fission Yeast Cytokinesis

by Zoe L. Tyree, Kimberly Bellingham-Johnstun, Jessica Martinez-Baird and Caroline Laplante

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 647; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090647 - 12 Sep 2024

Abstract

Cytokinesis is driven in part by the constriction of a ring of actin filaments, myosin motors and other proteins. In fission yeast, three myosins contribute to cytokinesis including a Myosin-V Myo51. As Myosin-Vs typically carry cargo along actin filaments, the role of Myo51 [...] Read more.

Cytokinesis is driven in part by the constriction of a ring of actin filaments, myosin motors and other proteins. In fission yeast, three myosins contribute to cytokinesis including a Myosin-V Myo51. As Myosin-Vs typically carry cargo along actin filaments, the role of Myo51 in cytokinesis remains unclear. The previous work suggests that Myo51 may crosslink actin filaments. We hypothesized that if Myo51 crosslinks actin filaments, cells carrying double deletions of ain1, which encodes the crosslinker alpha-actinin, and myo51 (∆ain1 ∆myo51 cells) will exhibit more severe cytokinesis phenotypes than cells with the single ∆ain1 mutation. Contrary to our expectations, we found that the loss of Myo51 in ∆ain1 cells partially rescued the severity of the node clumping phenotype measured in ∆ain1 cells. Furthermore, we describe a normal process of contractile ring “shedding”, the appearance of fragments of ring material extending away from the contractile ring along the ingressing septum that occurs in the second half of constriction. We measured that ∆ain1 ∆myo51 cells exhibit premature and exaggerated shedding. Our work suggests that Myo51 is not a simple actin filament crosslinker. Instead, a role in effective node motion better recapitulates its function during ring assembly and disassembly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Yeast Cytokinesis)

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21 pages, 4171 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating the Genome-Based Average Nucleotide Identity Calculation for Identification of Twelve Yeast Species

by Claudia Cortimiglia, Javier Alonso-Del-Real, Mireya Viviana Belloso Daza, Amparo Querol, Giovanni Iacono and Pier Sandro Cocconcelli

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 646; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090646 - 11 Sep 2024

Abstract

Classifying a yeast strain into a recognized species is not always straightforward. Currently, the taxonomic delineation of yeast strains involves multiple approaches covering phenotypic characteristics and molecular methodologies, including genome-based analysis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of the [...] Read more.

Classifying a yeast strain into a recognized species is not always straightforward. Currently, the taxonomic delineation of yeast strains involves multiple approaches covering phenotypic characteristics and molecular methodologies, including genome-based analysis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of the Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) calculation through FastANI, a tool created for bacterial species identification, for the assignment of strains to some yeast species. FastANI, the alignment of in silico-extracted D1/D2 sequences of LSU rRNA, and multiple alignments of orthologous genes (MAOG) were employed to analyze 644 assemblies from 12 yeast genera, encompassing various species, and on a dataset of hybrid Saccharomyces species. Overall, the analysis showed high consistency between results obtained with FastANI and MAOG, although, FastANI proved to be more discriminating than the other two methods applied to genomic sequences. In particular, FastANI was effective in distinguishing between strains belonging to different species, defining clear boundaries between them (cutoff: 94–96%). Our results show that FastANI is a reliable method for attributing a known yeast species to a particular strain. Moreover, although hybridization events make species discrimination more complex, it was revealed to be useful in the identification of these cases. We suggest its inclusion as a key component in a comprehensive approach to species delineation. Using this approach with a larger number of yeasts would validate it as a rapid technique to identify yeasts based on whole genome sequences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Genomics, Genetics and Molecular Biology)

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24 pages, 14670 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Gene Phylogenetic Analyses Reveals Heteroxylaria Gen. Nov. and New Contributions to Xylariaceae (Ascomycota) from China

by An-Hong Zhu, Zi-Kun Song, Jun-Fang Wang, Hao-Wen Guan, Zhi Qu and Hai-Xia Ma

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090645 - 11 Sep 2024

Abstract

An in-depth study of the phylogenetic relationships of Xylaria species associated with nutshells of fruits and seeds within the genus Xylaria and related genera of Xylaceaecea was conducted in China. The multi-gene phylogenetic analyses were carried out based on ITS, RPB2, and TUB [...] Read more.

An in-depth study of the phylogenetic relationships of Xylaria species associated with nutshells of fruits and seeds within the genus Xylaria and related genera of Xylaceaecea was conducted in China. The multi-gene phylogenetic analyses were carried out based on ITS, RPB2, and TUB sequences of 100 species of 16 known genera in Xylariaceae around the world. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses, morphological observations, and ecological habitats, a new genus, Heteroxylaria, is established to accommodate four new species, viz. H. cordiicola, H. juglandicola, H. meliicola, and H. terminaliicola, and four new combinations, viz. H. oxyacanthae, H. palmicola, H. reevesiae, and H. rohrensis. The genus is characterized by cylindrical stromata with conspicuous to inconspicuous perithecial mounds, surface black, having brown to dark brown ascospores with a germ slit, and it grows on nutshell of fruits. The combined ITS+RPB2+TUB sequence dataset of representative taxa in the Xylariaceae demonstrate that Heteroxylaria is grouped with Hypocreodendron but forms a monophyletic lineage. All novelties described herein are morphologically illustrated and compared to similar species and phylogeny is investigated to establish new genera and species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research of Ascomycota)

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