Journal of Fungi

16 pages, 2671 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resporulation of Calcium Alginate Encapsulated Metarhizium anisopliae on Metham^®-Fumigated Soil and Infectivity on Larvae of Tenebrio molitor

by Sudhan Shah, Gavin J. Ash and Bree A. L. Wilson

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1114; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101114 - 21 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2441

Abstract

Metarhizium anisopliae infects and kills a large range of insects and is a promising biocontrol agent to manage soil insects, such as wireworm in sweetpotato. The presence of other soil microbes, which exhibit competitive fungistasis, may inhibit the establishment of M. anisopliae in [...] Read more.

Metarhizium anisopliae infects and kills a large range of insects and is a promising biocontrol agent to manage soil insects, such as wireworm in sweetpotato. The presence of other soil microbes, which exhibit competitive fungistasis, may inhibit the establishment of M. anisopliae in soil. Microbially depleted soil, for example, sterilized soil, has been shown to improve the resporulation of the fungus from nutrient-fortified M. anisopliae. Prior to planting, sweetpotato plant beds can be disinfected with fumigants, such as Metham^®, to control soil-borne pests and weeds. Metham^® is a broad-spectrum soil microbial suppressant; however, its effect on Metarhizium spp. is unclear. In the research presented here, fungal resporulation was examined in Metham^®-fumigated soil and the infectivity of the resulting granule sporulation was evaluated on mealworm, as a proxy for wireworm. The fungal granules grown on different soil treatments (fumigated, field and pasteurized soil) resporulated profusely (for example, 4.14 × 10⁷ (±2.17 × 10⁶) conidia per granule on fumigated soil), but the resporulation was not significantly different among the three soil treatments. However, the conidial germination of the resporulated granules on fumigated soil was >80%, which was significantly higher than those on pasteurized soil or field soil. The resporulated fungal granules were highly infective, causing 100% insect mortality 9 days after the inoculation, regardless of soil treatments. The results from this research show that the fungal granules applied to soils could be an infective inoculant in sweetpotato fields in conjunction with soil fumigation. Additional field studies are required to validate these results and to demonstrate integration with current farming practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entomopathogenic Fungi in Biological Plant Protection: The Machinery of Multicomponent System Interactions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 7419 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Description of Four Novel Species in Pleosporales Associated with Coffee in Yunnan, China

by Li Lu, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Dong-Qin Dai, Yin-Ru Xiong, Nakarin Suwannarach, Steven L. Stephenson, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Salim Al-Rejaie, Ruvishika S. Jayawardena and Saowaluck Tibpromma

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1113; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101113 - 21 Oct 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2398

Abstract

In Yunnan Province, the coffee-growing regions are mainly distributed in Pu’er and Xishuangbanna. During the surveys of microfungi associated with coffee in Yunnan Province, seven taxa were isolated from coffee samples. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, LSU, SSU, rpb2, [...] Read more.

In Yunnan Province, the coffee-growing regions are mainly distributed in Pu’er and Xishuangbanna. During the surveys of microfungi associated with coffee in Yunnan Province, seven taxa were isolated from coffee samples. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, LSU, SSU, rpb2, and tef1-α sequence data and morphological characteristics, four new species viz. Deniquelata yunnanensis, Paraconiothyrium yunnanensis, Pseudocoleophoma puerensis, and Pse. yunnanensis, and three new records viz. Austropleospora keteleeriae, Montagnula thailandica, and Xenocamarosporium acaciae in Pleosporales are introduced. In addition, Paracamarosporium fungicola was transferred back to Paraconiothyrium based on taxonomy and DNA sequences. Full descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic trees to show the placement of new and known taxa are provided. In addition, the morphological comparisons of new taxa with closely related taxa are given. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polyphasic Identification of Fungi 2.0)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 3895 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Principal Drivers of Fungal Communities Associated with Needles, Shoots, Roots and Adjacent Soil of Pinus sylvestris

by Diana Marčiulynienė, Adas Marčiulynas, Valeriia Mishcherikova, Jūratė Lynikienė, Artūras Gedminas, Iva Franic and Audrius Menkis

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1112; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101112 - 21 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2037

Abstract

The plant- and soil-associated microbial communities are critical to plant health and their resilience to stressors, such as drought, pathogens, and pest outbreaks. A better understanding of the structure of microbial communities and how they are affected by different environmental factors is needed [...] Read more.

The plant- and soil-associated microbial communities are critical to plant health and their resilience to stressors, such as drought, pathogens, and pest outbreaks. A better understanding of the structure of microbial communities and how they are affected by different environmental factors is needed to predict and manage ecosystem responses to climate change. In this study, we carried out a country-wide analysis of fungal communities associated with Pinus sylvestris growing under different environmental conditions. Needle, shoot, root, mineral, and organic soil samples were collected at 30 sites. By interconnecting the high-throughput sequencing data, environmental variables, and soil chemical properties, we were able to identify key factors that drive the diversity and composition of fungal communities associated with P. sylvestris. The fungal species richness and community composition were also found to be highly dependent on the site and the substrate they colonize. The results demonstrated that different functional tissues and the rhizosphere soil of P. sylvestris are associated with diverse fungal communities, which are driven by a combination of climatic (temperature and precipitation) and edaphic factors (soil pH), and stand characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Diversity in Europe)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 286 KiB

Open AccessReview

COVID-19 Associated with Cryptococcosis: A New Challenge during the Pandemic

by Khee-Siang Chan, Chih-Cheng Lai, Wen-Liang Yu and Chien-Ming Chao

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1111; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101111 - 21 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2288

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a great threat to global health. In addition to SARS-CoV-2 itself, clinicians should be alert to the possible occurrence of co-infection or secondary infection among patients with COVID-19. The [...] Read more.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a great threat to global health. In addition to SARS-CoV-2 itself, clinicians should be alert to the possible occurrence of co-infection or secondary infection among patients with COVID-19. The possible co-pathogens include bacteria, viruses, and fungi, but COVID-19-associated cryptococcosis is rarely reported. This review provided updated and comprehensive information about this rare clinical entity of COVID-19-associated cryptococcosis. Through an updated literature search till 23 August 2022, we identified a total of 18 culture-confirmed case reports with detailed information. Half (n = 9) of them were elderly. Fifteen (83.3%) of them had severe COVID-19 and ever received systemic corticosteroid. Disseminated infection with cryptococcemia was the most common type of cryptococcosis, followed by pulmonary and meningitis. Except one case of C. laurentii, all other cases are by C. neoformans. Liposomal amphotericin B and fluconazole were the most commonly used antifungal agents. The overall mortality was 61.1% (11/18) and four of them did not receive antifungal agents before death. Improving the poor outcome requires a physician’s high suspicion, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Infections in COVID-19 Patients)

16 pages, 3743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Roles of BrlA and AbaA in Mediating Asexual and Insect Pathogenic Lifecycles of Metarhizium robertsii

by Jin-Guan Zhang, Si-Yuan Xu, Sheng-Hua Ying and Ming-Guang Feng

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1110; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101110 - 21 Oct 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1577

Abstract

BrlA and AbaA are key activators of the central developmental pathway (CDP) that controls asexual development in Aspergillus but their roles remain insufficiently understood in hypocerealean insect pathogens. Here, regulatory roles of BrlA and AbaA orthologs in Metarhizium robertsii (Clavicipitaceae) were characterized [...] Read more.

BrlA and AbaA are key activators of the central developmental pathway (CDP) that controls asexual development in Aspergillus but their roles remain insufficiently understood in hypocerealean insect pathogens. Here, regulatory roles of BrlA and AbaA orthologs in Metarhizium robertsii (Clavicipitaceae) were characterized for comparison to those elucidated previously in Beauveria bassiana (Cordycipitaceae) at phenotypic and transcriptomic levels. Time-course transcription profiles of brlA, abaA, and the other CDP activator gene wetA revealed that they were not so sequentially activated in M. robertsii as learned in Aspergillus. Aerial conidiation essential for fungal infection and dispersal, submerged blastospore production mimicking yeast-like budding proliferation in insect hemocoel, and insect pathogenicity via cuticular penetration were all abolished as a consequence of brlA or abaA disruption, which had little impact on normal hyphal growth. The disruptants were severely compromised in virulence via cuticle-bypassing infection (intrahemocoel injection) and differentially impaired in cellular tolerance to oxidative and cell wall-perturbing stresses. The ΔbrlA and ΔabaA mutant shad 255 and 233 dysregulated genes (up/down ratios: 52:203 and 101:122) respectively, including 108 genes co-dysregulated. These counts were small compared with 1513 and 2869 dysregulated genes (up/down ratios: 707:806 and 1513:1356) identified in ΔbrlA and ΔabaA mutants of B. bassiana. Results revealed not only conserved roles for BrlA and AbaA in asexual developmental control but also their indispensable roles in fungal adaptation to the insect-pathogenic lifecycle and host habitats. Intriguingly, BrlA- or AbaA-controlled gene expression networks are largely different between the two insect pathogens, in which similar phenotypes were compromised in the absence of either brlA or abaA. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

2 pages, 215 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Fungal Pigments: More Insights from Colorful Fungi

by Laurent Dufossé

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101109 - 20 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1260

Abstract

Following the previous Journal of Fungi (ISSN 2309-608X) Fungal Pigments Special Issue edited and published in 2017 (weblink https://www [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Pigments 2021)

12 pages, 2010 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Histoplasma capsulatum Activates Hematopoietic Stem Cells and Their Progenitors through a Mechanism Dependent on TLR2, TLR4, and Dectin-1

by Carolina Rodríguez-Echeverri, Beatriz L. Gómez and Ángel González

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101108 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1675

Abstract

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), a multipotent and self-renewing population responsible for the generation and maintenance of blood cells, have been the subject of numerous investigations due to their therapeutic potential. It has been shown that these cells are able to interact with pathogens [...] Read more.

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), a multipotent and self-renewing population responsible for the generation and maintenance of blood cells, have been the subject of numerous investigations due to their therapeutic potential. It has been shown that these cells are able to interact with pathogens through the TLRs that they express on their surface, affecting the hematopoiesis process. However, the interaction between hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) with fungal pathogens such as Histoplasma capsulatum has not been studied. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine if the interaction of HSPCs with H. capsulatum yeasts affects the hematopoiesis, activation, or proliferation of these cells. The results indicate that HSPCs are able to adhere to and internalize H. capsulatum yeasts through a mechanism dependent on TLR2, TLR4, and Dectin-1; however, this process does not affect the survival of the fungus, and, on the contrary, such interaction induces a significant increase in the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α, and TGF-β, as well as the immune mediators Arg-1 and iNOS. Moreover, H. capsulatum induces apoptosis and alters HSPC proliferation. These findings suggest that H. capsulatum directly modulates the immune response exerted by HPSC through PRRs, and this interaction could directly affect the process of hematopoiesis, a fact that could explain clinical manifestations such as anemia and pancytopenia in patients with severe histoplasmosis, especially in those with fungal spread to the bone marrow. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Current Understanding of Host–Fungal Interactions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2371 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Epidemic Identification of Fungal Diseases in Morchella Cultivation across China

by Xiaofei Shi, Dong Liu, Xinhua He, Wei Liu and Fuqiang Yu

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1107; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101107 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4285

Abstract

True morels (Morchella, Pezizales) are world-renowned edible mushrooms (ascocarps) that are widely demanded in international markets. Morchella has been successfully artificially cultivated since 2012 in China and is rapidly becoming a new edible mushroom industry occupying up to 16,466 hectares in [...] Read more.

True morels (Morchella, Pezizales) are world-renowned edible mushrooms (ascocarps) that are widely demanded in international markets. Morchella has been successfully artificially cultivated since 2012 in China and is rapidly becoming a new edible mushroom industry occupying up to 16,466 hectares in the 2021–2022 season. However, nearly 25% of the total cultivation area has annually suffered from fungal diseases. While a variety of morel pathogenic fungi have been reported their epidemic characteristics are unknown, particularly in regional or national scales. In this paper, ITS amplicon sequencing and microscopic examination were concurrently performed on the morel ascocarp lesions from 32 sites in 18 provinces across China. Results showed that Diploöspora longispora (75.48%), Clonostachys solani (5.04%), Mortierella gamsii (0.83%), Mortierella amoeboidea (0.37%) and Penicillium kongii (0.15%) were the putative pathogenic fungi. The long, oval, septate conidia of D. longispora was observed on all ascocarps. Oval asexual spores and sporogenic structures, such as those of Clonostachys, were also detected in C. solani infected samples with high ITS read abundance. Seven isolates of D. longispora were isolated from seven selected ascocarps lesions. The microscopic characteristics of pure cultures of these isolates were consistent with the morphological characteristics of ascocarps lesions. Diploöspora longispora had the highest amplification abundance in 93.75% of the samples, while C. solani had the highest amplification abundance in six biological samples (6.25%) of the remaining two sampling sites. The results demonstrate that D. longispora is a major culprit of morel fungal diseases. Other low-abundance non-host fungi appear to be saprophytic fungi infecting after D. longispora. This study provides data supporting the morphological and molecular identification and prevention of fungal diseases of morel ascocarps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Edible and Medicinal Macrofungi)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

EUCAST Ibrexafungerp MICs and Wild-Type Upper Limits for Contemporary Danish Yeast Isolates

by Karin M. Jørgensen, Karen M. T. Astvad, Rasmus K. Hare and Maiken C. Arendrup

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1106; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101106 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1845

Abstract

Ibrexafungerp is a novel triterpenoid antifungal that inhibits glucan synthase and thus fungal cell wall synthesis. We examined the in vitro activity against contemporary clinical yeast, investigated inter-laboratory and intra-laboratory variability, suggested wild-type upper-limit values (WT-UL), and compared in vitro activity of ibrexafungerp [...] Read more.

Ibrexafungerp is a novel triterpenoid antifungal that inhibits glucan synthase and thus fungal cell wall synthesis. We examined the in vitro activity against contemporary clinical yeast, investigated inter-laboratory and intra-laboratory variability, suggested wild-type upper-limit values (WT-UL), and compared in vitro activity of ibrexafungerp to five licensed antifungals. Susceptibility to ibrexafungerp and comparators was investigated prospectively for 1965 isolates (11,790 MICs) and repetitively for three QC strains (1764 MICs) following the EUCAST E.Def 7.3.2 method. Elevated ibrexafungerp/echinocandin MICs prompted FKS sequencing. Published ibrexafungerp EUCAST MIC-distributions were retrieved and aggregated for WT-UL determinations following EUCAST principles. Ibrexafungerp MICs were ≤2 mg/L except against C. pararugosa, Cryptococcus and some rare yeasts. Modal MICs (mg/L) were 0.06/0.125/0.25/0.5/0.5/0.5/0.5/1/2 for C. albicans/C. dubliniensis/C. glabrata/C. krusei/C. parapsilosis/C. tropicalis/S. cerevisiae/C. guilliermondii/C. lusitaniae and aligned within ±1 dilution with published values. The MIC ranges for QC strains were: 0.06–0.25/0.5–1/0.125–0.5 for CNM-CL-F8555/ATCC6258/ATCC22019. The WT-UL (mg/L) were: 0.25/0.5/1/1/2 for C. albicans/C. glabrata/C. krusei/C. parapsilosis/C. tropicalis. Adopting these, non-wild-type rates were 0.3%/0.6%/0%/8%/3% for C. albicans/C. glabrata/C. krusei/C. parapsilosis/C. tropicalis and overall lower than for comparators except amphotericin B. Five/six non-wild-type C. albicans/C. glabrata were echinocandin and Fks non-wild-type (F641S, F659del or F659L). Eight C. parapsilosis and three C. tropicalis non-wild-type isolates were echinocandin and Fks wild-type. Partial inhibition near 50% in the supra-MIC range may explain variable MICs. Ibrexafungerp EUCAST MIC testing is robust, although the significance of paradoxical growth for some species requires further investigation. The spectrum is broad and will provide an oral option for the growing population with azole refractory infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antifungal Resistance 2.0)

25 pages, 3122 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Various Antagonistic Mechanisms of Trichoderma Strains against the Brown Root Rot Pathogen Pyrrhoderma noxium Infecting Heritage Fig Trees

by Harrchun Panchalingam, Daniel Powell, Cherrihan Adra, Keith Foster, Russell Tomlin, Bonnie L. Quigley, Sharon Nyari, R. Andrew Hayes, Alison Shapcott and D. İpek Kurtböke

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1105; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101105 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2950

Abstract

A wide range of phytopathogenic fungi exist causing various plant diseases, which can lead to devastating economic, environmental, and social impacts on a global scale. One such fungus is Pyrrhoderma noxium, causing brown root rot disease in over 200 plant species of [...] Read more.

A wide range of phytopathogenic fungi exist causing various plant diseases, which can lead to devastating economic, environmental, and social impacts on a global scale. One such fungus is Pyrrhoderma noxium, causing brown root rot disease in over 200 plant species of a variety of life forms mostly in the tropical and subtropical regions of the globe. The aim of this study was to discover the antagonistic abilities of two Trichoderma strains (#5001 and #5029) found to be closely related to Trichoderma reesei against P. noxium. The mycoparasitic mechanism of these Trichoderma strains against P. noxium involved coiling around the hyphae of the pathogen and producing appressorium like structures. Furthermore, a gene expression study identified an induced expression of the biological control activity associated genes in Trichoderma strains during the interaction with the pathogen. In addition, volatile and diffusible antifungal compounds produced by the Trichoderma strains were also effective in inhibiting the growth of the pathogen. The ability to produce Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), siderophores and the volatile compounds related to plant growth promotion were also identified as added benefits to the performance of these Trichoderma strains as biological control agents. Overall, these results show promise for the possibility of using the Trichoderma strains as potential biological control agents to protect P. noxium infected trees as well as preventing new infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Trichoderma-Plant Beneficial Interactions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 742 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Preharvest Natural Infection and Toxin Contamination in Food and Feed Safety in Maize, South-East Hungary, 2014–2021

by Akos Mesterhazy, Denes Szieberth, Eva Toldine Tóth, Zoltan Nagy, Balazs Szabó, Beata Herczig, Istvan Bors and Beata Tóth

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1104; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101104 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2302

Abstract

Mycotoxins originating in the preharvest period represent a less studied research problem, even though they are of the utmost practical significance in maize production, determining marketability (within EU limits), and storage ability, competitiveness, and profit rate. In this study, 18–23 commercial hybrids were [...] Read more.

Mycotoxins originating in the preharvest period represent a less studied research problem, even though they are of the utmost practical significance in maize production, determining marketability (within EU limits), and storage ability, competitiveness, and profit rate. In this study, 18–23 commercial hybrids were tested between 2014 and 2021. Natural infection from Fusarium spp. was higher than 1.5%, and for Aspergillus spp. this was normally 0.01% or 0, much lower than would be considered as severe infection. In spite of this, many hybrids provided far higher toxin contamination than regulations allow. The maximum preharvest aflatoxin B₁ was in 2020 (at 2286 μg/kg), and, in several cases, the value was higher than 1000 μg/kg. The hybrid differences were large. In Hungary, the presence of field-originated aflatoxin B₁ was continuous, with three AFB1 epidemics in the 8 years. The highest DON contamination was in 2014 (at 27 mg/kg), and a detectable DON level was found in every hybrid. FUMB₁+B₂ were the highest in 2014 (at 45.78 mg/kg). At these low infection levels, correlations between visual symptoms and toxin contaminations were mostly non-significant, so it is not feasible to draw a conclusion about toxin contamination from ear rot coverage alone. The toxin contamination of hybrids for a percentage of visual infection is highly variable, and only toxin data can decide about food safety. Hybrids with no visual symptoms and high AFB1 contamination were also identified. Preharvest control, including breeding and variety registration, is therefore of the utmost importance to all three pathogens. Even natural ear rot and toxin data do not prove differences in resistance, so a high ear rot or toxin contamination level should be considered as a risk factor for hybrids. The toxin control of freshly harvested grain is vital for separating healthy and contaminated lots. In addition, proper growing and storage conditions must be ensured to protect the feed safety of the grain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Fungal Pathogenesis 2022)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1770 KiB

Open AccessArticle

MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry Online Identification of Trichophyton indotineae Using the MSI-2 Application

by Anne-Cécile Normand, Alicia Moreno-Sabater, Arnaud Jabet, Samia Hamane, Geneviève Cremer, Françoise Foulet, Marion Blaize, Sarah Dellière, Christine Bonnal, Sébastien Imbert, Sophie Brun, Ann Packeu, Stéphane Bretagne and Renaud Piarroux

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1103; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101103 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2430

Abstract

Trichophyton indotineae is an emerging pathogen which recently spread from India to Europe and that is more prone than other species of the Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex to show resistance to terbinafine, resulting in the necessity of rapid identification. Here, we improved the online [...] Read more.

Trichophyton indotineae is an emerging pathogen which recently spread from India to Europe and that is more prone than other species of the Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex to show resistance to terbinafine, resulting in the necessity of rapid identification. Here, we improved the online MSI-2 MALDI-TOF identification tool in order to identify T. indotineae. By multiplying the culture conditions (2 culture media and 6 stages of growth) prior to protein extractions for both test isolates and reference strains, we added 142 references corresponding to 12 strains inside the T. mentagrophytes complex in the online MSI-2 database, of which 3 are T. indotineae strains. The resulting database was tested with 1566 spectra of 67 isolates from the T. mentagrophytes complex, including 16 T. indotineae isolates. Using the newly improved MSI-2 database, we increased the identification rate of T. indotineae from 5% to 96%, with a sensitivity of 99.6%. We also identified specific peaks (6834/6845 daltons and 10,634/10,680 daltons) allowing for the distinction of T. indotineae from the other species of the complex. Our improved version of the MSI-2 application allows for the identification of T. indotineae. This will improve the epidemiological knowledge of the spread of this species throughout the world and will help to improve patient care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dermatophytes and Dermatophytoses)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2711 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Calcineurin Inhibitors Synergize with Manogepix to Kill Diverse Human Fungal Pathogens

by Sean D. Liston, Luke Whitesell, Mili Kapoor, Karen J. Shaw and Leah E. Cowen

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1102; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101102 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2237

Abstract

Invasive fungal infections have mortality rates of 30–90%, depending on patient co-morbidities and the causative pathogen. The frequent emergence of drug resistance reduces the efficacy of currently approved treatment options, highlighting an urgent need for antifungals with new modes of action. Addressing this [...] Read more.

Invasive fungal infections have mortality rates of 30–90%, depending on patient co-morbidities and the causative pathogen. The frequent emergence of drug resistance reduces the efficacy of currently approved treatment options, highlighting an urgent need for antifungals with new modes of action. Addressing this need, fosmanogepix (N-phosphonooxymethylene prodrug of manogepix; MGX) is the first in a new class of gepix drugs, and acts as a broad-spectrum, orally bioavailable inhibitor of the essential fungal glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) acyltransferase Gwt1. MGX inhibits the growth of diverse fungal pathogens and causes accumulation of immature GPI-anchored proteins in the fungal endoplasmic reticulum. Relevant to the ongoing clinical development of fosmanogepix, we report a synergistic, fungicidal interaction between MGX and inhibitors of the protein phosphatase calcineurin against important human fungal pathogens. To investigate this synergy further, we evaluated a library of 124 conditional expression mutants covering 95% of the genes encoding proteins involved in GPI-anchor biosynthesis or proteins predicted to be GPI-anchored. Strong negative chemical-genetic interactions between the calcineurin inhibitor FK506 and eleven GPI-anchor biosynthesis genes were identified, indicating that calcineurin signalling is required for fungal tolerance to not only MGX, but to inhibition of the GPI-anchor biosynthesis pathway more broadly. Depletion of these GPI-anchor biosynthesis genes, like MGX treatment, also exposed fungal cell wall (1→3)-β-D-glucans. Taken together, these findings suggest the increased risk of invasive fungal infections associated with use of calcineurin inhibitors as immunosuppressants may be mitigated by their synergistic fungicidal interaction with (fos)manogepix and its ability to enhance exposure of immunostimulatory glucans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antifungal Drug Discovery: Novel Therapies and Approaches)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

6 pages, 1008 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

The Effects of Sex and Strain on Pneumocystis murina Fungal Burdens in Mice

by Nikeya L. Macioce-Tisdale, Alan Ashbaugh, Keeley Hendrix, Margaret S. Collins, Aleksey Porollo and Melanie T. Cushion

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1101; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101101 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1337

Abstract

Many preclinical studies of infectious diseases have neglected experimental designs that evaluate potential differences related to sex with a concomitant over-reliance on male model systems. Hence, the NIH implemented a monitoring system for sex inclusion in preclinical studies. Methods: Per this mandate, we [...] Read more.

Many preclinical studies of infectious diseases have neglected experimental designs that evaluate potential differences related to sex with a concomitant over-reliance on male model systems. Hence, the NIH implemented a monitoring system for sex inclusion in preclinical studies. Methods: Per this mandate, we examined the lung burdens of Pneumocystis murina infection in three mouse strains in both male and female animals at early, mid, and late time points. Results: Females in each strain had higher infection burdens compared to males at the later time points. Conclusion: Females should be included in experimental models studying Pneumocystis spp. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Mycology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2376 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Discovery of Oleaginous Yeast from Mountain Forest Soil in Thailand

by Sirawich Sapsirisuk, Pirapan Polburee, Wanlapa Lorliam and Savitree Limtong

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1100; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101100 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2568

Abstract

As an interesting alternative microbial platform for the sustainable synthesis of oleochemical building blocks and biofuels, oleaginous yeasts are increasing in both quantity and diversity. In this study, oleaginous yeast species from northern Thailand were discovered to add to the topology. A total [...] Read more.

As an interesting alternative microbial platform for the sustainable synthesis of oleochemical building blocks and biofuels, oleaginous yeasts are increasing in both quantity and diversity. In this study, oleaginous yeast species from northern Thailand were discovered to add to the topology. A total of 127 yeast strains were isolated from 22 forest soil samples collected from mountainous areas. They were identified by an analysis of the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit rRNA (LSU rRNA) gene sequences to be 13 species. The most frequently isolated species were Lipomyces tetrasporus and Lipomyces starkeyi. Based on the cellular lipid content determination, 78 strains of ten yeast species, and two potential new yeast that which accumulated over 20% of dry biomass, were found to be oleaginous yeast strains. Among the oleaginous species detected, Papiliotrema terrestris and Papiliotrema flavescens have never been reported as oleaginous yeast before. In addition, none of the species in the genera Piskurozyma and Hannaella were found to be oleaginous yeast. L. tetrasporus SWU-NGP 2-5 accumulated the highest lipid content of 74.26% dry biomass, whereas Lipomyces mesembrius SWU-NGP 14-6 revealed the highest lipid quantity at 5.20 ± 0.03 g L⁻¹. The fatty acid profiles of the selected oleaginous yeasts varied depending on the strain and suitability for biodiesel production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Applications in Bioenergy, Bioremediation, Biomedicine, Biocontrol, and Biomaterials)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 857 KiB

Open AccessReview

Fungal Contamination in Microalgal Cultivation: Biological and Biotechnological Aspects of Fungi-Microalgae Interaction

by Carmen Laezza, Giovanna Salbitani and Simona Carfagna

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1099; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101099 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4228

Abstract

In the last few decades, the increasing interest in microalgae as sources of new biomolecules and environmental remediators stimulated scientists’ investigations and industrial applications. Nowadays, microalgae are exploited in different fields such as cosmeceuticals, nutraceuticals and as human and animal food supplements. Microalgae [...] Read more.

In the last few decades, the increasing interest in microalgae as sources of new biomolecules and environmental remediators stimulated scientists’ investigations and industrial applications. Nowadays, microalgae are exploited in different fields such as cosmeceuticals, nutraceuticals and as human and animal food supplements. Microalgae can be grown using various cultivation systems depending on their final application. One of the main problems in microalgae cultivations is the possible presence of biological contaminants. Fungi, among the main contaminants in microalgal cultures, are able to influence the production and quality of biomass significantly. Here, we describe fungal contamination considering both shortcomings and benefits of fungi-microalgae interactions, highlighting the biological aspects of this interaction and the possible biotechnological applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant and Fungal Interactions, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 9370 KiB

Open AccessReview

Paracoccidioidomycosis: What We Know and What Is New in Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment

by Paulo Mendes Peçanha, Paula Massaroni Peçanha-Pietrobom, Tânia Regina Grão-Velloso, Marcos Rosa Júnior, Aloísio Falqueto and Sarah Santos Gonçalves

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1098; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101098 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 6024

Abstract

Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a systemic mycosis endemic to Latin America caused by thermodimorphic fungi of the genus Paracoccidioides. In the last two decades, enhanced understanding of the phylogenetic species concept and molecular variations has led to changes in this genus’ taxonomic classification. Although [...] Read more.

Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a systemic mycosis endemic to Latin America caused by thermodimorphic fungi of the genus Paracoccidioides. In the last two decades, enhanced understanding of the phylogenetic species concept and molecular variations has led to changes in this genus’ taxonomic classification. Although the impact of the new species on clinical presentation and treatment remains unclear, they can influence diagnosis when serological methods are employed. Further, although the infection is usually acquired in rural areas, the symptoms may manifest years or decades later when the patient might be living in the city or even in another country outside the endemic region. Brazil accounts for 80% of PCM cases worldwide, and its incidence is rising in the northern part of the country (Amazon region), owing to new settlements and deforestation, whereas it is decreasing in the south, owing to agriculture mechanization and urbanization. Clusters of the acute/subacute form are also emerging in areas with major human intervention and climate change. Advances in diagnostic methods (molecular and immunological techniques and biomarkers) remain scarce, and even the reference center’s diagnostics are based mainly on direct microscopic examination. Classical imaging findings in the lungs include interstitial bilateral infiltrates, and eventually, enlargement or calcification of adrenals and intraparenchymal central nervous system lesions are also present. Besides itraconazole, cotrimoxazole, and amphotericin B, new azoles may be an alternative when the previous ones are not tolerated, although few studies have investigated their use in treating PCM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Endemic Mycoses: Recent Advances in Epidemiology, Diagnosis and Treatment)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 6682 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Epichloë festucae Antifungal Protein Efe-AfpA Protects Creeping Bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) from the Plant Pathogen Clarireedia jacksonii, the Causal Agent of Dollar Spot Disease

by Patrick A. Fardella, Zipeng Tian, Bruce B. Clarke and Faith C. Belanger

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1097; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101097 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1931

Abstract

Dollar spot disease, caused by the fungal pathogen Clarireedia jacksonii, is a major problem in many turfgrass species, particularly creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera). It is well-established that strong creeping red fescue (Festuca rubra subsp. rubra) exhibits good dollar [...] Read more.

Dollar spot disease, caused by the fungal pathogen Clarireedia jacksonii, is a major problem in many turfgrass species, particularly creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera). It is well-established that strong creeping red fescue (Festuca rubra subsp. rubra) exhibits good dollar spot resistance when infected by the fungal endophyte Epichloë festucae. This endophyte-mediated disease resistance is unique to the fine fescues and has not been observed in other grass species infected with other Epichloë spp. The mechanism underlying the unique endophyte-mediated disease resistance in strong creeping red fescue has not yet been established. We pursued the possibility that it may be due to the presence of an abundant secreted antifungal protein produced by E. festucae. Here, we compare the activity of the antifungal protein expressed in Escherichia coli, Pichia pastoris, and Penicillium chrysogenum. Active protein was recovered from all systems, with the best activity being from Pe. chrysogenum. In greenhouse assays, topical application of the purified antifungal protein to creeping bentgrass and endophyte-free strong creeping red fescue protected the plants from developing severe symptoms caused by C. jacksonii. These results support the hypothesis that Efe-AfpA is a major contributor to the dollar spot resistance observed with E. festucae-infected strong creeping red fescue in the field, and that this protein could be developed as an alternative or complement to fungicides for the management of this disease on turfgrasses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Endophytes of Grasses)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 19940 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transcription Factors in Aureobasidium spp.: Classification, Regulation and a Newly Built Database

by Guang Yang, Yuhan Wang, Yaowei Fang, Hongjuan Mo, Zhihong Hu, Xiaoyue Hou, Shu Liu, Zhongwei Chen and Shulei Jia

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1096; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101096 - 17 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1795

Abstract

Transcription factors (TFs) can regulate the synthesis of secondary metabolites through different metabolic pathways in Aureobasidium spp. In this study, a set of 16 superfamilies, 45 PFAM families of TFs with the DNA-binding domains, seven zinc finger families and eight categories of the [...] Read more.

Transcription factors (TFs) can regulate the synthesis of secondary metabolites through different metabolic pathways in Aureobasidium spp. In this study, a set of 16 superfamilies, 45 PFAM families of TFs with the DNA-binding domains, seven zinc finger families and eight categories of the C2H2 TFs have been identified in Aureobasidium spp. Among all the identified TFs, four superfamilies and six PFAM families are the fungal-specific types in this lineage. The Zn2Cys6 and fungal-specific domain regulators are found to be overwhelmingly predominated, while the C2H2 zinc finger class comprises a smaller regulator class. Since there are currently no databases that allow for easy exploration of the TFs in Aureobasidium spp., based on over 50 references and 2405 homologous TFs, the first TFs pipeline—the Aureobasidium Transcription Factor Database (ATFDB)—has been developed to accelerate the identification of metabolic regulation in various Aureobasidium species. It would be useful to investigate the mechanisms behind the wide adaptability and metabolite diversity of Aureobasidium spp. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1156 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Validation of qPCR-Specific Primers for Quantification of the Marketed Terfezia claveryi and Terfezia crassiverrucosa in Soil

by Francisco Arenas, Asunción Morte and Alfonso Navarro-Ródenas

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1095; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101095 - 17 Oct 2022

Viewed by 2082

Abstract

Desert truffle crop is a pioneer in southeastern Spain, a region where native edible hypogeous fungi are adapted to the semiarid areas with low annual rainfall. Terfezia claveryi Chatin was the first species of desert truffle to be cultivated, and has been increasing [...] Read more.

Desert truffle crop is a pioneer in southeastern Spain, a region where native edible hypogeous fungi are adapted to the semiarid areas with low annual rainfall. Terfezia claveryi Chatin was the first species of desert truffle to be cultivated, and has been increasing in recent years as an alternative rainfed crop in the Iberian Peninsula. However, its behaviour in the field has yet not been investigated. For this purpose, specific primers were designed for the soil DNA quantification of both T. claveryi and Terfezia crassiverrucosa and a real-time qPCR protocol was developed, using the ITS rDNA region as a target. Moreover, a young desert truffle orchard was sampled for environmental validation. The results showed the highest efficiency for the TerclaF3/TerclaR1 primers pair, 89%, and the minimal fungal biomass that could be reliable detected was set at 4.23 µg mycelium/g soil. The spatial distribution of fungal biomass was heterogeneous, and there was not a direct relationship between the quantity of winter soil mycelium and the location/productivity of desert truffles. This protocol could be applied to tracking these species in soil and understand their mycelial dynamics in plantations and wild areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Mycorrhizal Fungi Mediated Sustainable Crop Production)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 4960 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Taxonomy and Phylogenetic Appraisal of Dothideomycetous Fungi Associated with Magnolia, Lilium longiflorum and Hedychium coronarium

by Nimali I. de Silva, Kasun M. Thambugala, Danushka S. Tennakoon, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Jaturong Kumla, Nakarin Suwannarach and Saisamorn Lumyong

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1094; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101094 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2172

Abstract

This paper highlights the taxonomy of some interesting saprobic microfungi associated with dead plant materials of Hedychium coronarium, Lilium longiflorum, and Magnolia species. The taxa reported in this study belong to the orders Pleosporales and Kirschsteiniotheliales (Dothideomycetes). These taxa [...] Read more.

This paper highlights the taxonomy of some interesting saprobic microfungi associated with dead plant materials of Hedychium coronarium, Lilium longiflorum, and Magnolia species. The taxa reported in this study belong to the orders Pleosporales and Kirschsteiniotheliales (Dothideomycetes). These taxa were identified based on multi-locus phylogeny of nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) (LSU, SSU, and ITS) and protein-coding genes (tef1-α and rpb2), together with comprehensive morphological characterization. Two novel saprobic species, Leptoparies magnoliae sp. nov. and Neobambusicola magnoliae sp. nov., are introduced from Magnolia species in Thailand. Another new species, Asymmetrispora zingiberacearum sp. nov., is also described from dead stems of H. coronarium, which is the first asexual morph species of the genus Asymmetrispora. In addition, Ramusculicola thailandica and Kirschsteiniothelia thailandica are reported as new host records from dead twigs of Magnolia species. Sphaerellopsis paraphysata is reported as a new host record from L. longiflorum. Newly described taxa are compared with other similar species and detailed descriptions, micrographs, and phylogenetic trees to show the positions are provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Fungal Diversity)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1611 KiB

Open AccessReview

Oral Chronic Hyperplastic Candidiasis and Its Potential Risk of Malignant Transformation: A Systematic Review and Prevalence Meta-Analysis

by Alejandro I. Lorenzo-Pouso, Alba Pérez-Jardón, Vito Carlo Alberto Caponio, Francesca Spirito, Cintia M. Chamorro-Petronacci, Óscar Álvarez-Calderón-Iglesias, Pilar Gándara-Vila, Lorenzo Lo Muzio and Mario Pérez-Sayáns

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1093; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101093 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3792

Abstract

Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis (CHC) is a prototypical oral lesion caused by chronic Candida infection. A major controversy surrounding CHC is whether this oral lesion owns malignant transformation (MT) potential. The aim of the present study was to evaluate current evidence on the MT [...] Read more.

Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis (CHC) is a prototypical oral lesion caused by chronic Candida infection. A major controversy surrounding CHC is whether this oral lesion owns malignant transformation (MT) potential. The aim of the present study was to evaluate current evidence on the MT of CHC and to determine the variables which have the greatest influence on cancer development. Bibliographical searches included PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus and LILACS. The cohort studies and case series used to investigate the MT of CHC were deemed suitable for inclusion. The quality of the enrolled studies was measured by the Joanna Briggs Institute scale. Moreover, we undertook subgroup analyses, assessed small study effects, and conducted sensitivity analyses. From 338 studies, nine were finally included for qualitative/quantitative analysis. The overall MT rate for CHC across all studies was 12.1% (95% confidential interval, 4.1–19.8%). Subgroup analysis showed that the MT rate increased when pooled analysis was restricted to poor quality studies. It remains complex to affirm whether CHC is an individual and oral, potentially malignant disorder according to the retrieved evidence. Prospective cohort studies to define the natural history of CHC and a consensus statement to clarify a proper set of diagnostic criteria are strongly needed. PROSPERO ID: CRD42022319572. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 2882 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comprehensive Analysis of Transcriptome and Metabolome Elucidates the Molecular Regulatory Mechanism of Salt Resistance in Roots of Achnatherum inebrians Mediated by Epichloë gansuensis

by Chao Wang, Rong Huang, Jianfeng Wang, Jie Jin, Kamran Malik, Xueli Niu, Rong Tang, Wenpeng Hou, Chen Cheng, Yinglong Liu and Jie Liu

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1092; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101092 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2189

Abstract

Salinization of soil is a major environmental risk factor to plant functions, leading to a reduction of productivity of crops and forage. Epichloë gansuensis, seed-borne endophytic fungi, establishes a mutualistic symbiotic relationship with Achnatherum inebrians and confers salt tolerance in the host [...] Read more.

Salinization of soil is a major environmental risk factor to plant functions, leading to a reduction of productivity of crops and forage. Epichloë gansuensis, seed-borne endophytic fungi, establishes a mutualistic symbiotic relationship with Achnatherum inebrians and confers salt tolerance in the host plants. In this study, analysis of transcriptome and metabolome was used to explore the potential molecular mechanism underlying the salt-adaptation of A. inebrians roots mediated by E. gansuensis. We found that E. gansuensis played an important role in the gene expression of the host’s roots and regulated multiple pathways involved in amino acid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, TCA cycle, secondary metabolism, and lipid metabolism in the roots of A. inebrians. Importantly, E. gansuensis significantly induced the biological processes, including exocytosis, glycolytic process, fructose metabolic process, and potassium ion transport in roots of host plants at transcriptional levels, and altered the pathways, including inositol phosphate metabolism, galactose metabolism, starch, and sucrose metabolism at metabolite levels under NaCl stress. These findings provided insight into the molecular mechanism of salt resistance in roots of A. inebrians mediated by E. gansuensis and could drive progress in the cultivation of new salt-resistance breeds with endophytes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Endophytes of Grasses)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1482 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Whole Genome Sequencing-Based Approach to Track down Genomic Variants in Itraconazole-Resistant Species of Aspergillus from Iran

by Sanaz Nargesi, Reza Valadan, Mahdi Abastabar, Saeed Kaboli, Jose Thekkiniath and Mohammad Taghi Hedayati

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1091; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101091 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2268

Abstract

The antifungal resistance in non-fumigatus Aspergillus spp., as well as Aspergillus fumigatus, poses a major therapeutic challenge which affects the entire healthcare community. Mutation occurrence of cyp51 gene paralogs is the major cause of azole resistance in Aspergillus spp. To obtain [...] Read more.

The antifungal resistance in non-fumigatus Aspergillus spp., as well as Aspergillus fumigatus, poses a major therapeutic challenge which affects the entire healthcare community. Mutation occurrence of cyp51 gene paralogs is the major cause of azole resistance in Aspergillus spp. To obtain a full map of genomic changes, an accurate scan of the entire length of the Aspergillus genome is necessary. In this study, using whole genome sequencing (WGS) technique, we evaluated the mutation in cyp51A, cyp51B, Cdr1B, AtrR, Hmg1, HapE and FfmA genes in different clinical isolates of Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus tubingensis, Aspergillus welwitschiae and Aspergillus terreus which responded to minimum inhibitory concentrations of itraconazole above 16 µg mL⁻¹. We found different nonsynonymous mutations in the cyp51A, cyp51B, Cdr1B, AtrR, Hmg1, HapE and FfmA gene loci. According to our findings, Aspergillus species isolated from different parts of the world may represent different pattern of resistance mechanisms which may be revealed by WGS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Next-Generation Sequencing and Whole-Genome Sequencing in Medical Mycology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2879 KiB

Open AccessArticle

FgLEU1 Is Involved in Leucine Biosynthesis, Sexual Reproduction, and Full Virulence in Fusarium graminearum

by Shaohua Sun, Mingyu Wang, Chunjie Liu, Yilin Tao, Tian Wang, Yuancun Liang, Li Zhang and Jinfeng Yu

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1090; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101090 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1905

Abstract

Fusarium head blight (FHB) caused by Fusarium graminearum is a significant disease among cereal crops. In F. graminearum, biosynthesis of leucine, which is a branched chain amino acid, is achieved by converting α-isopropylmalate to β-isopropylmalate catalyzed by isopropylmalate isomerase encoded by LEU1 [...] Read more.

Fusarium head blight (FHB) caused by Fusarium graminearum is a significant disease among cereal crops. In F. graminearum, biosynthesis of leucine, which is a branched chain amino acid, is achieved by converting α-isopropylmalate to β-isopropylmalate catalyzed by isopropylmalate isomerase encoded by LEU1. Considering the potential for targeting this pathway by fungicides, we characterized the gene FgLEU1 (FGSG-09589) in the Fusarium graminearum genome using bioinformatics methods. For functional characterization, we constructed a deletion mutant of FgLEU1 (ΔLEU1) through homologous recombination. Compared with the wild-type strain PH-1, ΔLEU1 showed slower colony growth and fewer aerial mycelia. Leucine addition was needed to ensure proper mutant growth. Further, ΔLEU1 showed decreased conidial production and germination rates, and could not produce ascospores. Moreover, ΔLEU1 showed complete loss of pathogenicity and reduced ability to produce deoxynivalenol (DON) and aurofusarin. Upstream and downstream genes of FgLEU1 were significantly upregulated in ΔLEU1. Contrary to previous reports, the deletion mutant was more resistant to osmotic stress and cell wall-damaging agents than the wild-type. Taken together, FgLEU1 plays a crucial role in leucine synthesis, aerial mycelial growth, sexual and asexual reproduction, pathogenicity, virulence, and pigmentation in Fusarium graminearum, indicating its potential as a target for novel antifungal agents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Fungal Pathogenesis 2022)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1611 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. conglutinans Race 1 in Northern China Samples

by Jian Ling, Xin Dong, Xingxing Ping, Yan Li, Yuhong Yang, Jianlong Zhao, Xiaofei Lu, Bingyan Xie and Zhenchuan Mao

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1089; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101089 - 16 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1996

Abstract

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. conglutinans (FOC), the causal agent of cabbage fusarium wilt, is a serious threat to cabbage production in northern China, and most Chinese FOC isolates were identified as FOC race 1 (FOC1). To better understand the genetic diversity of FOC1 [...] Read more.

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. conglutinans (FOC), the causal agent of cabbage fusarium wilt, is a serious threat to cabbage production in northern China, and most Chinese FOC isolates were identified as FOC race 1 (FOC1). To better understand the genetic diversity of FOC1 in northern China, we collected FOC isolates from five provinces in northern China and identified them as FOC1 through pathogenicity and race test. To evaluate the genome-level diversity of FOC1, we performed a genome assembly for a FOC1 isolate (FoYQ-1) collected from Yanqing, Beijing, where cabbage fusarium wilt was first reported in China. Using resequencing data of FOC1 isolates, we conducted a genome-wide SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) analysis to investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of FOC1 isolates in northern China. Our study indicated that Chinese FOC1 can be grouped into four populations and revealed that the genetic diversity of FOC1 were closely associated with geographical locations. Our study further suggests that genetic differentiation occurred when FOC1 spread to the northwest provinces from Beijing Province in China. The FOC1 genetic diversity based on whole-genome SNPs could deepen our understanding of FOC1 variation and provide clues for the control of cabbage fusarium wilt in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Pathogenic Fusarium Species)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3921 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The First Telomere-to-Telomere Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly of Stagonospora tainanensis Causing Sugarcane Leaf Blight

by Fu Xu, Xiuxiu Li, Hui Ren, Rensen Zeng, Zhoutao Wang, Hongli Hu, Jiandong Bao and Youxiong Que

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1088; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101088 - 16 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3131

Abstract

The sexual morph Leptosphaeria taiwanensis Yen and Chi and its asexual morph Stagonospora tainanensis W. H. Hsieh is an important necrotrophic fungal phytopathogen, which causes sugarcane leaf blight, resulting in loss of cane tonnage and sucrose in susceptible sugarcane varieties. Decoding the genome [...] Read more.

The sexual morph Leptosphaeria taiwanensis Yen and Chi and its asexual morph Stagonospora tainanensis W. H. Hsieh is an important necrotrophic fungal phytopathogen, which causes sugarcane leaf blight, resulting in loss of cane tonnage and sucrose in susceptible sugarcane varieties. Decoding the genome and understanding of the basis of virulence is vitally important for devising effective disease control strategies. Here, we present a 38.25-Mb high-quality genome assembly of S. tainanensis strain StFZ01, denovo assembled with 10.19 Gb Nanopore sequencing long reads (~267×) and 3.82 Gb Illumina short reads (~100×). The genome assembly consists of 12 contigs with N50 of 2.86 Mb of which 5 belong to the telomere to telomere (T2T) chromosome. It contains 13.20% repeat sequences, 12,543 proteins, and 12,206 protein-coding genes with the BUSCO completeness 99.18% at fungi (n = 758) and 99.87% at ascomycota (n = 1706), indicating the high accuracy and completeness of our gene annotations. The virulence analysis in silico revealed the presence of 2379 PHIs, 599 CAZys, 248 membrane transport proteins, 191 cytochrome P450 enzymes, 609 putative secreted proteins, and 333 effectors in the StFZ01 genome. The genomic resources presented here will not only be helpful for development of specific molecular marker and diagnosis technique, population genetics, molecular taxonomy, and disease managements, it can also provide a significant precise genomic reference for investigating the ascomycetous genome, the necrotrophic lifestyle, and pathogenicity in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomics of Fungal Plant Pathogens)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1486 KiB

Open AccessReview

Management of Plant Beneficial Fungal Endophytes to Improve the Performance of Agroecological Practices

by Bouchra Nasslahsen, Yves Prin, Hicham Ferhout, Abdelaziz Smouni and Robin Duponnois

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1087; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101087 - 15 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2333

Abstract

By dint of the development of agroecological practices and organic farming, stakeholders are becoming more and more aware of the importance of soil life and banning a growing number of pesticide molecules, promoting the use of plant bio-stimulants. To justify and promote the [...] Read more.

By dint of the development of agroecological practices and organic farming, stakeholders are becoming more and more aware of the importance of soil life and banning a growing number of pesticide molecules, promoting the use of plant bio-stimulants. To justify and promote the use of microbes in agroecological practices and sustainable agriculture, a number of functions or services often are invoked: (i) soil health, (ii) plant growth promotion, (iii) biocontrol, (iv) nutrient acquiring, (v) soil carbon storage, etc. In this paper, a review and a hierarchical classification of plant fungal partners according to their ecosystemic potential with regard to the available technologies aiming at field uses will be discussed with a particular focus on interactive microbial associations and functions such as Mycorrhiza Helper Bacteria (MHB) and nurse plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives on Fungal Endophytes Research)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2260 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity of Epichloë Endophytes Associated with Brachypodium and Calamagrostis Host Grass Genera including Two New Species

by Adrian Leuchtmann and Christopher L. Schardl

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1086; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101086 - 15 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1872

Abstract

Fungi of genus Epichloë (Ascomycota, Clavicipitaceae) are common endophytic symbionts of Poaceae, including wild and agronomically important cool-season grass species (subfam. Poöideae). Here, we examined the genetic diversity of Epichloë from three European species of Brachypodium (B. sylvaticum, B. pinnatum and B. [...] Read more.

Fungi of genus Epichloë (Ascomycota, Clavicipitaceae) are common endophytic symbionts of Poaceae, including wild and agronomically important cool-season grass species (subfam. Poöideae). Here, we examined the genetic diversity of Epichloë from three European species of Brachypodium (B. sylvaticum, B. pinnatum and B. phoenicoides) and three species of Calamagrostis (C. arundinacea, C. purpurea and C. villosa), using DNA sequences of tubB and tefA genes. In addition, microsatellite markers were obtained from a larger set of isolates from B. sylvaticum sampled across Europe. Based on phylogenetic analyses the isolates from Brachypodium hosts were placed in three different subclades within the Epichloë typhina complex (ETC) but did not strictly group according to host grass species, suggesting that the host does not always select for particular endophyte genotypes. Analysis of microsatellite markers confirmed the presence of genetically distinct lineages of Epichloësylvatica on B. sylvaticum, which appeared to be tied to different modes of reproduction (sexual or asexual). Among isolates from Calamagrostis hosts, two subclades were detected which were placed outside ETC. These endophyte lineages are recognized as distinct species for which we propose the names E. calamagrostidis Leuchtm. & Schardl, sp. nov. and E. ftanensis Leuchtm. & A.D. Treindl, sp. nov. This study extends knowledge of the phylogeny and evolutionary diversification of Epichloë endophytes that are symbionts of wild Brachypodium and Calamagrostis host grasses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Endophytes of Grasses)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 6583 KiB

Open AccessReview

Guanidine-Containing Antifungal Agents against Human-Relevant Fungal Pathogens (2004–2022)—A Review

by Simon D. P. Baugh

J. Fungi 2022, 8(10), 1085; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof8101085 - 15 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2526

Abstract

The guanidine moiety is typically a highly basic group, and can be found in a wide variety of drugs, such as zanamivir (Relenza) and metformin (Fortamet), as well as in biologically active compounds for numerous disease areas, including central nervous system (CNS) diseases [...] Read more.

The guanidine moiety is typically a highly basic group, and can be found in a wide variety of drugs, such as zanamivir (Relenza) and metformin (Fortamet), as well as in biologically active compounds for numerous disease areas, including central nervous system (CNS) diseases and chemotherapeutics. This review will focus on antifungal agents which contain at least one guanidine group, for the treatment of human-related fungal pathogens, described in the literature between 2004 and 2022. These compounds include small molecules, steroids, polymers, metal complexes, sesquiterpenes, natural products, and polypeptides. It shall be made clear that a diverse range of guanidine-containing derivatives have been published in the literature and have antifungal activity, including efficacy in in vivo experiments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antifungal Drug Discovery: Novel Therapies and Approaches)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

J. Fungi, Volume 8, Issue 10 (October 2022) – 132 articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI