Journal of Fungi

13 pages, 4156 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Plant Functional Traits and Soil Nutrients Drive Divergent Symbiotic Fungal Strategies in Three Urban Street Tree Species

by Yifan Xue, Yao Wang, Jiang Shi, Jingyao Wei, Qiong Wang and Wenchen Song

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 454; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060454 (registering DOI) - 14 Jun 2025

Abstract

Understanding species-specific mechanisms governing symbiotic fungal responses to plant traits and soil factors is critical for optimizing urban tree “plant-soil-fungus” systems under pollution stress. To address this gap, we combined δ¹³C/δ¹⁵N isotope analysis and ITS sequencing for three common [...] Read more.

Understanding species-specific mechanisms governing symbiotic fungal responses to plant traits and soil factors is critical for optimizing urban tree “plant-soil-fungus” systems under pollution stress. To address this gap, we combined δ¹³C/δ¹⁵N isotope analysis and ITS sequencing for three common street trees in Beijing: Sophora japonica, Ginkgo biloba, and Populus tomentosa. In S. japonica, symbiotic fungal abundance was positively associated with leaf δ¹⁵N, indicating root exudate-mediated “plant-microbe” interactions during atmospheric NO_x assimilation. G. biloba, with weak NO_x assimilation, exhibited a negative correlation between fungal abundance and soil available N/P, suggesting mycorrhizal nutrient compensation under low fertility. P. tomentosa showed decreased fungal abundance with increasing soil N/P ratios and specific leaf area, reflecting carbon allocation trade-offs that limit mycorrhizal investment. These results demonstrate that symbiotic fungi respond to atmospheric and edaphic drivers in a tree species-dependent manner. Urban greening strategies should prioritize S. japonica for its NO_x mitigation potential and optimize fertilization for G. biloba (nutrient-sensitive fungi) and P. tomentosa (nutrient balance sensitivity). Strategic mixed planting of P. tomentosa with S. japonica could synergistically enhance ecosystem services through complementary resource acquisition patterns. This study provides mechanism-based strategies for optimizing urban tree management under atmospheric pollution stress. Full article

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15 pages, 974 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genomic and Functional Analysis of a Novel Yeast Cyberlindnera fabianii TBRC 4498 for High-Yield Xylitol Production

by Pawarin Bonthong, Benjarat Bunterngsook, Wuttichai Mhuantong, Katesuda Aiewviriyasakul, Wipawee Sritusnee, Verawat Champreda and Hataikarn Lekakarn

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 453; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060453 (registering DOI) - 13 Jun 2025

Abstract

The development of yeast cell factories for efficient xylose utilization and xylitol production is crucial for advancing sustainable biotechnological processes. Xylose, a major component of lignocellulosic biomass, presents challenges for microbial conversion due to its complex metabolic pathways. This study presents the genomic [...] Read more.

The development of yeast cell factories for efficient xylose utilization and xylitol production is crucial for advancing sustainable biotechnological processes. Xylose, a major component of lignocellulosic biomass, presents challenges for microbial conversion due to its complex metabolic pathways. This study presents the genomic perspective and xylitol production capability of a novel xylose utilizing yeast Cyberlindnera fabianii TBRC 4498. Genome sequencing and functional annotation revealed key metabolic networks and genes involved in the xylose metabolism pathway, providing insights into the strain’s performance. The Cy. fabianii TBRC 4498 had excellent growth and xylose assimilation at a broad range of xylose concentrations from 40 to 140 g/L, with the highest growth rate at 80 g/L of xylose. The highest xylitol production yield (83.19 g/L) was detected from 120 g/L of xylose at 30 °C for 72 h, equivalent to 0.65 g xylitol/g xylose and 1.16 g/L/h productivity. Remarkably, Cy. fabianii TBRC 4498 produced high-purity xylitol, achieving over 95% homogeneity without forming undesirable byproducts, such as acid or ethanol. These results demonstrated the potential of Cy. fabianii TBRC 4498 as a whole-cell biocatalyst for xylitol production using high xylose concentrations, offering a promising microbial cell factory for large-scale xylitol production from lignocellulosic sugar. Full article

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

13 pages, 3437 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Streptomyces-Based Bioformulation to Control Wilt of Morchella sextelata Caused by Pestalotiopsis trachicarpicola

by Binghan Li, Yue Liu, Aihua Mao, Zhong Hu and Jin Li

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 452; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060452 - 13 Jun 2025

Abstract

In recent years, there has been extensive documentation of pathogenic fungi infecting Morchella sextelata. However, investigations of microorganisms with antagonistic properties against these pathogens are limited. This study successfully isolated two isolates of the genus Streptomyces (F16 and F19) from the rhizosphere [...] Read more.

In recent years, there has been extensive documentation of pathogenic fungi infecting Morchella sextelata. However, investigations of microorganisms with antagonistic properties against these pathogens are limited. This study successfully isolated two isolates of the genus Streptomyces (F16 and F19) from the rhizosphere soil of M. sextelata fruiting bodies, both of which exhibit potent antagonistic activity against Pestalotiopsis trachicarpicola, the causative agent of M. sextelata wilt disease. Comprehensive characterization, including physiological–biochemical tests and 16S rDNA sequence analysis, led to the identification of these isolates as Streptomyces sp. F16 and Streptomyces sp. F19. Both isolates significantly inhibited P. trachicarpicola through multiple mechanisms. The volatile compounds produced by these isolates effectively suppressed the conidial germination of P. trachicarpicola in vitro. Furthermore, fermentation filtrates at various dilutions exhibited pronounced antifungal activity against conidial germination, with Streptomyces sp. F16 showing 66.93% inhibition at a 50× dilution and Streptomyces sp. F19 achieving 49.22% inhibition under identical conditions. Field experiments have demonstrated the practical applicability of these antagonists. The topical application of fermentation filtrates (diluted 50×) from both isolates significantly reduced the incidence and severity of disease in M. sextelata cultivation. Notably, the yield improvements were substantial: fields treated with Streptomyces sp. F16 produced 299.6 g/m², whereas those treated with Streptomyces sp. F19 yielded 277.65 g/m². These yields significantly surpassed those of both the untreated control group (231 g/m²) and the P. trachicarpicola-inoculated group (134.93 g/m²). These findings indicate that the two isolates not only effectively control P. trachicarpicola but also increase the yield of M. sextelata. Full article

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

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16 pages, 5958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Homeodomain Proteins at the Aβ Sublocus in Schizophyllum commune and Their Role in Sexual Compatibility and Development

by Chen Chu, Dongxu Li and Changhong Liu

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 451; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060451 - 13 Jun 2025

Abstract

The A mating-type locus in Schizophyllum commune, which encodes homeodomain (HD) transcription factors, is essential for regulating sexual compatibility and development. While the role of the Aα sublocus and its Y-Z HD protein complex is adequality understood, the function of HD proteins [...] Read more.

The A mating-type locus in Schizophyllum commune, which encodes homeodomain (HD) transcription factors, is essential for regulating sexual compatibility and development. While the role of the Aα sublocus and its Y-Z HD protein complex is adequality understood, the function of HD proteins at the Aβ sublocus remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed the Aβ sublocus of eight monokaryotic S. commune strains derived from the parental dikaryotic strain 20R-7-Z01 and identified four HD genes, abr, abs, abv, and abq, located at the Aβ sublocus. These genes encode two HD1 proteins (S and Q) and two HD2 proteins (R and V). Protein structure prediction, interaction assays, and in vivo functional analyses revealed that R-S and V-Q interactions independently regulate sexual compatibility and fruiting body development. This research highlights the critical role of the Aβ sublocus in fungal reproduction and provides valuable insights for breeding edible and medicinal S. commune strains. Full article

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25 pages, 18127 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mycelium Growth and Development of Psilocybe spp. Mother Cultures on Agar-Based Media

by Marco Pepe, Mohsen Hesami, Livia Fleishmann, Tom Hsiang and Andrew Maxwell Phineas Jones

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 450; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060450 - 13 Jun 2025

Abstract

The resurgence of interest in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin-producing mushrooms has recently led to numerous research and commercialization efforts. Due to its ease of cultivation and high potency, Psilocybe is the primary genus of interest, and there is a growing need to [...] Read more.

The resurgence of interest in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin-producing mushrooms has recently led to numerous research and commercialization efforts. Due to its ease of cultivation and high potency, Psilocybe is the primary genus of interest, and there is a growing need to standardize maintenance, proliferation, and cultivation techniques for efficient and consistent production. The investigation of mycelial growth and development on agar-based media is of principal importance to regulate and optimize mycelium growth and preservation protocols for subsequent fruiting body development. The current investigation is the first to examine the mycelial growth and morphology of four Psilocybe genotypes cultured on different agar-based media. The results from this simple set of experiments provides the foundation for future optimization studies. Ultimately, the information presented can be used to develop genotype-specific mycelial growth and development practices that will shape the future of psychedelic mushroom production for clinical and industrial applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Edible and Medicinal Macrofungi, 4th Edition)

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25 pages, 5008 KiB

Open AccessReview

Engineering of Global Transcriptional Regulators (GTRs) in Aspergillus for Natural Product Discovery

by Yujie Zhao, Qing Gong and Huawei Zhang

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 449; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060449 - 12 Jun 2025

Abstract

The Aspergillus genus is an important group of filamentous fungi, and the various biological activities of its secondary metabolites (SMs) have great biosynthetic potential. Despite over 4200 SMs having been isolated from Aspergillus spp., their metabolic potential remains unexplored due to the presence [...] Read more.

The Aspergillus genus is an important group of filamentous fungi, and the various biological activities of its secondary metabolites (SMs) have great biosynthetic potential. Despite over 4200 SMs having been isolated from Aspergillus spp., their metabolic potential remains unexplored due to the presence of numerous silent biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) in their genomes. Fortunately, over the last two decades, the global transcriptional regulator (GTR) engineering strategy has emerged as a powerful tool for activating these cryptic BGCs in order to synthesize previously undiscovered SMs from Aspergillus spp. This review highlights recent advances in fungal GTR engineering techniques, the regulatory mechanisms of GTRs, and current challenges and future perspectives for their application in natural product discovery in the genus Aspergillus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Biotechnology and Application 3.0)

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14 pages, 677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Usefulness of Serum as a Non-Invasive Sample for the Detection of Histoplasma capsulatum Infections: Retrospective Comparative Analysis of Different Diagnostic Techniques and Quantification of Host Biomarkers

by L. Bernal-Martínez, P. De la Cruz-Ríos, R. Viedma, S. Gago, S. Ortega-Madueño, L. Alcazar-Fuoli and M. J. Buitrago

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 448; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060448 - 12 Jun 2025

Abstract

Diagnosis of histoplasmosis is challenging. A rapid, sensitive, and specific method is essential. Serum is a non-invasive and easy sample to obtain in any hospital. The diagnostic accuracy of different techniques that use serum has been evaluated. Forty-one serum samples from patients with [...] Read more.

Diagnosis of histoplasmosis is challenging. A rapid, sensitive, and specific method is essential. Serum is a non-invasive and easy sample to obtain in any hospital. The diagnostic accuracy of different techniques that use serum has been evaluated. Forty-one serum samples from patients with proven or probable histoplasmosis were analyzed. Different diagnostic techniques based on the detection of antibodies (ID Fungal Antibody System), antigens (Histoplasma GM EIA and Platelia^TM Aspergillus Ag), and DNA (“in-house” real-time PCR (RT-PCR) were tested and compared. Additionally, the quantification of cytokines and biomarkers related to histoplasmosis was performed. Global results from 27 samples in which all the tests were performed showed that the sensitivity of the Histoplasma GM EIA kit was 87.5% in patients with disseminated infection and HIV as an underlying disease; in immunocompetent (IC) patients, it was 54.5%. The detection of Histoplasma spp. with the ID Fungal Antibody System was positive in 90.9% of IC and in 62.5% of HIV patients. The Platelia-Asp kit had a low performance in both groups of patients (37.5% in HIV and 9% in non-HIV), and, finally, RT-PCR was better in immunosuppressed patients (44% in HIV vs. 27% in non-HIV). The combination of diagnostic techniques increased the detection of Histoplasma infection in inmunosupressed patients. Overall, patient groups infected with H. capsulatum (Hc) showed higher IL-8, IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-18 median values compared to non-Hc-infected controls. The effectiveness of diagnostic techniques on serum samples is highly influenced by the patient’s clinical presentation and underlying condition. Consequently, a thorough assessment of the patient’s clinical presentation and disease phenotype is crucial in selecting the most suitable diagnostic method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Infections: New Challenges and Opportunities, 3rd Edition)

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15 pages, 1793 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Virulence Characterization of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici in China in 2020 Using Wheat Yr Single-Gene Lines

by Jie Huang, Xingzong Zhang, Wenjing Tan, Yi Wu, Hai Xu, Shuwaner Wang, Sajid Mehmood, Xinli Zhou, Suizhuang Yang, Meinan Wang, Xianming Chen, Wanquan Chen, Taiguo Liu, Xin Li and Chongjing Xia

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 447; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060447 - 12 Jun 2025

Abstract

Wheat stripe (yellow) rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), is one of the most threatening wheat diseases worldwide. Monitoring the virulence of Pst population is essential for managing wheat stripe rust. In this study, 18 wheat [...] Read more.

Wheat stripe (yellow) rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), is one of the most threatening wheat diseases worldwide. Monitoring the virulence of Pst population is essential for managing wheat stripe rust. In this study, 18 wheat Yr single-gene lines were used to identify the virulence patterns of 67 isolates collected from 13 provinces in China in 2020, from which 33 Pst races were identified. The frequency of virulence to different Yr genes varied from 1.49% to 97.01%, with 4.48% to Yr1, 26.87% to Yr6, 11.94% to Yr7, 95.52% to Yr8, 19.40% to Yr9, 11.94% to Yr17, 2.99% to Yr24, 35.82% to Yr27, 38.81% to Yr43, 97.01% to Yr44, 8.96% to YrSP, 1.49% to Yr85, 95.52% to YrExp2, and 7.46% to Yr76. None of the isolates were virulent to Yr5, Yr10, Yr15, and Yr32. Among the 33 races, PstCN-062 (with virulence to Yr8, Yr44, and YrExp2) and PstCN-001 (with virulence to Yr8, Yr43, Yr44, and YrExp2) were the prevalent races, with frequencies of 28.36% and 11.94%, respectively. These results provide valuable information for breeding resistant wheat cultivars for controlling stripe rust. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rust Fungi)

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21 pages, 2694 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Isolation and Identification of Endophytic Bacterium B5 from Mentha haplocalyx Briq. and Its Biocontrol Mechanisms Against Alternaria alternata-Induced Tobacco Brown Spot

by Qunying Qin, Boyu Liu, Baige Ma, Xihong Wei, Yi Zhou and Zhengxiang Sun

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060446 - 12 Jun 2025

Abstract

The fungus Alternaria alternata, which causes tobacco brown spot disease, poses a serious threat to the tobacco industry. Beneficial microorganisms and their secondary metabolites have emerged as a promising green strategy for disease management. This study recovered 16 endophytic bacterial strains from [...] Read more.

The fungus Alternaria alternata, which causes tobacco brown spot disease, poses a serious threat to the tobacco industry. Beneficial microorganisms and their secondary metabolites have emerged as a promising green strategy for disease management. This study recovered 16 endophytic bacterial strains from Mentha haplocalyx Briq., a therapeutic herb. The study revealed that strain B5, with an inhibition rate of 82.76%, exhibited the highest antifungal activity against A. alternata. This strain exhibited broad-spectrum antifungal activity, with inhibition rates ranging from 66.34% to 87.23%. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rDNA and gyrA gene sequences identified it as Bacillus velezensis (GenBank: PV168970 and PV173738). Further characterization revealed that strain B5 can secrete cell wall-degrading enzymes, produce IAA, and synthesize siderophores. The growth of mycelium in A. alternata was greatly reduced by both the ethyl acetate extract and the filtered liquid from the sterile fermentation, resulting in marked morphological abnormalities. Multiple antifungal active substances were identified through liquid LC-MS analysis. Greenhouse experiments demonstrated that the B5 fermentation broth effectively suppressed the occurrence of tobacco brown spot disease, achieving a relative control efficacy of 60.66%, comparable to that of 10% difenoconazole water dispersible granule (WDG). Additionally, strain B5 enhances plant disease resistance by activating the activities of key defense enzymes. B. velezensis B5 serves as a safe alternative to chemical fungicides and is highly effective at controlling tobacco brown spot disease. Full article

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

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8 pages, 215 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Genetic Confirmation of Clonal Spread of Candida auris from Southern to Northern Nevada

by Paul J. Resong, Joseph Lee, Adam Vazquez, David Hess, Kirk Bronander and Samuel A. Lee

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 445; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060445 - 12 Jun 2025

Abstract

Candida auris is an emerging fungal pathogen characterized by high levels of antifungal drug resistance and hospital outbreaks in a global distribution. Since introduction to the United States, it has been identified most frequently in New York, Illinois, California, Florida, and Nevada. Its [...] Read more.

Candida auris is an emerging fungal pathogen characterized by high levels of antifungal drug resistance and hospital outbreaks in a global distribution. Since introduction to the United States, it has been identified most frequently in New York, Illinois, California, Florida, and Nevada. Its surge poses significant risk as a nosocomial infection with multi-drug resistance, with clades bearing resistance to fluconazole, micafungin, and amphotericin B. Within the state of Nevada, and specifically the greater Las Vegas area in the southern part of the state, there are ongoing outbreaks from clade I and clade III, with 1728 confirmed clinical cases identified as of January 2025. In northern Nevada, three clinical cases have been identified to date, with two occurring at our facility. Both patients had been hospitalized at facilities in Las Vegas, Nevada. The C. auris strains isolated from these two cases have been identified as belonging to clade III and demonstrate resistance to fluconazole. Genome sequencing of the C. auris isolates indicates close genetic identity to strains from the Las Vegas outbreak. These data indicate that the spread of these clonal isolates is due to hospitalization and subsequent patient relocation to northern Nevada, revealing the ongoing importance of screening for geographic spread. Full article

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

12 pages, 1111 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pilot Study Comparing the In Vitro Response of Circulating Monocytes to Aspergillus fumigatus Swollen Conidia in Patients with Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease and Healthy Volunteers

by Claire Kenny, Charles Oliver Morton, Eibhlin Conneally, Ann Atzberger, Anthony Davies, Hermann Einsele, Juergen Loeffler and Thomas R. Rogers

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060444 - 11 Jun 2025

Abstract

Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is a recognised and potentially life-threatening complication of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) and its treatment. Invasive aspergillosis (IA), most often due to the species Aspergillus fumigatus, is the leading IFD in this setting. IA can occur during the [...] Read more.

Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is a recognised and potentially life-threatening complication of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) and its treatment. Invasive aspergillosis (IA), most often due to the species Aspergillus fumigatus, is the leading IFD in this setting. IA can occur during the early weeks following allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) coinciding with profound neutropenia, but increasingly, cases of IA occur after engraftment, coinciding with the occurrence of cGVHD. Immunomodulatory treatments of cGVHD can impair innate immune responses to inhaled Aspergillus conidia, increasing the risk of developing IA. Here, in a pilot study, we present an analysis of the phenotypic characteristics (phagocytic efficiency, fungal killing, and cytokine release) of circulating monocytes derived from patients with cGVHD compared to healthy volunteers. We found that there was no statistically significant difference in their ability to phagocytose A. fumigatus conidia, and while there was a trend in their reduced ability to kill conidia, this was not significant when compared to the ability of volunteers’ monocytes to do so. Although we could not demonstrate in this small cohort of patients with cGVHD that monocytes may be a factor in the increased susceptibility to IA, further investigation of larger numbers of study subjects is warranted so that in vitro biomarkers may be developed for immune responses to Aspergillus in patients with cGVHD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into the Current Understanding of Host–Fungal Interactions, 2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 17089 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tar Spot on Maize: Impact of Soil Types and Environmental Conditions on the Survival of Phyllachora maydis in the Subtropical Climate of Florida

by Vitor A. S. Moura, Larissa C. Ferreira, Marcio F. R. Resende and Katia V. Xavier

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 443; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060443 - 11 Jun 2025

Abstract

Tar spot, caused by Phyllachora maydis, is an established maize disease in the Midwest of the United States but remains an emerging concern in Florida. While this pathogen can overwinter on plant residue, its survival in Florida’s subtropical environment is not well [...] Read more.

Tar spot, caused by Phyllachora maydis, is an established maize disease in the Midwest of the United States but remains an emerging concern in Florida. While this pathogen can overwinter on plant residue, its survival in Florida’s subtropical environment is not well understood. This study evaluated how environmental factors affect the germination of P. maydis ascospores and stroma integrity. Symptomatic maize leaves were incubated under four conditions: Histosol soil (muck), Krome soil (rocky), 4 °C, and 23 °C. Extensive leaf decomposition occurred in both soil types, with most plant material degraded after eight weeks, while the stroma maintained its structure. Despite this, ascospore germination declined across all conditions. After eight weeks, ascospores incubated at 4 °C retained 25% viability, while those at 23 °C had the lowest germination (0.7%). Ascospores from leaves buried in soil exhibited low viability (1–6%), with no significant differences between soil types (

p = 0.9944

). Weather analysis revealed that increased temperature reduced germination rates, while higher humidity enhanced them. These findings suggest that P. maydis displays limited survivability under Florida-like conditions, with germination rates declining over time. Therefore, cultural practices such as tillage, already employed by corn producers in Florida, may be effective in reducing sources of P. maydis inoculum. Full article

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

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6 pages, 341 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Candida glabrata Prosthetic Joint Infection Managed with Ibrexafungerp

by Ella Nadarevic, Jack McHugh and Paschalis Vergidis

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060442 - 11 Jun 2025

Abstract

We report a case of a triazole and echinocandin-resistant C. glabrata right shoulder prosthetic joint infection in a 60-year-old woman. The patient underwent surgery and received the novel triterpenoid antifungal agent ibrexafungerp. She initially improved, but relapsed four months post-treatment. This case highlights [...] Read more.

We report a case of a triazole and echinocandin-resistant C. glabrata right shoulder prosthetic joint infection in a 60-year-old woman. The patient underwent surgery and received the novel triterpenoid antifungal agent ibrexafungerp. She initially improved, but relapsed four months post-treatment. This case highlights the potential role of ibrexafungerp in multidrug-resistant Candida infections. Full article

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

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14 pages, 3109 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biocontrol and Mycotoxin Mitigation: An Endophytic Fungus from Maize Exhibiting Dual Antagonism Against Fusarium verticillioides and Fumonisin Reduction

by Qianhui Li, Dongbeng Zhang, Dongyan Ye, Shuo Zhang, Qiurui Ma, Helong Bai and Fanlei Meng

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060441 - 11 Jun 2025

Abstract

Fusarium verticillioides is one of the pathogenic fungi causing maize ear rot, and its secreted fumonisins accumulated in plants pose significant threats to human health. To reduce the incidence of maize ear rot and fumonisin contamination, this study isolated numerous endophytic fungi from [...] Read more.

Fusarium verticillioides is one of the pathogenic fungi causing maize ear rot, and its secreted fumonisins accumulated in plants pose significant threats to human health. To reduce the incidence of maize ear rot and fumonisin contamination, this study isolated numerous endophytic fungi from maize plants. Through inhibition zone and dual culture assays, an endophytic fungal strain, FJ284, demonstrating notable antifungal activity against F. verticillioides was screened. 18S rDNA gene sequencing was employed for fungal identification, and the sequences were deposited in NCBI GenBank. FJ284 was identified as Penicillium oxalicum. The ethyl acetate extract of P. oxalicum was analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), revealing 52 compounds, including several secondary metabolites with documented anticancer, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities. Furthermore, a spectroscopic method was developed to assess the inhibitory effect of strain FJ284 against F. verticillioides, showing maximum inhibition at 48 h. Finally, Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) analyses confirmed that FJ284 significantly inhibited three fumonisins (suppression rates > 50%), with efficacy ranked as fumonisin B3 (FB3) > fumonisin B2 (FB2) > fumonisin B1 (FB1). Full article

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13 pages, 1059 KiB

Open AccessReview

Response to Oxidative Stress in Sporothrix schenckii

by Estela Ruiz-Baca, Pablo Jaciel Adame-Soto, Carlos Antonio Alba-Fierro, Ana Lilia Martínez-Rocha, Armando Pérez-Torres, Angélica López-Rodríguez and Yolanda Romo-Lozano

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 440; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060440 - 10 Jun 2025

Abstract

Oxidative stress is key in immune defense against fungal infections, such as those caused by Sporothrix schenckii, the dimorphic fungus responsible for sporotrichosis. Phagocytic cells utilize oxidative stress as a crucial mechanism to control pathogen spread. During S. schenckii infection, phagocytic cells [...] Read more.

Oxidative stress is key in immune defense against fungal infections, such as those caused by Sporothrix schenckii, the dimorphic fungus responsible for sporotrichosis. Phagocytic cells utilize oxidative stress as a crucial mechanism to control pathogen spread. During S. schenckii infection, phagocytic cells recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) on their surface through conserved transmembrane or soluble receptors, known as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). This recognition triggers a cascade of immune responses, including the generation reactive oxygen species (ROS) essential for pathogen elimination. However, S. schenckii has developed sophisticated mechanisms to evade and counteract this response, contributing to its persistence in the host. These mechanisms include the production of antioxidant enzymes, alterations to its cell wall (CW), and the production of melanin, which helps neutralize oxidative stress. In addition, S. schenckii modulates the production of other proteins, such as moonlighting proteins, suggested to have roles in immune evasion and stress response, helping its survival in the host. These strategies, along with the modulation of gene expression, allow the fungus to survive and persist inside the immune system’s hostile environment, facilitating the progression of the infection. Understanding these interactions between phagocytic cells and S. schenckii is key to developing more effective therapeutic strategies to combat sporotrichosis. Full article

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

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17 pages, 1924 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a High-Performance Trichoderma Mutant for Enhanced Cellulase Production Through UV-Induced Random Mutagenesis

by Seungjun Kim, Iksu Ha, Yun-Yeong Lee, Junseo Lee and Jeonghee Yun

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060439 - 9 Jun 2025

Abstract

Ultraviolet (UV)-induced mutagenesis is a cost-effective and straightforward technique for introducing random genetic variations without the use of chemical reagents or genetic engineering. It is commonly employed to enhance enzyme activity in industrial trains. In this study, Trichoderma sp. was exposed to UV [...] Read more.

Ultraviolet (UV)-induced mutagenesis is a cost-effective and straightforward technique for introducing random genetic variations without the use of chemical reagents or genetic engineering. It is commonly employed to enhance enzyme activity in industrial trains. In this study, Trichoderma sp. was exposed to UV radiation at varying distances (4, 9, and 13 cm) and durations (2, 4, 6, and 8 min) to induce mutations. The activities of endoglucanase (EG), β-glucosidase (BGL), and cellobiohydrolase (CBH) were assessed following treatment. The 4 cm exposure distance yielded the highest enhancement, with EG, BGL, and CBH activities increasing 1.5-, 1.3-, and 0.9-fold, respectively. When the distance was fixed at 4 cm, the optimal exposure time was identified as 4 min, yielding further enhancements of 1.9-, 1.6-, and 1.4-fold, respectively. The resulting mutant, designated Mut-4, was scaled up in a 10-L bioreactor to assess its industrial applicability. Mut-4 retained its enhanced performance, achieving 1.9-, 2.0-, and 1.4-fold enhancements in EG, BGL, and CBH activities, respectively, compared with the original strain. These findings indicate that combining UV-induced mutagenesis with basic screening is an effective strategy for enhancing cellulolytic enzyme production, representing a promising approach for lignocellulosic biomass conversion. Full article

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

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17 pages, 2988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inbreeding and Genetic Differentiation Among Geographic Populations of Lactarius hatsudake in Southwest China

by Kuan Zhao, Mingwei Mao, Xianghua Wang and Jianping Xu

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 438; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060438 - 8 Jun 2025

Abstract

Lactarius hatsudake is an economically important wild edible fungus in sub-tropical and temperate Asia. At present, little is known about its genetic diversity, mode of reproduction, and population structure in natural environments. In this study, we collected 102 specimens from eight geographic locations [...] Read more.

Lactarius hatsudake is an economically important wild edible fungus in sub-tropical and temperate Asia. At present, little is known about its genetic diversity, mode of reproduction, and population structure in natural environments. In this study, we collected 102 specimens from eight geographic locations across three provinces in southwest China. Five simple sequence repeat markers that demonstrated high polymorphism were developed and used to analyze the patterns of genetic variations within and among the eight geographic populations. Analyses of molecular variance revealed that 60% of the observed genetic variation occurred among populations, with the remaining 40% attributable to within populations, while inter-provincial variation was nonsignificant. Combined analyses based on discriminant analysis of principal components, STRUCTURE, and the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean identified two distinct genetic subpopulations with each genetic subpopulation showing a wide geographical distribution, a result consistent with ancient divergence and recent gene flow within this species in southwest China. Interestingly, excess homozygosity was observed at most loci in almost all of the eight geographic populations, consistent with inbreeding being common for this species in nature. Together, our results revealed the genetic diversity, mode of reproduction, and geographic structuring of this important wild mushroom in southwest China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Fungal Biodiversity and Ecology)

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13 pages, 969 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Proposed Diagnostic Criteria for Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Patients with Autoimmune Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases: A Proof-of-Concept Study

by Takashi Kurita, Koh Okamoto, Noritaka Sekiya, Ryoichi Hanazawa, Akio Yamamoto, Tadashi Hosoya, Akihiro Hirakawa, Shinsuke Yasuda and Yoshiaki Gu

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 437; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060437 - 7 Jun 2025

Abstract

The EORTC/MSGERC definition lacks sufficient sensitivity for diagnosing invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRDs). We hypothesized that the partial fulfillment of the EORTC/MSGERC definition can improve its diagnostic sensitivity. This retrospective observational study included patients with AIIRDs [...] Read more.

The EORTC/MSGERC definition lacks sufficient sensitivity for diagnosing invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRDs). We hypothesized that the partial fulfillment of the EORTC/MSGERC definition can improve its diagnostic sensitivity. This retrospective observational study included patients with AIIRDs on immunosuppressive therapy who underwent serum galactomannan antigen testing for suspected IPA. Patients who fulfilled the clinical features or mycological evidence as per the EORTC/MSGERC definition were considered as having “potential IPA.” We compared the clinical characteristics of 364 patients who were categorized into 3 groups—potential IPA (n = 29), proven/probable IPA (n = 24), and non-IPA (n = 311; not meeting any definition). The potential and proven/probable IPA groups had significantly lower survival rates than the non-IPA group (p < 0.001). The potential IPA (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–3.8) and proven/probable IPA (aHR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.4–4.9) were independent risk factors for mortality. Compared with the EORTC/MSGERC definition, our proposed criteria improved sensitivity based on the diagnosis at the end of observation (50.0%, 100.0%, respectively). The characteristics and mortality rates of patients were similar between the potential and proven/probable IPA groups. Using these criteria for clinical diagnosis may provide high sensitivity. Full article

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21 pages, 1339 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Toxicity Assessment and Antifungal Potential of Copper(II) and Silver(I) Complexes with 1,10-Phenanthroline-5,6-dione Against Drug-Resistant Clinical Isolates of Cryptococcus gattii and Cryptococcus neoformans

by Lucas Giovanini, Ana Lucia Casemiro, Larissa S. Corrêa, Matheus Mendes, Thaís P. Mello, Lucieri O. P. Souza, Luis Gabriel Wagner, Christiane Fernandes, Matheus M. Pereira, Lais C. S. V. de Souza, Andrea R. S. Baptista, Josué de Moraes, Malachy McCann, Marta H. Branquinha and André L. S. Santos

J. Fungi 2025, 11(6), 436; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11060436 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

The World Health Organization included Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii in its priority fungal pathogen list due to their high mortality rates and frequent treatment failures. These facts have driven research toward the discovery of new compounds for the treatment of cryptococcosis. In [...] Read more.

The World Health Organization included Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii in its priority fungal pathogen list due to their high mortality rates and frequent treatment failures. These facts have driven research toward the discovery of new compounds for the treatment of cryptococcosis. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of two complexes, [Cu(phendione)₃](ClO₄)₂·4H₂O (Cu-phendione) and [Ag(phendione)₂]ClO₄ (Ag-phendione), against drug-resistant clinical isolates of C. gattii and C. neoformans. Both complexes demonstrated anti-Cryptococcus activity, with Cu-phendione exhibiting minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 6.25 μM for C. gattii and 3.125 μM for C. neoformans, while Ag-phendione showed an MIC of 1.56 μM for both Cryptococcus species. Notably, both Cu-phendione and Ag-phendione complexes exhibited enhanced antifungal activity against reference strains of C. neoformans and C. gattii. In silico analysis identified both complexes as highly promising, exhibiting good oral bioavailability, high gastrointestinal absorption, and moderate skin permeability. Moreover, neither complex demonstrated toxicity toward sheep erythrocytes at concentrations up to 62.5 μM, with a selectivity index (SI) exceeding 10 for Cu-phendione and 40 for Ag-phendione. In vivo testing using the Galleria mellonella model demonstrated that both complexes were non-toxic, with 100% larval survival at concentrations up to 1000 μM and SI exceeding 160 following a single administration. Interestingly, larvae exposed to Cu-phendione at concentrations of 15.6–31.25 μM exhibited a significant increase in the density of hemocytes, the immune cells responsible for defense in invertebrates. Furthermore, multiple treatments with 62.5 μM of complexes caused either no larval mortality, hemocyte alterations, or changes in silk production or coloration, indicating a lack of toxicity. These findings suggest that Cu-phendione and Ag-phendione may serve as promising antifungal alternatives against Cryptococcus, with minimal host toxicity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Infections: Immune Defenses and New Therapeutic Strategies)

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