Journal of Fungi

35 pages, 36488 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Revealing Brownish Mycena Diversity in China: New Discoveries and Taxonomic Insights

by Renxiu Wei, Yupeng Ge, Liangliang Qi, Menghui Han, Hui Zeng, Yaping Hu, Li Zou, Xianhao Cheng, Xiaoming Wu and Qin Na

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060439 - 20 Jun 2024

Viewed by 554

Abstract

Within the genus Mycena, species exhibiting brownish basidiomata present considerable challenges in identification due to similar coloration. This study underscores the significance of pileipellis types and cheilocystidia characteristics as critical in delimiting brownish Mycena species. To clarify the principal taxonomic characters and [...] Read more.

Within the genus Mycena, species exhibiting brownish basidiomata present considerable challenges in identification due to similar coloration. This study underscores the significance of pileipellis types and cheilocystidia characteristics as critical in delimiting brownish Mycena species. To clarify the principal taxonomic characters and their utility in distinguishing between brownish Mycena species, a morphological taxonomy and phylogenetic analysis were performed. Five new species from China were introduced and characterized through a comprehensive morphological anatomy and phylogenetic substantiation: M. campanulatihemisphaerica sp. nov., M. digitifurcata sp. nov., M. kunyuensis sp. nov., M. limitis sp. nov., and M. oryzifluens sp. nov. Discussions of these taxa are supplemented with morphological illustrations. The phylogenetic relationships were inferred using Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood methods based on sequences from the internal transcribed spacer and the large subunit regions of nuclear ribosomal RNA. With the addition of these five new species, the worldwide count of brownish Mycena increases to 94, and a key to the 29 known species of brownish Mycena from China is presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Taxonomy, Systematics and Evolution of Forestry Fungi, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3002 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Volatile Semiochemicals Emitted by Beauveria bassiana Modulate Larval Feeding Behavior and Food Choice Preference in Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

by Arturo Ramírez-Ordorica, Sandra Goretti Adame-Garnica, Hilda Eréndira Ramos-Aboites, Robert Winkler and Lourdes Macías-Rodríguez

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 438; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060438 - 20 Jun 2024

Viewed by 938

Abstract

Beauveria bassiana is an entomopathogenic fungus that parasitizes and kills insects. The role of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by B. bassiana acting as semiochemicals during its interaction with lepidopterans is poorly explored. Here, we studied the effect of VOCs from B. bassiana [...] Read more.

Beauveria bassiana is an entomopathogenic fungus that parasitizes and kills insects. The role of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by B. bassiana acting as semiochemicals during its interaction with lepidopterans is poorly explored. Here, we studied the effect of VOCs from B. bassiana and 3-methylbutanol (as a single compound) on the feeding behavior of L2 larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda in sorghum plants. Additionally, we assessed whether fungal VOCs induce chemical modifications in the plants that affect larval food preferences. Metabolomic profiling of plant tissues was performed by mass spectrometry and bioassays in a dual-choice olfactometer. The results showed that the larval feeding behavior was affected by the B. bassiana strain AI2, showing that the insect response is strain-specific. Furthermore, 80 µg of 3-methylbutanol affected the number of bites. The larval feeding choice was dependent on the background context. Fragment spectra and a matching precursor ion mass of 165.882 m/z enabled the putative identification of 4-coumaric acid in sorghum leaves exposed to fungal VOCs, which may be associated with larval deterrent responses. These results provide valuable insights into the bipartite interaction of B. bassiana with lepidopterans through VOC emission, with the plant as a mediator of the interaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Entomopathogenic and Nematophagous Fungi)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 10950 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Flavohemoglobins in the Development and Aflatoxin Biosynthesis of Aspergillus flavus

by Xiaoling Zhou, Dongyue Chen, Min Yu, Yuan Jiao and Fang Tao

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 437; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060437 - 19 Jun 2024

Viewed by 575

Abstract

Aspergillus flavus is notorious for contaminating food with its secondary metabolite—highly carcinogenic aflatoxins. In this study, we found that exogenous nitric oxide (NO) donor could influence aflatoxin production in A. flavus. Flavohemoglobins (FHbs) are vital functional units in maintaining nitric oxide (NO) [...] Read more.

Aspergillus flavus is notorious for contaminating food with its secondary metabolite—highly carcinogenic aflatoxins. In this study, we found that exogenous nitric oxide (NO) donor could influence aflatoxin production in A. flavus. Flavohemoglobins (FHbs) are vital functional units in maintaining nitric oxide (NO) homeostasis and are crucial for normal cell function. To investigate whether endogenous NO changes affect aflatoxin biosynthesis, two FHbs, FHbA and FHbB, were identified in this study. FHbA was confirmed as the main protein to maintain NO homeostasis, as its absence led to a significant increase in intracellular NO levels and heightened sensitivity to SNP stress. Dramatically, FHbA deletion retarded aflatoxin production. In addition, FHbA played important roles in mycelial growth, conidial germination, and sclerotial development, and response to oxidative stress and high-temperature stress. Although FHbB did not significantly impact the cellular NO level, it was also involved in sclerotial development, aflatoxin synthesis, and stress response. Our findings provide a new perspective for studying the regulatory mechanism of the development and secondary mechanism in A. flavus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mycotoxins and Toxigenic Fungi 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 4267 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Bioremediation of Tetradecane, Cyclohexanone and Cyclohexane by Filamentous Fungi from Polluted Habitats in Kazakhstan

by Mariam Gaid, Wiebke Jentzsch, Hannah Beermann, Anne Reinhard, Mareike Meister, Ramza Berzhanova, Togzhan Mukasheva, Tim Urich and Annett Mikolasch

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 436; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060436 - 19 Jun 2024

Viewed by 648

Abstract

Studying the fates of oil components and their interactions with ecological systems is essential for developing comprehensive management strategies and enhancing restoration following oil spill incidents. The potential expansion of Kazakhstan’s role in the global oil market necessitates the existence of land-specific studies [...] Read more.

Studying the fates of oil components and their interactions with ecological systems is essential for developing comprehensive management strategies and enhancing restoration following oil spill incidents. The potential expansion of Kazakhstan’s role in the global oil market necessitates the existence of land-specific studies that contribute to the field of bioremediation. In this study, a set of experiments was designed to assess the growth and biodegradation capacities of eight fungal strains sourced from Kazakhstan soil when exposed to the hydrocarbon substrates from which they were initially isolated. The strains were identified as Aspergillus sp. SBUG-M1743, Penicillium javanicum SBUG-M1744, SBUG-M1770, Trichoderma harzianum SBUG-M1750 and Fusarium oxysporum SBUG-1746, SBUG-M1748, SBUG-M1768 and SBUG-M1769 using the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. Furthermore, microscopic and macroscopic evaluations agreed with the sequence-based identification. Aspergillus sp. SBUG-M1743 and P. javanicum SBUG-M1744 displayed remarkable biodegradation capabilities in the presence of tetradecane with up to a 9-fold biomass increase in the static cultures. T. harzianum SBUG-M1750 exhibited poor growth, which was a consequence of its low efficiency of tetradecane degradation. Monocarboxylic acids were the main degradation products by SBUG-M1743, SBUG-M1744, SBUG-M1750, and SBUG-M1770 indicating the monoterminal degradation pathway through β-oxidation, while the additional detection of dicarboxylic acid in SBUG-M1768 and SBUG-M1769 cultures was indicative of the fungus’ ability to undertake both monoterminal and diterminal degradation pathways. F. oxysporum SBUG-M1746 and SBUG-M1748 in the presence of cyclohexanone showed a doubling of the biomass with the ability to degrade the substrate almost completely in shake cultures. F. oxysporum SBUG-M1746 was also able to degrade cyclohexane completely and excreted all possible metabolites of the degradation pathway. Understanding the degradation potential of these fungal isolates to different hydrocarbon substrates will help in developing effective bioremediation strategies tailored to local conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioremediation of Contaminated Soil by Fungi)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2673 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fauna and Ecology of Macromycetes (Basidiomycota) in the Arctic Tree and Shrub Ecosystems of Central Siberia

by Sergey Sergeevich Kulakov, Andrey Ivanovich Tatarintsev, Denis Aleksandrovich Demidko and Natalia Pavlovna Khizhniak

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060435 - 19 Jun 2024

Viewed by 592

Abstract

The research was aimed at studying the taxonomic diversity, habitat specialization, and trophic characteristics of mycobiota, including Basidiomycota, in the northern ecosystems of the Krasnoyarsk Krai (Central Siberia) near Norilsk. Larch forests and woodlands in the Siberian permafrost zone are distinctive and Basidiomycota, [...] Read more.

The research was aimed at studying the taxonomic diversity, habitat specialization, and trophic characteristics of mycobiota, including Basidiomycota, in the northern ecosystems of the Krasnoyarsk Krai (Central Siberia) near Norilsk. Larch forests and woodlands in the Siberian permafrost zone are distinctive and Basidiomycota, as a component of these ecosystems, plays an essential role in their functioning. Currently, there is a paucity of information about this group in Arctic ecosystems, both in terms of floristic and ecological aspects. Seventy species of macromycetes belonging to different trophic groups were discovered and identified. Only 15% of species occur regularly, while most species are found rarely or only once. The identified species belong to 44 genera, 25 families, and 8 orders, which are included in the class Agaricomycetes. The leading families in terms of the number of species are Russulaceae, Polyporaceae, Tricholomataceae, Suillaceae, Strophariaceae, and Cortinariaceae. Mycorrhizal fungi and wood decay fungi dominate the structure of mycobiota of the study area (the total share is 71%). The rest of the species (29%) are fungal decomposers inhabiting plant litter, the forest floor, and humus. The largest number of species occur in forest ecosystems, which are dominated by mycorrhizal and wood decay fungi (up to 70%), which are trophically associated with woody plants and debris. The fungal decomposers inhabiting plant litter, the forest floor, and humus dominate (about 80%) in the species composition of tundra, where, in the absence of woody substrate, wood decay fungi have not been found at all. The species richness of tree and shrub Arctic ecosystems is low, yet the taxonomical and ecological structure of Basidiomycota is similar to that observed in taiga and temperate forests. These data permit a more comprehensive description of the biodiversity of the Arctic and may prove useful in studying biological processes in these ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Macromycetes: Diversity and Biotechnological Potential)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2909 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Card9 Broadly Regulates Host Immunity against Experimental Pulmonary Cryptococcus neoformans 52D Infection

by Isabelle Angers, Wided Akik, Annie Beauchamp, Irah L. King, Larry C. Lands and Salman T. Qureshi

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060434 - 19 Jun 2024

Viewed by 623

Abstract

The ubiquitous soil-associated fungus Cryptococcus neoformans causes pneumonia that may progress to fatal meningitis. Recognition of fungal cell walls by C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) has been shown to trigger the host immune response. Caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (Card9) is an intracellular adaptor [...] Read more.

The ubiquitous soil-associated fungus Cryptococcus neoformans causes pneumonia that may progress to fatal meningitis. Recognition of fungal cell walls by C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) has been shown to trigger the host immune response. Caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (Card9) is an intracellular adaptor that is downstream of several CLRs. Experimental studies have implicated Card9 in host resistance against C. neoformans; however, the mechanisms that are associated with susceptibility to progressive infection are not well defined. To further characterize the role of Card9 in cryptococcal infection, Card9^em1Sq mutant mice that lack exon 2 of the Card9 gene on the Balb/c genetic background were created using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing technology and intratracheally infected with C. neoformans 52D. Card9^em1Sq mice had significantly higher lung and brain fungal burdens and shorter survival after C. neoformans 52D infection. Susceptibility of Card9^em1Sq mice was associated with lower pulmonary cytokine and chemokine production, as well as reduced numbers of CD4⁺ lymphocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, and dendritic cells in the lungs. Histological analysis and intracellular cytokine staining of CD4⁺ T cells demonstrated a Th2 pattern of immunity in Card9^em1Sq mice. These findings demonstrate that Card9 broadly regulates the host inflammatory and immune response to experimental pulmonary infection with a moderately virulent strain of C. neoformans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives on Cryptococcus and Cryptococcosis)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1504 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Metabolic Engineering of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for Production of Canthaxanthin, Zeaxanthin, and Astaxanthin

by Peerada Promdonkoy, Akaraphol Watcharawipas, Suriyaporn Bubphasawan, Kitisak Sansatchanon, Nattida Suwanakitti, Kanokarn Kocharin and Weerawat Runguphan

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060433 - 18 Jun 2024

Viewed by 519

Abstract

The sustainable production of natural compounds is increasingly important in today’s industrial landscape. This study investigates the metabolic engineering of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the efficient biosynthesis of valuable carotenoids: canthaxanthin, zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin. Utilizing a tailored parental yeast strain, Sp_Bc, we optimized the [...] Read more.

The sustainable production of natural compounds is increasingly important in today’s industrial landscape. This study investigates the metabolic engineering of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the efficient biosynthesis of valuable carotenoids: canthaxanthin, zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin. Utilizing a tailored parental yeast strain, Sp_Bc, we optimized the carotenoid pathway by screening and identifying CrtW and CrtZ enzymatic variants. The CrtW variant from Bradyrhizobium sp. achieved a canthaxanthin titer of 425.1 ± 69.1 µg/L, while the CrtZ variant from Pantoea ananatis achieved a zeaxanthin titer of 70.5 ± 10.8 µg/L. Additionally, we optimized carotenoid production by exploring enzyme fusion strategies for all three studied carotenoids and organelle compartmentalization specifically for enhancing astaxanthin synthesis. We further improved carotenoid production by integrating the optimal gene constructs into the yeast genome and deleting the GAL80 gene, enabling the use of sucrose as a carbon source. The engineered strain Sp_Bc-Can001 ∆gal80 was evaluated in a 5 L bioreactor fermentation, achieving a notable canthaxanthin titer of 60.36 ± 1.51 mg/L using sucrose. This research conclusively establishes S. cerevisiae as a viable platform for efficient carotenoid biosynthesis and, for the first time in this yeast system, illustrates sucrose’s viability as a carbon source for canthaxanthin production. These findings pave the way for sustainable, cost-effective carotenoid production at an industrial scale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives on Industrial Yeasts)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 1272 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Rapid Molecular Diagnosis of Sporotrichosis Directly from Biological Samples from a Reference Center in Brazil

by Amanda Gabriela da Silva, Arthur Felipe Cavalcanti de Matos, Bruna Rodrigues de Sousa, Claudia Elise Ferraz, Raul Leal Faria Luiz, Rejane Pereira Neves, Reginaldo Gonçalves de Lima-Neto and Manoel Marques Evangelista Oliveira

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 432; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060432 - 18 Jun 2024

Viewed by 532

Abstract

The gold standard diagnosis of sporotrichosis is the isolation of Sporothrix sp. in culture media, but this is a time-consuming test that is susceptible to contamination and can be affected by the fungal load. Molecular methods such as nested PCR are gaining more [...] Read more.

The gold standard diagnosis of sporotrichosis is the isolation of Sporothrix sp. in culture media, but this is a time-consuming test that is susceptible to contamination and can be affected by the fungal load. Molecular methods such as nested PCR are gaining more ground in the management of several infections as they are tools for the rapid and accurate identification of microorganisms from pure cultures or directly from biological samples. This study aimed to apply a nested PCR molecular protocol for the rapid detection of Sporothrix spp. directly from clinical samples. Thirteen samples—six from skin biopsies, five from skin exudates, and two from conjunctival secretions—were obtained from patients diagnosed with sporotrichosis due to S. brasiliensis. Calmodulin gene sequencing identified all the isolates as S. brasiliensis. Nested PCR was able to detect all the Sporothrix sensu lato directly from clinical samples as well as the CBS 120339 reference strain. The nested PCR protocol stands out as a diagnostic alternative, as it allows the identification of Sporothrix spp. directly from clinical samples without the need for fungal isolation. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 13230 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Cysteine Protease CfAtg4 Interacts with CfAtg8 to Govern the Growth, Autophagy and Pathogenicity of Colletotrichum fructicola

by Shufeng Guo and Shengpei Zhang

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 431; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060431 - 18 Jun 2024

Viewed by 455

Abstract

Camellia oleifera is a native woody oil plant in southern China and is infected with anthracnose wherever it is grown. We previously identified Colletotrichum fructicola as the major causal agent of anthracnose on C. oleifera and found that CfAtg8 regulates the pathogenicity and [...] Read more.

Camellia oleifera is a native woody oil plant in southern China and is infected with anthracnose wherever it is grown. We previously identified Colletotrichum fructicola as the major causal agent of anthracnose on C. oleifera and found that CfAtg8 regulates the pathogenicity and development of C. fructicola. Here, we revealed that CfAtg4 interacts with CfAtg8, contributing to the formation of autophagosomes. The CfAtg8^1–160 allele, which only contains 1–160 amino acids of the CfAtg8, partially recovered the autophagosome numbers and autophagy defects of the ΔCfatg4 mutant. Consequently, these recoveries resulted in the restoration of the defects of the ΔCfatg4 mutant in growth and responses to different external stresses, albeit to an extent. Importantly, we illustrated the critical roles of CfAtg8^1–160 in appressoria formation, and pathogenicity. Collectively, our findings provide new insights into the importance of the interaction between CfAtg8 and CfAtg4 in the growth, autophagy and pathogenicity of the phytopathogenic fungi. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Fungal Diseases and Crop Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 8293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Near-Gapless Penicillium fuscoglaucum Genome Enables the Discovery of Lifestyle Features as an Emerging Post-Harvest Phytopathogen

by Dianiris Luciano-Rosario, Wayne M. Jurick II and Christopher Gottschalk

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060430 - 18 Jun 2024

Viewed by 539

Abstract

Penicillium spp. occupy many diverse biological niches that include plant pathogens, opportunistic human pathogens, saprophytes, indoor air contaminants, and those selected specifically for industrial applications to produce secondary metabolites and lifesaving antibiotics. Recent phylogenetic studies have established Penicillium fuscoglaucum as a synonym for [...] Read more.

Penicillium spp. occupy many diverse biological niches that include plant pathogens, opportunistic human pathogens, saprophytes, indoor air contaminants, and those selected specifically for industrial applications to produce secondary metabolites and lifesaving antibiotics. Recent phylogenetic studies have established Penicillium fuscoglaucum as a synonym for Penicillium commune, which is an indoor air contaminant and toxin producer and can infect apple fruit during storage. During routine culturing on selective media in the lab, we obtained an isolate of P. fuscoglaucum Pf_T2 and sequenced its genome. The Pf_T2 genome is far superior to available genomic resources for the species. Our assembly exhibits a length of 35.1 Mb, a BUSCO score of 97.9% complete, and consists of five scaffolds/contigs representing the four expected chromosomes. It was determined that the Pf_T2 genome was colinear with a type specimen P. fuscoglaucum and contained a lineage-specific, intact cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) gene cluster. For comparison, a highly virulent postharvest apple pathogen, P. expansum strain TDL 12.1, was included and showed a similar growth pattern in culture to our Pf_T2 isolate but was far more aggressive in apple fruit than P. fuscoglaucum. The genome of Pf_T2 serves as a major improvement over existing resources, has superior annotation, and can inform forthcoming omics-based work and functional genetic studies to probe secondary metabolite production and disparities in aggressiveness during apple fruit decay. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

8 pages, 778 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Coccidioidomycosis in Immunocompromised at a Non-Endemic Referral Center in Mexico

by Carla M. Román-Montes, Lisset Seoane-Hernández, Rommel Flores-Miranda, Andrea Carolina Tello-Mercado, Andrea Rangel-Cordero, Rosa Areli Martínez-Gamboa, José Sifuentes-Osornio, Alfredo Ponce-de-León and Fernanda González-Lara

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060429 - 18 Jun 2024

Viewed by 591

Abstract

The incidence and distribution of coccidioidomycosis are increasing. Information scarcity is evident in Mexico, particularly in non-endemic zones and specific populations. We compared the treatment and outcomes for patients with isolated pulmonary infections and those with disseminated coccidioidomycosis, including mortality rates within six [...] Read more.

The incidence and distribution of coccidioidomycosis are increasing. Information scarcity is evident in Mexico, particularly in non-endemic zones and specific populations. We compared the treatment and outcomes for patients with isolated pulmonary infections and those with disseminated coccidioidomycosis, including mortality rates within six weeks of diagnosis. Of 31 CM cases, 71% were male and 55% were disseminated. For 42% of patients, there was no evidence of having lived in or visited an endemic region. All patients had at least one comorbidity, and 58% had pharmacologic immunosuppressants. The general mortality rate was 30%; without differences between disseminated and localized disease. In our research, we describe a CM with a high frequency of disseminated disease without specific risk factors and non-significant mortality. Exposure to endemic regions was not found in a considerable number of subjects. We consider diverse reasons for why this may be, such as climate change or migration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dimorphic Fungal Pathogen Coccidioides and Coccidioidomycosis)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 2170 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Colonization and Biodegradation Potential of Fungal Communities on Immersed Polystyrene vs. Biodegradable Plastics: A Time Series Study in a Marina Environment

by Aurélie Philippe, Marie Salaun, Maxence Quemener, Cyril Noël, Kévin Tallec, Camille Lacroix, Emmanuel Coton and Gaëtan Burgaud

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060428 - 18 Jun 2024

Viewed by 632

Abstract

Plastic pollution of the ocean is a major environmental threat. In this context, a better understanding of the microorganisms able to colonize and potentially degrade these pollutants is of interest. This study explores the colonization and biodegradation potential of fungal communities on foamed [...] Read more.

Plastic pollution of the ocean is a major environmental threat. In this context, a better understanding of the microorganisms able to colonize and potentially degrade these pollutants is of interest. This study explores the colonization and biodegradation potential of fungal communities on foamed polystyrene and alternatives biodegradable plastics immersed in a marina environment over time, using the Brest marina (France) as a model site. The methodology involved a combination of high-throughput 18S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to investigate fungal taxa associated with plastics compared to the surrounding seawater, and a culture-dependent approach to isolate environmentally relevant fungi to further assess their capabilities to utilize polymers as carbon sources. Metabarcoding results highlighted the significant diversity of fungal communities associated with both foamed polystyrene and biodegradable plastics, revealing a dynamic colonization process influenced by the type of polymer and immersion time. Notably, the research suggests a potential for certain fungal species to utilize polymers as a carbon source, emphasizing the need for further exploration of fungal biodegradation potential and mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental and Ecological Interactions of Fungi)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 4364 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Regulate Lipid and Amino Acid Metabolic Pathways to Promote the Growth of Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf

by Yihao Kang, Gratien Twagirayezu, Jie Xu, Yunying Wen, Pengxiang Shang, Juan Song, Qian Wang, Xianliang Li, Shengqiu Liu, Tingsu Chen, Tong Cheng and Jinlian Zhang

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060427 - 18 Jun 2024

Viewed by 507

Abstract

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi can enhance the uptake of soil nutrients and water by citrus, promoting its growth. However, the specific mechanisms underlying the action of AM fungi in promoting the growth of citrus were not fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore [...] Read more.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi can enhance the uptake of soil nutrients and water by citrus, promoting its growth. However, the specific mechanisms underlying the action of AM fungi in promoting the growth of citrus were not fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore the role of AM fungi Funneliformis mosseae in the regulatory mechanisms of P. trifoliata growth. Pot experiments combined with non-targeted metabolomics methods were used to observe the growth process and changes in metabolic products of P. trifoliata under the conditions of F. mosseae inoculation. The results showed that F. mosseae could form an excellent symbiotic relationship with P. trifoliata, thereby enhancing the utilization of soil nutrients and significantly promoting its growth. Compared with the control, the plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, and aboveground and underground dry weight in the F. mosseae inoculation significantly increased by 2.57, 1.29, 1.57, 4.25, and 2.78 times, respectively. Moreover, the root system results confirmed that F. mosseae could substantially promote the growth of P. trifoliata. Meanwhile, the metabolomics data indicated that 361 differential metabolites and 56 metabolic pathways were identified in the roots of P. trifoliata and were inoculated with F. mosseae. This study revealed that the inoculated F. mosseae could participate in ABC transporters by upregulating their participation, glycerophospholipid metabolism, aminoacyl tRNA biosynthesis, tryptophan metabolism and metabolites from five metabolic pathways of benzoxazinoid biosynthesis [mainly enriched in lipid (39.50%) and amino acid-related metabolic pathways] to promote the growth of P. trifoliata. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungi in Agriculture and Biotechnology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 788 KiB

Open AccessReview

Inbred Mouse Models in Cryptococcus neoformans Research

by Minna Ding and Kirsten Nielsen

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 426; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060426 - 17 Jun 2024

Viewed by 512

Abstract

Animal models are frequently used as surrogates to understand human disease. In the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus species complex, several variations of a mouse model of disease were developed that recapitulate different aspects of human disease. These mouse models have been implemented using various [...] Read more.

Animal models are frequently used as surrogates to understand human disease. In the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus species complex, several variations of a mouse model of disease were developed that recapitulate different aspects of human disease. These mouse models have been implemented using various inbred and outbred mouse backgrounds, many of which have genetic differences that can influence host response and disease outcome. In this review, we will discuss the most commonly used inbred mouse backgrounds in C. neoformans infection models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cryptococcus Infections and Pathogenesis)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1908 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Diversity and Floristic Analysis of Rust Diseases in the Sanjiangyuan Forest Plants

by Qi Xu and Luchao Bai

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060425 - 16 Jun 2024

Viewed by 591

Abstract

Between 2020 and 2023, rust fungus specimens were collected from the primary forested regions of the Sanjiangyuan area in Qinghai Province, resulting in over 300 samples. A taxonomic and phylogenetic study of the rust fungi from these forests was conducted using morphological and [...] Read more.

Between 2020 and 2023, rust fungus specimens were collected from the primary forested regions of the Sanjiangyuan area in Qinghai Province, resulting in over 300 samples. A taxonomic and phylogenetic study of the rust fungi from these forests was conducted using morphological and molecular biological techniques. The investigation identified rust fungi from 7 families, 12 genera, 56 species and varieties, including 10 new host records, 1 new record for China, and 2 novel species. The host plants involved belonged to 26 families, 48 genera, and 78 species. Pucciniaceae and Coleosporiaceae were the dominant families, with the genera Puccinia, Melampsora, and Gymnosporangium being prevalent. The rust fungi in the Sanjiangyuan forests showed a biogeographical affinity with the North Temperate Zone. Floristic comparisons revealed a higher similarity with rust fungi from Inner Mongolia, Gansu, and Tibet and a lower similarity with those from Hainan. An analysis of the life forms of rust fungus host plants indicated that herbaceous plants were the most common, followed by shrubs and trees. In different regions of Sanjiangyuan, rust fungi were found as follows: Golog Prefecture with 6 families, 9 genera, and 28 species; Yushu Prefecture with 5 families, 8 genera, and 31 species; Huangnan Prefecture with 5 families, 9 genera, and 26 species; and Hainan Prefecture with 4 families, 5 genera, and 10 species. The families Pucciniaceae, Melampsoraceae, and Coleosporiaceae were common across all four regions. Moreover, the families Rosaceae, Asteraceae, Ranunculaceae, Salicaceae, and Caprifoliaceae were shared among the host plants in these regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rust Fungi)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1412 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Secondary Metabolites from Marine-Derived Fungus Penicillium rubens BTBU20213035

by Xiuli Xu, Yifei Dong, Jinpeng Yang, Long Wang, Linlin Ma, Fuhang Song and Xiaoli Ma

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060424 - 16 Jun 2024

Viewed by 534

Abstract

Two new polyketide derivatives, penirubenones A and B (1 and 2), and two naturally rare amino-bis-tetrahydrofuran derivatives, penirubenamides A and B (3 and 4), together with nine known compounds (5–13) were isolated from the marine-derived [...] Read more.

Two new polyketide derivatives, penirubenones A and B (1 and 2), and two naturally rare amino-bis-tetrahydrofuran derivatives, penirubenamides A and B (3 and 4), together with nine known compounds (5–13) were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Penicillium rubens BTBU20213035. The structures were identified by HRESIMS and 1D and 2D NMR analyses, and their absolute configurations were determined by a comparison of experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectroscopy and ¹³C NMR data. We found that 6 exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with an MIC value of 3.125 μg/mL, and 1 and 2 showed synergistic antifungal activity against Candida albicans at 12.5 and 50 μg/mL with 0.0625 μg/mL rapamycin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Gift of Marine Fungi: Abundant Secondary Metabolites)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 11983 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Morphological and Phylogenetic Analyses Reveal Three New Species of Entomopathogenic Fungi Belonging to Clavicipitaceae (Hypocreales, Ascomycota)

by Zhi-Qin Wang, Jin-Mei Ma, Zhi-Li Yang, Jing Zhao, Zhi-Yong Yu, Jian-Hong Li and Hong Yu

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060423 - 14 Jun 2024

Viewed by 585

Abstract

This study aims to report three new species of Conoideocrella and Moelleriella from Yunnan Province, Southwestern China. Species of Conoideocrella and Moelleriella parasitize scale insects (Coccidae and Lecaniidae, Hemiptera) and whiteflies (Aleyrodidae, Hemiptera). Based on the phylogenetic analyses of the three-gene nrLSU, tef-1α [...] Read more.

This study aims to report three new species of Conoideocrella and Moelleriella from Yunnan Province, Southwestern China. Species of Conoideocrella and Moelleriella parasitize scale insects (Coccidae and Lecaniidae, Hemiptera) and whiteflies (Aleyrodidae, Hemiptera). Based on the phylogenetic analyses of the three-gene nrLSU, tef-1α, and rpb1, it showed one new record species (Conoideocrella tenuis) and one new species (Conoideocrella fenshuilingensis sp. nov.) in the genus Conoideocrella, and two new species, i.e., Moelleriella longzhuensis sp. nov. and Moelleriella jinuoana sp. nov. in the genus Moelleriella. The three new species were each clustered into separate clades that distinguished themselves from one another. All of them were distinguishable from their allied species based on their morphology. Morphological descriptions, illustrations, and comparisons of the allied taxa of the four species are provided in the present paper. In addition, calculations of intraspecific and interspecific genetic distances were performed for Moelleriella and Conoideocrella. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ascomycota: Diversity, Taxonomy and Phylogeny 2.0)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 4219 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Neutrophil Oxidative Burst Profile Is Related to a Satisfactory Response to Itraconazole and Clinical Cure in Feline Sporotrichosis

by Luisa Helena Monteiro de Miranda, Marta de Almeida Santiago, Julia Frankenfeld, Erica Guerino dos Reis, Rodrigo Caldas Menezes, Sandro Antonio Pereira, Isabella Dib Ferreira Gremião, Regina Hofmann-Lehmann and Fátima Conceição-Silva

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 422; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060422 - 14 Jun 2024

Viewed by 528

Abstract

Despite the central role of cats in the transmission and amplification of Sporothrix, studies regarding immune response in feline sporotrichosis are scarce. In cats with sporotrichosis, neutrophil-rich lesions are usually associated to good general condition and lower fungal burden. However, the role [...] Read more.

Despite the central role of cats in the transmission and amplification of Sporothrix, studies regarding immune response in feline sporotrichosis are scarce. In cats with sporotrichosis, neutrophil-rich lesions are usually associated to good general condition and lower fungal burden. However, the role of neutrophils in anti-Sporothrix immunity has been little explored in cats. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the neutrophil oxidative burst in the blood of cats with sporotrichosis. Cats with sporotrichosis included in the study were treated with itraconazole (ITZ) alone or combined with potassium iodide (KI). The neutrophil oxidative burst was evaluated through a flow-cytometry-based assay using dihydrorhodamine 123 (background) and stimulation with Zymosan and heat-killed Sporothrix yeasts. The cure rate was 50.0% in cats under treatment with ITZ monotherapy and 90.9% in cats treated with ITZ + KI (p = 0.014), endorsing the combination therapy as an excellent alternative for the treatment of feline sporotrichosis. Higher percentages of Sporothrix-stimulated neutrophils were associated with good general condition (p = 0.003). Higher percentages of Sporothrix- (p = 0.05) and Zymosan-activated (p = 0.014) neutrophils before and early in the treatment were related to clinical cure in ITZ-treated cats. The correlation between oxidative burst and successful use of KI could not be properly assessed given the low number of failures (n = 2) in this treatment group. Nasal mucosa involvement, typically linked to treatment failure, was related to lower percentages of activated neutrophils in the background at the treatment outcome (p = 0.02). Our results suggest a beneficial role of neutrophils in feline sporotrichosis and a positive correlation between neutrophil activation and the cure process in ITZ-treated cats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives on Sporothrix and Sporotrichosis)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1889 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Comprehensive Characterization of Tuber maculatum, New in Uruguay: Morphological, Molecular, and Aromatic Analyses

by Francisco Kuhar, Eva Tejedor-Calvo, Alejandro Sequeira, David Pelissero, Mariana Cosse, Domizia Donnini and Eduardo Nouhra

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060421 - 14 Jun 2024

Viewed by 686

Abstract

Although only a few species of Tuber account for the major truffle sales volume, many species that are not considered delicacies are finding their way to the market, especially in regions where the traditionally appreciated ones do not occur. This is the case [...] Read more.

Although only a few species of Tuber account for the major truffle sales volume, many species that are not considered delicacies are finding their way to the market, especially in regions where the traditionally appreciated ones do not occur. This is the case for whitish truffles. Specimens of whitish truffles were collected in pecan (Carya illinoinensis) orchards in Uruguay in October 2021. Morphological and molecular methods were used to characterize and assess their identity as Tuber maculatum Vittad. An SPME extraction of volatile compounds and GC–MS analyses were performed to characterize the aromatic profile of these specimens and evaluate their potential applications. Among the 60 VOCs detected, 3-octenone (mushroom odor), 3-octanol (moss, nut, mushroom odor), and 2H-pyran-2-one (no odor), followed by octen-1-ol-acetate (no odor) and 2-undecanone (orange, fresh, green odor) were the major compounds in T. maculatum fruiting bodies. The attributes of exotic edible mushrooms of commercial value in the region are highlighted. In particular, this work emphasizes the characteristics of truffles as a byproduct of pecan cultivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives on Tuber Fungi)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 6302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Photoreactivation Activities of Rad5, Rad16A and Rad16B Help Beauveria bassiana to Recover from Solar Ultraviolet Damage

by Xin-Cheng Luo, Lei Yu, Si-Yuan Xu, Sheng-Hua Ying and Ming-Guang Feng

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060420 - 13 Jun 2024

Viewed by 664

Abstract

In budding yeast, Rad5 and Rad7-Rad16 play respective roles in the error-free post-replication repair and nucleotide excision repair of ultraviolet-induced DNA damage; however, their homologs have not yet been studied in non-yeast fungi. In the fungus Beauveria bassiana, a deficiency in the [...] Read more.

In budding yeast, Rad5 and Rad7-Rad16 play respective roles in the error-free post-replication repair and nucleotide excision repair of ultraviolet-induced DNA damage; however, their homologs have not yet been studied in non-yeast fungi. In the fungus Beauveria bassiana, a deficiency in the Rad7 homolog, Rad5 ortholog and two Rad16 paralogs (Rad16A/B) instituted an ability to help the insect-pathogenic fungus to recover from solar UVB damage through photoreactivation. The fungal lifecycle-related phenotypes were not altered in the absence of rad5, rad16A or rad16B, while severe defects in growth and conidiation were caused by the double deletion of rad16A and rad16B. Compared with the wild-type and complemented strains, the mutants showed differentially reduced activities regarding the resilience of UVB-impaired conidia at 25 °C through a 12-h incubation in a regime of visible light plus dark (L/D 3:9 h or 5:7 h for photoreactivation) or of full darkness (dark reactivation) mimicking a natural nighttime. The estimates of the median lethal UVB dose LD₅₀ from the dark and L/D treatments revealed greater activities of Rad5 and Rad16B than of Rad16A and additive activities of Rad16A and Rad16B in either NER-dependent dark reactivation or photorepair-dependent photoreactivation. However, their dark reactivation activities were limited to recovering low UVB dose-impaired conidia but were unable to recover conidia impaired by sublethal and lethal UVB doses as did their photoreactivation activities at L/D 3:9 or 5:7, unless the night/dark time was doubled or further prolonged. Therefore, the anti-UV effects of Rad5, Rad16A and Rad16B in B. bassiana depend primarily on photoreactivation and are mechanistically distinct from those for their yeast homologs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interactions between Filamentous Fungal Pathogens and Hosts: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 4702 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microbial-Based Biofungicides Mitigate the Damage Caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Race 1 and Improve the Physiological Performance in Banana

by Luisa Fernanda Izquierdo-García, Sandra Lorena Carmona-Gutiérrez, Carlos Andrés Moreno-Velandia, Andrea del Pilar Villarreal-Navarrete, Diana Marcela Burbano-David, Ruth Yesenia Quiroga-Mateus, Magda Rocío Gómez-Marroquín, Gustavo Adolfo Rodríguez-Yzquierdo and Mónica Betancourt-Vásquez

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 419; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060419 - 12 Jun 2024

Viewed by 772

Abstract

Fusarium wilt of banana (FWB) is the most limiting disease in this crop. The phytosanitary emergency caused by FWB since 2019 in Colombia has required the development of ecofriendly control methods. The aim of this study was to test the effectiveness of microbial-based [...] Read more.

Fusarium wilt of banana (FWB) is the most limiting disease in this crop. The phytosanitary emergency caused by FWB since 2019 in Colombia has required the development of ecofriendly control methods. The aim of this study was to test the effectiveness of microbial-based biofungicides against FWB caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense race 1 (Foc R1) and correlate such effect with plant physiological parameters. Five Trichoderma (T1 to T4 and T9) and four Bacillus (T5 to T8)-based biofungicides were evaluated in pot experiments. In vitro, dual confrontation tests were also carried out to test whether the in vitro effects on Foc growth were consistent with the in vivo effects. While Trichoderma-based T3, T4, and T9, and Bacillus-based T8, significantly reduced the growth of Foc R1 in vitro, Trichoderma-based T1, T3, T4, and T9 temporarily reduced the Foc population in the soil. However, the incidence progress of FWB was significantly reduced by Bacterial-based T7 (74% efficacy) and Trichoderma-based T2 (50% efficacy). The molecular analysis showed that T7 prevented the inner tissue colonization by Foc R1 in 80% of inoculated plants. The T2, T4, T7, and T9 treatments mitigated the negative effects caused by Foc R1 on plant physiology and growth. Our data allowed us to identify three promising treatments to control FWB, reducing the progress of the disease, delaying the colonization of inner tissue, and mitigating physiological damages. Further studies should be addressed to determine the modes of action of the biocontrol agents against Foc and validate the utilization in the field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Fungal Diseases and Crop Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 2797 KiB

Open AccessReview

Bioprocess of Gibberellic Acid by Fusarium fujikuroi: The Challenge of Regulation, Raw Materials, and Product Yields

by Aranza Hernández Rodríguez, Adrián Díaz Pacheco, Shirlley Elizabeth Martínez Tolibia, Yazmin Melendez Xicohtencatl, Sulem Yali Granados Balbuena and Víctor Eric López y López

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060418 - 12 Jun 2024

Viewed by 721

Abstract

Gibberellic acid (GA₃) is a tetracyclic diterpenoid carboxylic acid synthesized by the secondary metabolism of Fusarium fujikuroi. This phytohormone is widely studied due to the advantages it offers as a plant growth regulator, such as growth stimulation, senescence delay, flowering [...] Read more.

Gibberellic acid (GA₃) is a tetracyclic diterpenoid carboxylic acid synthesized by the secondary metabolism of Fusarium fujikuroi. This phytohormone is widely studied due to the advantages it offers as a plant growth regulator, such as growth stimulation, senescence delay, flowering induction, increased fruit size, and defense against abiotic or biotic stress, which improve the quality and yield of crops. Therefore, GA₃ has been considered as an innovative strategy to improve agricultural production. However, the yields obtained at large scale are insufficient for the current market demand. This low productivity is attributed to the lack of adequate parameters to optimize the fermentation process, as well as the complexity of its regulation. Therefore, this article describes the latest advances for potentializing the GA₃ production process, including an analysis of its origins from crops, the benefits of its application, the related biosynthetic metabolism, the maximum yields achieved from production processes, and their association with genetic engineering techniques for GA₃ producers. This work provides a new perspective on the critical points of the production process, in order to overcome the limits surrounding this modern line of bioengineering. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 6191 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Plant Growth Promotion and Biological Control against Rhizoctonia solani in Thai Local Rice Variety “Chor Khing” Using Trichoderma breve Z2-03

by Warin Intana, Nakarin Suwannarach, Jaturong Kumla, Prisana Wonglom and Anurag Sunpapao

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060417 - 11 Jun 2024

Viewed by 587

Abstract

Several strains of Trichoderma are applied in the field to control plant diseases due to their capacity to suppress fungal pathogens and control plant diseases. Some Trichoderma strains also are able to promote plant growth through the production of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). In [...] Read more.

Several strains of Trichoderma are applied in the field to control plant diseases due to their capacity to suppress fungal pathogens and control plant diseases. Some Trichoderma strains also are able to promote plant growth through the production of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). In southern Thailand, the local rice variety “Chor Khing” is mainly cultivated in the Songkhla province; it is characterized by slow growth and is susceptible to sheath blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani. Therefore, this research aimed to screen Trichoderma species with the ability to promote plant growth in this rice variety and enact biological control against R. solani. A total of 21 Trichoderma isolates were screened for indole compound production using the Salkowski reagent. The Z2-03 isolate reacted positively to the Salkowski reagent, indicating the production of the indole compound. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPCL) confirmed that Z2-03 produced IAA at 35.58 ± 7.60 μg/mL. The cell-free culture filtrate of the potato dextrose broth (CF) of Z2-03 induced rice germination in rice seeds, yielding root and shoot lengths in cell-free CF-treated rice that were significantly higher than those of the control (distilled water and culture broth alone). Furthermore, inoculation with Trichoderma conidia promoted rice growth and induced a defense response against R. solani during the seedling stage. Trichoderma Z2-03 displayed an antifungal capacity against R. solani, achieving 74.17% inhibition (as measured through dual culture assay) and the production of siderophores on the CAS medium. The pot experiment revealed that inoculation with the Trichoderma sp. Z2-03 conidial suspension increased the number of tillers and the plant height in the “Chor Khing” rice variety, and suppressed the percentage of disease incidence (PDI). The Trichoderma isolate Z2-03 was identified, based on the morphology and molecular properties of ITS, translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α), and RNA polymerase 2 (rpb2), as Trichoderma breve Z2-03. Our results reveal the ability of T. breve Z2-03 to act as a plant growth promoter, enhancing growth and development in the “Chor Khing” rice variety, as well as a biological control agent through its competition and defense induction mechanism in this rice variety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Fungi and Their Role in Plant Growth)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3451 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Natural Prevalence, Molecular Characteristics, and Biological Activity of Metarhizium rileyi (Farlow) Isolated from Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) Larvae in Mexico

by Yordanys Ramos, Samuel Pineda-Guillermo, Patricia Tamez-Guerra, Alonso Alberto Orozco-Flores, José Isaac Figueroa de la Rosa, Selene Ramos-Ortiz, Juan Manuel Chavarrieta-Yáñez and Ana Mabel Martínez-Castillo

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060416 - 8 Jun 2024

Viewed by 628

Abstract

Entomopathogenic fungi have been considered potential biological control agents against the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), the world’s most important pest of maize. In this study, we evaluated the natural infection, molecular characteristics, and biological activity of Metarhizium rileyi (Farlow) isolated [...] Read more.

Entomopathogenic fungi have been considered potential biological control agents against the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), the world’s most important pest of maize. In this study, we evaluated the natural infection, molecular characteristics, and biological activity of Metarhizium rileyi (Farlow) isolated from S. frugiperda larvae of this insect, collected from maize crops in five Mexican locations. Natural infection ranged from 23% to 90% across all locations analyzed. Twenty-four isolates were evaluated on S. frugiperda second instars at a concentration of 1.0 × 10⁸ conidia/mL, causing 70% to 98.7% mortality and 60.5% to 98.7% sporulation. Isolates T9-21, Z30-21, PP48-21, and L8-22 were selected to determine their phylogenetic relationships by β-tubulin gene analysis and to compare median lethal concentration (CL₅₀), median lethal time (LT₅₀), and larval survival. These isolates were grouped into three clades. The T9-21, PP48-21, and J10-22 isolates were closely related (clade A), but phylogenetically distant from Z30-21 (clade B) and L8-22 (clade C) isolates. These genetic differences were not always reflected in their pathogenicity characteristics since no differences were observed among the LC₅₀ values. Furthermore, isolates T9-21, J10-22, and L8-22 were the fastest to kill S. frugiperda larvae, causing lower survival rates. We conclude that native M. rileyi isolates represent an important alternative for the biocontrol of S. frugiperda. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 14933 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Performance and Evolutionary Mechanism of Ganoderma lucidum in Enhancing Selenite Tolerance and Bioaccumulation

by Mengmeng Xu, Qi Meng, Song Zhu, Ruipeng Yu, Lei Chen, Guiyang Shi, Ka-Hing Wong, Daming Fan and Zhongyang Ding

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 415; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060415 - 8 Jun 2024

Viewed by 711

Abstract

Background: Selenium (Se) pollution poses serious threats to terrestrial ecosystems. Mushrooms are important sources of Se with the potential for bioremediation. Pre-eminent Se resources must possess the ability to tolerate high levels of Se. To obtain Se-accumulating fungi, we isolated selenite-tolerance-enhanced Ganoderma lucidum [...] Read more.

Background: Selenium (Se) pollution poses serious threats to terrestrial ecosystems. Mushrooms are important sources of Se with the potential for bioremediation. Pre-eminent Se resources must possess the ability to tolerate high levels of Se. To obtain Se-accumulating fungi, we isolated selenite-tolerance-enhanced Ganoderma lucidum JNUSE-200 through adaptive evolution. Methods: The molecular mechanism responsible for selenite tolerance and accumulation was explored in G. lucidum JNUSE-200 by comparing it with the original strain, G. lucidum CGMCC 5.26, using a combination of physiological and transcriptomic approaches. Results: G. lucidum JNUSE-200 demonstrated tolerance to 200 mg/kg selenite in liquid culture and exhibited normal growth, whereas G. lucidum CGMCC 5.26 experienced reduced growth, red coloration, and an unpleasant odor as a result of exposure to selenite at the same concentration. In this study, G. lucidum JNUSE-200 developed a triple defense mechanism against high-level selenite toxicity, and the key genes responsible for improved selenite tolerance were identified. Conclusions: The present study offers novel insights into the molecular responses of fungi towards selenite, providing theoretical guidance for the breeding and cultivation of Se-accumulating varieties. Moreover, it significantly enhances the capacity of the bio-manufacturing industry and contributes to the development of beneficial applications in environmental biotechnology through fungal selenite transformation bioprocesses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Edible and Medicinal Macrofungi, 3rd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

74 pages, 2577 KiB

Open AccessReview

An In-Depth Study of Phytopathogenic Ganoderma: Pathogenicity, Advanced Detection Techniques, Control Strategies, and Sustainable Management

by Samantha C. Karunarathna, Nimesha M. Patabendige, Wenhua Lu, Suhail Asad and Kalani K. Hapuarachchi

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 414; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060414 - 7 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 687

Abstract

Phytopathogenic Ganoderma species pose a significant threat to global plant health, resulting in estimated annual economic losses exceeding USD (US Dollars) 68 billion in the agriculture and forestry sectors worldwide. To combat this pervasive menace effectively, a comprehensive understanding of the biology, ecology, [...] Read more.

Phytopathogenic Ganoderma species pose a significant threat to global plant health, resulting in estimated annual economic losses exceeding USD (US Dollars) 68 billion in the agriculture and forestry sectors worldwide. To combat this pervasive menace effectively, a comprehensive understanding of the biology, ecology, and plant infection mechanisms of these pathogens is imperative. This comprehensive review critically examines various aspects of Ganoderma spp., including their intricate life cycle, their disease mechanisms, and the multifaceted environmental factors influencing their spread. Recent studies have quantified the economic impact of Ganoderma infections, revealing staggering yield losses ranging from 20% to 80% across various crops. In particular, oil palm plantations suffer devastating losses, with an estimated annual reduction in yield exceeding 50 million metric tons. Moreover, this review elucidates the dynamic interactions between Ganoderma and host plants, delineating the pathogen’s colonization strategies and its elicitation of intricate plant defense responses. This comprehensive analysis underscores the imperative for adopting an integrated approach to Ganoderma disease management. By synergistically harnessing cultural practices, biological control, and chemical treatments and by deploying resistant plant varieties, substantial strides can be made in mitigating Ganoderma infestations. Furthermore, a collaborative effort involving scientists, breeders, and growers is paramount in the development and implementation of sustainable strategies against this pernicious plant pathogen. Through rigorous scientific inquiry and evidence-based practices, we can strive towards safeguarding global plant health and mitigating the dire economic consequences inflicted by Ganoderma infections. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 4715 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Active Prevalence of Fusarium falciforme and F. acutatum Causing Basal Rot of Onion in Maharashtra, India

by Ram Dutta, Krishnappa Jayalakshmi, Auji Radhakrishna, Satish Kumar and Vijay Mahajan

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060413 - 7 Jun 2024

Viewed by 820

Abstract

Over the past decade, there have been accumulating reports from researchers, farmers, and field extension personnel on the increasing incidence and spread of onion basal rot in India. Onion basal rot disease is mainly caused by Fusarium spp. This study aimed to validate [...] Read more.

Over the past decade, there have been accumulating reports from researchers, farmers, and field extension personnel on the increasing incidence and spread of onion basal rot in India. Onion basal rot disease is mainly caused by Fusarium spp. This study aimed to validate the information on the active prevalence of F. falciforme and F. acutatum causing Fusarium basal rot (FBR) in Maharashtra. A survey was conducted, and the infected plants/bulbs were collected from fields of 38 locations comprising five districts of Maharashtra, namely, Nashik, Aurangabad, Solapur, Ahmednagar, and Pune, in 2023. This disease was prevalent in high-moisture and high-oil-temperature conditions and the symptoms were observed in most of the fields, with the FBR incidence ranging from 17 to 41%. The available data of basal rot incidence from 1998 to 2022 were analyzed, based on which the prevalence of FBR was 11–50%. Tissue from the infected samples of onion bulbs was used for the isolation. The identification was performed based on colony morphology and microscopic features and confirmed through molecular markers using ITS and Tef-1α gene primers. Of the ten Fusarium isolates collected from selected locations, six species were confirmed as F. acutatum and four as F. falciforme. The pathogenicity tests performed with onion seedlings and bulbs under moist conditions proved that both F. acutatum and F. falciforme independently could cause basal rot disease symptoms but with different degrees of virulence. Koch’s postulates were confirmed by reisolating the same pathogens from the infected plants. Thus, the active prevalence of FBR was confirmed in Maharashtra and also, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of F. falciforme and F. acutatum causing basal rot of onion independently in Maharashtra, India. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Postharvest Fungal Diseases of Fruits and Vegetables)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of the Microbial Diversity in the Oryza sativa Cultivation Environment and Artificial Transplantation of Microorganisms to Improve Sustainable Mycobiota

by Yeu-Ching Shi, Yu-Juan Zheng, Yi-Ching Lin, Cheng-Hao Huang, Tang-Long Shen, Yu-Chia Hsu and Bao-Hong Lee

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 412; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060412 - 6 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1056

Abstract

Rice straw is not easy to decompose, it takes a long time to compost, and the anaerobic bacteria involved in the decomposition process produce a large amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂), indicating that applications for rice straw need to be developed. [...] Read more.

Rice straw is not easy to decompose, it takes a long time to compost, and the anaerobic bacteria involved in the decomposition process produce a large amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂), indicating that applications for rice straw need to be developed. Recycling rice straw in agricultural crops is an opportunity to increase the sustainability of grain production. Several studies have shown that the probiotic population gradually decreases in the soil, leading to an increased risk of plant diseases and decreased biomass yield. Because the microorganisms in the soil are related to the growth of plants, when the soil microbial community is imbalanced it seriously affects plant growth. We investigated the feasibility of using composted rice stalks to artificially cultivate microorganisms obtained from the Oryza sativa-planted environment for analyzing the mycobiota and evaluating applications for sustainable agriculture. Microbes obtained from the water-submerged part (group-A) and soil part (group-B) of O. sativa were cultured in an artificial medium, and the microbial diversity was analyzed with internal transcribed spacer sequencing. Paddy field soil was mixed with fermented paddy straw compost, and the microbes obtained from the soil used for O. sativa planting were designated as group-C. The paddy fields transplanted with artificially cultured microbes from group-A were designated as group-D and those from group-B were designated as group-E. We found that fungi and yeasts can be cultured in groups-A and -B. These microbes altered the soil mycobiota in the paddy fields after transplantation in groups-D and -E compared to groups-A and -B. Development in O. sativa post treatment with microbial transplantation was observed in the groups-D and -E compared to group-C. These results showed that artificially cultured microorganisms could be efficiently transplanted into the soil and improve the mycobiota. Phytohormones were involved in improving O. sativa growth and rice yield via the submerged part-derived microbial medium (group-D) or the soil part-derived microbial medium (group-E) treatments. Collectively, these fungi and yeasts may be applied in microbial transplantation via rice straw fermentation to repair soil mycobiota imbalances, facilitating plant growth and sustainable agriculture. These fungi and yeasts may be applied in microbial transplantation to repair soil mycobiota imbalances and sustainable agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Evolution, Biodiversity and Systematics)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2344 KiB

Open AccessReview

Applications of the Methylotrophic Yeast Komagataella phaffii in the Context of Modern Biotechnology

by Lidia Maria Pepe de Moraes, Henrique Fetzner Marques, Viviane Castelo Branco Reis, Cintia Marques Coelho, Matheus de Castro Leitão, Alexsandro Sobreira Galdino, Thais Paiva Porto de Souza, Luiza Cesca Piva, Ana Laura Alfonso Perez, Débora Trichez, João Ricardo Moreira de Almeida, Janice Lisboa De Marco and Fernando Araripe Gonçalves Torres

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060411 - 6 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1143

Abstract

Komagataella phaffii (formerly Pichia pastoris) is a methylotrophic yeast widely used in laboratories around the world to produce recombinant proteins. Given its advantageous features, it has also gained much interest in the context of modern biotechnology. In this review, we present the [...] Read more.

Komagataella phaffii (formerly Pichia pastoris) is a methylotrophic yeast widely used in laboratories around the world to produce recombinant proteins. Given its advantageous features, it has also gained much interest in the context of modern biotechnology. In this review, we present the utilization of K. phaffii as a platform to produce several products of economic interest such as biopharmaceuticals, renewable chemicals, fuels, biomaterials, and food/feed products. Finally, we present synthetic biology approaches currently used for strain engineering, aiming at the production of new bioproducts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives on Industrial Yeasts)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 5433 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biological Control of Root Rot of Strawberry by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Strains CMS5 and CMR12

by Ruixian Yang, Ping Liu, Wenyu Ye, Yuquan Chen, Daowei Wei, Cuicui Qiao, Bingyi Zhou and Jingyao Xiao

J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060410 - 6 Jun 2024

Viewed by 684

Abstract

Strawberry root rot caused by Fusarium solani is one of the main diseases of strawberries and significantly impacts the yield and quality of strawberry fruit. Biological control is becoming an alternative method for the control of plant diseases to replace or decrease the [...] Read more.

Strawberry root rot caused by Fusarium solani is one of the main diseases of strawberries and significantly impacts the yield and quality of strawberry fruit. Biological control is becoming an alternative method for the control of plant diseases to replace or decrease the application of traditional chemical fungicides. To obtain antagonistic bacteria with a high biocontrol effect on strawberry root rot, over 72 rhizosphere bacteria were isolated from the strawberry rhizosphere soil and screened for their antifungal activity against F. solani by dual culture assay. Among them, strains CMS5 and CMR12 showed the strongest inhibitory activity against F. solani (inhibition rate 57.78% and 65.93%, respectively) and exhibited broad-spectrum antifungal activity. According to the phylogenetic tree based on 16S rDNA and gyrB genes, CMS5 and CMR12 were identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Lipopeptide genes involved in surfactin, iturin, and fengycin biosynthesis were detected in the DNA genomes of CMS5 and CMR12 by PCR amplification. The genes related to the three major lipopeptide metabolites existed in the DNA genome of strains CMS5 and CMR12, and the lipopeptides could inhibit the mycelial growth of F. solani and resulted in distorted hyphae. The inhibitory rates of lipopeptides of CMS5 and CMR12 on the spore germination of F. solani were 61.00% and 42.67%, respectively. The plant-growth-promoting (PGP) traits in vitro screening showed that CMS5 and CMR12 have the ability to fix nitrogen and secreted indoleacetic acid (IAA). In the potting test, the control efficiency of CMS5, CMR12 and CMS5+CMR12 against strawberry root rot were 65.3%, 67.94% and 88.00%, respectively. Furthermore, CMS5 and CMR12 enhanced the resistance of strawberry to F. solani by increasing the activities of defense enzymes MDA, CAT and SOD. Moreover, CMS5 and CMR12 significantly promoted the growth of strawberry seedlings such as root length, seedling length and seedling fresh weight. This study revealed that B. amyloliquefaciens CMS5 and CMR12 have high potential to be used as biocontrol agents to control strawberry root rot. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Fungal Diseases and Crop Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

J. Fungi, Volume 10, Issue 6 (June 2024) – 73 articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI