Journal of Fungi

3 pages, 1277 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Matha et al. Ergosterol Is Critical for Sporogenesis in Cryptococcus neoformans. J. Fungi 2024, 10, 106

by Amber R. Matha, Xiaofeng Xie and Xiaorong Lin

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080580 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2024

Abstract

We recently discovered that the D4H sterol biosensor strains used in Figure 4 of the published paper [...] Full article

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14 pages, 8601 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Mitochondrial Distribution and Morphology Family 33 Gene FgMDM33 Is Involved in Autophagy and Pathogenesis in Fusarium graminearum

by Wuyun Lv, Yiyi Tu, Ting Xu, You Zhang, Junjie Chen, Nan Yang and Yuchun Wang

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080579 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2024

Abstract

The mitochondrial distribution and morphology family 33 gene (MDM33) regulates mitochondrial homeostasis by mediating the mitochondrial fission process in yeast. The wheat head blight Fusarium graminearum contains an FgMdm33 protein that is orthologous to Saccharomyces cerevisiae Mdm33, albeit its function remains [...] Read more.

The mitochondrial distribution and morphology family 33 gene (MDM33) regulates mitochondrial homeostasis by mediating the mitochondrial fission process in yeast. The wheat head blight Fusarium graminearum contains an FgMdm33 protein that is orthologous to Saccharomyces cerevisiae Mdm33, albeit its function remains unknown. We have reported here the roles of FgMdm33 in regulating fungal morphogenesis, mitochondrial morphology, autophagy, apoptosis, and fungal pathogenicity. The ΔFgmdm33 mutants generated through a homologous recombination strategy in this study exhibited defects in terms of mycelial growth, conidia production, and virulence. Hyphal cells lacking FgMDM33 displayed elongated mitochondria and a dispensable respiratory-deficient growth phenotype, indicating the possible involvement of FgMDM33 in mitochondrial fission. The ΔFgmdm33 mutants displayed a remarkable reduction in the proteolysis of GFP-FgAtg8, whereas the formation of autophagic bodies in the hyphal cells of mutants was recorded under the induction of mitophagy. In addition, the transcriptional expression of the apoptosis-inducing factor 1 gene (FgAIF1) was significantly upregulated in the ΔFgmdm33 mutants. Cumulatively, these results indicate that FgMDM33 is involved in mitochondrial fission, non-selective macroautophagy, and apoptosis and that it regulates fungal growth, conidiation, and pathogenicity of the head blight pathogen. Full article

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

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17 pages, 5665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Streptomyces pratensis S10 Promotes Wheat Plant Growth and Induces Resistance in Wheat Seedlings against Fusarium graminearum

by Xiaoman Tian, Lifang Hu, Ruimin Jia, Shang Cao, Yan Sun, Xiaomin Dong and Yang Wang

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080578 - 15 Aug 2024

Abstract

Fusarium graminearum, a devastating fungal pathogen, causes great economic losses to crop yields worldwide. The present study investigated the potential of Streptomyces pratensis S10 to alleviate F. graminearum stress in wheat seedlings based on plant growth-promoting and resistance-inducing assays. The bioassays revealed [...] Read more.

Fusarium graminearum, a devastating fungal pathogen, causes great economic losses to crop yields worldwide. The present study investigated the potential of Streptomyces pratensis S10 to alleviate F. graminearum stress in wheat seedlings based on plant growth-promoting and resistance-inducing assays. The bioassays revealed that S10 exhibited multiple plant growth-promoting properties, including the production of siderophores, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid deaminase (ACC), and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), phosphate solubilization, and nitrogen fixation. Meanwhile, the pot experiment demonstrated that S10 improved wheat plant development, substantially enhancing wheat height, weight, root activity, and chlorophyll content. Consistently, genome mining identified abundant genes associated with plant growth promotion. S10 induced resistance against F. graminearum in wheat seedlings. The disease incidence and disease index reduced by nearly 52% and 65% in S10 pretreated wheat seedlings, respectively, compared with those infected with F. graminearum only in the non-contact inoculation assay. Moreover, S10 enhanced callose deposition and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and induced the activities of CAT, SOD, POD, PAL, and PPO. Furthermore, the quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) results indicated that S10 pretreatment increased the expression of SA- (PR1.1, PR2, PR5, and PAL1) and JA/ET-related genes (PR3, PR4a, PR9, and PDF1.2) in wheat seedlings upon F. graminearum infection. In summary, S. pratensis S10 could be an integrated biological agent and biofertilizer in wheat seedling blight management and plant productivity enhancement. Full article

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15 pages, 2102 KiB

Open AccessReview

Diabetic Foot and Fungal Infections: Etiology and Management from a Dermatologic Perspective

by Aditya K. Gupta, Avner Shemer, Vasiliki Economopoulos and Mesbah Talukder

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080577 - 15 Aug 2024

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a significant global concern. Many diabetic patients will experience complications due to angiopathy, neuropathy, and immune dysfunction, namely diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and diabetic foot infections (DFI), which can result in lower limb amputation and potentially death. The prevalence [...] Read more.

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a significant global concern. Many diabetic patients will experience complications due to angiopathy, neuropathy, and immune dysfunction, namely diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and diabetic foot infections (DFI), which can result in lower limb amputation and potentially death. The prevalence of common superficial fungal infections, such as tinea pedis and onychomycosis, can directly increase a diabetic patient’s risk of developing both DFU and DFI. In this review article, we discuss the etiology of diabetic foot complications as well as considerations for both screening and management. We also discuss the role of the dermatologist within a multidisciplinary care team in prescribing and managing treatments for tinea pedis and onychomycosis infections within this patient population. We believe that reducing the burden of these fungal infections in the context of the diabetic foot will help reduce DFU and DFI complications and their associated morbidity and mortality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives for Superficial Fungal Infections, Second Edition)

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14 pages, 3922 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microsporum canis Causes Cutaneous and Extracutaneous Feline Dermatophytic Pseudomycetomas: Molecular Identification and Clinicopathological Characteristics

by Stefan Hobi, Wing Yan Jacqueline Tam, May Tse, Omid Nekouei, Yingfei Chai, Fraser I. Hill, Edmund Cheung, Wietz Botes, Francois Saulnier-Troff, Colin T. McDermott and Vanessa R. Barrs

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080576 - 14 Aug 2024

Abstract

Dermatophytic pseudomycetoma (DPM) is a rarely reported invasive fungal infection of humans and animals, especially cats. This study aimed to identify dermatophytes, breed associations, and the frequency of extracutaneous (EC) involvement in feline DPM. Electronic records and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue (FFPET) from 32 [...] Read more.

Dermatophytic pseudomycetoma (DPM) is a rarely reported invasive fungal infection of humans and animals, especially cats. This study aimed to identify dermatophytes, breed associations, and the frequency of extracutaneous (EC) involvement in feline DPM. Electronic records and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue (FFPET) from 32 suspected DPM cases in 30 cats were retrieved from a diagnostic laboratory between 2018 and 2024. To confirm DPM and molecular identity, DNA was extracted from FFPET for ITS2 sequencing, and immunohistochemistry was performed on PCR-negative cases. All cases were confirmed as DPM. Microsporum canis was the only dermatophyte identified. The sensitivity and specificity of ITS2 sequencing for M. canis identification in FFPET were 22/32 (68.8%) and 21/22 (95.5%), respectively. Exotic (36.7%) and Persian (23.3%) but not British breeds (26.3%) were over-represented compared to feline admissions at an affiliated veterinary hospital (8.5%, p < 0.001; 3%, p < 0.001; 21.6%, p = 0.817, respectively). Five cases (16.7%) had EC lesions; two had intra-abdominal masses; two had oral cavity masses, including one which extended into the cranial vault; and one had superficial cervical lymph node invasion. Exotic and Persian breeds are over-represented for DPM and M. canis is the primary cause. EC lesions of DPM may occur more commonly than previously thought. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Human and Zoonotic Dermatophytoses)

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17 pages, 2927 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Graph-Based Pan-Genome Reveals the Pattern of Deleterious Mutations during the Domestication of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

by Guotao Chen, Guohui Shi, Yi Dai, Ruilin Zhao and Qi Wu

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080575 - 14 Aug 2024

Abstract

The “cost of domestication” hypothesis suggests that the domestication of wild species increases the number, frequency, and/or proportion of deleterious genetic variants, potentially reducing their fitness in the wild. While extensively studied in domesticated species, this phenomenon remains understudied in fungi. Here, we [...] Read more.

The “cost of domestication” hypothesis suggests that the domestication of wild species increases the number, frequency, and/or proportion of deleterious genetic variants, potentially reducing their fitness in the wild. While extensively studied in domesticated species, this phenomenon remains understudied in fungi. Here, we used Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the world’s oldest domesticated fungus, as a model to investigate the genomic characteristics of deleterious variants arising from fungal domestication. Employing a graph-based pan-genome approach, we identified 1,297,761 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), 278,147 insertion/deletion events (indels; <30 bp), and 19,967 non-redundant structural variants (SVs; ≥30 bp) across 687 S. cerevisiae isolates. Comparing these variants with synonymous SNPs (sSNPs) as neutral controls, we found that the majority of the derived nonsynonymous SNPs (nSNPs), indels, and SVs were deleterious. Heterozygosity was positively correlated with the impact of deleterious SNPs, suggesting a role of genetic diversity in mitigating their effects. The domesticated isolates exhibited a higher additive burden of deleterious SNPs (dSNPs) than the wild isolates, but a lower burden of indels and SVs. Moreover, the domesticated S. cerevisiae showed reduced rates of adaptive evolution relative to the wild S. cerevisiae. In summary, deleterious variants tend to be heterozygous, which may mitigate their harmful effects, but they also constrain breeding potential. Addressing deleterious alleles and minimizing the genetic load are crucial considerations for future S. cerevisiae breeding efforts. Full article

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20 pages, 5309 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Genetic Diversity and the Population Structure of Species from the Fusarium fujikuroi Species Complex Causing Fusarium Stalk Rot of Maize

by Prashant P. Jambhulkar, Ruchira Bajpai, Harish Jayarama Reddy, Partha Sarathi Tripathy, Priyanka Varun, Ajaya Kumar Rout, Bijay Kumar Behera, Dilip K. Lakshman and Mallikarjuna Nanjundappa

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 574; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080574 - 14 Aug 2024

Abstract

Fusarium stalk rot (FSR), caused by the Fusarium species complex, is an economic threat to maize cultivation all over the world. We investigated the population structure and genetic diversity of Fusarium species obtained from five major maize-growing regions in India. The Tef-1α locus [...] Read more.

Fusarium stalk rot (FSR), caused by the Fusarium species complex, is an economic threat to maize cultivation all over the world. We investigated the population structure and genetic diversity of Fusarium species obtained from five major maize-growing regions in India. The Tef-1α locus was used for phylogenetic analysis of geographically distinct isolates of Fusarium verticillioides, F. andiyazi, F. proliferatum, F. nygamai, and F. acutatum causing FSR. A phylogenetic tree showed monophyletic, polyphyletic, and paraphyletic groupings reflecting the complex evolutionary history and genetic diversity within the genus. Monophyletic groupings depicting strong bootstrap support were shown to have a single common ancestor and genetic coherence with limited genetic divergence among sequences. Polyphyletic groupings also presented significant genetic differentiation within the F. verticillioides sequences from diverse ecological niches. Nucleotide diversity of moderate level 0.02471 reflected genetic variations within populations that were attributed to factors such as mutation, genetic drift, or varying selection pressures. The Fst value of 0.98205 is particularly indicative of high genetic differentiation, implying that most of the genetic variance is due to differences between populations rather than within them. F. verticillioides, with 57 sequences, showed low genetic diversity with three segregating sites and a low haplotype diversity of 0.19486, suggesting the founder effect, where a reduced population expands from a limited genetic pool. The total data estimates across all populations for haplotype analysis showed 72 sequences, 44 segregating sites, and 9 haplotypes with a haplotype diversity of 0.48513. The evolutionary dynamics showed genetic differentiations among Fusarium species causing FSR. AMOVA indicated high within-population variations, depicting a substantial genetic diversity within individual populations. The results offer a comprehensive framework for discussing the implications of genetic diversity in pathogen management and the evolutionary dynamics of the Fusarium species causing FSR in maize in the Indian subcontinent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fusarium, Alternaria and Rhizoctonia: A Spotlight on Fungal Pathogens, 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 2249 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Isolation of Antagonistic Endophytic Fungi from Postharvest Chestnuts and Their Biocontrol on Host Fungal Pathogens

by Yunmin Wen, Meng Li, Shuzhen Yang, Litao Peng, Gang Fan and Huilin Kang

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080573 - 14 Aug 2024

Abstract

In this study, antagonistic endophytic fungi were isolated from postharvest chestnut fruits; endophytic antagonistic fungi and their combination of inhibitory effects on the fungal pathogen Neofusicoccum parvum were evaluated. A total of 612 endophytic fungi were isolated from 300 healthy chestnut kernels, and [...] Read more.

In this study, antagonistic endophytic fungi were isolated from postharvest chestnut fruits; endophytic antagonistic fungi and their combination of inhibitory effects on the fungal pathogen Neofusicoccum parvum were evaluated. A total of 612 endophytic fungi were isolated from 300 healthy chestnut kernels, and 6 strains out of them including NS-3, NS-11, NS-38, NS-43, NS-56, and NS-58 were confirmed as antagonistic endophytic fungi against Neofusicoccum parvum; these were separately identified as Penicillium chermesinum, Penicillium italicum, Penicillium decaturense, Penicillium oxalicum, Talarmyces siamensis, and Penicillium guanacastense. Some mixed antagonistic endophytic fungi, such as NS-3-38, NS-11-38, NS-43-56, and NS-56-58-38, exhibited a much stronger antifungal activity against N. parvum than that applied individually. Among them, the mixture of NS-3-38 showed the highest antifungal activity, and the inhibition rate was up to 86.67%. The fermentation broth of NS-3, NS-38, and their combinations exhibited an obvious antifungal activity against N. parvum, and the ethyl acetate phase extract of NS-3-38 had the strongest antifungal activity, for which the inhibitory rate was up to 90.19%. The NS-3-38 fermentation broth combined with a chitosan coating significantly reduced N. parvum incidence in chestnuts from 100% to 19%. Furthermore, the fruit decay and weight loss of chestnuts during storage were significantly decreased by the NS-3-38 fermentation broth mixture along with a chitosan coating. Therefore, a mixture of P. chermesinum and P. decaturense could be used as a potential complex biocontrol agent to control postharvest fruit decay in chestnuts. Full article

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

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18 pages, 11060 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Occurrence and Characteristics of Serpula himantioides Fruiting Bodies on Living Trees in Japan

by Ryusei Haraguchi, Toshihide Hirao and Toshihiro Yamada

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080572 - 14 Aug 2024

Abstract

Serpula himantioides is a globally distributed wood decay fungus that causes heartwood decay in several tree species. We investigated the occurrence of S. himantioides fruiting bodies in Japan for two years and six months to characterize their biology. The fruiting bodies matured in [...] Read more.

Serpula himantioides is a globally distributed wood decay fungus that causes heartwood decay in several tree species. We investigated the occurrence of S. himantioides fruiting bodies in Japan for two years and six months to characterize their biology. The fruiting bodies matured in autumn and occurred on living Chamaecyparis pisifera, Chamaecyparis obtusa, Larix kaempferi, and Cryptomeria japonica trees, as well as on dead trees and soil. Assessing three circular plots, the incidence of living trees with S. himantioides fruiting bodies was lowest in the plot with the most advanced heartwood decay. Furthermore, fruiting bodies occurred more frequently in the lower slope direction of the trunk. Analysis using the pair correlation function suggested that the spatial distribution pattern of living trees with fruiting bodies may change from intensive to random with heartwood decay progress. Finally, according to generalized linear and generalized linear mixed models, which were used to investigate the factors affecting the development of fruiting bodies in C. pisifera, C. obtusa, and L. kaempferi, no clear relationship was found between the presence or absence of fruiting bodies and heartwood decay. Thus, we suggest that fruiting bodies can occur in healthy living trees as well as in living trees in the early stages of heartwood decay. Full article

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

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12 pages, 1555 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Patients with HBV-Related Acute on Chronic Liver Failure

by Man Yuan, Ning Han, Duoduo Lv, Wei Huang, Mengjie Zhou, Libo Yan and Hong Tang

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080571 - 14 Aug 2024

Abstract

Background: We aim to investigate the characteristics of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in patients with HBV-related acute on chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF). Methods: A total of 44 patients with probable IPA were selected as the case group, and another 88 patients without lung [...] Read more.

Background: We aim to investigate the characteristics of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in patients with HBV-related acute on chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF). Methods: A total of 44 patients with probable IPA were selected as the case group, and another 88 patients without lung infections were chosen as the control group. Results: HBV-ACLF patients with probable IPA had more significant 90-day mortality (38.6% vs. 15.9%, p = 0.0022) than those without. The white blood cell (WBC) count was the independent factor attributed to the IPA development [odds ratio (OR) 1.468, p = 0.027]. Respiratory failure was associated with the mortality of HBV-ACLF patients with IPA [OR 26, p = 0.000]. Twenty-seven patients received voriconazole or voriconazole plus as an antifungal treatment. Plasma voriconazole concentration measurements were performed as therapeutic drug monitoring in 55.6% (15/27) of the patients. The drug concentrations exceeded the safe range with a reduced dosage. Conclusions: The WBC count might be used to monitor patients’ progress with HBV-ACLF and IPA. The presence of IPA increases the 90-day mortality of HBV-ACLF patients mainly due to respiratory failure. An optimal voriconazole regimen is needed for such critical patients, and voriconazole should be assessed by closely monitoring blood levels. Full article

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

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16 pages, 2466 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of the Mitochondrial Genome Sequences of Diaporthe longicolla (syn. Phomopsis longicolla) Isolates Causing Phomopsis Seed Decay in Soybean

by Shuxian Li, Xiaojun Hu and Qijian Song

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080570 - 13 Aug 2024

Abstract

Diaporthe longicolla (syn. Phomopsis longicolla) is an important seed-borne fungal pathogen and the primary cause of Phomopsis seed decay (PSD) in soybean. PSD is one of the most devastating seed diseases, reducing soybean seed quality and yield worldwide. As part of a genome [...] Read more.

Diaporthe longicolla (syn. Phomopsis longicolla) is an important seed-borne fungal pathogen and the primary cause of Phomopsis seed decay (PSD) in soybean. PSD is one of the most devastating seed diseases, reducing soybean seed quality and yield worldwide. As part of a genome sequencing project on the fungal Diaporthe–Phomopsis complex, draft genomes of eight D. longicolla isolates were sequenced and assembled. Sequences of mitochondrial genomes were extracted and analyzed. The circular mitochondrial genomes ranged from 52,534 bp to 58,280 bp long, with a mean GC content of 34%. A total of 14 core protein-coding genes, 23 tRNA, and 2 rRNA genes were identified. Introns were detected in the genes of atp6, cob, cox1, cox2, cox3, nad1, nad2, nad5, and rnl. Three isolates (PL7, PL10, and PL185E) had more introns than other isolates. Approximately 6.4% of the mitochondrial genomes consist of repetitive elements. Moreover, 48 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and were identified. The mitochondrial genome sequences of D. longicolla will be useful to further study the molecular basis of seed-borne pathogens causing seed diseases, investigate genetic variation among isolates, and develop improved control strategies for Phomopsis seed decay of soybean. Full article

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

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21 pages, 6189 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of the Serine Protease TlSP1 from Trichoderma longibrachiatum T6 and Its Function in the Control of Heterodera avenae in Wheat

by Xiujuan Wang, Shuwu Zhang and Bingliang Xu

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 569; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080569 - 12 Aug 2024

Abstract

Serine protease is an extracellular protease secreted by biocontrol fungi that can effectively control nematode diseases by degrading nematode eggshells and enhancing plant resistance. Trichoderma longibrachiatum T6, an important biocontrol fungus, has been demonstrated to effectively parasitize and degrade Heterodera avenae cysts, eggs, [...] Read more.

Serine protease is an extracellular protease secreted by biocontrol fungi that can effectively control nematode diseases by degrading nematode eggshells and enhancing plant resistance. Trichoderma longibrachiatum T6, an important biocontrol fungus, has been demonstrated to effectively parasitize and degrade Heterodera avenae cysts, eggs, and second-stage juveniles (J2s). However, the genes that encoding serine protease and their functions in T. longibrachiatum T6 have not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we successfully cloned and sequenced the serine protease gene TlSP1 in T. longibrachiatum T6. Our results revealed that the expression level of the TlSP1 gene was induced and significantly increased in T. longibrachiatum T6 after inoculation with H. avenae cysts. The full-length sequence of the coding region (CDS) of TlSP1 gene was 1230 bp and encoded a protein consisting of 409 amino acids. Upon the transformation of the TlSP1 gene into Pichia pastoris X33, the purified recombinant TlSP1 protein exhibited optimal activity at a temperature of 50 °C and pH 8.0. Following 4–10-day of treatment with the purified recombinant TlSP1 protein, the eggshells and content were dissolved and exuded. The number of nematodes invading wheat roots was reduced by 38.43% in the group treated with both TlSP1 and eggs on one side (P1+N) compared to the control group, while the number of nematodes invading wheat roots was reduced by 30.4% in the TlSP1 and eggs two-sided treatment group (P1/N). Furthermore, both the P1+N and P1/N treatments significantly upregulated genes associated with defense enzymes (TaPAL, TaCAT, TaSOD, and TaPOD), genes involved in the lignin synthesis pathway (TaC4H, Ta4CL2, TaCAD1, and TaCAD12), and salicylic acid (SA)-responsive genes (TaNPR1, TaPR1, and TaPR2) and led to the high expression of jasmonic acid (JA)-responsive genes (TaPR4, TaOPR3, and TaAOS2). This study has highlighted the significant role of the TlSP1 gene in facilitating H. avenae eggshells’ dissolution, preventing nematode invasion in the host plant, and boosting plant resistance in wheat. Full article

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18 pages, 2767 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Plasma-Activated Water on the Cellulase-Producing Strain Aspergillus niger A32

by Zhiqing Song, Yingwei Jiang, Chan Chen, Changjiang Ding and Hao Chen

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080568 - 12 Aug 2024

Abstract

To investigate the effect and mechanism of plasma-activated water (PAW) on Aspergillus niger, PAW was prepared using a needle array–plate dielectric barrier discharge plasma system. The concentrations of long-lived reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), namely, H₂O₂, NO [...] Read more.

To investigate the effect and mechanism of plasma-activated water (PAW) on Aspergillus niger, PAW was prepared using a needle array–plate dielectric barrier discharge plasma system. The concentrations of long-lived reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), namely, H₂O₂, NO₂⁻, and NO₃⁻, in the PAW were 48.76 mg/L, 0.046 mg/L, and 172.36 mg/L, respectively. Chemically activated water (CAW) with the same concentration of long-lived RONS was also prepared for comparison. A. niger A32 was treated with PAW and CAW. After treatment, the treated strains were observed and analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to screen probable mutants. The results indicated that the pH, conductivity, and ORP values of PAW were 2.42, 1935 μS/cm, and 517.07 mV, respectively. In contrast, the pH and ORP values of CAW were 6.15 and 301.73 mV, respectively, which differed significantly from those of PAW. In addition, the conductivity of CAW showed no change. SEM and TEM analyses revealed that A. niger A32 treated with CAW exhibited less damage compared with the control. In contrast, A. niger A32 treated with PAW showed significant shrinkage, deformation, and exudate attachment over time. Following PAW treatment, after four passages, a high cellulase-producing stable mutant strain A-WW5 was screened, exhibiting a filter paper enzyme activity of 29.66 U/mL, a cellulose endonuclease activity of 13.79 U/mL, and a β-glucosidase activity of 27.13 U/mL. These values were found to be 33%, 38%, and 2.1% higher than those of the original fungus sample, respectively. In total, 116 SNPs and 61 InDels were present in the genome of the mutant strain A-WW5. The above findings indicate that the impact of PAW on A. niger is not only attributed to long-lasting H₂O₂, NO₂⁻, and NO₃⁻ particles but also to other short-lived active particles; PAW is expected to become a new microbial breeding mutagen. Full article

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19 pages, 10196 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Chimeric ORF Fusion Phenotypic Reporter for Cryptococcus neoformans

by Louis S. Phillips-Rose, Chendi K. Yu, Nicholas P. West and James A. Fraser

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 567; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080567 - 12 Aug 2024

Abstract

The plethora of genome sequences produced in the postgenomic age has not resolved many of our most pressing biological questions. Correlating gene expression with an interrogatable and easily observable characteristic such as the surrogate phenotype conferred by a reporter gene is a valuable [...] Read more.

The plethora of genome sequences produced in the postgenomic age has not resolved many of our most pressing biological questions. Correlating gene expression with an interrogatable and easily observable characteristic such as the surrogate phenotype conferred by a reporter gene is a valuable approach to gaining insight into gene function. Many reporters including lacZ, amdS, and the fluorescent proteins mRuby3 and mNeonGreen have been used across all manners of organisms. Described here is an investigation into the creation of a robust, synthetic, fusion reporter system for Cryptococcus neoformans that combines some of the most useful fluorophores available in this system with the versatility of the counter-selectable nature of amdS. The reporters generated include multiple composition and orientation variants, all of which were investigated for differences in expression. Evaluation of known promoters from the TEF1 and GAL7 genes was undertaken, elucidating novel expression tendencies of these biologically relevant C. neoformans regulators of transcription. Smaller than lacZ but providing multiple useful surrogate phenotypes for interrogation, the fusion ORF serves as a superior whole-cell assay compared to traditional systems. Ultimately, the work described here bolsters the array of relevant genetic tools that may be employed in furthering manipulation and understanding of the WHO fungal priority group pathogen C. neoformans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Processes of Fungi, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 5154 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of the Biocontrol Product, Esquive^® WP, on the Indigenous Grapevine Wood Microbiome after a 6-Year Application Period

by Amira Yacoub, David Renault, Rana Haidar, Florian Boulisset, Patricia Letousey, Rémy Guyoneaud, Eleonore Attard and Patrice Rey

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080566 - 11 Aug 2024

Abstract

Grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs) are currently limiting grapevine productivity in many vineyards worldwide. As no chemical treatments are registered to control GTDs, biocontrol agents are being tested against these diseases. Esquive^® WP, based on the fungus Trichoderma atroviride I-1237 strain, is [...] Read more.

Grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs) are currently limiting grapevine productivity in many vineyards worldwide. As no chemical treatments are registered to control GTDs, biocontrol agents are being tested against these diseases. Esquive^® WP, based on the fungus Trichoderma atroviride I-1237 strain, is the first biocontrol product registered in France to control GTDs. In this study, we determine whether, following grapevine pruning wound treatments with Esquive^® WP, changes occurred or not in the indigenous microbial communities that are colonizing grapevine wood. Over a 6-year period, Esquive^® WP was applied annually to pruning wounds on three grapevine cultivars located in three different regions. Wood samples were collected at 2 and 10 months after the Esquive^® WP treatments. Based on MiSeq high-throughput sequencing analyses, the results showed that specific microbial communities were linked to each ‘region/cultivar’ pairing. In certain cases, a significant modification of alpha diversity indexes and the relative abundance of some microbial taxa were observed between treated and non-treated grapevines 2 months after Esquive^® WP treatment. However, these modifications disappeared over time, i.e., 10 months post-treatment. This result clearly showed that Esquive^® WP pruning wood treatment did not induce significant changes in the grapevine wood’s microbiome, even after 6 years of recurrent applications on the plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocontrol of Grapevine Diseases, 2nd Edition)

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11 pages, 1858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differences in Metabolic Characteristics of Rhizosphere Fungal Community of Typical Arboreal, Shrubby and Herbaceous Species in Oasis of Arid Region

by Yunxiang Tan, Yunhang Lv, Mengyu Xv, Laiye Qu and Wenjuan Wang

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080565 - 10 Aug 2024

Abstract

Populus euphratica, Tamarix ramosissima, and Sophora alopecuroides are, respectively, typical arboreal, shrubby, and herbaceous species in oases of arid regions. It is important to study the difference in metabolic characteristics of the rhizosphere fungal community of these plant species and their [...] Read more.

Populus euphratica, Tamarix ramosissima, and Sophora alopecuroides are, respectively, typical arboreal, shrubby, and herbaceous species in oases of arid regions. It is important to study the difference in metabolic characteristics of the rhizosphere fungal community of these plant species and their relationships with soil factors for the preservation of delicate arid oasis ecosystems with future environmental changes. In this study, we, respectively, collected 18 rhizosphere soil samples of P. euphratica, T. ramosissima, and S. alopecuroides to explore the difference in rhizosphere fungal metabolic characteristics of different plant life forms and their underlying driving factors. The results showed that (1) soil physicochemical properties (including soil water content, pH, etc.) were significantly different among different plant species (p < 0.05). (2) Rhizosphere fungal metabolic characteristics were significantly different between S. alopecuroides and T. ramosissima (ANOSIM, p < 0.05), which was mainly caused by the different utilization of carboxylic carbon. (3) The RDA showed that the main driving factors of the variations in rhizosphere fungal metabolic characteristics were different among different plant species. The main explanatory variables of the variations in the metabolic characteristics of the rhizosphere fungal community were carbon to nitrogen ratio (23%) and available potassium (17.4%) for P. euphratica, while soil organic carbon (23.1%), pH (8.6%), and total nitrogen (8.2%) for T. ramosissima, and soil clay content (36.6%) and soil organic carbon (12.6%) for S. alopecuroides. In conclusion, the variations in rhizosphere fungal metabolic characteristics in arid oases are dominantly affected by soil factors rather than plant life forms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Roles of Soil and Roots Biotic and Abiotic Conditions in Fungal-Plant Interactions and Plant Performance, 3rd Edition)

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13 pages, 3950 KiB

Open AccessArticle

MaAzaR Influences Virulence of Metarhizium acridum against Locusta migratoria manilensis by Affecting Cuticle Penetration

by Geng Hong, Siqing Wang, Yuxian Xia and Guoxiong Peng

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080564 - 9 Aug 2024

Abstract

The entomopathogenic fungus (EPF) Metarhizium acridum is a typical filamentous fungus and has been used to control migratory locusts (Locusta migratoria manilensis). This study examines the impact of the Zn(II)2Cys6 transcription factor, MaAzaR, in the virulence of M. acridum. Disruption [...] Read more.

The entomopathogenic fungus (EPF) Metarhizium acridum is a typical filamentous fungus and has been used to control migratory locusts (Locusta migratoria manilensis). This study examines the impact of the Zn(II)2Cys6 transcription factor, MaAzaR, in the virulence of M. acridum. Disruption of MaAzaR (ΔMaAzaR) diminished the fungus’s ability to penetrate the insect cuticle, thereby decreasing its virulence. The median lethal time (LT₅₀) for the ΔMaAzaR strain increased by approximately 1.5 d compared to the wild-type (WT) strain when topically inoculated, simulating natural infection conditions. ΔMaAzaR compromises the formation, turgor pressure, and secretion of extracellular hydrolytic enzymes in appressoria. However, the growth ability of ΔMaAzaR within the hemolymph is not impaired; in fact, it grows better than the WT strain. Moreover, RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis of ΔMaAzaR and WT strains grown for 20 h on locust hindwings revealed 87 upregulated and 37 downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the mutant strain. Pathogen–host interaction database (PHI) analysis showed that about 40% of the total DEGs were associated with virulence, suggesting that MaAzaR is a crucial transcription factor that directly regulates the expression of downstream genes. This study identifies a new transcription factor involved in EPF cuticle penetration, providing theoretical support and genetic resources for the developing highly virulent strains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungi and Insect Interactions: Pathogenicity, Immune Defenses and Biocontrol)

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22 pages, 3224 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of Resistance and Virulence Markers in Candida spp. Isolated from Community-Acquired Infections in Bucharest, and the Impact of AgNPs on the Highly Resistant Isolates

by Viorica Maria Corbu, Ana-Maria Georgescu, Ioana Cristina Marinas, Radu Pericleanu, Denisa Vasilica Mogos, Andreea Ștefania Dumbravă, Liliana Marinescu, Ionut Pecete, Tatiana Vassu-Dimov, Ilda Czobor Barbu, Ortansa Csutak, Denisa Ficai and Irina Gheorghe-Barbu

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080563 - 9 Aug 2024

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to determine, at the phenotypic and molecular levels, resistance and virulence markers in Candida spp. isolated from community-acquired infections in Bucharest outpatients during 2021, and to demonstrate the efficiency of alternative solutions against them based on silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). [...] Read more.

Background: This study aimed to determine, at the phenotypic and molecular levels, resistance and virulence markers in Candida spp. isolated from community-acquired infections in Bucharest outpatients during 2021, and to demonstrate the efficiency of alternative solutions against them based on silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Methods: A total of 62 Candida spp. strains were isolated from dermatomycoses and identified using chromogenic culture media and MALDI-TOF MS, and then investigated for their antimicrobial resistance and virulence markers (VMs), as well as for metabolic enzymes using enzymatic tests for the expression of soluble virulence factors, their biofilm formation and adherence capacity on HeLa cells, and PCR assays for the detection of virulence markers and the antimicrobial activity of alternative solutions based on AgNPs. Results: Of the total of 62 strains, 45.16% were Candida parapsilosis; 29.03% Candida albicans; 9.67% Candida guilliermondii; 3.22% Candida lusitaniae, Candia pararugosa, and Candida tropicalis; and 1.66% Candida kefyr, Candida famata, Candida haemulonii, and Candida metapsilosis. Aesculin hydrolysis, caseinase, and amylase production were detected in the analyzed strains. The strains exhibited different indices of adherence to HeLa cells and were positive in decreasing frequency order for the LIP1, HWP1, and ALS1,3 genes (C. tropicalis/C. albicans). An inhibitory effect on microbial growth, adherence capacity, and on the production of virulence factors was obtained using AgNPs. Conclusions: The obtained results in C. albicans and Candida non-albicans circulating in Bucharest outpatients were characterized by moderate-to-high potential to produce VMs, necessitating epidemiological surveillance measures to minimize the chances of severe invasive infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Biofilms, 2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 4061 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamics of Physiological Properties and Endophytic Fungal Communities in the Xylem of Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) with Different Induction Times

by Qingqing Zhang, Rongrong Li, Yang Lin, Weiwei Zhao, Qiang Lin, Lei Ouyang, Shengjiang Pang and Huahao Zeng

J. Fungi 2024, 10(8), 562; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10080562 - 9 Aug 2024

Abstract

Xylem-associated fungus can secrete many secondary metabolites to help Aquilaria trees resist various stresses and play a crucial role in facilitating agarwood formation. However, the dynamics of endophytic fungi in Aquilaria sinensis xylem after artificial induction have not been fully elaborated. Endophytic fungi [...] Read more.

Xylem-associated fungus can secrete many secondary metabolites to help Aquilaria trees resist various stresses and play a crucial role in facilitating agarwood formation. However, the dynamics of endophytic fungi in Aquilaria sinensis xylem after artificial induction have not been fully elaborated. Endophytic fungi communities and xylem physio-biochemical properties were examined before and after induction with an inorganic salt solution, including four different times (pre-induction (0M), the third (3M), sixth (6M) and ninth (9M) month after induction treatment). The relationships between fungal diversity and physio-biochemical indices were evaluated. The results showed that superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) and soluble sugar content first increased and then decreased with induction time, while starch was heavily consumed after induction treatment. Endophytic fungal diversity was significantly lower after induction treatment than before, but the species richness was promoted. Fungal β-diversity was also clustered into four groups according to different times. Core species shifted from rare to dominant taxa with induction time, and growing species interactions in the network indicate a gradual complication of fungal community structure. Endophytic fungi diversity and potential functions were closely related to physicochemical indices that had less effect on the relative abundance of the dominant species. These findings help assess the regulatory mechanisms of microorganisms that expedite agarwood formation after artificial induction. Full article

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