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Yang G, Bi F, Yu D, Wang Y, Ren H, Wei H, Wang Z, Huang B. Engineering Entomopathogenic Fungi Using Thermal-Responsive Polymer to Boost Their Resilience against Abiotic Stresses. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:20308-20320. [PMID: 39225683 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c04400] [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: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Entomopathogenic fungi offer an ecologically sustainable and highly effective alternative to chemical pesticides for managing plant pests. However, the efficacy of mycoinsecticides in pest control suffers from environmental abiotic stresses, such as solar UV radiation and temperature fluctuations, which seriously hinder their practical application in the field. Herein, we discovered that the synthetic amphiphilic thermal-responsive polymers are able to significantly enhance the resistance of Metarhizium robertsii conidia against thermal and UV irradiation stresses. The thermosensitive polymers with extremely low cytotoxicity and good biocompatibility can be engineered onto the M. robertsii conidia surface by anchoring hydrophobic alkyl chains. Further investigations revealed that polymer supplementation remarkably augmented the capacity for penetration and the virulence of M. robertsii under heat and UV stresses. Notably, broad-spectrum entomopathogenic fungi can be protected by the polymers. The molecular mechanism was elucidated through exploring RNA sequencing and in vivo/vitro enzyme activity assays. This work provides a novel avenue for fortifying the resilience of entomopathogenic fungi, potentially advancing their practical application as biopesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Yang
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, School of Material and Chemistry, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Pest Control, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Prevention and Control Technology of Pine Wilt Disease, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Feihu Bi
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, School of Material and Chemistry, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Deshui Yu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Pest Control, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Yulong Wang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Pest Control, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Hui Ren
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, School of Material and Chemistry, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Hanchen Wei
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, School of Material and Chemistry, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Zhangxun Wang
- Department of Plant Pathology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Bo Huang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Pest Control, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
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Vandermeulen MD, Lorenz MC, Cullen PJ. Conserved signaling modules regulate filamentous growth in fungi: a model for eukaryotic cell differentiation. Genetics 2024:iyae122. [PMID: 39239926 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyae122] [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: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic organisms are composed of different cell types with defined shapes and functions. Specific cell types are produced by the process of cell differentiation, which is regulated by signal transduction pathways. Signaling pathways regulate cell differentiation by sensing cues and controlling the expression of target genes whose products generate cell types with specific attributes. In studying how cells differentiate, fungi have proved valuable models because of their ease of genetic manipulation and striking cell morphologies. Many fungal species undergo filamentous growth-a specialized growth pattern where cells produce elongated tube-like projections. Filamentous growth promotes expansion into new environments, including invasion into plant and animal hosts by fungal pathogens. The same signaling pathways that regulate filamentous growth in fungi also control cell differentiation throughout eukaryotes and include highly conserved mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, which is the focus of this review. In many fungal species, mucin-type sensors regulate MAPK pathways to control filamentous growth in response to diverse stimuli. Once activated, MAPK pathways reorganize cell polarity, induce changes in cell adhesion, and promote the secretion of degradative enzymes that mediate access to new environments. However, MAPK pathway regulation is complicated because related pathways can share components with each other yet induce unique responses (i.e. signal specificity). In addition, MAPK pathways function in highly integrated networks with other regulatory pathways (i.e. signal integration). Here, we discuss signal specificity and integration in several yeast models (mainly Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans) by focusing on the filamentation MAPK pathway. Because of the strong evolutionary ties between species, a deeper understanding of the regulation of filamentous growth in established models and increasingly diverse fungal species can reveal fundamentally new mechanisms underlying eukaryotic cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael C Lorenz
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Paul J Cullen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260-1300, USA
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Zhang X, Li K, Wang P, Ma M, Tang T, Fu W, Wu H, Sun Y, Liu S, Liu D, Tan X. Harnessing Lecanicillium attenuatum: A novel strategy for combatting Nilaparvata lugens in rice fields. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 204:106078. [PMID: 39277391 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.106078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
Nilaparvata lugens is a notorious rice pest causing significant annual yield and economic losses. The use of entomopathogenic fungi offers a promising and eco-friendly approach to sustainable pest management programs. However, research in this area is currently limited to a few specific types of insects and other arthropods. This study aimed to analyze the biocontrol potential of Lecanicillium attenuatum against N. lugens. Bioassays showed that L. attenuatum 3166 induced >80% mortality in N. lugens following 7 d exposure. Greenhouse and field investigations demonstrated that L. attenuatum 3166 application leads to a substantial reduction in N. lugens populations. Under greenhouse conditions, fluorescence was detected in GFP-labeled L. attenuatum 3166 hyphae enveloping the bodies of N. lugens. In field trials, L. attenuatum 3166 treatment exhibited a control efficacy of up to 68.94% at 14 d post-application, which was comparable to that of the commercial entomopathogenic fungal agent. Genomic sequencing of L. attenuatum 3166 revealed a comprehensive array of genes implicated in its infestation and lethality. Further, the transcriptome sequencing analysis highlighted the elevated expression levels of genes encoding proteases, chitinases, cutinases, and phospholipases. Our findings highlight the potential of L. attenuatum 3166 as an effective biological control agent against N. lugens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Hunan Plant Protection Institute, Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410125, China; Longping Branch, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410125, China; Yuelushan Laboratory, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Kui Li
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Pei Wang
- Hunan Plant Protection Institute, Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Mingyong Ma
- Hunan Plant Protection Institute, Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Tao Tang
- Hunan Plant Protection Institute, Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Wei Fu
- Hunan Plant Protection Institute, Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Hongtao Wu
- Jiangsu Tsingda Smart Biotech Co., Ltd, Suzhou 215400, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Jiangsu Tsingda Smart Biotech Co., Ltd, Suzhou 215400, China
| | - Sizhen Liu
- Hunan Plant Protection Institute, Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Dehua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Xinqiu Tan
- Hunan Plant Protection Institute, Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410125, China; Longping Branch, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410125, China; Yuelushan Laboratory, Changsha 410125, China.
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Kortsinoglou AM, Wood MJ, Myridakis AI, Andrikopoulos M, Roussis A, Eastwood D, Butt T, Kouvelis VN. Comparative genomics of Metarhizium brunneum strains V275 and ARSEF 4556: unraveling intraspecies diversity. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2024:jkae190. [PMID: 39210673 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkae190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Entomopathogenic fungi belonging to the Order Hypocreales are renowned for their ability to infect and kill insect hosts, while their endophytic mode of life and the beneficial rhizosphere effects on plant hosts have only been recently recognized. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying their different lifestyles could optimize their potential as both biocontrol and biofertilizer agents, as well as the wider appreciation of niche plasticity in fungal ecology. This study describes the comprehensive whole genome sequencing and analysis of one of the most effective entomopathogenic and endophytic EPF strains, Metarhizium brunneum V275 (commercially known as Lalguard Met52), achieved through Nanopore and Illumina reads. Comparative genomics for exploring intraspecies variability and analyses of key gene sets were conducted with a second effective EPF strain, M. brunneum ARSEF 4556. The search for strain- or species-specific genes was extended to M. brunneum strain ARSEF 3297 and other species of genus Metarhizium, to identify molecular mechanisms and putative key genome adaptations associated with mode of life differences. Genome size differed significantly, with M. brunneum V275 having the largest genome amongst M. brunneum strains sequenced to date. Genome analyses revealed an abundance of plant-degrading enzymes, plant colonization-associated genes, and intriguing intraspecies variations regarding their predicted secondary metabolic compounds and the number and localization of Transposable Elements. The potential significance of the differences found between closely related endophytic and entomopathogenic fungi, regarding plant growth-promoting and entomopathogenic abilities, are discussed, enhancing our understanding of their diverse functionalities and putative applications in agriculture and ecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M Kortsinoglou
- Section of Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Martyn J Wood
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Singleton Park, SA2 8PP, Swansea, UK
| | - Antonis I Myridakis
- Section of Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Marios Andrikopoulos
- Section of Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Roussis
- Section of Botany, Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15784 Athens, Greece
| | - Dan Eastwood
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Singleton Park, SA2 8PP, Swansea, UK
| | - Tariq Butt
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Singleton Park, SA2 8PP, Swansea, UK
| | - Vassili N Kouvelis
- Section of Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
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5
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Hong S, Gao H, Chen H, Wang C. Engineered fungus containing a caterpillar gene kills insects rapidly by disrupting their ecto- and endo-microbiomes. Commun Biol 2024; 7:955. [PMID: 39112633 PMCID: PMC11306560 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06670-z] [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: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Similar to the physiological importance of gut microbiomes, recent works have shown that insect ectomicrobiotas can mediate defensive colonization resistance against fungal parasites that infect via cuticle penetration. Here we show that engineering the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium robertsii with a potent antibacterial moricin gene from silkworms substantially enhances the ability of the fungus to kill mosquitos, locusts, and two Drosophila species. Further use of Drosophila melanogaster as an infection model, quantitative microbiome analysis reveals that engineered strains designed to suppress insect cuticular bacteria additionally disrupt gut microbiomes. An overgrowth of harmful bacteria such as the opportunistic pathogens of Providencia species is detected that can accelerate insect death. In support, quantitative analysis of antimicrobial genes in fly fat bodies and guts indicates that topical fungal infections result in the compromise of intestinal immune responses. In addition to providing an innovative strategy for improving the potency of mycoinsecticides, our data solidify the importance of both the ecto- and endo-microbiomes in maintaining insect wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Hong
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hanchun Gao
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haimin Chen
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengshu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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Deng J, Huang S, Kan Y, Song Y, Zhao X, Li N, Yao X, Luo Z, Zhang Y. A transcription factor-mediated regulatory network controls fungal pathogen colonization of insect body cavities. mBio 2024; 15:e0350423. [PMID: 38747587 PMCID: PMC11237471 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03504-23] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Successful host tissue colonization is crucial for fungal pathogens to cause mycosis and complete the infection cycle, in which fungal cells undergo a series of morphological transition-included cellular events to combat with hosts. However, many transcription factors (TFs) and their mediated networks regulating fungal pathogen colonization of host tissue are not well characterized. Here, a TF (BbHCR1)-mediated regulatory network was identified in an insect pathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana, that controlled insect hemocoel colonization. BbHCR1 was highly expressed in fungal cells after reaching insect hemocoel and controlled the yeast (in vivo blastospores)-to-hyphal morphological switch, evasion of immune defense response, and fungal virulence. Comparative analysis of RNA sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing identified a core set of BbHCR1 target genes during hemocoel colonization, in which abaA and brlA were targeted to limit the rapid switch from blastospores to hyphae and fungal virulence. Two targets encoding hypothetical proteins, HP1 and HP2, were activated and repressed by BbHCR1, respectively, which acted as a virulence factor and repressor, respectively, suggesting that BbHCR1 activated virulence factors but repressed virulence repressors during the colonization of insect hemocoel. BbHCR1 tuned the expression of two dominant hemocoel colonization-involved metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters, which linked its regulatory role in evasion of immune response. Those functions of BbHCR1 were found to be collaboratively regulated by Fus3- and Hog1-MAP kinases via phosphorylation. These findings have drawn a regulatory network in which Fus3- and Hog1-MAP kinases phosphorylate BbHCR1, which in turn controls the colonization of insect body cavities by regulating fungal morphological transition and virulence-implicated genes.IMPORTANCEFungal pathogens adopt a series of tactics for successful colonization in host tissues, which include morphological transition and the generation of toxic and immunosuppressive molecules. However, many transcription factors (TFs) and their linked pathways that regulate tissue colonization are not well characterized. Here, we identified a TF (BbHCR1)-mediated regulatory network that controls the insect fungal pathogen, Beauveria bassiana, colonization of insect hemocoel. During these processes, BbHCR1 targeted the fungal central development pathway for the control of yeast (blastospores)-to-hyphae morphological transition, activated virulence factors, repressed virulence repressors, and tuned the expression of two dominant hemocoel colonization-involved immunosuppressive and immunostimulatory metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters. The BbHCR1 regulatory function was governed by Fus3- and Hog1-MAP kinases. These findings led to a new regulatory network composed of Fus3- and Hog1-MAP kinases and BbHCR1 that control insect body cavity colonization by regulating fungal morphological transition and virulence-implicated genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Deng
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Beibei Culture Collection of Chongqing Agricultural Microbiology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shuaishuai Huang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Beibei Culture Collection of Chongqing Agricultural Microbiology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Eco-Environmental Protection of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, School of Ecology and Environment, Tibet University, Tibet, China
| | - Yanze Kan
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Beibei Culture Collection of Chongqing Agricultural Microbiology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Song
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Beibei Culture Collection of Chongqing Agricultural Microbiology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Beibei Culture Collection of Chongqing Agricultural Microbiology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ning Li
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Beibei Culture Collection of Chongqing Agricultural Microbiology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuewen Yao
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Beibei Culture Collection of Chongqing Agricultural Microbiology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhibing Luo
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Beibei Culture Collection of Chongqing Agricultural Microbiology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Beibei Culture Collection of Chongqing Agricultural Microbiology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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Zhang BX, Liu FF, Liu F, Qi WX, Si YQ, Ren HY, Zhang CQ, Rao XJ. The fungal protease BbAorsin contributes to growth, conidiation, germination, virulence, and antiphytopathogenic activities in Beauveria bassiana (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae). PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 202:105936. [PMID: 38879328 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is one of the most destructive agricultural pests. The entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae) is a biopesticide widely used for biocontrol of various pests. Secreted fungal proteases are critical for insect cuticle destruction and successful infection. We have previously shown that the serine protease BbAorsin in B. bassiana has entomopathogenic and antiphytopathogenic activities. However, the contribution of BbAorsin to fungal growth, conidiation, germination, virulence and antiphytopathogenic activities remains unclear. In this study, the deletion (ΔBbAorsin), complementation (Comp), and overexpression (BbAorsinOE) strains of B. bassiana were generated for comparative studies. The results showed that ΔBbAorsin exhibited slower growth, reduced conidiation, lower germination rate, and longer germination time compared to WT and Comp. In contrast, BbAorsinOE showed higher growth rate, increased conidiation, higher germination rate and shorter germination time. Injection of BbAorsinOE showed the highest virulence against S. frugiperda larvae, while injection of ΔBbAorsin showed the lowest virulence. Feeding BbAorsinOE resulted in lower pupation and adult eclosion rates and malformed adults. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed no changes in the gut microbiota after feeding either WT or BbAorsinOE. However, BbAorsinOE caused a disrupted midgut, leakage of gut microbiota into the hemolymph, and upregulation of apoptosis and immunity-related genes. BbAorsin can disrupt the cell wall of the phytopathogen Fusarium graminearum and alleviate symptoms in wheat seedlings and cherry tomatoes infected with F. graminearum. These results highlight the importance of BbAorsin for B. bassiana and its potential as a multifunctional biopesticide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bang-Xian Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; Key Laboratory of Agri-products Quality and Biosafety (Anhui Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China; Department of Scientific Research, Chuzhou University, Chuzhou 239000, China
| | - Fang-Fang Liu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; Key Laboratory of Agri-products Quality and Biosafety (Anhui Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; Key Laboratory of Agri-products Quality and Biosafety (Anhui Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Wen-Xuan Qi
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; Key Laboratory of Agri-products Quality and Biosafety (Anhui Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Yan-Qin Si
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; Key Laboratory of Agri-products Quality and Biosafety (Anhui Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Hai-Yan Ren
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; Key Laboratory of Agri-products Quality and Biosafety (Anhui Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Cheng-Qi Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; Key Laboratory of Agri-products Quality and Biosafety (Anhui Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Xiang-Jun Rao
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops, School of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; Key Laboratory of Agri-products Quality and Biosafety (Anhui Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China.
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8
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Shahbaz M, Palaniveloo K, Tan YS, Palasuberniam P, Ilyas N, Wiart C, Seelan JSS. Entomopathogenic fungi in crops protection with an emphasis on bioactive metabolites and biological activities. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:217. [PMID: 38806748 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-04022-x] [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: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Plant pathogens with their abundance are harmful and cause huge damage to different agricultural crops and economy of a country as well as lead towards the shortage of food for humans. For their management, the utilization of entomopathogenic fungi is an eco-friendly technique, sustainable to the environment, safe for humans and has promising effect over chemical-based pesticides. This process requires a biochemical mechanism, including the production of enzymes, toxins, and other metabolites that facilitate host infection and invasion. Essential enzymes such as chitinase, proteinase, and lipase play a direct role in breaking down the host cuticle, the primary barrier to EPF (Entomopathogenic Fungi) infection. Additionally, secondary metabolites such as destruxins in Metarhizium, beauvericin in Beauveria, hirsutellides in Hirsutella, isarolides in Isaria, cordyols in Cordyceps, and vertihemipterins in Verticillium, among others, act both directly and indirectly to disable the defense mechanisms of insect hosts, thereby accelerating the EPF infection process. The chemical composition of these secondary metabolites varies, ranging from simple non-peptide pigments such as oosporine to highly complex piperazine derivatives such as vertihemiptellides. The biocontrol efficacy of EPF is extensively studied, with numerous fungal strains commercially available on a large scale for managing arthropod pests. This review emphasizes the role of proteins and enzymes against crop pathogens, detailing their mode of action, and describing the metabolites from entomopathogenic fungi and their biological activities. In doing so, these findings contribute to establishing a symbiotic equilibrium between agricultural productivity and environmental conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Shahbaz
- Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
| | - Kishneth Palaniveloo
- Institute of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Advanced Studies Complex, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Mushroom Research Centre, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yee Shin Tan
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Mushroom Research Centre, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Praneetha Palasuberniam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400, Kota kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Noshin Ilyas
- Department of Botany, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi, 46300, Pakistan
| | - Christophe Wiart
- Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Jaya Seelan Sathiya Seelan
- Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
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Zhu J, Fu Y, Zhang L, Yang T, Zhou X. Transcriptomic Profiling of Bean Aphid Megoura crassicauda upon Exposure to the Aphid-Obligate Entomopathogen Conidiobolus obscurus (Entomophthoromycotina) and Screening of CytCo-Binding Aphid Proteins through a Pull-Down Assay. INSECTS 2024; 15:388. [PMID: 38921103 PMCID: PMC11203964 DOI: 10.3390/insects15060388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Prolonged periods of host-lethal infection by entomopathogenic fungi pose challenges to the development of biological control agents. The obligate entomopathogen C. obscurus, however, rapidly kills aphid hosts, warranting investigation. This study investigated the interaction between C. obscurus and a bean aphid Megoura crassicauda during the incubation period of infection, using transcriptome analysis to map host gene expression profiles. Results indicate C. obscurus-inoculated aphid activation of the wound healing immune responses, alongside suppression of the key molecules involved in Toll signaling, melanization, and metabolism. Furthermore, neuromotor system-related genes were upregulated, paralleling the intoxication observed in a nematode pest treated with C. obscurus-derived CytCo protein. To deepen interaction insights, a His-tag pull-down assay coupled with mass spectrometry analysis was conducted using CytCo as a bait to screen for potential aphid protein interactors. The proteins were identified based on the assembled transcriptome, and eleven transmembrane proteins were predicted to bind to CytCo. Notably, a protein of putatively calcium-transporting ATPase stood out with the highest confidence. This suggests that CytCo plays a vital role in C. obscurus killing aphid hosts, implicating calcium imbalance. In conclusion, C. obscurus effectively inhibits aphid immunity and exhibits neurotoxic potential, expediting the infection process. This finding facilitates our understanding of the complex host-pathogen interactions and opens new avenues for exploring biological pest management strategies in agroforestry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqin Zhu
- Jixian Honors College, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China;
| | - Yaqi Fu
- National Joint Local Engineering Laboratory of Biopesticide High-Efficient Preparation, College of Forestry & Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China; (Y.F.); (L.Z.); (T.Y.)
| | - Lvhao Zhang
- National Joint Local Engineering Laboratory of Biopesticide High-Efficient Preparation, College of Forestry & Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China; (Y.F.); (L.Z.); (T.Y.)
| | - Tian Yang
- National Joint Local Engineering Laboratory of Biopesticide High-Efficient Preparation, College of Forestry & Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China; (Y.F.); (L.Z.); (T.Y.)
| | - Xiang Zhou
- National Joint Local Engineering Laboratory of Biopesticide High-Efficient Preparation, College of Forestry & Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China; (Y.F.); (L.Z.); (T.Y.)
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Zhao P, Hong S, Li Y, Chen H, Gao H, Wang C. From phyllosphere to insect cuticles: silkworms gather antifungal bacteria from mulberry leaves to battle fungal parasite attacks. MICROBIOME 2024; 12:40. [PMID: 38409012 PMCID: PMC10895815 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-024-01764-6] [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: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial transfers from plants to insect herbivore guts have been well investigated. However, bacterial exchanges between plant phyllospheres and insect cuticles remain unclear, as does their related biological function. RESULTS Here, we report that the cuticular bacterial loads of silkworm larvae quickly increased after molting and feeding on the white mulberry (Morus alba) leaves. The isolation and examination of silkworm cuticular bacteria identified one bacterium Mammaliicoccus sciuri that could completely inhibit the spore germination of fungal entomopathogens Metarhizium robertsii and Beauveria bassiana. Interestingly, Ma. sciuri was evident originally from mulberry leaves, which could produce a secreted chitinolytic lysozyme (termed Msp1) to damage fungal cell walls. In consistency, the deletion of Msp1 substantially impaired bacterial antifungal activity. Pretreating silkworm larvae with Ma. sciuri cells followed by fungal topical infections revealed that this bacterium could help defend silkworms against fungal infections. Unsurprisingly, the protective efficacy of ΔMsp1 was considerably reduced when compared with that of wild-type bacterium. Administration of bacterium-treated diets had no negative effect on silkworm development; instead, bacterial supplementation could protect the artificial diet from Aspergillus contamination. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study evidence that the cross-kingdom transfer of bacteria from plant phyllospheres to insect herbivore cuticles can help protect insects against fungal parasite attacks. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Song Hong
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yuekun Li
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Haimin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Hanchun Gao
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chengshu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Lu M, Wei D, Shang J, Li S, Song S, Luo Y, Tang G, Wang C. Suppression of Drosophila antifungal immunity by a parasite effector via blocking GNBP3 and GNBP-like 3, the dual receptors for β-glucans. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113642. [PMID: 38175756 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113642] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The tactics used by animal pathogens to combat host immunity are largely unclear. Here, we report the depiction of the virulence-required effector Tge1 deployed by the entomopathogen Metarhizium robertsii to suppress Drosophila antifungal immunity. Tge1 can target both GNBP3 and GNBP-like 3 (GL3), and the latter can bind to β-glucans like GNBP3, whereas the glucan binding by both receptors can be attenuated by Tge1. As opposed to the surveillance GNBP3, GL3 is inducible in Drosophila depending on the Toll pathway via a positive feedback loop mechanism. Losses of GNBP3 and GL3 genes result in the deregulations of protease cascade, Spätzle maturation, and antimicrobial gene expressions in Drosophila upon fungal challenges. Fly survival assays confirm that GL3 plays a more essential role than GNBP3 in combating fungal infections. In addition to evidencing the gene-for-gene interactions between fungi and insects, our data advance insights into Drosophila antifungal immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Lu
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Dongxiang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Junmei Shang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shiqin Li
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Shuangxiu Song
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yujuan Luo
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Guirong Tang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Chengshu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
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Ma M, Luo J, Li C, Eleftherianos I, Zhang W, Xu L. A life-and-death struggle: interaction of insects with entomopathogenic fungi across various infection stages. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1329843. [PMID: 38259477 PMCID: PMC10800808 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1329843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Insects constitute approximately 75% of the world's recognized fauna, with the majority of species considered as pests. Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are parasitic microorganisms capable of efficiently infecting insects, rendering them potent biopesticides. In response to infections, insects have evolved diverse defense mechanisms, prompting EPF to develop a variety of strategies to overcome or circumvent host defenses. While the interaction mechanisms between EPF and insects is well established, recent findings underscore that their interplay is more intricate than previously thought, especially evident across different stages of EPF infection. This review primarily focuses on the interplay between EPF and the insect defense strategies, centered around three infection stages: (1) Early infection stage: involving the pre-contact detection and avoidance behavior of EPF in insects, along with the induction of behavioral responses upon contact with the host cuticle; (2) Penetration and intra-hemolymph growth stage: involving the initiation of intricate cellular and humoral immune functions in insects, while symbiotic microbes can further contribute to host resistance; (3) Host insect's death stage: involving the ultimate confrontation between pathogens and insects. Infected insects strive to separate themselves from the healthy population, while pathogens rely on the infected insects to spread to new hosts. Also, we discuss a novel pest management strategy underlying the cooperation between EPF infection and disturbing the insect immune system. By enhancing our understanding of the intricate interplay between EPF and the insect, this review provides novel perspectives for EPF-mediated pest management and developing effective fungal insecticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiqi Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ioannis Eleftherianos
- Infection and Innate Immunity Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Wei Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Letian Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
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Mesquita E, Hu S, Lima TB, Golo PS, Bidochka MJ. Utilization of Metarhizium as an insect biocontrol agent and a plant bioinoculant with special reference to Brazil. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2023; 4:1276287. [PMID: 38186633 PMCID: PMC10768067 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2023.1276287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Brazil has a long history of using biological control and has the largest program in sugarcane agriculture to which a biocontrol program has been applied. This achievement is at least partly due to the utilization of the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium. This well-known fungal genus exhibits pathogenicity against a broad range of arthropod hosts and has been used globally as a biocontrol agent. This fungus is also a root symbiont, and in this capacity, it is a plant growth promoter. However, this feature (i.e., as a plant symbiont) has yet to be fully explored and implemented in Brazil, although the number of reports demonstrating Metarhizium's utility as a plant bioinoculant is increasing. The Brazilian bioproduct industry targets agricultural pests, and is limited to two Metarhizium species represented by four fungal isolates as active ingredients. Entomopathogenic fungi have also been successful in controlling arthropods of public health concern, as shown in their control of mosquitoes, which are vectors of diseases. The isolation of new indigenous Metarhizium isolates from a variety of substrates such as soil, insects, and plants shows the wide genetic diversity within this fungal genus. In this review, we emphasize the significance of Metarhizium spp. for the biological control of insects in Brazil. We also suggest that the experience and success of biological control with fungi in Brazil is an important resource for developing integrated pest management and sustainable strategies for pest control worldwide. Moreover, the future implementation prospects of species of Metarhizium being used as bioinoculants and possible new advances in the utility of this fungus are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Mesquita
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Shasha Hu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Tais B. Lima
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Patricia Silva Golo
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Michael J. Bidochka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
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