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Reingold V, Faigenboim A, Matveev S, Haviv S, Belausov E, Vilcinskas A, Ment D. Transcriptional reprogramming in the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium brunneum and its aphid host Myzus persicae during the switch between saprophytic and parasitic lifestyles. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:917. [PMID: 39358701 PMCID: PMC11446092 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10824-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fungus Metarhizium brunneum has evolved a remarkable ability to switch between different lifestyles. It develops as a saprophyte, an endophyte establishing mutualistic relationships with plants, or a parasite, enabling its use for the control of insect pests such as the aphid Myzus persicae. We tested our hypothesis that switches between lifestyles must be accompanied by fundamental transcriptional reprogramming, reflecting adaptations to different environmental settings. RESULTS We combined high throughput RNA sequencing of M. brunneum in vitro and at different stages of pathogenesis to validate the modulation of genes in the fungus and its host during the course of infection. In agreement with our hypothesis, we observed transcriptional reprogramming in M. brunneum following conidial attachment, germination on the cuticle, and early-stage growth within the host. This involved the upregulation of genes encoding degrading enzymes and gene clusters involved in synthesis of secondary metabolites that act as virulence factors. The transcriptional response of the aphid host included the upregulation of genes potentially involved in antifungal activity, but antifungal peptides were not induced. We also observed the induction of a host flightin gene, which may be involved in wing formation and flight muscle development. CONCLUSIONS The switch from saprophytic to parasitic development in M. brunneum is accompanied by fundamental transcriptional reprogramming during the course of the infection. The aphid host responds to fungal infection with its own transcriptional reprogramming, reflecting its inability to express antifungal peptides but featuring the induction of genes involved in winged morphs that may enable offspring to avoid the contaminated environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Reingold
- Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion, Israel
- The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Food & Environment, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Adi Faigenboim
- Institute of Plant Science, ARO, The Volcani Institute, Rishon Le Zion, Israel
| | - Sabina Matveev
- Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion, Israel
- The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Food & Environment, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Sabrina Haviv
- Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion, Israel
| | - Eduard Belausov
- Institute of Plant Science, ARO, The Volcani Institute, Rishon Le Zion, Israel
| | - Andreas Vilcinskas
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus Liebig Universität Giessen, Giessen, 35392, Germany
- Branch Bioresources of the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Giessen, 35392, Germany
| | - Dana Ment
- Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion, Israel.
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Tang C, Hu X, Tang J, Wang L, Liu X, Peng Y, Xia Y, Xie J. The symbiont Acinetobacter baumannii enhances the insect host resistance to entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae. Commun Biol 2024; 7:1184. [PMID: 39300313 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06779-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Major symbiotic organisms have evolved to establish beneficial relationships with hosts. However, understanding the interactions between symbionts and insect hosts, particularly for their roles in defense against pathogens, is still limited. In a previous study, we proposed that the fungus Metarhizium anisopliae can infect the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens, a harmful pest for rice crops. To expand on this, we investigated changes in N. lugens' intestinal commensal community after M. anisopliae infection and identified key gut microbiotas involved. Our results showed significant alterations in gut microbiota abundance and composition at different time points following infection with M. anisopliae. Notably, certain symbionts, like Acinetobacter baumannii, exhibited significant variations in response to the fungal infection. The decrease in these symbionts had a considerable impact on the insect host's survival. Interestingly, reintroducing A. baumannii enhanced the host's resistance to M. anisopliae, emphasizing its role in pathogen defense. Additionally, A. baumannii stimulated host immune responses, as evidenced by increased expression of immune genes after reintroduction. Overall, our findings highlight the significance of preserving a stable gut microbial community for the survival of insects. In specific conditions, the symbiotic microorganism A. baumannii can enhance the host's ability to resist entomopathogenic pathogens through immune regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui Tang
- School of Life Sciences, Genetic Engineering Research Center, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 405200, China
| | - Xiao Hu
- Wuhan Kernel Bio-tech Co. Ltd, Guannanyuan Road No.17, Guannan Industrial Park, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Jifeng Tang
- School of Life Sciences, Genetic Engineering Research Center, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 405200, China
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Genetic Engineering Research Center, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 405200, China
| | - Xuewei Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Genetic Engineering Research Center, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 405200, China
| | - Yifan Peng
- Wuhan Kernel Bio-tech Co. Ltd, Guannanyuan Road No.17, Guannan Industrial Park, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Yuxian Xia
- School of Life Sciences, Genetic Engineering Research Center, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 405200, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Microbial Pesticides (Joint institute-Chongqing University), Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Fungal Insecticides, Chongqing, 405200, China.
- Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation Technology under Chongqing Municipal Education Commission, Chongqing, 405200, China.
| | - Jiaqin Xie
- School of Life Sciences, Genetic Engineering Research Center, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 405200, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Microbial Pesticides (Joint institute-Chongqing University), Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Fungal Insecticides, Chongqing, 405200, China.
- Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation Technology under Chongqing Municipal Education Commission, Chongqing, 405200, China.
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Chaleff A, Gang A, Relich RF, Lavik JP. Utilizing confocal microscopy and topical natamycin in metarhizium keratitis of Caribbean origin. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 110:116369. [PMID: 38909427 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2024.116369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
A 32-year-old contact lens-wearing man with recent travel history to the Caribbean was referred for a corneal infiltrate in the left eye that worsened following 1-week of steroid-antibiotic therapy. Corneal cultures were obtained and sent to our facility's clinical microbiology laboratory for analysis. Same-day in vivo confocal microscopy revealed fungal elements. Nucleic acid sequencing performed on the isolated determined it to be a member of the entomopathogenic genus Metarhizium. Over the course of 3 months, the patient's corneal infiltrate ultimately resolved following topical natamycin 5 % therapy. This is the first reported case to have originated in the Caribbean and to utilize in vivo confocal microscopy to aid diagnosis. Our case also supports previous reports of success with natamycin therapy in treatment of Metarhizium sp. keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ryan F Relich
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Division of Clinical Microbiology, Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - John-Paul Lavik
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Division of Clinical Microbiology, Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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4
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Ahmad I, Jimenez-Gasco MDM, Barbercheck ME. Water Stress and Black Cutworm Feeding Modulate Plant Response in Maize Colonized by Metarhizium robertsii. Pathogens 2024; 13:544. [PMID: 39057771 PMCID: PMC11280422 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13070544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Plants face many environmental challenges and have evolved different strategies to defend against stress. One strategy is the establishment of mutualistic associations with endophytic microorganisms which contribute to plant defense and promote plant growth. The fungal entomopathogen Metarhizium robertsii is also an endophyte that can provide plant-protective and growth-promoting benefits to the host plant. We conducted a greenhouse experiment in which we imposed stress from deficit and excess soil moisture and feeding by larval black cutworm (BCW), Agrotis ipsilon, to maize plants that were either inoculated or not inoculated with M. robertsii (Mr). We evaluated plant growth and defense indicators to determine the effects of the interaction between Mr, maize, BCW feeding, and water stress. There was a significant effect of water treatment, but no effect of Mr treatment, on plant chlorophyl, height, and dry biomass. There was no effect of water or Mr treatment on damage caused by BCW feeding. There was a significant effect of water treatment, but not Mr treatment, on the expression of bx7 and rip2 genes and on foliar content of abscisic acid (ABA), 2,4-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one (DIMBOA), and gibberellin 19 (GA19), whereas GA53 was modulated by Mr treatment. Foliar content of GA19 and cis-Zeatin (cZ) was modulated by BCW feeding. In a redundancy analysis, plant phenology, plant nutrient content, and foliar DIMBOA and ABA content were most closely associated with water treatments. This study contributes toward understanding the sophisticated stress response signaling and endophytic mutualisms in crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imtiaz Ahmad
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Maria del Mar Jimenez-Gasco
- Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA;
| | - Mary E. Barbercheck
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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Xu SY, Mohamed RA, Yu L, Ying SH, Feng MG. Cla4A, a Novel Regulator of Gene Expression Networks Required for Asexual and Insect-Pathogenic Lifecycles of Beauveria bassiana. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6410. [PMID: 38928117 PMCID: PMC11203800 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cla4, an orthologous p21-activated kinase crucial for non-entomopathogenic fungal lifestyles, has two paralogs (Cla4A/B) functionally unknown in hypocrealean entomopathogens. Here, we report a regulatory role of Cla4A in gene expression networks of Beauveria bassiana required for asexual and entomopathogenic lifecycles while Cla4B is functionally redundant. The deletion of cla4A resulted in severe growth defects, reduced stress tolerance, delayed conidiation, altered conidiation mode, impaired conidial quality, and abolished pathogenicity through cuticular penetration, contrasting with no phenotype affected by cla4B deletion. In ∆cla4A, 5288 dysregulated genes were associated with phenotypic defects, which were restored by targeted gene complementation. Among those, 3699 genes were downregulated, including more than 1300 abolished at the transcriptomic level. Hundreds of those downregulated genes were involved in the regulation of transcription, translation, and post-translational modifications and the organization and function of the nuclear chromosome, chromatin, and protein-DNA complex. DNA-binding elements in promoter regions of 130 dysregulated genes were predicted to be targeted by Cla4A domains. Samples of purified Cla4A extract were proven to bind promoter DNAs of 12 predicted genes involved in multiple stress-responsive pathways. Therefore, Cla4A acts as a novel regulator of genomic expression and stability and mediates gene expression networks required for insect-pathogenic fungal adaptations to the host and environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ming-Guang Feng
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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Kinyungu SW, Agbessenou A, Subramanian S, Khamis FM, Akutse KS. One stone for two birds: Endophytic fungi promote maize seedlings growth and negatively impact the life history parameters of the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1253305. [PMID: 37900958 PMCID: PMC10600476 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1253305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda, is a voracious pest of cereals native to the Americas and which invaded Africa in 2016. Chemical control is the main management option, which however remains ineffective and unsustainable. Fungal endophytes are increasingly used as alternative for the management of insect pests of economic importance. This study assessed the potential of eight endophytic fungal isolates to colonize maize plant and their ability to promote seedlings growth through seed and foliar inoculations, as well as their suppressive effects on FAW. Fungal colonization rates of different plant parts by the endophytes varied as per the inoculation methods. Beauveria bassiana ICIPE 279 colonized more than 60% of all the seedling parts while B. bassiana G1LU3 only colonized stem (25%) and leaf (5%) tissues through foliar inoculation. Trichoderma atroviride F2S21, T. asperellum M2RT4, T. harzianum F2R41, Trichoderma sp. F2L41, Hypocrea lixii F3ST1 and Fusarium proliferatum F2S51 successfully colonized all the plant parts and therefore were selected and further evaluated through seed inoculation for their endophytic persistence, effect on plant growth, and pathogenicity to Spodoptera frugiperda immature and adult stages. Weekly assessment showed varied effect of the endophytes on maize plant growth parameters compared to the control. During the first week, percentage colonization of the plant parts ranges between 90%-100%, 65%-100%, and 60%-100%, in the roots, stems, and leaves, respectively for all the five tested isolates. However, the colonization pattern/rates significantly decreased over time for H. lixii F3ST1 in the stems and leaves, and for T. harzianum F2R41 in the leaves and for T. asperellum M2RT4 in the roots. In addition, T. harzianum F2R41 outperformed all the other isolates in boosting the plant height, whereas H. lixii F3ST1 and T. asperellum M2RT4 outperformed all the other isolates in increasing the wet and dry shoots weight. Furthermore, the number of egg masses laid on endophytically-colonized maize plants varied among the treatments. Trichoderma asperellum M2RT4 and H. lixii F3ST1 endophytically-colonized maize plants significantly reduced the number of egg masses and the defoliation/feeding rates of the pest compared to the control. Additionally, T. harzianum F2R41 had the highest negative impact on the pupation and adult emergence of S. frugiperda with a female-biased sex ratio. Our findings indicate that T. asperellum M2RT4, T. harzianum F2R41, and H. lixii F3ST1 hold a potential to be developed as endophytic-fungal-based biopesticides for sustainable management of S. frugiperda and as plant growth promoters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon W. Kinyungu
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ayaovi Agbessenou
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), Nairobi, Kenya
- Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) - Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Biological Control, Dossenheim, Germany
- Center for Development Research (ZEF), Department of Ecology and Natural Resources Management, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sevgan Subramanian
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Fathiya M. Khamis
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Komivi S. Akutse
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), Nairobi, Kenya
- Unit of Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Spescha A, Zwyssig M, Hess Hermida M, Moix A, Bruno P, Enkerli J, Campos-Herrera R, Grabenweger G, Maurhofer M. When Competitors Join Forces: Consortia of Entomopathogenic Microorganisms Increase Killing Speed and Mortality in Leaf- and Root-Feeding Insect Hosts. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2023; 86:1947-1960. [PMID: 36849610 PMCID: PMC10497674 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-023-02191-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Combining different biocontrol agents (BCA) is an approach to increase efficacy and reliability of biological control. If several BCA are applied together, they have to be compatible and ideally work together. We studied the interaction of a previously selected BCA consortium of entomopathogenic pseudomonads (Pseudomonas chlororaphis), nematodes (Steinernema feltiae associated with Xenorhabdus bovienii), and fungi (Metarhizium brunneum). We monitored the infection course in a leaf- (Pieris brassicae) and a root-feeding (Diabrotica balteata) pest insect after simultaneous application of the three BCA as well as their interactions inside the larvae in a laboratory setting. The triple combination caused the highest mortality and increased killing speed compared to single applications against both pests. Improved efficacy against P. brassicae was mainly caused by the pseudomonad-nematode combination, whereas the nematode-fungus combination accelerated killing of D. balteata. Co-monitoring of the three BCA and the nematode-associated Xenorhabdus symbionts revealed that the four organisms are able to co-infect the same larva. However, with advancing decay of the cadaver there is increasing competition and cadaver colonization is clearly dominated by the pseudomonads, which are known for their high competitivity in the plant rhizosphere. Altogether, the combination of the three BCA increased killing efficacy against a Coleopteran and a Lepidopteran pest which indicates that this consortium could be applied successfully against a variety of insect pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Spescha
- Institute of Integrative Biology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Maria Zwyssig
- Institute of Integrative Biology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mathias Hess Hermida
- Institute of Integrative Biology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Research Group Extension Arable Crops, Agroscope, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Aurélie Moix
- Institute of Integrative Biology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Pamela Bruno
- Division of Agricultural Entomology, Department of Crop Sciences, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jürg Enkerli
- Research Group Molecular Ecology, Agroscope, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Raquel Campos-Herrera
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Vid y del Vino (ICVV), CSIC, Universidad de La Rioja, Gobierno de La Rioja, Logroño, Spain
| | | | - Monika Maurhofer
- Institute of Integrative Biology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Bamisile BS, Afolabi OG, Siddiqui JA, Xu Y. Endophytic insect pathogenic fungi-host plant-herbivore mutualism: elucidating the mechanisms involved in the tripartite interactions. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2023; 39:326. [PMID: 37776438 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-023-03780-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Various techniques used by crop plants to evade insect pests and pathogen attacks have been documented. Among these, plant defense strategies induced by endophytic insect pathogenic fungi are arguably one of the most discussed. Endophytic fungi frequently colonize plants and inhabit their internal tissues for a portion of their lifespan without producing visible symptoms of the disease. This phenomenon is widespread and diverse in both natural and agricultural ecosystems, and is present in almost all plant organs. Many fungi can obtain nutrients by infecting and killing insects, and this ability has been developed numerous times in different fungal lineages. These species mainly consist of those in the order Hypocreales (Ascomycota), where the generalist insect pathogens, Beauveria sp. (Cordycipitaceae) and Metarhizium sp. (Clavicipitaceae) are two of the most studied endophytic entomopathogenic fungal genera. However, most fungi that kill insects do not survive in the tissues of living plants. The data published thus far show a high degree of variability and do not provide consistent explanations for the underlying mechanisms that may be responsible for these effects. This implies that available knowledge regarding the colonization of plant tissues by endophytic insect pathogenic fungi, the effects of colonization on plant metabolism, and how this contributes to a decrease in herbivore and pathogens damage is limited. To adequately utilize fungal-based products as biological control agents, these products must be effective and the reduction of pests and infection must be consistent and similar to that of chemical insecticides after application. This article discusses this possibility and highlights the benefits and the specific techniques utilized by endophytically challenged plants in invading insect pests and disease pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bamisope Steve Bamisile
- Department of Entomology, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
- Henry Fok School of Biology and Agriculture, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan, 512005, China
| | | | - Junaid Ali Siddiqui
- College of Agriculture, College of Tobacco Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yijuan Xu
- Department of Entomology, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
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García-Espinoza F, García MJ, Quesada-Moraga E, Yousef-Yousef M. Entomopathogenic Fungus-Related Priming Defense Mechanisms in Cucurbits Impact Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval) Fitness. Appl Environ Microbiol 2023; 89:e0094023. [PMID: 37439674 PMCID: PMC10467339 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00940-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) exhibit direct and indirect mechanisms to increase plant resistance against biotic and abiotic stresses. Plant responses to these stresses are interconnected by common regulators such as ethylene (ET), which is involved in both iron (Fe) deficiency and induced systemic resistance responses. In this work, the roots of cucurbit seedlings were primed with Metarhizium brunneum (EAMa 01/58-Su strain), and relative expression levels of 18 genes related to ethylene (ET), jasmonic acid (JA), and salicylic acid (SA) synthesis, as well as pathogen-related (PR) protein genes, were studied by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). Effects of priming on Spodoptera littoralis were studied by feeding larvae for 15 days with primed and control plants. Genes showed upregulation in studied species; however, the highest relative expression was observed in roots and shoots of plants with Fe deficiency, demonstrating the complexity and the overlapping degree of the regulatory network. EIN2 and EIN3 should be highlighted; both are key genes of the ET transduction pathway that enhanced their expression levels up to eight and four times, respectively, in shoots of primed cucumber. Also, JA and SA synthesis and PR genes showed significant upregulation during the observation period (e.g., the JA gene LOX1 increased 506 times). Survival and fitness of S. littoralis were affected with significant effects on mortality of larvae fed on primed plants versus controls, length of the larval stage, pupal weight, and the percentage of abnormal pupae. These results highlight the role of the EAMa 01/58-Su strain in the induction of resistance, which could be translated into direct benefits for plant development. IMPORTANCE Entomopathogenic fungi are multipurpose microorganisms with direct and indirect effects on insect pests. Also, EPF provide multiple benefits to plants by solubilizing minerals and facilitating nutrient acquisition. A very interesting and novel effect of these fungi is the enhancement of plant defense systems by inducing systematic and acquired resistance. However, little is known about this function. This study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms involved in cucurbits plants' defense activation after being primed by the EPF M. brunneum. Furthermore, the subsequent effects on the fitness of the lepidopteran pest S. littoralis are shown. In this regard, a significant upregulation was recorded for the genes that regulate JA, SA, and ET pathways. This increased expression of defense genes caused lethal and sublethal effects on S. littoralis. This could be considered an added value for the implementation of EPF in integrated pest management programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. García-Espinoza
- Departamento de Agronomía (DAUCO) María de Maeztu Unit of Excellence 2021–2023, Campus de Rabanales, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Departamento de Parasitología. Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro – Unidad Laguna, Torreón, Coahuila, Mexico
| | - M. J. García
- Departamento de Agronomía (DAUCO) María de Maeztu Unit of Excellence 2021–2023, Campus de Rabanales, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - E. Quesada-Moraga
- Departamento de Agronomía (DAUCO) María de Maeztu Unit of Excellence 2021–2023, Campus de Rabanales, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - M. Yousef-Yousef
- Departamento de Agronomía (DAUCO) María de Maeztu Unit of Excellence 2021–2023, Campus de Rabanales, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
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Qiao L, Liu J, Zhou Z, Li Z, Zhou Y, Xu S, Yang Z, Qu J, Zou X. Positive effects of Cordyceps cateniannulata colonization in tobacco: Growth promotion and resistance to abiotic stress. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1131184. [PMID: 37125180 PMCID: PMC10140308 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1131184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Entomopathogenic fungi can live in insects to cause disease and death and are the largest group of entomopathogenic microorganisms. Therefore, these fungi are best known for their microbial control potential. Importantly, they also have other beneficial effects, including promoting plant growth and development by colonizing plant. Here, the study sought to identify specific strains of the entomopathogenic fungus, Cordyceps cateniannulata that would form endophytic associations with tobacco, thus benefiting plant growth and resistance to abiotic stresses, thereby highlighting the application of entomopathogenic fungi in tobacco. Methods The C. cateniannulata-tobacco symbiont was constructed by root irrigation. The effects of C. cateniannulata on tobacco growth were evaluated by measuring the maximum leaf length, maximum leaf width, number of leaves, plant height, stem thickness, stem circumference, dry and fresh shoot weight 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after colonization. The peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde were measured to observe the impact of C. cateniannulata on tobacco defense enzyme activity. Finally, high-throughput sequencing was used to access microbial communities in the rhizosphere, with data subsequently linked to growth indicators. Results After tobacco was inoculated with C. cateniannulata X8, which significantly promoted growth and related enzyme activity, malondialdehyde was decreased. The most significant impact was on peroxidase, with its activity being upregulated by 98.20, 154.42, 180.65, and 170.38% in the four time periods, respectively. The high throughput sequencing results indicated that C. cateniannulata had changed the rhizosphere microbial relative abundances, such as increasing Acidobacteria and Ascomycetes, and decreasing Actinomycetes and Basidiomycetes. The redundancy analysis showed that C. cateniannulata significantly boosted tobacco growth by reducing the abundance of specific dominant genera such as Stachybotrys, Cephalotrichum, Streptomyces, Isoptericola, and Microbacterium. Conclusion Specific strains of C. cateniannulata can be introduced into host plants as endophytes, resulting in promotion of host plant growth and increased resistance to abiotic stress and microbial pathogens. The study provides a foundation for future studies of C. cateniannulata as an ecological agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Qiao
- Institute of Fungus Resources, College of Life Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Zunyi Tobacco Company of Guizhou Province, Zunyi, China
| | | | - Zhimo Li
- Zunyi Tobacco Company of Guizhou Province, Zunyi, China
| | - Yeming Zhou
- Institute of Fungus Resources, College of Life Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Shaohuan Xu
- Institute of Fungus Resources, College of Life Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Zhengkai Yang
- College of Tea Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jiaojiao Qu
- College of Tea Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiao Zou
- Institute of Fungus Resources, College of Life Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
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11
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Ashrafi S, Wennrich JP, Becker Y, Maciá-Vicente JG, Brißke-Rode A, Daub M, Thünen T, Dababat AA, Finckh MR, Stadler M, Maier W. Polydomus karssenii gen. nov. sp. nov. is a dark septate endophyte with a bifunctional lifestyle parasitising eggs of plant parasitic cyst nematodes (Heterodera spp.). IMA Fungus 2023; 14:6. [PMID: 36998098 PMCID: PMC10064538 DOI: 10.1186/s43008-023-00113-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study fungal strains were investigated, which had been isolated from eggs of the cereal cyst nematode Heterodera filipjevi, and roots of Microthlaspi perfoliatum (Brassicaceae). The morphology, the interaction with nematodes and plants and the phylogenetic relationships of these strains originating from a broad geographic range covering Western Europe to Asia Minor were studied. Phylogenetic analyses using five genomic loci including ITSrDNA, LSUrDNA, SSUrDNA, rpb2 and tef1-α were carried out. The strains were found to represent a distinct phylogenetic lineage most closely related to Equiseticola and Ophiosphaerella, and Polydomus karssenii (Phaeosphaeriaceae, Pleosporales) is introduced here as a new species representing a monotypic genus. The pathogenicity tests against nematode eggs fulfilled Koch's postulates using in vitro nematode bioassays and showed that the fungus could parasitise its original nematode host H. filipjevi as well as the sugar beet cyst nematode H. schachtii, and colonise cysts and eggs of its hosts by forming highly melanised moniliform hyphae. Light microscopic observations on fungus-root interactions in an axenic system revealed the capacity of the same fungal strain to colonise the roots of wheat and produce melanised hyphae and microsclerotia-like structure typical for dark septate endophytes. Confocal laser scanning microscopy further demonstrated that the fungus colonised the root cells by predominant intercellular growth of hyphae, and frequent formation of appressorium-like as well as penetration peg-like structures through internal cell walls surrounded by callosic papilla-like structures. Different strains of the new fungus produced a nearly identical set of secondary metabolites with various biological activities including nematicidal effects irrespective of their origin from plants or nematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samad Ashrafi
- Institute for Epidemiology and Pathogen Diagnostics, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) - Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Messeweg 11/12, 38104, Brunswick, Germany.
- Institute for Crop and Soil Science, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) - Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Bundesallee 58, 38116, Brunswick, Germany.
| | - Jan-Peer Wennrich
- Department Microbial Drugs, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffenstraße 7, 38124, Brunswick, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Spielmannstraße 7, 38106, Brunswick, Germany
| | - Yvonne Becker
- Institute for Epidemiology and Pathogen Diagnostics, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) - Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Messeweg 11/12, 38104, Brunswick, Germany
| | - Jose G Maciá-Vicente
- Plant Ecology and Nature Conservation, Wageningen University and Research, PO Box 47, 6700 AA, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anke Brißke-Rode
- Institute for Epidemiology and Pathogen Diagnostics, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) - Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Messeweg 11/12, 38104, Brunswick, Germany
| | - Matthias Daub
- Institute for Plant Protection in Field Crops and Grassland, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) - Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Dürener Str. 71, 50189, Elsdorf, Germany
| | - Torsten Thünen
- Institute for Crop and Soil Science, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) - Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Bundesallee 58, 38116, Brunswick, Germany
| | - Abdelfattah A Dababat
- International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT), Emek, P.O. Box 39, 06511, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Maria R Finckh
- Department of Ecological Plant Protection, University of Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany
| | - Marc Stadler
- Department Microbial Drugs, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffenstraße 7, 38124, Brunswick, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Spielmannstraße 7, 38106, Brunswick, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Maier
- Institute for Epidemiology and Pathogen Diagnostics, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) - Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Messeweg 11/12, 38104, Brunswick, Germany
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12
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Zhang JG, Zhang K, Xu SY, Ying SH, Feng MG. Essential Role of WetA, but No Role of VosA, in Asexual Development, Conidial Maturation and Insect Pathogenicity of Metarhizium robertsii. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0007023. [PMID: 36916980 PMCID: PMC10100841 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00070-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Conidial maturation, which is crucial for conidial quality, is controlled by the asexual development activator WetA and the downstream, velvety protein VosA in Aspergillus. Their orthologs have proved functional in conidial quality control of Beauveria bassiana, as seen in Aspergillus, but are functionally unexplored, in Metarhizium robertsii, another hypocrealean insect pathogen. Here, WetA and VosA prove essential and nonessential for M. robertsii's life cycle, respectively. Disruption of wetA increased hyphal sensitivity to oxidative stress and Congo red-induced cell wall stress, but had little impact on radial growth. The ΔwetA mutant was severely compromised in conidiation capacity and conidial quality, which was featured by slower germination, decreased UV resistance, reduced hydrophobicity, and deformed hydrophobin rodlet bundles that were assembled onto conidial coat. The mutant's virulence was greatly attenuated via normal infection due to a blockage of infection-required cellular processes. All examined phenotypes were unaffected for the ΔvosA mutant. Intriguingly, mannitol was much less accumulated in the 7- and 15-day-old cultures of ΔwetA and ΔvosA than of control strains, while accumulated trehalose was not detectable at all, revealing little a link of intracellular polyol accumulation to conidial maturation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed differential regulation of 160 genes (up/down ratio: 72:88) in ΔwetA. These genes were mostly involved in cellular component, biological process, and molecular function but rarely associated with asexual development. Conclusively, WetA plays a relatively conserved role in M. robertsii's spore surface structure, and also a differentiated role in some other cellular processes associated with conidial maturation. VosA is functionally redundant in M. robertsii unlike its ortholog in B. bassiana. IMPORTANCE WetA and VosA regulate conidiation and conidial maturation required for the life cycle of Beauveria bassiana, like they do in Aspergillus, but remain functionally unexplored in Metarhizium robertsii, another hypocrealean pathogen considered to have evolved insect pathogenicity ~130 million years later than B. bassiana. This study reveals a similar role of WetA ortholog in asexual development, conidial maturation, and insect pathogenicity, and also its distinctive role in mediating some other conidial maturation-related cellular events, but has functional redundancy of VosA in M. robertsii. The maturation process vital for conidial quality proves dependent on a role of WetA in spore wall assembly but is independent of its role in intracellular polyol accumulation. Transcriptomic analysis reveals a link of WetA to 160 genes involved in cellular component, biological process, and molecular function. Our study unveils that M. robertsii WetA or VosA is functionally differential or different from those learned in B. bassiana and other ascomycetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Guan Zhang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Si-Yuan Xu
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Sheng-Hua Ying
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ming-Guang Feng
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Entomopathogenic Fungi-Mediated Solubilization and Induction of Fe Related Genes in Melon and Cucumber Plants. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9020258. [PMID: 36836372 PMCID: PMC9960893 DOI: 10.3390/jof9020258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Endophytic insect pathogenic fungi have a multifunctional lifestyle; in addition to its well-known function as biocontrol agents, it may also help plants respond to other biotic and abiotic stresses, such as iron (Fe) deficiency. This study explores M. brunneum EAMa 01/58-Su strain attributes for Fe acquisition. Firstly, direct attributes include siderophore exudation (in vitro assay) and Fe content in shoots and in the substrate (in vivo assay) were evaluated for three strains of Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium bruneum. The M. brunneum EAMa 01/58-Su strain showed a great ability to exudate iron siderophores (58.4% surface siderophores exudation) and provided higher Fe content in both dry matter and substrate compared to the control and was therefore selected for further research to unravel the possible induction of Fe deficiency responses, Ferric Reductase Activity (FRA), and relative expression of Fe acquisition genes by qRT-PCR in melon and cucumber plants.. In addition, root priming by M. brunneum EAMa 01/58-Su strain elicited Fe deficiency responses at transcriptional level. Our results show an early up-regulation (24, 48 or 72 h post inoculation) of the Fe acquisition genes FRO1, FRO2, IRT1, HA1, and FIT as well as the FRA. These results highlight the mechanisms involved in the Fe acquisition as mediated by IPF M. brunneum EAMa 01/58-Su strain.
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Samal I, Bhoi TK, Majhi PK, Murmu S, Pradhan AK, Kumar D, Saini V, Paschapur AU, Raj MN, Ankur, Manik S, Behera PP, Mahanta DK, Komal J, Alam P, Balawi TA. Combatting insects mediated biotic stress through plant associated endophytic entomopathogenic fungi in horticultural crops. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 13:1098673. [PMID: 36743574 PMCID: PMC9894630 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1098673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Horticultural production is a vital catalyst for economic growth, yet insect infestations reduce horticultural crop yield and quality. Pesticides and other pest control methods are used during planting to eliminate pests that cause direct and indirect losses. In such situations, endophytic entomo-pathogenic fungi (EEPF) can act as a potential tools for biological control. They protect plants by boosting growth, nutrition, morpho-physiology and salt or iron tolerance. Antixenosis, antibiosis and plant tolerance change insect performance and preferences. EEPF- plant colonisation slows herbivore development, food consumption, oviposition and larval survival. EEPF changes plant physio-chemical properties like volatile emission profile and secondary metabolite production to regulate insect pest defences. EEPF produces chitinases, laccases, amylases, and cellulases for plant defence. Recent studies focused on EEPF species' significance, isolation, identification and field application. Realizing their full potential is difficult due to insufficient mass production, storage stability and formulation. Genetic-molecular and bioinformatics can help to build EEPF-based biological control systems. Metagenomics helps study microbial EEPF taxonomy and function. Multi-omics and system biology can decode EEPF interactions with host plants and microorganisms. NGS (Next Generation Sequencing), comparative genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, metatranscriptomics and microarrays are used to evaluate plant-EEPF relationships. IPM requires understanding the abiotic and biotic elements that influence plant-EEPF interaction and the physiological mechanisms of EEPF colonisation. Due to restricted research, there are hundreds of unexplored EEPFs, providing an urgent need to uncover and analyse them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ipsita Samal
- Department of Entomology, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha, India
| | - Tanmaya Kumar Bhoi
- Forest Protection Division, Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) - Arid Forest Research Institute (AFRI), Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Prasanta Kumar Majhi
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Sneha Murmu
- Division of Agricultural Bio-informatics, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)- Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Asit Kumar Pradhan
- Division, Social Science Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)- National Rice Research Institute (NRRI), Cuttack, Odisha, India
| | - Dilip Kumar
- Division of Computer Application and IT, National Institute for Agricultural Economics and Policy Research (NIAP), New Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi, India
| | - Varun Saini
- Department of Entomology, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, India
| | - Amit Umesh Paschapur
- Crop Protection Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) - Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora, Uttarakhand, India
| | - M Nikhil Raj
- Department of Entomology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur, Bihar, India
| | - Ankur
- Division of Entomology, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR-IARI)- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Suryakant Manik
- Department of Seed Science and Technology, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Partha Pratim Behera
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam, India
| | - Deepak Kumar Mahanta
- Department of Entomology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur, Bihar, India
| | - J. Komal
- Department of Entomology, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, India
| | - Pravej Alam
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Humanities in Al-Kharj, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thamer Al Balawi
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Humanities, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Luo Z, Chen Q, Su Y, Hu S, Keyhani NO, Wang J, Zhu C, Zhou T, Pan Y, Bidochka MJ, Zhang Y. The AreA Nitrogen Catabolite Repression Activator Balances Fungal Nutrient Utilization and Virulence in the Insect Fungal Pathogen Beauveria bassiana. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:646-659. [PMID: 36584226 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c07047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In many fungi, the AreA GATA-type transcription factor mediates nitrogen catabolite repression affecting fungal development and, where applicable, virulence. Here, we investigated the functions of AreA in the fungal entomopathogen and plant endophyte Beauveria bassiana using knockdown of gene expression. The antiAreA mutants were impaired in nitrogen utilization and showed increased sensitivities to osmotic stressors but increased tolerances to oxidative/hypoxia stresses. Repression of BbAreA caused overall minimal effects on fungal virulence. The minor effects on virulence appeared to be due in part to competing secondary effects where host defense phenoloxidase activity was significantly decreased, but production of the fungal metabolite oosporein was increased and hyphal body development was impaired. Knockdown of BbAreA expression also resulted in impairment in ability of the fungus to associate with host plants. These data implicate that BbAreA likely acts as a regulator to balance fungal nutrient utilization, pathogenicity, and mutualism, facilitating the fungal occupation of host niches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibing Luo
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Qiyan Chen
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Yufeng Su
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Shasha Hu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Nemat O Keyhani
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Junyao Wang
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Chenhua Zhu
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Teng Zhou
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Yunxia Pan
- College of Engineering and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Michael J Bidochka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
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16
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Canfora L, Tartanus M, Manfredini A, Tkaczuk C, Majchrowska-Safaryan A, Malusà E. The impact of Beauveria species bioinocula on the soil microbial community structure in organic strawberry plantations. Front Microbiol 2023; 13:1073386. [PMID: 36713158 PMCID: PMC9874679 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1073386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The multifunctionality of microorganisms, including entomopathogenic fungi, represents a feature that could be exploited to support the development, marketing, and application of microbial-based products for plant protection. However, it is likely that this feature could affect the composition and dynamics of the resident soil microorganisms, possibly over a longer period. Therefore, the methodology utilized to evaluate such impact is critical for a reliable assessment. The present study was performed to evaluate the impact of strains of Beauveria brongniartii and Beauveria bassiana on soil bacterial and fungal communities using an approach based on the terminal restriction fragment polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis. Materials and methods Soil samples in the vicinity of the root system were collected during a 3-year period, before and after the bioinocula application, in two organic strawberry plantations. Specific primers were used for the amplification of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene and the fungal ITS region of the ribosome. Results and discussion Data of the profile analysis from T-RFLP analysis were used to compare the operational taxonomic unit (OTU) occurrence and intensity in the inoculated soil with the uninoculated control. With regard to the impact on the bacterial community, both Beauveria species were not fully consistently affecting their composition across the seasons and fields tested. Nevertheless, some common patterns were pointed out in each field and, sometimes, also among them when considering the time elapsed from the bioinoculum application. The impact was even more inconsistent when analyzing the fungal community. It is thus concluded that the application of the bioinocula induced only a transient and limited effect on the soil microbial community, even though some changes in the structure dynamic and frequency of soil bacterial and fungal OTUs emerged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Canfora
- Centre for Agriculture and Environment (CREA-AA), Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Rome, Italy,*Correspondence: Loredana Canfora,
| | - Małgorzata Tartanus
- Centre for Agriculture and Environment (CREA-AA), Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Rome, Italy,Department of Plant Protection, National Institute of Horticultural Research, Skierniewice, Poland
| | - Andrea Manfredini
- Centre for Agriculture and Environment (CREA-AA), Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Rome, Italy
| | - Cezary Tkaczuk
- Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture, Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities, Siedlce, Poland
| | - Anna Majchrowska-Safaryan
- Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture, Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities, Siedlce, Poland
| | - Eligio Malusà
- Department of Plant Protection, National Institute of Horticultural Research, Skierniewice, Poland,Eligio Malusà,
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17
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Two new root endophyte and nematode cyst parasite species of the widely distributed genus Laburnicola. Mycol Prog 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11557-022-01849-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AbstractFungal root endophytes, including the common form group of dark septate endophytes (DSEs), represent different taxonomic groups with potentially diverse life strategies. During surveys of DSE communities and of nematode cysts colonizing fungi, isolates representing Laburnicola (Didymosphaeriaceae, Pleosporales) lineages were discovered. Here we carried out a comprehensive study of the phylogenetic relationships and taxonomy of fungi collected from plant roots in Hungary, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan and from eggs of the cereal cyst nematode Heterodera filipjevi in Turkey. In addition to the study of the morphology and culture characteristics of the strains, four loci (internal transcribed spacer, partial large and small subunit regions of nuclear ribosomal DNA and partial translation elongation factor 1-alpha) were used to infer the molecular phylogenetic relationships of the strains within Laburnicola. The isolates were found to represent two distinct lineages, which are described here as novel species, Laburnicola nematophila and L. radiciphila. The interaction of the strains with plants and nematodes was examined using in vitro bioassays, which revealed endophytic interactions with the plant roots and parasitic interactions with the nematode eggs. Analyses of similar ITS sequences found in public databases revealed that members of the genus Laburnicola are widely distributed characteristic members of the plant microbiome, and they are reported as parasites of plant parasitic cyst nematodes here for the first time.
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18
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Couceiro JDC, De Fine Licht HH, Delalibera I, Meyling NV. Comparative gene expression and genomics reflect geographical divergence in the plant symbiotic and entomopathogenic fungal genus Metarhizium. FUNGAL ECOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.funeco.2022.101190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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19
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Tennakoon DS, Thambugala KM, de Silva NI, Suwannarach N, Lumyong S. A taxonomic assessment of novel and remarkable fungal species in Didymosphaeriaceae ( Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes) from plant litter. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1016285. [PMID: 36483195 PMCID: PMC9722976 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1016285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal taxonomy has a long history and changed significantly in the last few decades. Most recent studies have witnessed morphology combined with DNA-based molecular analyses as the main research tool for fungal species identification. During field surveys, some interesting Didymosphaeriaceae species were found from plant litter in China and Thailand. Morphology combined with phylogenetic analyses (Bayesian and maximum likelihood) of ITS, LSU, SSU, tef1-α, and tub2 loci was used to identify fungal taxa. In this article, three new species and six new host records are described. The new species, Montagnula acaciae, Paraconiothyrium zingiberacearum, and Paraphaeosphaeria brachiariae, can be distinguished from other species of the respective genera based on their distinct size differences (ascomata, asci, and ascospores) and DNA sequence data. The new host records, Montagnula jonesii, Paraconiothyrium fuckelii, Spegazzinia deightonii, and S. tessarthra are reported from Ficus benjamina, Dimocarpus longan, Hedychium coronarium, and Acacia auriculiformis respectively, for the first time. Also, Paraconiothyrium archidendri and P. brasiliense are reported for the first time from Magnolia sp. in China. Moreover, Paraconiothyrium rosae is synonymized under P. fuckelii based on close phylogeny affinities and morphological characteristics. In-depth morphological descriptions, micrographs, and phylogenetic trees are provided to show the placement of new taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danushka S. Tennakoon
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kasun M. Thambugala
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Unit, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Gangodawila, Sri Lanka
| | - Nimali I. de Silva
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nakarin Suwannarach
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Saisamorn Lumyong
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Academy of Science, The Royal Society of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand
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20
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Mathur V, Ulanova D. Microbial Metabolites Beneficial to Plant Hosts Across Ecosystems. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2022:10.1007/s00248-022-02073-x. [PMID: 35867138 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-022-02073-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Plants are intimately connected with their associated microorganisms. Chemical interactions via natural products between plants and their microbial symbionts form an important aspect in host health and development, both in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. These interactions range from negative to beneficial for microbial symbionts as well as their hosts. Symbiotic microbes synchronize their metabolism with their hosts, thus suggesting a possible coevolution among them. Metabolites, synthesized from plants and microbes due to their association and coaction, supplement the already present metabolites, thus promoting plant growth, maintaining physiological status, and countering various biotic and abiotic stress factors. However, environmental changes, such as pollution and temperature variations, as well as anthropogenic-induced monoculture settings, have a significant influence on plant-associated microbial community and its interaction with the host. In this review, we put the prominent microbial metabolites participating in plant-microbe interactions in the natural terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in a single perspective and have discussed commonalities and differences in these interactions for adaptation to surrounding environment and how environmental changes can alter the same. We also present the status and further possibilities of employing chemical interactions for environment remediation. Our review thus underlines the importance of ecosystem-driven functional adaptations of plant-microbe interactions in natural and anthropogenically influenced ecosystems and their possible applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vartika Mathur
- Animal Plant Interactions Lab, Department of Zoology, Sri Venkateswara College, Benito Juarez Marg, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi-110021, India.
| | - Dana Ulanova
- Department of Marine Resource Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Marine Science, Kochi University, Monobe, Nankoku city, Kochi, 783-8502, Japan.
- Center for Advanced Marine Core Research, Kochi University, Monobe, Nankoku city, Kochi, 783-8502, Japan.
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López-Rodríguez L, Burrola-Aguilar C, Garibay-Orijel R, Estrada-Zúñiga ME, Matías-Ferrer N, Argüelles-Moyao A. Cordyceps mexicana sp. nov., parasitizing Paradirphia sp. moths: A new sister species of the Cordyceps militaris complex, distributed in central Mexican Quercus-Pinus mixed forests. Mycologia 2022; 114:732-747. [PMID: 35687062 DOI: 10.1080/00275514.2022.2058854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Cordyceps s.l. is a paraphyletic group of ascomycete fungi that exhibit multifunctional lifestyles, that is, as saprotrophs, endophytes, and pathogens of insects, spiders, fungi, and grasses. The family Cordycipitaceae includes macroscopically similar species that have been erroneously considered to be conspecific with Cordyceps militaris. In this study, we describe a new species within the C. militaris complex that is distributed in the Quercus-Pinus forests of central Mexico on the basis of its morphology, phylogenetic relationships, and life cycle. Phylogenetically, Cordyceps mexicana is a well-supported new sister species of the C. militaris complex. It is distinguished by the morphology of its conidiophore, host association, and geographic distribution. This species parasitizes pupae of Paradirphia sp. (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae: Hemileucinae) and might be macroscopically confused with C. militaris. Its stromata are large, can measure up to 10 cm in length, and the fertile part is always bright yellow. This species develops whitish mycelial cords that emerge from the stromata and grow toward the host. Microscopically, it develops asci with filiform ascospores disarticulating in part-spores. Its life cycle and geographic distribution are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena López-Rodríguez
- Centro de Investigación en Recursos Bióticos, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Highway Toluca - Ixtlahuaca, Kilometer 15.5, Toluca 50200, México
| | - Cristina Burrola-Aguilar
- Centro de Investigación en Recursos Bióticos, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Highway Toluca - Ixtlahuaca, Kilometer 15.5, Toluca 50200, México
| | - Roberto Garibay-Orijel
- Instituto de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, México
| | - María Elena Estrada-Zúñiga
- Centro de Investigación en Recursos Bióticos, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Highway Toluca - Ixtlahuaca, Kilometer 15.5, Toluca 50200, México
| | | | - Andrés Argüelles-Moyao
- Instituto de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, México
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Mayo-Prieto S, Squarzoni A, Carro-Huerga G, Porteous-Álvarez AJ, Gutiérrez S, Casquero PA. Organic and Conventional Bean Pesticides in Development of Autochthonous Trichoderma Strains. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8060603. [PMID: 35736086 PMCID: PMC9225493 DOI: 10.3390/jof8060603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pesticides of chemical synthesis have mainly been used to control pests, diseases and adventitious plants up until now. However, it has been shown that some pesticides can remain in the soil for long periods of time, thus affecting the development of organisms in the rhizosphere as well as human health, which are two of the most noteworthy side effects. The aim of this research was to analyze the compatibility of autochthonous Trichoderma strains with different synthetic fungicides, acaricides, insecticides (including an entomopathogenic fungus) and herbicides. Sulfur encouraged the growth of all autochthonous strains assayed, and the combination Trichoderma-B. bassiana did not disturb their growth. So, the combination of the autochthonous Trichoderma strains with these organic pesticides will be a positive strategy to apply in the field to control pests and some diseases. Conventional pesticides modified the development of all autochthonous Trichoderma strains, demonstrating that not only do they affect weeds, fungus or pests but also rhizosphere microorganisms. In conclusion, conventional pesticides indiscriminately used to control pests, diseases and weeds could reduce the development of autochthonous Trichoderma strains, especially fungicides and herbicides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Mayo-Prieto
- Grupo Universitario de Investigación en Ingeniería y Agricultura Sostenible (GUIIAS), Instituto de Medio Ambiente, Recursos Naturales y Biodiversidad, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (G.C.-H.); (A.J.P.-Á.)
- Correspondence: (S.M.-P.); (P.A.C.)
| | - Alessandra Squarzoni
- Alma Mater Studiorum, Scuola di Agraria e Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Guzmán Carro-Huerga
- Grupo Universitario de Investigación en Ingeniería y Agricultura Sostenible (GUIIAS), Instituto de Medio Ambiente, Recursos Naturales y Biodiversidad, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (G.C.-H.); (A.J.P.-Á.)
| | - Alejandra J. Porteous-Álvarez
- Grupo Universitario de Investigación en Ingeniería y Agricultura Sostenible (GUIIAS), Instituto de Medio Ambiente, Recursos Naturales y Biodiversidad, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (G.C.-H.); (A.J.P.-Á.)
| | - Santiago Gutiérrez
- Grupo Universitario de Investigación en Ingeniería y Agricultura Sostenible (GUIIAS), Área de Microbiología, Escuela de Ingeniería Agraria y Forestal, Universidad de León, Campus de Ponferrada, 24401 Ponferrada, Spain;
| | - Pedro Antonio Casquero
- Grupo Universitario de Investigación en Ingeniería y Agricultura Sostenible (GUIIAS), Instituto de Medio Ambiente, Recursos Naturales y Biodiversidad, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (G.C.-H.); (A.J.P.-Á.)
- Correspondence: (S.M.-P.); (P.A.C.)
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Almario J, Fabiańska I, Saridis G, Bucher M. Unearthing the plant-microbe quid pro quo in root associations with beneficial fungi. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2022; 234:1967-1976. [PMID: 35239199 DOI: 10.1111/nph.18061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Mutualistic symbiotic associations between multicellular eukaryotes and their microbiota are driven by the exchange of nutrients in a quid pro quo manner. In the widespread arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis involving plant roots and Glomeromycotina fungi, the mycobiont is supplied with carbon through photosynthesis, which in return supplies the host plant with essential minerals such as phosphorus (P). Most terrestrial plants are largely dependent on AM fungi for nutrients, which raises the question of how plants that are unable to form a functional AM sustain their P nutrition. AM nonhost plants can form alternative, evolutionarily younger, mycorrhizal associations such as the ectomycorrhiza, ericoid and orchid mycorrhiza. However, it is unclear how plants such as the Brassicaceae species Arabidopsis thaliana, which do not form known mycorrhizal symbioses, have adapted to the loss of these essential mycorrhizal traits. Isotope tracing experiments with root-colonizing fungi have revealed the existence of new 'mycorrhizal-like' fungi capable of transferring nutrients such as nitrogen (N) and P to plants, including Brassicaceae. Here, we provide an overview of the biology of trophic relationships between roots and fungi and how these associations might support plant adaptation to climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Almario
- Ecologie Microbienne, CNRS UMR-5557, INRAe UMR-1418, VetAgroSup, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon1, 43 Boulevard du 11 novembre 1918, Villeurbanne, 69622, France
| | - Izabela Fabiańska
- Institute for Plant Sciences, Cologne Biocenter, University of Cologne, Cologne, 50674, Germany
| | - Georgios Saridis
- Institute for Plant Sciences, Cologne Biocenter, University of Cologne, Cologne, 50674, Germany
| | - Marcel Bucher
- Institute for Plant Sciences, Cologne Biocenter, University of Cologne, Cologne, 50674, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), University of Cologne, Cologne, 50931, Germany
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Alster S, Dafa-Berger A, Gafni A, Levy M. Pseudozyma aphidis Suppresses Microbe-Associated Molecular Pattern (MAMP)-Triggered Callose Deposition and Can Penetrate Leaf Tissue. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0263821. [PMID: 35234494 PMCID: PMC8941903 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02638-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Beneficial microorganisms need to overcome the plant defense system to establish on or within plant tissues. Like pathogens, beneficial microbes can manipulate a plant's immunity pathways, first by suppressing and hiding to establish on the host and then by inducing resistance to protect the plant. In the current study, we demonstrated that although Pseudozyma aphidis can activate microbe-associated molecular pattern (MAMP)-associated genes, it does not activate MAMP-triggered callose deposition and can, moreover, suppress such deposition triggered by Flg22 or chitin. While MAMP-associated gene activation by P. aphidis was not dependent on salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, or ethylene signaling, suppression of MAMP-triggered callose deposition required the salicylic acid and jasmonic acid signaling factors JAR1-1 and E3 ubiquitin ligase COI1 yet did not rely on EIN2, NPR1, or the transcription factor JIN1/MYC2. We also demonstrated the ability of P. aphidis, known to be an epiphytic yeast-like organism, to penetrate the stomata and establish within plant tissues, as do endophytes. These results thus demonstrate the potential of P. aphidis to suppress MAMP-elicited defenses in order to establish on and within host plant tissues. IMPORTANCE Our study demonstrates the ability of P. aphidis to penetrate into plant tissues, where it avoids and overcomes plant defense systems in order to establish and subsequently protect the plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanee Alster
- Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Avis Dafa-Berger
- Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Aviva Gafni
- Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Maggie Levy
- Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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25
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Agbessenou A, Akutse KS, Yusuf AA, Khamis FM. The Endophyte Trichoderma asperellum M2RT4 Induces the Systemic Release of Methyl Salicylate and ( Z)-jasmone in Tomato Plant Affecting Host Location and Herbivory of Tuta absoluta. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:860309. [PMID: 35449888 PMCID: PMC9016226 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.860309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The use of endophytic fungi has dramatically increased plant performance through the enhancement of plant protection against abiotic and biotic stressors. We previously demonstrated that the endophytic fungus Trichoderma asperellum M2RT4 improves tomato defenses against the tomato leafminer Tuta absoluta through the reduction of oviposition, leafmining, pupation, and adult emergence. However, the underlying mechanism by which the presence of this endophytic fungus within tomato host plant affects T. absoluta host selection and life-history traits is unknown. We tested the behavioral responses of T. absoluta in Y-tube olfactometer bioassays and found that females preferred non-inoculated tomato plants against those inoculated by endophytes. Additionally, T. absoluta females were not attracted to non-inoculated infested nor to inoculated-infested tomato plants. Chemical analysis revealed the emission of methyl salicylate in inoculated tomato plant and an increase in the amounts of monoterpenes emitted from non-inoculated infested plants. Additionally, we found that upon herbivory, T. asperellum M2RT4 modulates tomato plant chemistry through the production of (Z)-jasmone thus activating both salicylic and jasmonic acid defense pathways. Further, T. absoluta females were attracted to monoterpernes including α-pinene, 2-carene, and β-phellandrene but repelled by methyl salicylate. Methyl salicylate could therefore be considered as a good semiochemical-based candidate for sustainable T. absoluta management using a "push-pull" approach. However, in dose-response bioassays, females of T. absoluta did not show any preference to the four component-blend (α-pinene, 2-carene, β-phellandrene, and methyl salicylate). (Z)-jasmone-treated tomato leaflets significantly reduced the leafmining activity of the pest at the concentration of 10 ng/μL and causing the highest larval mortality rate (83%) with the shortest LT50 (1.73 days) 7 days post-treatment. T. asperellum M2RT4 effect on herbivore performance was then (Z)-jasmone-mediated. These findings expand our understanding of how the endophytic fungus T. asperellum M2RT4 could mediate chemical interactions between T. absoluta and its host plant which are potentially important for development of environmentally friendly T. absoluta management programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayaovi Agbessenou
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South Africa
| | - Komivi S. Akutse
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Abdullahi A. Yusuf
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South Africa
- Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South Africa
| | - Fathiya M. Khamis
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Nairobi, Kenya
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Kobmoo N, Khonsanit A, Luangsa-ard JJ. Reconstruction of ancestral host association showed host expansion and specialization in local Beauveria species. Mycol Prog 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11557-021-01761-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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27
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Iwanicki NS, Botelho ABRZ, Klingen I, Júnior ID, Rossmann S, Lysøe E. Genomic signatures and insights into host niche adaptation of the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium humberi. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2022; 12:6449448. [PMID: 34865006 PMCID: PMC9210286 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkab416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The genus Metarhizium is composed of species used in biological control programs of agricultural pests worldwide. This genus includes common fungal pathogen of many insects and mites and endophytes that can increase plant growth. Metarhizium humberi was recently described as a new species. This species is highly virulent against some insect pests and promotes growth in sugarcane, strawberry, and soybean crops. In this study, we sequenced the genome of M. humberi, isolate ESALQ1638, and performed a functional analysis to determine its genomic signatures and highlight the genes and biological processes associated with its lifestyle. The genome annotation predicted 10633 genes in M. humberi, of which 92.0% are assigned putative functions, and ∼17% of the genome was annotated as repetitive sequences. We found that 18.5% of the M. humberi genome is similar to experimentally validated proteins associated with pathogen-host interaction. Compared to the genomes of eight Metarhizium species, the M. humberi ESALQ1638 genome revealed some unique traits that stood out, e.g., more genes functionally annotated as polyketide synthases (PKSs), overrepresended GO-terms associated to transport of ions, organic and amino acid, a higher percentage of repetitive elements, and higher levels of RIP-induced point mutations. The M. humberi genome will serve as a resource for promoting studies on genome structure and evolution that can contribute to research on biological control and plant biostimulation. Thus, the genomic data supported the broad host range of this species within the generalist PARB clade and suggested that M. humberi ESALQ1638 might be particularly good at producing secondary metabolites and might be more efficient in transporting amino acids and organic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Sant′Anna Iwanicki
- Department of Entomology and Acarology, “Luiz de Queiroz” College of Agriculture (ESALQ/USP), Piracicaba 13418-900, Brazil
- Corresponding author: (N.S.I.); (E.L.)
| | | | - Ingeborg Klingen
- Division of Biotechnology and Plant Health, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), Ås 1431, Norway
| | - Italo Delalibera Júnior
- Department of Entomology and Acarology, “Luiz de Queiroz” College of Agriculture (ESALQ/USP), Piracicaba 13418-900, Brazil
| | - Simeon Rossmann
- Division of Biotechnology and Plant Health, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), Ås 1431, Norway
| | - Erik Lysøe
- Division of Biotechnology and Plant Health, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), Ås 1431, Norway
- Corresponding author: (N.S.I.); (E.L.)
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28
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Niu H, Sun Y, Zhang Z, Zhao D, Wang N, Wang L, Guo H. The endophytic bacterial entomopathogen Serratia marcescens promotes plant growth and improves resistance against Nilaparvata lugens in rice. Microbiol Res 2021; 256:126956. [PMID: 34995970 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2021.126956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Entomopathogenic bacteria are commonly used as biological agents to control different insect pests. However, little is known about the role of bacterial entomopathogens as endophytes in regulating both plant growth and resistance against insect pests. Here, we applied the entomopathogenic bacterium Serratia marcescens S-JS1 via rice seed inoculation and evaluated its effects on host plant growth and resistance against the rice pest Nilaparvata lugens. Furthermore, the induction of defense-related secondary metabolites by the bacterium was assessed by GC-MS/MS. We showed that S-JS1 was able to endophytically colonize the roots and shoots of rice seedlings following seed inoculation. Colonized plants showed increased seed germination (9.4-13.3 %), root (8.2-36.4 %) and shoot lengths (4.1-22.3 %), and root (26.7-69.3 %) and shoot fresh weights (19.0-49.0 %) compared to plants without inoculation. We also identified the production of indole-3-acetic acid by S-JS1, which is likely involved in enhancing rice plant growth. In a two-choice test, N. lugens adults preferred to feed on untreated control plants than on plants treated with S-JS1. In the no-choice feeding tests, the survival of N. lugens nymphs that fed on S-JS1-treated plants was significantly lower than that of nymphs that fed on untreated plants. Additionally, seeds treated with 109 cfu/mL S-JS1 resulted in elevated levels of secondary metabolites, which may be associated with N. lugens resistance in rice plants. Therefore, we suggest that the entomopathogenic bacterium S. marcescens be considered a potentially promising endophyte for use in an innovative strategy for the integrated management of insect pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongtao Niu
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhichun Zhang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongxiao Zhao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Wang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China
| | - Lihua Wang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China
| | - Huifang Guo
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, People's Republic of China.
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Root-Associated Entomopathogenic Fungi Modulate Their Host Plant's Photosystem II Photochemistry and Response to Herbivorous Insects. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 27:molecules27010207. [PMID: 35011439 PMCID: PMC8746981 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The escalating food demand and loss to herbivores has led to increasing interest in using resistance-inducing microbes for pest control. Here, we evaluated whether root-inoculation with fungi that are otherwise known as entomopathogens improves tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) leaflets' reaction to herbivory by Spodoptera exigua (beet armyworm) larvae using chlorophyll fluorescence imaging. Plants were inoculated with Metarhizium brunneum or Beauveria bassiana, and photosystem II reactions were evaluated before and after larval feeding. Before herbivory, the fraction of absorbed light energy used for photochemistry (ΦPSII) was lower in M. brunneum-inoculated than in control plants, but not in B. bassiana-inoculated plants. After herbivory, however, ΦPSII increased in the fungal-inoculated plants compared with that before herbivory, similar to the reaction of control plants. At the same time, the fraction of energy dissipated as heat (ΦNPQ) decreased in the inoculated plants, resulting in an increased fraction of nonregulated energy loss (ΦNO) in M. brunneum. This indicates an increased singlet oxygen (1O2) formation not detected in B. bassiana-inoculated plants, showing that the two entomopathogenic fungi differentially modulate the leaflets' response to herbivory. Overall, our results show that M. brunneum inoculation had a negative effect on the photosynthetic efficiency before herbivory, while B. bassiana inoculation had no significant effect. However, S. exigua leaf biting activated the same compensatory PSII response mechanism in tomato plants of both fungal-inoculated treatments as in control plants.
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Slt2-MAPK/RNS1 Controls Conidiation via Direct Regulation of the Central Regulatory Pathway in the Fungus Metarhizium robertsii. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 8:jof8010026. [PMID: 35049966 PMCID: PMC8779605 DOI: 10.3390/jof8010026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Ascomycete fungi usually produce small hydrophobic asexual conidia that are easily dispersed and essential for long-term survival under a variety of environmental conditions. Several upstream signaling regulators have been documented to control conidiation via regulation of the central regulatory pathway that contains the transcription factors BrlA, AbaA and WetA. Here, we showed that the Slt2-MAPK signaling pathway and the transcription factor RNS1 constitute a novel upstream signaling cascade that activates the central regulatory pathway for conidiation in the Ascomycetes fungus M. robertsii. The BrlA gene has two overlapping transcripts BrlAα and BrlAβ; they have the same major ORF, but the 5' UTR of BrlAβ is 835 bp longer than the one of BrlAα. During conidiation, Slt2 phosphorylates the serine residue at the position 306 in RNS1, which self-induces. RNS1 binds to the BM2 motif in the promoter of the BrlA gene and induces the expression of the transcript BlrAα, which in turn activates the expression of the genes AbaA and WetA. In conclusion, the Slt2/RNS1 cascade represents a novel upstream signaling pathway that initiates conidiation via direct activation of the central regulatory pathway. This work provides significant mechanistic insights into the production of asexual conidia in an Ascomycete fungus.
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Fernanda FV, Gleison GRQM, Atilon AVDA, Leila LPP, Clarice CMC. NATIVE AMAZONIAN FUNGI TO CONTROL TERMITES Nasutitermes sp. (BLATTODEA: TERMITIDAE). ACTA BIOLÓGICA COLOMBIANA 2021. [DOI: 10.15446/abc.v27n1.86848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Termites of the Nasutitermes genus are considered one of the main urban and agroforestry pests in Brazil, where the main method of control is the application of pesticides. The uso of entomopathogenic fungi to reduce the population of this plague in the environment could be use as an alternative. The goal of this study was to evaluate the virulence of isolates native Amazonian fungi belonging to the Tolypocladium endophyticum, Metarhizium anisopliae and Metarhizium marquandii species for the control of Nasutitermes sp. The strains of T. endophyticum (4.439), M. anisopliae (4.443) and M. marquandii (4.472) with their respective isolation codes, were evaluated using suspensions at concentrations of 105, 106, 107 and 108 conidia/mL against the termites. The fungi were characterized to species level by molecular analysis. The greatest virulence was registered with T. endophyticum (4.439), with a mortality of 100 % on the 4th day of treatment for all analyzed concentrations. The M. anisopliae strain (4.443) proved to be efficient, causing a mortality of 100 % on the 7th and 6th days at dilutions of 107 and 108 conidia/mL, respectively. Rates lower than 100 % were registered with M. marquandii (4.472). Therefore, the three fungal strains showed virulence against the termites Nasutitermes sp. In this study, the fungi Tolypocladium endophyticum and Metarhizium marquandii are reported for the first time for the biological control of pests, indicating the potential of native Amazonian fungi for the biological control of thermites Nasutitermes sp.
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Elya C, De Fine Licht HH. The genus Entomophthora: bringing the insect destroyers into the twenty-first century. IMA Fungus 2021; 12:34. [PMID: 34763728 PMCID: PMC8588673 DOI: 10.1186/s43008-021-00084-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The fungal genus Entomophthora consists of highly host-specific pathogens that cause deadly epizootics in their various insect hosts. The most well-known among these is the "zombie fly" fungus E. muscae, which, like other Entomophthora species, elicits a series of dramatic behaviors in infected hosts to promote optimal spore dispersal. Despite having been first described more than 160 years ago, there are still many open questions about Entomophthora biology, including the molecular underpinnings of host behavior manipulation and host specificity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of our current understanding of the biology of Entomophthora fungi and enumerates the most pressing outstanding questions that should be addressed in the field. We briefly review the discovery of Entomophthora and provide a summary of the 21 recognized Entomophthora species, including their type hosts, methods of transmission (ejection of spores after or before host death), and for which molecular data are available. Further, we argue that this genus is globally distributed, based on a compilation of Entomophthora records in the literature and in online naturalist databases, and likely to contain additional species. Evidence for strain-level specificity of hosts is summarized and directly compared to phylogenies of Entomophthora and the class Insecta. A detailed description of Entomophthora's life-cycle and observed manipulated behaviors is provided and used to summarize a consensus for ideal growth conditions. We discuss evidence for Entomophthora's adaptation to growth exclusively inside insects, such as producing wall-less hyphal bodies and a unique set of subtilisin-like proteases to penetrate the insect cuticle. However, we are only starting to understand the functions of unusual molecular and genomic characteristics, such as having large > 1 Gb genomes full of repetitive elements and potential functional diploidy. We argue that the high host-specificity and obligate life-style of most Entomophthora species provides ample scope for having been shaped by close coevolution with insects despite the current general lack of such evidence. Finally, we propose six major directions for future Entomophthora research and in doing so hope to provide a foundation for future studies of these fungi and their interaction with insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Elya
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Henrik H De Fine Licht
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1871, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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Castro-Vásquez RM, Molina-Bravo R, Hernández-Villalobos S, Vargas-Martínez A, González-Herrera A, Montero-Astúa M. Identification and phylogenetic analysis of a collection of Beauveria spp. Isolates from Central America and Puerto Rico. J Invertebr Pathol 2021; 184:107642. [PMID: 34216626 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2021.107642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The genus Beauveria comprises economically important entomopathogenic fungi, widely used for biological control in agriculture. Interest in these organisms in Costa Rica prompted surveys and establishment of collections in the past two decades. However, there was neither a formal identification nor a characterization of the isolates. With that purpose, the morphology and genetic variation by microsatellites and partial sequencing of Bloc, TEF-1α and RPB2 regions were studied for 32 isolates of Beauveria, which included 26 from Costa Rica, five from Puerto Rico and one from Honduras. The isolates were identified as B. bassiana (29) and B. caledonica (3). Ninety-three percent of B. bassiana isolates belonged to a monophyletic group of African and Neotropical isolates. A total of 105 alleles were recorded with 11 SSR markers, and the results suggested high diversity within the collection. Mantel tests showed low association between geographic origin and the variation among isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth M Castro-Vásquez
- Centro de Investigación en Biología Celular y Molecular, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica; Escuela de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional, Heredia 86-3000, Costa Rica
| | - Ramón Molina-Bravo
- Escuela de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional, Heredia 86-3000, Costa Rica
| | | | | | | | - Mauricio Montero-Astúa
- Centro de Investigación en Biología Celular y Molecular, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica; Escuela de Agronomía, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica.
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Land-Use Type Drives Soil Population Structures of the Entomopathogenic Fungal Genus Metarhizium. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9071380. [PMID: 34202058 PMCID: PMC8303860 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9071380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Species of the fungal genus Metarhizium are globally distributed pathogens of arthropods, and a number of biological control products based on these fungi have been commercialized to control a variety of pest arthropods. In this study, we investigate the abundance and population structure of Metarhizium spp. in three land-use types—arable land, grassland, and forest—to provide detailed information on habitat selection and the factors that drive the occurrence and abundance of Metarhizium spp. in soil. At 10 sites of each land-use type, which are all part of the Swiss national soil-monitoring network (NABO), Metarhizium spp. were present at 8, 10, and 4 sites, respectively. On average, Metarhizium spp. were most abundant in grassland, followed by forest and then arable land; 349 Metarhizium isolates were collected from the 30 sites, and sequence analyses of the nuclear translation elongation factor 1α gene, as well as microsatellite-based genotyping, revealed the presence of 13 Metarhizium brunneum, 6 Metarhizium robertsii, and 3 Metarhizium guizhouense multilocus genotypes (MLGs). With 259 isolates, M. brunneum was the most abundant species, and significant differences were detected in population structures between forested and unforested sites. Among 15 environmental factors assessed, C:N ratio, basal respiration, total carbon, organic carbon, and bulk density significantly explained the variation among the M. brunneum populations. The information gained in this study will support the selection of best-adapted isolates as biological control agents and will provide additional criteria for the adaptation or development of new pest control strategies.
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Applications of Blocker Nucleic Acids and Non-Metazoan PCR Improves the Discovery of the Eukaryotic Microbiome in Ticks. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9051051. [PMID: 34068298 PMCID: PMC8153336 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9051051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks serve as important vectors of a variety of pathogens. Recently, the viral and prokaryotic microbiomes in ticks have been explored using next-generation sequencing to understand the physiology of ticks and their interactions with pathogens. However, analyses of eukaryotic communities in ticks are limited, owing to the lack of suitable methods. In this study, we developed new methods to selectively amplify microeukaryote genes in tick-derived DNA by blocking the amplification of the 18S rRNA gene of ticks using artificial nucleic acids: peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) and locked nucleic acids (LNAs). In addition, another PCR using non-metazoan primers, referred to as UNonMet-PCR, was performed for comparison. We performed each PCR using tick-derived DNA and sequenced the amplicons using the Illumina MiSeq platform. Almost all sequences obtained by conventional PCR were derived from ticks, whereas the proportion of microeukaryotic reads and alpha diversity increased upon using the newly developed method. Additionally, the PNA- or LNA-based methods were suitable for paneukaryotic analyses, whereas the UNonMet-PCR method was particularly sensitive to fungi. The newly described methods enable analyses of the eukaryotic microbiome in ticks. We expect the application of these methods to improve our understanding of the tick microbiome.
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Rivera-Jiménez H, Maldonado-Ramírez SL. Changes in the Endophytic Fungal Community Associated with Pilosocereus royenii (Cactaceae) Infested by the Invasive Hypogeococcus sp. (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae). CARIBB J SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.18475/cjos.v51i1.a7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Al Khoury C. Molecular insight into the endophytic growth of Beauveria bassiana within Phaseolus vulgaris in the presence or absence of Tetranychus urticae. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:2485-2496. [PMID: 33759051 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06283-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Entomopathogenic fungi are an important factor in the natural regulation of arthropod populations. Moreover, some can exist as an endophyte in many plant species and establish a mutualistic relationship. In this study, we have investigated the endophytic growth of Beauveria bassiana within different tissues of Phaseolus vulgaris in the presence and absence of Tetranuychus urticae. After the colonization of the B. bassiana within the internal tissues of P. vulgaris. The susceptibility of T. urticae appeared to depend on the life stage where high, moderate, and low mortalities were recorded among adults, nymphs, and eggs, respectively. In addition, this study provided, for the first time, molecular insight into the endophytic growth of B. bassiana by analyzing the expression of several genes involved in the development of the entomopathogenic fungi at 0-, 2-, and 7- days post-inoculation. B. bassiana displayed preferential tissue colonization within P. vulgaris that can be put into the following order based on the detection rate: leaf > stem > root. After analyzing the development-implicated genes (degrading enzymes, sugar transporter, hydrophobins, cell wall synthesis, secondary metabolites, stress management), the most remarkable finding is the detection of behavioral change between parasitic and endophytic Beauveria during post-penetration events. This study elucidates the tri-trophic interaction between fungus-plant-herbivore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charbel Al Khoury
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos Campus, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon.
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Couceiro JDC, Fatoretto MB, Demétrio CGB, Meyling NV, Delalibera Í. UV-B Radiation Tolerance and Temperature-Dependent Activity Within the Entomopathogenic Fungal Genus Metarhizium in Brazil. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2021; 2:645737. [PMID: 37744102 PMCID: PMC10512313 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2021.645737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Metarhizium comprises a phylogenetically diverse genus of entomopathogenic fungi. In Brazil, Metarhizium anisopliae s.str. subclade Mani 2 is predominantly isolated from insects, while M. robertsii and M. brunneum mostly occur in the soil environment. Solar radiation and high temperatures are important abiotic factors that can be detrimental to fungal propagules. We hypothesized that among 12 Brazilian isolates of Metarhizium spp., M. anisopliae Mani 2 (n = 6), being adapted to abiotic conditions of the phylloplane, is more tolerant to UV light and high temperatures than M. robertsii (n = 3) and M. brunneum (n = 3). Inoculum of each isolate was exposed to UV-B for up to 8 h and viability evaluated 48 h later. After 8 h under UV-B, most of the isolates had germination rates below 5%. Discs of mycelia were incubated at different temperatures, and diameter of colonies were recorded for 12 days. Mycelia of M. robertsii isolates grew faster at 33 °C, while M. anisopliae and M. brunneum grew most at 25 °C. Dry conidia were incubated at 20, 25 or 40 °C for 12 days, and then viabilities were examined. At 40 °C, conidia of five M. anisopliae isolates were the most tolerant. In the three experiments, considerable intra- and inter-specific variability was detected. The results indicate that conclusions about tolerance to these abiotic factors should be made only at the isolate level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel da Cruz Couceiro
- Laboratory of Pathology and Microbial Control of Insects, Department of Entomology and Acarology, “Luiz de Queiroz” College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo (ESALQ/USP), Piracicaba, Brazil
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maíra Blumer Fatoretto
- Department of Exact Sciences, “Luiz de Queiroz” College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo (ESALQ/USP), Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Clarice Garcia Borges Demétrio
- Department of Exact Sciences, “Luiz de Queiroz” College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo (ESALQ/USP), Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Nicolai Vitt Meyling
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ítalo Delalibera
- Laboratory of Pathology and Microbial Control of Insects, Department of Entomology and Acarology, “Luiz de Queiroz” College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo (ESALQ/USP), Piracicaba, Brazil
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Rasool S, Vidkjaer NH, Hooshmand K, Jensen B, Fomsgaard IS, Meyling NV. Seed inoculations with entomopathogenic fungi affect aphid populations coinciding with modulation of plant secondary metabolite profiles across plant families. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2021; 229:1715-1727. [PMID: 33006149 DOI: 10.1111/nph.16979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) can display a plant-associated lifestyle as endophytes. Seed application of EPF can affect insect herbivory above ground, but the mechanisms behind this are not documented. Here we applied three EPF isolates, Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium brunneum and M. robertsii, as seed inoculation of wheat and bean, and evaluated the effects on population growth of aphids, Rhopalosiphum padi and Aphis fabae, respectively. In wheat and bean leaves, we quantified benzoxazinoids and flavonoids, respectively, in response to EPF inoculation and aphid infestation to elucidate the role of specific plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) in plant-fungus-herbivore interactions. Inoculations of wheat and bean with M. robertsii and B. bassiana reduced aphid populations compared with control treatments, whereas M. brunneum unexpectedly increased the populations of both aphids. Concentrations of the majority of PSMs were differentially altered in EPF-treated plants infested with aphids. Changes in aphid numbers were associated with PSMs regulation rather than EPF endophytic colonisation capacity. This study links the effects of EPF seed inoculations against aphids with unique PSM accumulation patterns in planta. The understanding of PSM regulation in tri-trophic interactions is important for the future development of EPF for pest management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumaila Rasool
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldesensvej 40, Frederiksberg C, 1871, Denmark
| | - Nanna H Vidkjaer
- Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Forsøgsvej 1, Slagelse, 4200, Denmark
| | - Kourosh Hooshmand
- Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Forsøgsvej 1, Slagelse, 4200, Denmark
| | - Birgit Jensen
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldesensvej 40, Frederiksberg C, 1871, Denmark
| | - Inge S Fomsgaard
- Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Forsøgsvej 1, Slagelse, 4200, Denmark
| | - Nicolai V Meyling
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldesensvej 40, Frederiksberg C, 1871, Denmark
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Sharma L, Oliveira I, Gonçalves F, Raimundo F, Singh RK, Torres L, Marques G. Effect of Soil Chemical Properties on the Occurrence and Distribution of Entomopathogenic Fungi in Portuguese Grapevine Fields. Pathogens 2021; 10:137. [PMID: 33573165 PMCID: PMC7911582 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10020137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) contribute to different ecosystem services. However, factors affecting their natural occurrences in soil remain poorly understood. In a previous study, 81 soil samples were subjected to insect baiting using Galleria mellonella and Tenebrio molitor to isolate EPF from Portuguese vine farms. Here, soils yielding any of the four common EPF, i.e., Beauveria bassiana, Purpureocillium lilacinum, Metarhizium robertsii, and Clonostachys rosea f. rosea, were correlated with their chemical properties. Beauveria bassiana was negatively affected by higher available P (p = 0.02), exchangeable K-ions (p = 0.016) and positively affected by higher soil pH_H2O (p = 0.021). High exchangeable K-ions inhibited P. lilacinum (p = 0.011) and promoted C. rosea f. rosea (p = 0.03). Moreover, high available K also suppressed P. lilacinum (p = 0.027). Metarhizium robertsii was inhibited by higher organic matter content (p = 0.009), higher C:N (p = 0.017), total N (p = 0.007), and exchangeable Mg-ions (p = 0.026), and promoted by higher exchangeable Na-ions (p = 0.003). Nonetheless, mean comparisons and principal component analysis suggested that higher soil pH and exchangeable Ca-ions have contrasting effects on EPF occurrences, as they promote B. bassiana and inhibit M. robertsii. Herbicides did not seem to affect EPF presence. Overall, this study is among the first reports on the effects of soil chemistry on EPF other than Metarhizium, and will facilitate biological pest management approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lav Sharma
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (CITAB-UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (I.O.); (F.G.); (F.R.); (L.T.); (G.M.)
| | - Irene Oliveira
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (CITAB-UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (I.O.); (F.G.); (F.R.); (L.T.); (G.M.)
- Centre for Computational and Stochastic Mathematics, University of Lisbon (CEMAT-IST-UL), 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fátima Gonçalves
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (CITAB-UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (I.O.); (F.G.); (F.R.); (L.T.); (G.M.)
| | - Fernando Raimundo
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (CITAB-UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (I.O.); (F.G.); (F.R.); (L.T.); (G.M.)
| | - Rupesh Kumar Singh
- Centro de Química de Vila Real, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - Laura Torres
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (CITAB-UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (I.O.); (F.G.); (F.R.); (L.T.); (G.M.)
| | - Guilhermina Marques
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (CITAB-UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (I.O.); (F.G.); (F.R.); (L.T.); (G.M.)
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Reyes-Ramírez A, Rocha-Ortega M, Córdoba-Aguilar A. Dietary macronutrient balance and fungal infection as drivers of spermatophore quality in the mealworm beetle. CURRENT RESEARCH IN INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 1:100009. [PMID: 36003606 PMCID: PMC9387488 DOI: 10.1016/j.cris.2021.100009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Males of many insects deliver ejaculates with nutritious substances to females in the form of a spermatophore. Different factors can affect spermatophore quality. We manipulated males' diet and health to determine the balance of macronutrients deposited in the spermatophores of Tenebrio molitor beetles. For diet, we varied the concentration of proteins and carbohydrates, while for health status we used a fungal infection. Males with different condition copulated with unmanipulated females, and spermatophores were extracted to measure the amount of proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. Diet and infection had an effect on the quality of the spermatophore. Diets with high protein and low carbohydrate contents produced spermatophores with higher protein, carbohydrate, and lipid contents. In contrast, diets with little protein and high in carbohydrates led to low quality spermatophores. Infected males produced spermatophores with the highest amount of all three macronutrients. In general, spermatophore content was carbohydrates>proteins>=lipids. The fact that sick males produced richer spermatophores can be explained as a terminal investment strategy. The large investment of carbohydrates may be related to the preparation of spermatozoa in males, and eggs in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Reyes-Ramírez
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apdo. P. 70-275, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Maya Rocha-Ortega
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apdo. P. 70-275, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Alex Córdoba-Aguilar
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apdo. P. 70-275, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, México
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Endophytic fungi protect tomato and nightshade plants against Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) through a hidden friendship and cryptic battle. Sci Rep 2020; 10:22195. [PMID: 33335143 PMCID: PMC7746743 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78898-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endophytic fungi live within plant tissues without causing any harm to the host, promote its growth, and induce systemic resistance against pests and diseases. To mitigate the challenging concealed feeding behavior of immature stages of Tuta absoluta in both tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and nightshade (Solanum scabrum) host plants, 15 fungal isolates were assessed for their endophytic and insecticidal properties. Twelve isolates were endophytic to both host plants with varied colonization rates. Host plants endophytically-colonized by Trichoderma asperellum M2RT4, Beauveria bassiana ICIPE 706 and Hypocrea lixii F3ST1 outperformed all the other isolates in reducing significantly the number of eggs laid, mines developed, pupae formed and adults emerged. Furthermore, the survival of exposed adults and F1 progeny was significantly reduced by Trichoderma sp. F2L41 and B. bassiana isolates ICIPE 35(4) and ICIPE 35(15) compared to other isolates. The results indicate that T. asperellum M2RT4, B. bassiana ICIPE 706 and H. lixii F3ST1 have high potential to be developed as endophytic-fungal-based biopesticide for the management of T. absoluta.
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St. Leger RJ, Wang JB. Metarhizium: jack of all trades, master of many. Open Biol 2020; 10:200307. [PMID: 33292103 PMCID: PMC7776561 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The genus Metarhizium and Pochonia chlamydosporia comprise a monophyletic clade of highly abundant globally distributed fungi that can transition between long-term beneficial associations with plants to transitory pathogenic associations with frequently encountered protozoans, nematodes or insects. Some very common 'specialist generalist' species are adapted to particular soil and plant ecologies, but can overpower a wide spectrum of insects with numerous enzymes and toxins that result from extensive gene duplications made possible by loss of meiosis and associated genome defence mechanisms. These species use parasexuality instead of sex to combine beneficial mutations from separate clonal individuals into one genome (Vicar of Bray dynamics). More weakly endophytic species which kill a narrow range of insects retain sexuality to facilitate host-pathogen coevolution (Red Queen dynamics). Metarhizium species can fit into numerous environments because they are very flexible at the genetic, physiological and ecological levels, providing tractable models to address how new mechanisms for econutritional heterogeneity, host switching and virulence are acquired and relate to diverse sexual life histories and speciation. Many new molecules and functions have been discovered that underpin Metarhizium associations, and have furthered our understanding of the crucial ecology of these fungi in multiple habitats.
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Cachapa JC, Meyling NV, Burow M, Hauser TP. Induction and Priming of Plant Defense by Root-Associated Insect-Pathogenic Fungi. J Chem Ecol 2020; 47:112-122. [PMID: 33180275 DOI: 10.1007/s10886-020-01234-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Plants evolved in close contact with a myriad of microorganisms, some of which formed associations with their roots, benefitting from carbohydrates and other plant resources. In exchange, they evolved to influence important plant functions, e.g. defense against insect herbivores and other antagonists. Here, we test whether a fungus, Metarhizium brunneum, which is mostly known as an insect pathogen, can also associate with plant roots and contribute to above-ground plant defense. Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) seeds were sown together with M. brunneum-inoculated rice grains, and the resulting plants subjected to leaf herbivory by the specialist Plutella xylostella. Activity of myrosinases, the enzymes activating glucosinolates, was measured before and after herbivory; larval consumption and plant weight at the end of experiments. Metarhizium brunneum clearly established in the plant roots, and after herbivory myrosinase activity was substantially higher in M. brunneum-treated plants than in controls; before herbivory, M. brunneum-treated and control plants did not differ. Leaf consumption was slightly lower in the M. brunneum-treated plants whereas total biomass and allocation to above- or below-ground parts was not affected by the Metarhizium treatment. Thus, M. brunneum associates with roots and primes the plant for a stronger or faster increase in myrosinase activity upon herbivory. Consistent with this, myrosinase function has been suggested to be rate-limiting for induction of the glucosinolate-myrosinase defense system. Our results show that M. brunneum, in addition to being an insect pathogen, can associate with plant roots and prime plant defense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Carvalho Cachapa
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Nicolai Vitt Meyling
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark.,Biotechnology and Plant Health Division, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), P.O. Box 115, NO-1431, Ås, Norway
| | - Meike Burow
- DynaMo Center, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Thure Pavlo Hauser
- Section for Organismal Biology, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
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Reyes-Ramírez A, Sandoval-García IA, Rocha-Ortega M, Córdoba-Aguilar A. Mutual mate choice and its benefits for both sexes. Sci Rep 2020; 10:19492. [PMID: 33173125 PMCID: PMC7656247 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76615-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In mating interactions, it is common in nature for both sexes to choose simultaneously. However, this mutual mate choice and its consequences for progeny has received relatively little study; an approach where both male and female condition is manipulated is thus desirable. We compared both sexes' preferences in Tenebrio molitor beetles when individual condition varied (healthy vs infected with a fungus), and observed the direct benefits of those preferences. We predicted that: (a) females and males in good condition would prefer high quality mates; (b) preferences would be weaker when the choosing individual is in poor condition (and thus less selective given, for example, time and energetic constrains); and, (c) high quality mates would lay a larger number of total eggs and/or viable eggs than low quality mates. We found that both males and females in good condition were not more likely to choose mates that were also in good condition. However, poor-condition animals were more likely to prefer similar quality animals, while high-condition animals did not necessarily prefer mates of similar condition. Choosing sick males or females had a negative impact on egg number and viability. Our results suggest a non-adaptive mate choice in this species. Possibly, a deteriorated condition may drive individuals to invest more in attracting mates, because their chances of surviving the infection are very low. However, we do not discount the possibility that the fungus is manipulating individuals to increase its transmission during mating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Reyes-Ramírez
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apdo. P. 70-275, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Coyoacán, Distrito Federal, Mexico
| | - Iván Antonio Sandoval-García
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apdo. P. 70-275, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Coyoacán, Distrito Federal, Mexico
| | - Maya Rocha-Ortega
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apdo. P. 70-275, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Coyoacán, Distrito Federal, Mexico
| | - Alex Córdoba-Aguilar
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apdo. P. 70-275, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Coyoacán, Distrito Federal, Mexico.
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The multifunctional lifestyles of Metarhizium: evolution and applications. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 104:9935-9945. [PMID: 33085023 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-020-10968-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The genus Metarhizium is comprised of a diverse group of common soil fungi that exhibit multifunctional lifestyles with varying degrees of saprotrophic, endophytic, and insect pathogenic modes of nutrient acquisition. The transcriptome of these species is modulated to reflect immediate needs of the fungus and availability of resources-a form of transcriptional plasticity that allows for physiological adaptation to environments with diverse and dynamic exploitable nutrient sources. In this review, we discuss the endophytic, insect pathogenic lifestyles of Metarhizium spp., including their symbiotic interface, origins, and evolution, and agricultural applications. Isotope labeling experiments have demonstrated that a mutually beneficial exchange of limiting nutrients occurs between the fungus and its host plant, with nitrogen derived via insect pathogenesis being translocated from Metarhizium to host plants in exchange for fixed carbon in the form of photosynthate. Thus, the endophytic and entomopathogenic abilities of Metarhizium spp. are not exclusive of one another, but rather are interdependent and reciprocal in nature. Although endophytic, insect pathogenic fungi (EIPF) could certainly have evolved from insect pathogenic fungi, phylogenomic evidence indicates that this genus is more closely related to plant-associated fungi than animal pathogens, suggesting that Metarhizium evolved from a lineage of plant symbionts, which subsequently acquired genes for insect pathogenesis. Entomopathogenicity may have been an adaptive trait, allowing for procurement of insect-derived nitrogen that could be translocated to host plants and bartered for fixed carbon, thereby improving the stability of fungal-plant symbioses. Given their ability to simultaneously parasitize soil insects, including a number of pests of agriculturally important crops, as well as promote plant health, growth, and productivity, Metarhizium spp. are considered promising alternatives to the chemical pesticides and fertilizers that have wreaked havoc on the health and integrity of ecosystems. KEY POINTS: • Metarhizium is a fungus that is an insect pathogen as well as a plant symbiont. • The genus Metarhizium has specialist and generalist insect pathogens. • Metarhizium is phylogenetically most closely related to plant endophytes.
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Wang Z, Li M, Ju W, Ye W, Xue L, Boufford DE, Gao X, Yue B, Liu Y, Pierce NE. The entomophagous caterpillar fungus Ophiocordyceps sinensis is consumed by its lepidopteran host as a plant endophyte. FUNGAL ECOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.funeco.2020.100989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Vertyporokh L, Hułas‐Stasiak M, Wojda I. Host-pathogen interaction after infection of Galleria mellonella with the filamentous fungus Beauveria bassiana. INSECT SCIENCE 2020; 27:1079-1089. [PMID: 31245909 PMCID: PMC7497211 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The filamentous fungus Beauveria bassiana is a natural pathogen of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella. Infection with this fungus triggered systemic immune response in G. mellonella; nevertheless, the infection was lethal if spores entered the insect hemocel. We observed melanin deposition in the insect cuticle and walls of air bags, while the invading fungus interrupted tissue continuity. We have shown colonization of muscles, air bags, and finally colonization and complete destruction of the fat body-the main organ responsible for the synthesis of defense molecules in response to infection. This destruction was probably not caused by simple fungal growth, because the fat body was not destroyed during colonization with a human opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans. This may mean that the infecting fungus is able to destroy actively the insect's fat body as part of its virulence mechanism. Finally, we were unable to reduce the extremely high virulence of B. bassiana against G. mellonella by priming of larvae with thermally inactivated fungal spores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidiia Vertyporokh
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biology and BiochemistryMaria Curie‐Sklodowska UniversityAkademicka 19LublinPoland
| | - Monika Hułas‐Stasiak
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Comparative Anatomy and Anthropology, Institute of Biology and BiochemistryMaria Curie‐Sklodowska UniversityAkademicka 19LublinPoland
| | - Iwona Wojda
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biology and BiochemistryMaria Curie‐Sklodowska UniversityAkademicka 19LublinPoland
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Putnoky-Csicsó B, Tonk S, Szabó A, Márton Z, Tóthné Bogdányi F, Tóth F, Abod É, Bálint J, Balog A. Effectiveness of the Entomopathogenic Fungal Species Metarhizium anisopliae Strain NCAIM 362 Treatments against Soil Inhabiting Melolontha melolontha Larvae in Sweet Potato ( Ipomoea batatas L.). J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:E116. [PMID: 32707976 PMCID: PMC7560189 DOI: 10.3390/jof6030116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The effect of fungal entomopathogen M. anisopliae strain NCAIM 362 against M. melolontha larvae in sweet potato was tested under open field conditions when crop management included compost supply and soil cover (agro-foil or agro-textile). Additionally, the effect of M. anisopliae same strain against M. melolontha was compared with the effect of α-cypermethrin under greenhouse conditions. Soil microbial community using Illumina sequencing and soil biological activity were tested as possible parameter influencing M. anisopliae effect. According to the results, compost supply and textile cover may enhance the effectiveness of M. anisopliae under open field conditions, while no effect of fungal treatment was detected under greenhouse conditions. Even if soil parameters (chemical composition, bacterial, and biological activity) were identical, the effect of α-cypermethrin against M. melolontha larvae was significant: lower ratio of larval survival and less damaged tubers were detected after the chemical treatment. Our results suggest that M. anisopliae strain NCAIM 362 is not effective to control M. melolontha larvae, further pieces of research are needed to test other species of the Metarhizium genus to find an effective agent for sustainable pest control in sweet potato.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barna Putnoky-Csicsó
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Technical and Human Sciences, Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania, 400112 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (B.P.-C.); (É.A.)
- Department of Integrated Plant Protection, Plant Protection Institute, Faculty of Horticultural Science, Szent István University, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary;
| | - Szende Tonk
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Art and Sciences, Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania, 400193 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Attila Szabó
- Department of Microbiology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (A.S.); (Z.M.)
| | - Zsuzsanna Márton
- Department of Microbiology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (A.S.); (Z.M.)
| | | | - Ferenc Tóth
- Department of Integrated Plant Protection, Plant Protection Institute, Faculty of Horticultural Science, Szent István University, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary;
| | - Éva Abod
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Technical and Human Sciences, Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania, 400112 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (B.P.-C.); (É.A.)
| | - János Bálint
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Technical and Human Sciences, Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania, 400112 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (B.P.-C.); (É.A.)
| | - Adalbert Balog
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Technical and Human Sciences, Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania, 400112 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (B.P.-C.); (É.A.)
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Bhattarai K, Bastola R, Baral B. Antibiotic drug discovery: Challenges and perspectives in the light of emerging antibiotic resistance. ADVANCES IN GENETICS 2020; 105:229-292. [PMID: 32560788 DOI: 10.1016/bs.adgen.2019.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Amid a rising threat of antimicrobial resistance in a global scenario, our huge investments and high-throughput technologies injected for rejuvenating the key therapeutic scaffolds to suppress these rising superbugs has been diminishing severely. This has grasped world-wide attention, with increased consideration being given to the discovery of new chemical entities. Research has now proven that the relatively tiny and simpler microbes possess enhanced capability of generating novel and diverse chemical constituents with huge therapeutic leads. The usage of these beneficial organisms could help in producing new chemical scaffolds that govern the power to suppress the spread of obnoxious superbugs. Here in this review, we have explicitly focused on several appealing strategies employed for the generation of new chemical scaffolds. Also, efforts on providing novel insights on some of the unresolved questions in the production of metabolites, metabolic profiling and also the serendipity of getting "hit molecules" have been rigorously discussed. However, we are highly aware that biosynthetic pathway of different classes of secondary metabolites and their biosynthetic route is a vast topic, thus we have avoided discussion on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keshab Bhattarai
- University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Center for Natural and Applied Sciences (CENAS), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Rina Bastola
- Spinal Cord Injury Association-Nepal (SCIAN), Pokhara, Nepal
| | - Bikash Baral
- Spinal Cord Injury Association-Nepal (SCIAN), Pokhara, Nepal.
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