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Thai HD, Trinh MT, Do LTBX, Le TH, Nguyen DT, Tran QT, Tran VKT, Mai LTD, Pham DN, Le DH, Vu TX, Tran VT. Gene function characterization in Aspergillus niger using a dual resistance marker transformation system mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. J Microbiol Methods 2024; 224:106989. [PMID: 38996925 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2024.106989] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Aspergillus niger is a well-known workhorse for the industrial production of enzymes and organic acids. This fungus can also cause postharvest diseases in fruits. Although Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation (ATMT) based on antibiotic resistance markers has been effectively exploited for inspecting functions of target genes in wild-type fungi, it still needs to be further improved in A. niger. In the present study, we re-examined the ATMT in the wild-type A. niger strains using the hygromycin resistance marker and introduced the nourseothricin resistance gene as a new selection marker for this fungus. Unexpectedly, our results revealed that the ATMT method using the resistance markers in A. niger led to numerous small colonies as false-positive transformants on transformation plates. Using the top agar overlay technique to restrict false positive colonies, a transformation efficiency of 87 ± 18 true transformants could be achieved for 106 conidia. With two different selection markers, we could perform both the deletion and complementation of a target gene in a single wild-type A. niger strain. Our results also indicated that two key regulatory genes (laeA and veA) of the velvet complex are required for A. niger to infect apple fruits. Notably, we demonstrated for the first time that a laeA homologous gene from the citrus postharvest pathogen Penicillium digitatum was able to restore the acidification ability and pathogenicity of the A. niger ΔlaeA mutant. The dual resistance marker ATMT system from our work represents an improved genetic tool for gene function characterization in A. niger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanh-Dung Thai
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Minh Thi Trinh
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Loc Thi Binh Xuan Do
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Thu-Hang Le
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Duc-Thanh Nguyen
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Que Thi Tran
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Van-Khanh Tong Tran
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Linh Thi Dam Mai
- Faculty of Biology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Duc-Ngoc Pham
- Faculty of Biology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Diep Hong Le
- Faculty of Biology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Tao Xuan Vu
- Center for Experimental Biology, National Center for Technological Progress, Ministry of Science and Technology of Vietnam, C6 Thanh Xuan Bac, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Van-Tuan Tran
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam; Faculty of Biology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam.
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Ding Y, Yang N, Lu Y, Xu J, Rana K, Chen Y, Xu Z, Qian W, Wan H. Fusiform nanoparticle boosts efficient genetic transformation in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:494. [PMID: 39160572 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02736-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is a highly destructive phytopathogenic fungus that poses a significant threat to a wide array of crops. The current constraints in genetic manipulation techniques impede a thorough comprehension of its pathogenic mechanisms and the development of effective control strategies. RESULTS Herein, we present a highly efficient genetic transformation system for S. sclerotiorum, leveraging the use of fusiform nanoparticles, which are synthesized with FeCl3 and 2,6-diaminopyrimidine (DAP). These nanoparticles, with an average longitude length of 59.00 nm and a positively charged surface, facilitate the direct delivery of exogenous DNA into the mycelial cells of S. sclerotiorum, as well as successful integration with stable expression. Notably, this system circumvents fungal protoplast preparation and tedious recovery processes, streamlining the transformation process considerably. Furthermore, we successfully employed this system to generate S. sclerotiorum strains with silenced oxaloacetate acetylhydrolase-encoding gene Ss-oah1. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of using nanoparticle-mediated delivery as a rapid and reliable tool for genetic modification in S. sclerotiorum. Given its simplicity and high efficiency, it has the potential to significantly propel genetic research in filamentous fungi, offering new avenues for elucidating the intricacies of pathogenicity and developing innovative disease management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijuan Ding
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (Chongqing) Science City, Chongqing and Southwest University, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Nan Yang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (Chongqing) Science City, Chongqing and Southwest University, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yi Lu
- School of Materials and Energy, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jiming Xu
- School of Materials and Energy, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Kusum Rana
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (Chongqing) Science City, Chongqing and Southwest University, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yangui Chen
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (Chongqing) Science City, Chongqing and Southwest University, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Zhigang Xu
- School of Materials and Energy, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Wei Qian
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (Chongqing) Science City, Chongqing and Southwest University, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China.
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Huafang Wan
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (Chongqing) Science City, Chongqing and Southwest University, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China.
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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3
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Hu Z, Liu Q, Ouyang B, Wang G, Wei C, Zhao X. Recent advances in genetic engineering to enhance plant-polysaccharide-degrading enzyme expression in Penicillium oxalicum: A brief review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 278:134775. [PMID: 39153674 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134775] [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: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
With the depletion of non-renewable fossil fuels, there has been an increasing emphasis on renewable biomass. Penicillium oxalicum is notable for its exceptional capacity to secrete a diverse array of enzymes that degrade plant polysaccharides into monosaccharides. These valuable monosaccharides can be harnessed in the production of bioethanol and other sustainable forms of energy. By enhancing the production of plant-polysaccharide-degrading enzymes (PPDEs) in P. oxalicum, we can optimize the utilization of plant biomass. This paper presents recent advances in augmenting PPDE expression in P. oxalicum through genetic engineering strategies involving protoplast preparation, transformation, and factors influencing PPDE gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyan Hu
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, China
| | - Qiling Liu
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, China
| | - Bei Ouyang
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, China
| | - Guoping Wang
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, China
| | - Chenyang Wei
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, China
| | - Xihua Zhao
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, China.
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Webb RJ, Roberts AA, Rush C, Skerratt LF, Tizard ML, Berger L. Small Interfering RNA Mediated Messenger RNA Knockdown in the Amphibian Pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. J Basic Microbiol 2024; 64:e2400081. [PMID: 39031701 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202400081] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) has not been tested in the pandemic amphibian pathogen, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, but developing this technology could be useful to elucidate virulence mechanisms, identify therapeutic targets, and may present a novel antifungal treatment option for chytridiomycosis. To manipulate and decipher gene function, rationally designed small interfering RNA (siRNA) can initiate the destruction of homologous messenger RNA (mRNA), resulting in the "knockdown" of target gene expression. Here, we investigate whether siRNA can be used to manipulate gene expression in B. dendrobatidis via RNAi using differing siRNA strategies to target genes involved in glutathione and ornithine synthesis. To determine the extent and duration of mRNA knockdown, target mRNA levels were monitored for 24-48 h after delivery of siRNA targeting glutamate-cysteine ligase, with a maximum of ~56% reduction in target transcripts occurring at 36 h. A second siRNA design targeting glutamate-cysteine ligase also resulted in ~53% knockdown at this time point. siRNA directed toward a different gene target, ornithine decarboxylase, achieved 17% reduction in target transcripts. Although no phenotypic effects were observed, these results suggest that RNAi is possible in B. dendrobatidis, and that gene expression can be manipulated in this pathogen. We outline ideas for further optimization steps to increase knockdown efficiency to better harness RNAi techniques for control of B. dendrobatidis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Webb
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook Univiersity, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alexandra A Roberts
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook Univiersity, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Catherine Rush
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook Univiersity, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark L Tizard
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
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5
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Nie H, Zhang Y, Li M, Wang W, Wang Z, Zheng J. Expression of microbial lipase in filamentous fungus Aspergillus niger: a review. 3 Biotech 2024; 14:172. [PMID: 38841267 PMCID: PMC11147998 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-024-03998-5] [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: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipase has high economic importance and is widely used in biodiesel, food, detergents, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. The rapid development of synthetic biology and system biology has not only paved the way for comprehensively understanding the efficient operation mechanism of Aspergillus niger cell factories but also introduced a new technological system for creating and optimizing high-efficiency A. niger cell factories. In this review, all relevant data on microbial lipase enzyme sources and general properties are gathered and updated. The relationship between A. niger strain morphology and protein production is discussed. The safety of A. niger strain is investigated to ensure product safety. The biotechnologies and factors influencing lipase expression in A. niger are summarized. This review focuses on various strategies to improve lipase expression in A. niger. The summary of these methods and the application of the gene editing technology CRISPR/Cas9 system can further improve the efficiency of constructing the engineered lipase-producing A. niger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongmei Nie
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014 China
| | - Yueting Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014 China
| | - Mengjiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014 China
| | - Weili Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014 China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014 China
| | - Jianyong Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014 China
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6
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Cai R, Xiao Y, Xing J, Yu K, Li X, Chai Y. Establishment of a genetic transformation system for cordycipitoid fungus Cordyceps chanhua. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1333793. [PMID: 38993492 PMCID: PMC11236535 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1333793] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cordyceps chanhua is a well-known edible and medicinal mushroom with a long history of use in China, and it contains a variety of secondary metabolites with interesting bioactive ingredients. However, recent researches have mainly focused on cultivation conditions, secondary metabolite compositions and pharmacological activities of C. chanhua, the lack of an efficient and stable genetic transformation system has largely limited further research on the relationship between secondary metabolites and biosynthetic gene clusters in C. chanhua. In this study, single-factor experiments were used to compare the effects of different osmotic stabilizers, enzyme concentrations and enzyme digestion times on protoplast yield, and we found that the highest yield of 5.53 × 108 protoplasts/mL was obtained with 0.7 M mannitol, 6 mg/mL snail enzyme and 4 h of enzyme digestion time, and the regeneration rate of protoplasts was up to approximately 30% using 0.7 M mannitol as an osmotic stabilizer. On this basis, a PEG-mediated genetic transformation system of C. chanhua was successfully established for the first time, which lays the foundation for further genetic transformation of C. chanhua.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruihang Cai
- Zhejiang Institute of Subtropical Crops, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yu Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Institute of Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiajia Xing
- College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kongjian Yu
- Zhejiang Institute of Subtropical Crops, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaola Li
- Zhejiang Institute of Subtropical Crops, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yiqiu Chai
- Zhejiang Institute of Subtropical Crops, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wenzhou, China
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Coca-Ruiz V, Cabrera-Gómez N, Collado IG, Aleu J. Improved Protoplast Production Protocol for Fungal Transformations Mediated by CRISPR/Cas9 in Botrytis cinerea Non-Sporulating Isolates. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1754. [PMID: 38999594 PMCID: PMC11244380 DOI: 10.3390/plants13131754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Botrytis cinerea is a necrotrophic fungus that causes considerable economic losses in commercial crops. Fungi of the genus Botrytis exhibit great morphological and genetic variability, ranging from non-sporogenic and non-infective isolates to highly virulent sporogenic ones. There is growing interest in the different isolates in terms of their methodological applications aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the biology of these fungal species for more efficient control of the infections they cause. This article describes an improvement in the protoplast production protocol from non-sporogenic isolates, resulting in viable protoplasts with regenerating capacity. The method improvements consist of a two-day incubation period with mycelium plugs and orbital shaking. Special mention is made of our preference for the VinoTaste Pro enzyme in the KC buffer as a replacement for Glucanex, as it enhances the efficacy of protoplast isolation in B459 and B371 isolates. The methodology described here has proven to be very useful for biotechnological applications such as genetic transformations mediated by the CRISPR/Cas9 tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor Coca-Ruiz
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomoléculas (INBIO), Universidad de Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Nuria Cabrera-Gómez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomoléculas (INBIO), Universidad de Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Isidro G Collado
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomoléculas (INBIO), Universidad de Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Josefina Aleu
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomoléculas (INBIO), Universidad de Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
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Feng J, Tang CM, Liu YF, Tang CH, Zhang JS. Enhancing high-efficiency breeding and microbial microdroplet cultivation techniques for Ganoderma lucidum. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:225. [PMID: 38822208 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-04011-0] [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: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Ganoderma lucidum is known for its bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides and triterpenoids, which are crucial in food and medicine. However, liquid fermentation encounters challenges in terms of strain differentiation and stability. In this research, we employed atmospheric room temperature plasma mutation and a microbial microdroplet culture system to identify strains with enhanced biomass and triterpenoid production. The three mutant strains, YB05, YB09, and YB18, exhibited accelerated growth rates and antagonized the initial strain G0023 more effectively than the controls. Notably, YB18 displayed the fastest growth, with a 17.25% increase in colony radius. Shake flask cultivation demonstrated that, compared with the initial strain, YB05 and YB18 had 26.33% and 17.85% greater biomass, respectively. Moreover, the triterpenoid production of YB05 and YB18 surpassed that of the control by 32.10% and 15.72%, respectively, as confirmed by colorimetric detection. Importantly, these mutant strains remained stable for five generations. This study revealed a comprehensive screening system utilizing atmospheric pressure, room temperature plasma mutation technology and microbial droplet cultivation. This innovative approach offers a promising pathway for obtaining advantageous Ganoderma strains for liquid fermentation. The methodology of atmospheric room temperature plasma mutation and microbial microdroplet culture systems is detailed for better comprehension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Feng
- Institute of Edible Fungi, National Engineering Research Center of Edible Fungi, Key Laboratory of Edible Fungi Resources and Utilization (South), Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding of Shanghai, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture of P. R. China, Shanghai, 201403, China
| | - Chen-Min Tang
- Institute of Edible Fungi, National Engineering Research Center of Edible Fungi, Key Laboratory of Edible Fungi Resources and Utilization (South), Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding of Shanghai, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture of P. R. China, Shanghai, 201403, China
| | - Yan-Fang Liu
- Institute of Edible Fungi, National Engineering Research Center of Edible Fungi, Key Laboratory of Edible Fungi Resources and Utilization (South), Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding of Shanghai, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture of P. R. China, Shanghai, 201403, China
| | - Chuan-Hong Tang
- Institute of Edible Fungi, National Engineering Research Center of Edible Fungi, Key Laboratory of Edible Fungi Resources and Utilization (South), Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding of Shanghai, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture of P. R. China, Shanghai, 201403, China
| | - Jing-Song Zhang
- Institute of Edible Fungi, National Engineering Research Center of Edible Fungi, Key Laboratory of Edible Fungi Resources and Utilization (South), Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding of Shanghai, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture of P. R. China, Shanghai, 201403, China.
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Steinert K, Atanasoff-Kardjalieff AK, Messner E, Gorfer M, Niehaus EM, Humpf HU, Studt-Reinhold L, Kalinina SA. Tools to make Stachybotrys chartarum genetically amendable: Key to unlocking cryptic biosynthetic gene clusters. Fungal Genet Biol 2024; 172:103892. [PMID: 38636782 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2024.103892] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
The soil and indoor fungus Stachybotrys chartarum can induce respiratory disorders, collectively referred to as stachybotryotoxicosis, owing to its prolific production of diverse bioactive secondary metabolites (SMs) or mycotoxins. Although many of these toxins responsible for the harmful effects on animals and humans have been identified in the genus Stachybotrys, however a number of SMs remain elusive. Through in silico analyses, we have identified 37 polyketide synthase (PKS) genes, highlighting that the chemical profile potential of Stachybotrys is far from being fully explored. Additionally, by leveraging phylogenetic analysis of known SMs produced by non-reducing polyketide synthases (NR-PKS) in other filamentous fungi, we showed that Stachybotrys possesses a rich reservoir of untapped SMs. To unravel natural product biosynthesis in S. chartarum, genetic engineering methods are crucial. For this purpose, we have developed a reliable protocol for the genetic transformation of S. chartarum and applied it to the ScPKS14 biosynthetic gene cluster. This cluster is homologous to the already known Claviceps purpurea CpPKS8 BGC, responsible for the production of ergochromes. While no novel SMs were detected, we successfully applied genetic tools, such as the generation of deletionand overexpression strains of single cluster genes. This toolbox can now be readily employed to unravel not only this particular BGC but also other candidate BGCs present in S. chartarum, making this fungus accessible for genetic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna K Atanasoff-Kardjalieff
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Tulln an der Donau, Austria
| | - Elias Messner
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Tulln an der Donau, Austria
| | - Markus Gorfer
- Center for Health and Bioresources, AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Tulln, Austria
| | - Eva-Maria Niehaus
- Institute of Food Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Hans-Ulrich Humpf
- Institute of Food Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Lena Studt-Reinhold
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Tulln an der Donau, Austria.
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10
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Yan HH, Shang YT, Wang LH, Tian XQ, Tran VT, Yao LH, Zeng B, Hu ZH. Construction of a New Agrobacterium tumefaciens-Mediated Transformation System based on a Dual Auxotrophic Approach in Cordyceps militaris. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 34:1178-1187. [PMID: 38563100 PMCID: PMC11180907 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2312.12003] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Cordyceps militaris is a significant edible fungus that produces a variety of bioactive compounds. We have previously established a uridine/uracil auxotrophic mutant and a corresponding Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation (ATMT) system for genetic characterization in C. militaris using pyrG as a screening marker. In this study, we constructed an ATMT system based on a dual pyrG and hisB auxotrophic mutant of C. militaris. Using the uridine/uracil auxotrophic mutant as the background and pyrG as a selection marker, the hisB gene encoding imidazole glycerophosphate dehydratase, required for histidine biosynthesis, was knocked out by homologous recombination to construct a histidine auxotrophic C. militaris mutant. Then, pyrG in the histidine auxotrophic mutant was deleted to construct a ΔpyrG ΔhisB dual auxotrophic mutant. Further, we established an ATMT transformation system based on the dual auxotrophic C. militaris by using GFP and DsRed as reporter genes. Finally, to demonstrate the application of this dual transformation system for studies of gene function, knock out and complementation of the photoreceptor gene CmWC-1 in the dual auxotrophic C. militaris were performed. The newly constructed ATMT system with histidine and uridine/uracil auxotrophic markers provides a promising tool for genetic modifications in the medicinal fungus C. militaris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan huan Yan
- College of Life Sciences, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Bioprocess Engineering, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
| | - Yi tong Shang
- College of Life Sciences, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Bioprocess Engineering, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
| | - Li hong Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Bioprocess Engineering, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
| | - Xue qin Tian
- College of Life Sciences, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Bioprocess Engineering, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
| | - Van-Tuan Tran
- VNU University of Science, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Li hua Yao
- College of Life Sciences, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
| | - Bin Zeng
- Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen 518118, P.R. China
| | - Zhi hong Hu
- College of Life Sciences, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Bioprocess Engineering, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P.R. China
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11
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Kharel A, Rookes J, Ziemann M, Cahill D. Viable protoplast isolation, organelle visualization and transformation of the globally distributed plant pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi. PROTOPLASMA 2024:10.1007/s00709-024-01953-y. [PMID: 38702562 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-024-01953-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Phytophthora cinnamomi is an oomycete plant pathogen with a host range of almost 5000 plant species worldwide and therefore poses a serious threat to biodiversity. Omics technology has provided significant progress in our understanding of oomycete biology, however, transformation studies of Phytophthora for gene functionalisation are still in their infancy. Only a limited number of Phytophthora species have been successfully transformed and gene edited to elucidate the role of particular genes. There is a need to escalate our efforts to understand molecular processes, gene regulation and infection mechanisms of the pathogen to enable us to develop new disease management strategies. The primary obstacle hindering the advancement of transformation studies in Phytophthora is their challenging and unique nature, coupled with our limited comprehension of why they remain such an intractable system to work with. In this study, we have identified some of the key factors associated with the recalcitrant nature of P. cinnamomi. We have incorporated fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry along with the organelle-specific dyes, fluorescein diacetate, Hoechst 33342 and MitoTracker™ Red CMXRos, to assess P. cinnamomi-derived protoplast populations. This approach has also provided valuable insights into the broader cell biology of Phytophthora. Furthermore, we have optimized the crucial steps that allow transformation of P. cinnamomi and have generated transformed isolates that express a cyan fluorescent protein, with a transformation efficiency of 19.5%. We therefore provide a platform for these methodologies to be applied for the transformation of other Phytophthora species and pave the way for future gene functionalisation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aayushree Kharel
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia
| | - James Rookes
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia
| | - Mark Ziemann
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David Cahill
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia.
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12
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du Pré S, Konings M, Schoorl DJA, Fahal AH, Arentshorst M, Ram AFJ, van de Sande WWJ. Protoplast-mediated transformation of Madurella mycetomatis using hygromycin resistance as a selection marker. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012092. [PMID: 38578808 PMCID: PMC11108199 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Madurella mycetomatis is the main cause of mycetoma, a chronic granulomatous infection for which currently no adequate therapy is available. To improve therapy, more knowledge on a molecular level is required to understand how M. mycetomatis is able to cause this disease. However, the genetic toolbox for M. mycetomatis is limited. To date, no method is available to genetically modify M. mycetomatis. In this paper, a protoplast-mediated transformation protocol was successfully developed for this fungal species, using hygromycin as a selection marker. Furthermore, using this method, a cytoplasmic-GFP-expressing M. mycetomatis strain was created. The reported methodology will be invaluable to explore the pathogenicity of M. mycetomatis and to develop reporter strains which can be useful in drug discovery as well as in genetic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia du Pré
- Erasmus MC, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mickey Konings
- Erasmus MC, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dorenda J. A. Schoorl
- Erasmus MC, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Mark Arentshorst
- Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Arthur F. J. Ram
- Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Wendy W. J. van de Sande
- Erasmus MC, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Mahdizade Ari M, Dadgar L, Elahi Z, Ghanavati R, Taheri B. Genetically Engineered Microorganisms and Their Impact on Human Health. Int J Clin Pract 2024; 2024:6638269. [PMID: 38495751 PMCID: PMC10944348 DOI: 10.1155/2024/6638269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains, the decreased effectiveness of conventional therapies, and the side effects have led researchers to seek a safer, more cost-effective, patient-friendly, and effective method that does not develop antibiotic resistance. With progress in synthetic biology and genetic engineering, genetically engineered microorganisms effective in treatment, prophylaxis, drug delivery, and diagnosis have been developed. The present study reviews the types of genetically engineered bacteria and phages, their impacts on diseases, cancer, and metabolic and inflammatory disorders, the biosynthesis of these modified strains, the route of administration, and their effects on the environment. We conclude that genetically engineered microorganisms can be considered promising candidates for adjunctive treatment of diseases and cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzie Mahdizade Ari
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Centre, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dadgar
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Centre, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Elahi
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Centre, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Behrouz Taheri
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapour University of medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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14
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Ma T, Yan C, Zhang S, Liang D, Mao C, Zhang C. High-quality genome assembly and genetic transformation system of Lasiodiplodia theobromae strain LTTK16-3, a fungal pathogen of Chinese hickory. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0331123. [PMID: 38349153 PMCID: PMC10913528 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03311-23] [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: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Lasiodiplodia theobromae, as one of the causative agents associated with Chinese hickory trunk cankers, has caused huge economic losses to the Chinese hickory industry. Although the biological characteristics of this pathogen and the occurrence pattern of this disease have been well studied, few studies have addressed the related mechanisms due to the poor molecular and genetic study basis of this fungus. In this study, we sequenced and assembled L. theobromae strain LTTK16-3, isolated from a Chinese hickory tree (cultivar of Linan) in Linan, Zhejiang province, China. Phylogenetic analysis and comparative genomics analysis presented crucial cues in the prediction of LTTK16-3, which shared similar regulatory mechanisms of transcription, DNA replication, and DNA damage response with the other four Chinese hickory trunk canker-associated Botryosphaeria strains including, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Botryosphaeria fabicerciana, Botryosphaeria qingyuanensis, and Botryosphaeria corticis. Moreover, it contained 18 strain-specific protein clusters (not conserved in the other L. theobromae strains, AM2As and CITRA15), with potential roles in specific host-pathogen interactions during the Chinese hickory infection. Additionally, an efficient system for L. theobromae protoplast preparation and polyethylene glycol (PEG) -mediated genetic transformation was firstly established as the foundation for its future mechanisms study. Collectively, the high-quality genome data and the efficient transformation system of L. theobromae here set up the possibility of targeted molecular improvements for Chinese hickory canker control.IMPORTANCEFungi with disparate genomic features are physiologically diverse, possessing species-specific survival strategies and environmental adaptation mechanisms. The high-quality genome data and related molecular genetic studies are the basis for revealing the mechanisms behind the physiological traits that are responsible for their environmental fitness. In this study, we sequenced and assembled the LTTK16-3 strain, the genome of Lasiodiplodia theobromae first obtained from a diseased Chinese hickory tree (cultivar of Linan) in Linan, Zhejiang province, China. Further phylogenetic analysis and comparative genomics analysis provide crucial cues in the prediction of the proteins with potential roles in specific host-pathogen interactions during the Chinese hickory infection. An efficient PEG-mediated genetic transformation system of L. theobromae was established as the foundation for the future mechanisms exploration. The above genetic information and tools set up valuable clues to study L. theobromae pathogenesis and assist in Chinese hickory canker control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianling Ma
- Department of Plant Pathology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forest University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenyi Yan
- Department of Plant Pathology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forest University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuya Zhang
- Department of Plant Pathology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forest University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dong Liang
- Department of Plant Pathology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forest University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chengxin Mao
- Department of Plant Pathology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forest University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chuanqing Zhang
- Department of Plant Pathology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forest University, Hangzhou, China
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15
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Zhang W, Jiang X, Wang M, Zhang Z, Wang N. Origin of the 6/5/6/5 Tetracyclic Cyclopiazonic Acids. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:74. [PMID: 38393045 PMCID: PMC10890092 DOI: 10.3390/md22020074] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The natural product α-cyclopiazonic acid (α-CPA) is a very potent Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor. The CPA family of compounds comprise over 80 chemical entities with at least five distinct skeletons. While α-CPA features a canonical 6/5/6/5/5 skeleton, the 6/5/6/5 skeleton is the most prevalent among the CPA family. However, the origin of the unique tetracyclic skeleton remains unknown. The 6/5/6/5-type CPAs may derive from a precursor of acetoacetyl-l-tryptophan (AATrp) generated from a hypothetic thioesterase-like pathway. Alternatively, cleavage of the tetramic acid ring would also result in the formation of the 6/5/6/5 scaffold. Aspergillus oryzae HMP-F28 is a marine sponge-associated filamentous fungus known to produce CPAs that act as primary neurotoxins. To elucidate the origin of this subfamily of CPAs, we performed homologous recombination and genetic engineering experiments on strain HMP-F28. Our results are supportive of the ring cleavage pathway through which the tetracyclic 6/5/6/5-type CPAs are generated from 6/5/6/5/5-type pentacyclic CPAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyuan Zhang
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
| | - Xuejian Jiang
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
| | - Minjun Wang
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
| | - Zhizhen Zhang
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
- Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University, Sanya 572025, China
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16
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Gong Y, Li S, Liu Q, Chen F, Shao Y. CRISPR/Cas9 system is a suitable gene targeting editing tool to filamentous fungus Monascus pilosus. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:154. [PMID: 38240803 PMCID: PMC10799099 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12865-x] [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: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Monascus pilosus has been used to produce lipid-lowering drugs rich in monacolin K (MK) for a long period. Genome mining reveals there are still many potential genes worth to be explored in this fungus. Thereby, efficient genetic manipulation tools will greatly accelerate this progress. In this study, we firstly developed the protocol to prepare protoplasts for recipient of CRISPR/Cas9 system. Subsequently, the vector and donor DNA were co-transformed into recipients (106 protoplasts/mL) to produce 60-80 transformants for one test. Three genes (mpclr4, mpdot1, and mplig4) related to DNA damage response (DDR) were selected to compare the gene replacement frequencies (GRFs) of Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation (ATMT) and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing system (CGES) in M. pilosus MS-1. The results revealed that GRF of CGES was approximately five times greater than that of ATMT, suggesting that CGES was superior to ATMT as a targeting gene editing tool in M. pilosus MS-1. The inactivation of mpclr4 promoted DDR via the non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) and increased the tolerances to DNA damaging agents. The inactivation of mpdot1 blocked DDR and led to the reduced tolerances to DNA damaging agents. The inactivation of mplig4 mainly blocked the NHEJ pathway and led to obviously reduced tolerances to DNA damaging agents. The submerged fermentation showed that the ability to produce MK in strain Δmpclr4 was improved by 52.6% compared to the wild type. This study provides an idea for more effective exploration of gene functions in Monascus strains. KEY POINTS: • A protocol of high-quality protoplasts for CGES has been developed in M. pilosus. • The GRF of CGES was about five times that of ATMT in M. pilosus. • The yield of MK for Δmpclr4 was enhanced by 52.6% compared with the wild type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxia Gong
- College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Shengfa Li
- College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Qianrui Liu
- College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Fusheng Chen
- College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Traditional Fermented Foods, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Yanchun Shao
- College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
- Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Traditional Fermented Foods, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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17
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Yang H, Song C, Liu C, Wang P. Synthetic Biology Tools for Engineering Aspergillus oryzae. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:34. [PMID: 38248944 PMCID: PMC10817548 DOI: 10.3390/jof10010034] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
For more than a thousand years, Aspergillus oryzae has been used in traditional culinary industries, including for food fermentation, brewing, and flavoring. In recent years, A. oryzae has been extensively used in deciphering the pathways of natural product synthesis and value-added compound bioproduction. Moreover, it is increasingly being used in modern biotechnology industries, such as for the production of enzymes and recombinant proteins. The investigation of A. oryzae has been significantly accelerated through the successive application of a diverse array of synthetic biology techniques and methodologies. In this review, the advancements in biological tools for the synthesis of A. oryzae, including DNA assembly technologies, gene expression regulatory elements, and genome editing systems, are discussed. Additionally, the challenges associated with the heterologous expression of A. oryzae are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Yang
- School of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
- Key Laboratory for Enzyme and Enzyme-Like Material Engineering of Heilongjiang, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Chaonan Song
- School of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
- Key Laboratory for Enzyme and Enzyme-Like Material Engineering of Heilongjiang, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Chengwei Liu
- School of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
- Key Laboratory for Enzyme and Enzyme-Like Material Engineering of Heilongjiang, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Pengchao Wang
- School of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
- Key Laboratory for Enzyme and Enzyme-Like Material Engineering of Heilongjiang, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
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18
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Dutta S, Houdinet G, NandaKafle G, Kafle A, Hawkes CV, Garcia K. Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation of Nigrospora sp. isolated from switchgrass leaves and antagonistic toward plant pathogens. J Microbiol Methods 2023; 215:106849. [PMID: 37907117 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2023.106849] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Nigrospora is a diverse genus of fungi colonizing plants through endophytic, pathogenic, or saprobic interactions. Endophytic isolates can improve growth and development of host plants, as well as their resistance to microbial pathogens, but exactly how they do so remains poorly understood. Developing a reliable transformation method is crucial to investigate these mechanisms, in particular to identify pivotal genes for specific functions that correlate with specific traits. In this study, we identified eight isolates of Nigrospora sp. internally colonizing the leaves of switchgrass plants cultivated in North Carolina. Using an Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation approach with control and GFP-expressing vectors, we report the first successful transformation of two Nigrospora isolates. Finally, we demonstrate that wild-type and transgenic isolates both negatively impact the growth of two plant pathogens in co-culture conditions, Bipolaris maydis and Parastagonospora nodorum, responsible for the Southern Leaf Blight and Septoria Nodorum Blotch diseases, respectively. The GFP-transformed strains developed here can therefore serve as accurate reporters of spatial interactions in future studies of Nigrospora and pathogens in the plant. Finally, the transformation method we describe lays the foundation for further genetic research on the Nigrospora genus to expand our mechanistic understanding of plant-endophyte interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Summi Dutta
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Gabriella Houdinet
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Gitanjali NandaKafle
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Arjun Kafle
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Christine V Hawkes
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Kevin Garcia
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
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19
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Li J, Wu M, Igarashi Y, Luo F, Chang P. Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation of the white-rot fungus Dichomitus squalens. J Microbiol Methods 2023; 214:106842. [PMID: 37827437 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2023.106842] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Dichomitus squalens is an efficient white-rot fungus that generates a wide range of extracellular enzymes to degrade lignocellulose in nature. Although a protoplast-mediated transformation method for D. squalens has been developed, the transformation efficiency remains low. Here, we established a highly efficient Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation (ATMT) procedure for D. squalens by transferring a binary vector harboring the neomycin phosphotransferase II (nptII) resistance gene fused with DsRed-Express2, under the control of the native glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPD) gene promoter. Key factors affecting the efficiency of transformation were tested. A. tumefaciens EHA105 strain with a cell density of 0.4 OD600nm and 96 h co-cultivation resulted in the highest transformation efficiency, with an average of 98 ± 11 transformants per co-cultivation plate. Besides, the strong expression of DsRed-Express2 indicates the effectiveness of the DsGPD promoter in driving gene expression in D. squalens. This ATMT system of D. squalens would be beneficial for its molecular genetic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Bioresource, Development for Bioenergy, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Min Wu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Bioresource, Development for Bioenergy, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yasuo Igarashi
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Bioresource, Development for Bioenergy, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Feng Luo
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Bioresource, Development for Bioenergy, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Peng Chang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Bioresource, Development for Bioenergy, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
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20
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Hu Z, Chen C, Zheng X, Yuan J, Zou R, Xie C. Establishing Gene Expression and Knockout Methods in Esteya vermicola CBS115803. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00898-6. [PMID: 37777998 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00898-6] [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: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Pine wilt disease, which is caused by the nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, is one of the most destructive forest diseases worldwide. Esteya vermicola, a nematophagous fungus, has emerged as a promising biological control agent. However, the limited availability of gene function analysis techniques hinders further genetic modification of this fungus. In this study, we employed a combination of enzymes (driselase, snailase, and cellulase) to enzymatically degrade the cell wall of the fungus, resulting in a high yield of protoplasts. Furthermore, by utilizing 0.6 M sucrose as an osmotic pressure stabilizer, we achieved a significant protoplast regeneration rate of approximately 31%. Subsequently, we employed the polyethylene glycol-mediated protoplast transformation method to successfully establish a genetic transformation technique for E. vermicola CBS115803. Additionally, through our investigation, we identified the Olic promoter from Aspergillus nidulans, which effectively enhanced the expression of the DsRed gene encoding a red fluorescent protein in E. vermicola CBS115803. Moreover, we successfully implemented a split-marker strategy to delete the EvIPMD gene in E. vermicola CBS115803. In summary, our findings present valuable experimental methodologies for gene function analysis in E. vermicola CBS115803.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijuan Hu
- The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Plant Environmental Adaptations, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Specialty Crop Resources and the College of Life Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Chi Chen
- The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Plant Environmental Adaptations, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Specialty Crop Resources and the College of Life Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Xinyao Zheng
- The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Plant Environmental Adaptations, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Specialty Crop Resources and the College of Life Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Jingjie Yuan
- The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Plant Environmental Adaptations, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Specialty Crop Resources and the College of Life Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Run Zou
- The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Plant Environmental Adaptations, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Specialty Crop Resources and the College of Life Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Chengjian Xie
- The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Plant Environmental Adaptations, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China.
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Specialty Crop Resources and the College of Life Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China.
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21
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Hatinguais R, Leaves I, Brown GD, Brown AJP, Brock M, Peres da Silva R. CRISPR-based tools for targeted genetic manipulation in pathogenic Sporothrix species. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0507822. [PMID: 37707447 PMCID: PMC10581184 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.05078-22] [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: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sporothrix brasiliensis is an emerging fungal pathogen frequently associated with zoonotic transmission of sporotrichosis by contaminated cats. Within 25 years, the disease has spread not only throughout Brazil but now to neighboring countries in Latin America. Thermo-dimorphism, melanin, glycans, adhesins, and secreted vesicles have been associated with the ability of Sporothrix species to cause disease in the mammalian host. Although certain virulence factors have been proposed as potential determinants for sporotrichosis, the scarcity of molecular tools for performing reverse genetics in Sporothrix has significantly impeded the dissection of mechanisms underlying the disease. Here, we demonstrate that PEG-mediated protoplast transformation is a powerful method for heterologous gene expression in S. brasiliensis, S. schenckii, and S. chilensis. Combined with CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, this transformation protocol enabled the deletion of the putative DHN-melanin synthase gene pks1, which is a proposed virulence factor of Sporothrix species. To improve in locus integration of deletion constructs, we deleted the KU80 homolog that is critical for non-homologous end-joining DNA repair. The use of Δku80 strains from S. brasiliensis enhanced homologous-directed repair during transformation resulting in increased targeted gene deletion in combination with CRISPR/Cas9. In conclusion, our CRISPR/Cas9-based transformation protocol provides an efficient tool for targeted gene manipulation in Sporothrix species. IMPORTANCE Sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis is a disease that requires long periods of treatment and is rapidly spreading across Latin America. The virulence of this fungus and the surge of atypical and more severe presentations of the disease raise the need for an understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying sporotrichosis, as well as the development of better diagnostics and antifungal therapies. By developing molecular tools for accurate genetic manipulation in Sporothrix, this study addresses the paucity of reliable and reproducible tools for stable genetic engineering of Sporothrix species, which has represented a major obstacle for studying the virulence determinants and their roles in the establishment of sporotrichosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remi Hatinguais
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Leaves
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Gordon D. Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair J. P. Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Matthias Brock
- Fungal Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Roberta Peres da Silva
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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22
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Wang Q, Hu Z, Li Z, Liu T, Bian G. Exploring the Application and Prospects of Synthetic Biology in Engineered Living Materials. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2305828. [PMID: 37677048 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
At the intersection of synthetic biology and materials science, engineered living materials (ELMs) exhibit unprecedented potential. Possessing unique "living" attributes, ELMs represent a significant paradigm shift in material design, showcasing self-organization, self-repair, adaptability, and evolvability, surpassing conventional synthetic materials. This review focuses on reviewing the applications of ELMs derived from bacteria, fungi, and plants in environmental remediation, eco-friendly architecture, and sustainable energy. The review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research progress and emerging design strategies for ELMs in various application fields from the perspectives of synthetic biology and materials science. In addition, the review provides valuable references for the design of novel ELMs, extending the potential applications of future ELMs. The investigation into the synergistic application possibilities amongst different species of ELMs offers beneficial reference information for researchers and practitioners in this field. Finally, future trends and development challenges of synthetic biology for ELMs in the coming years are discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwen Wang
- Department of Urology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Center of Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Zhehui Hu
- Center of Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Zhixuan Li
- Center of Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Tiangang Liu
- Department of Urology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Guangkai Bian
- Center of Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
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23
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Gan T, An H, Tang M, Chen H. Establishment of RNA Interference Genetic Transformation System and Functional Analysis of FlbA Gene in Leptographium qinlingensis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13009. [PMID: 37629189 PMCID: PMC10455979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241613009] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptographium qinlingensis is a pathogenic fungus of Pinus armandii that is epidemic in the Qinling Mountains. However, an effective gene interference strategy is needed to characterize the pathogenic genes in this fungus on a functional level. Using the RNA silencing vector pSilent-1 as a template, we established an RNA interference genetic transformation system mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens GV3101, which is suitable for the gene study for Leptographium qinlingensis by homologous recombination and strain interference system screening. The LqFlbA gene was silenced using the RNA interference approach described above, and the resulting transformants displayed various levels of silencing with a gene silencing effectiveness ranging from 41.8% to 91.4%. The LqFlbA-RNAi mutant displayed altered colony morphology, sluggish mycelium growth, and diminished pathogenicity toward the host P. armandii in comparison to the wild type. The results indicate that this method provides a useful reverse genetic system for studying the gene function of L. qinlingensis, and that LqFlbA plays a crucial role in the growth, development, and pathogenicity of L. qinlingensis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hui Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China (H.A.); (M.T.)
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24
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Salazar-Cerezo S, de Vries RP, Garrigues S. Strategies for the Development of Industrial Fungal Producing Strains. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:834. [PMID: 37623605 PMCID: PMC10455633 DOI: 10.3390/jof9080834] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of microorganisms in industry has enabled the (over)production of various compounds (e.g., primary and secondary metabolites, proteins and enzymes) that are relevant for the production of antibiotics, food, beverages, cosmetics, chemicals and biofuels, among others. Industrial strains are commonly obtained by conventional (non-GMO) strain improvement strategies and random screening and selection. However, recombinant DNA technology has made it possible to improve microbial strains by adding, deleting or modifying specific genes. Techniques such as genetic engineering and genome editing are contributing to the development of industrial production strains. Nevertheless, there is still significant room for further strain improvement. In this review, we will focus on classical and recent methods, tools and technologies used for the development of fungal production strains with the potential to be applied at an industrial scale. Additionally, the use of functional genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics together with the implementation of genetic manipulation techniques and expression tools will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Salazar-Cerezo
- Fungal Physiology, Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute & Fungal Molecular Physiology, Utrecht University, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands (R.P.d.V.)
| | - Ronald P. de Vries
- Fungal Physiology, Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute & Fungal Molecular Physiology, Utrecht University, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands (R.P.d.V.)
| | - Sandra Garrigues
- Food Biotechnology Department, Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (IATA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Catedrático Agustín Escardino Benlloch 7, 46980 Paterna, VLC, Spain
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25
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Moreno-Giménez E, Gandía M, Sáez Z, Manzanares P, Yenush L, Orzáez D, Marcos JF, Garrigues S. FungalBraid 2.0: expanding the synthetic biology toolbox for the biotechnological exploitation of filamentous fungi. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1222812. [PMID: 37609115 PMCID: PMC10441238 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1222812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal synthetic biology is a rapidly expanding field that aims to optimize the biotechnological exploitation of fungi through the generation of standard, ready-to-use genetic elements, and universal syntax and rules for contributory use by the fungal research community. Recently, an increasing number of synthetic biology toolkits have been developed and applied to filamentous fungi, which highlights the relevance of these organisms in the biotechnology field. The FungalBraid (FB) modular cloning platform enables interchangeability of DNA parts with the GoldenBraid (GB) platform, which is designed for plants, and other systems that are compatible with the standard Golden Gate cloning and syntax, and uses binary pCAMBIA-derived vectors to allow Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation of a wide range of fungal species. In this study, we have expanded the original FB catalog by adding 27 new DNA parts that were functionally validated in vivo. Among these are the resistance selection markers for the antibiotics phleomycin and terbinafine, as well as the uridine-auxotrophic marker pyr4. We also used a normalized luciferase reporter system to validate several promoters, such as PpkiA, P7760, Pef1α, and PafpB constitutive promoters, and PglaA, PamyB, and PxlnA inducible promoters. Additionally, the recently developed dCas9-regulated GB_SynP synthetic promoter collection for orthogonal CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) in plants has been adapted in fungi through the FB system. In general, the expansion of the FB catalog is of great interest to the scientific community since it increases the number of possible modular and interchangeable DNA assemblies, exponentially increasing the possibilities of studying, developing, and exploiting filamentous fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Moreno-Giménez
- Food Biotechnology Department, Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (IATA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Valencia, Spain
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (IBMCP), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), Valencia, Spain
| | - Mónica Gandía
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Food Science, Toxicology and Forensic Medicine Department. Faculty of Pharmacy. Universitat de València. Vicente Andrés Estellés s/n, Valencia, Spain
| | - Zara Sáez
- Food Biotechnology Department, Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (IATA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Valencia, Spain
| | - Paloma Manzanares
- Food Biotechnology Department, Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (IATA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Valencia, Spain
| | - Lynne Yenush
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (IBMCP), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), Valencia, Spain
| | - Diego Orzáez
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (IBMCP), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), Valencia, Spain
| | - Jose F. Marcos
- Food Biotechnology Department, Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (IATA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Valencia, Spain
| | - Sandra Garrigues
- Food Biotechnology Department, Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (IATA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Valencia, Spain
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26
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Dela Cruz TEE, Behr JH, Geistlinger J, Grosch R, Witzel K. Monitoring of an Applied Beneficial Trichoderma Strain in Root-Associated Soil of Field-Grown Maize by MALDI-TOF MS. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1655. [PMID: 37512828 PMCID: PMC10384135 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The persistence of beneficial microorganisms in the rhizosphere or surrounding soil following their application is a prerequisite for the effective interaction with the plant or indigenous microbial communities in the respective habitats. The goal of the study was to analyze the establishment and persistence of the applied beneficial Trichoderma harzianum (OMG16) strain in the maize root-associated soil depending on agricultural practice (soil management practice, N-fertilizer intensity) in a field experiment. A rapid identification of the inoculated strain OMG16 is essential for its monitoring. We used a culture-based approach coupled to matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) analysis for the rapid identification of the inoculated Trichoderma strain as part of the beneficial microbe consortium (BMc). We isolated 428 fungal isolates from eight treatments of the field experiment. Forty eight percent of the isolated fungi equivalent to 205 fungal isolates were identified as Trichoderma, of which 87% (=179 isolates) were obtained from the fields inoculated with BMc. Gene sequence analysis showed a high similarity of the MALDI-TOF MS-identified Trichoderma, with that of the inoculated Trichoderma harzianum OMG16 confirming the re-isolation of the added beneficial fungus. This study highlighted the use of MALDI-TOF MS analysis as a quick, cost-effective detection and efficient monitoring tool for microbial-based bioinoculants in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Edison E Dela Cruz
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, University of Santo Tomas (UST), España Blvd., Manila 1015, Philippines
| | - Jan Helge Behr
- Department of Plant-Microbes Systems, Leibniz Institute of Vegetables and Ornamental Crops (IGZ), Theodor-Echtermeyer-Weg 1, 14979 Groβbeeren, Germany
| | - Joerg Geistlinger
- Department of Agriculture, Landscape Development and Ecotrophology, Anhalt University of Applied Sciences (AUAS), Strenzfelder Allee 28, 06406 Bernburg, Germany
| | - Rita Grosch
- Department of Plant-Microbes Systems, Leibniz Institute of Vegetables and Ornamental Crops (IGZ), Theodor-Echtermeyer-Weg 1, 14979 Groβbeeren, Germany
| | - Katja Witzel
- Department of Plant-Microbes Systems, Leibniz Institute of Vegetables and Ornamental Crops (IGZ), Theodor-Echtermeyer-Weg 1, 14979 Groβbeeren, Germany
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27
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Schüller A, Studt-Reinhold L, Berger H, Silvestrini L, Labuda R, Güldener U, Gorfer M, Bacher M, Doppler M, Gasparotto E, Gattesco A, Sulyok M, Strauss J. Genome analysis of Cephalotrichum gorgonifer and identification of the biosynthetic pathway for rasfonin, an inhibitor of KRAS dependent cancer. Fungal Biol Biotechnol 2023; 10:13. [PMID: 37355668 PMCID: PMC10290801 DOI: 10.1186/s40694-023-00158-x] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fungi are important sources for bioactive compounds that find their applications in many important sectors like in the pharma-, food- or agricultural industries. In an environmental monitoring project for fungi involved in soil nitrogen cycling we also isolated Cephalotrichum gorgonifer (strain NG_p51). In the course of strain characterisation work we found that this strain is able to naturally produce high amounts of rasfonin, a polyketide inducing autophagy, apoptosis, necroptosis in human cell lines and showing anti-tumor activity in KRAS-dependent cancer cells. RESULTS In order to elucidate the biosynthetic pathway of rasfonin, the strain was genome sequenced, annotated, submitted to transcriptome analysis and genetic transformation was established. Biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) prediction revealed the existence of 22 BGCs of which the majority was not expressed under our experimental conditions. In silico prediction revealed two BGCs with a suite of enzymes possibly involved in rasfonin biosynthesis. Experimental verification by gene-knock out of the key enzyme genes showed that one of the predicted BGCs is indeed responsible for rasfonin biosynthesis. CONCLUSIONS This study identified a biosynthetic gene cluster containing a key-gene responsible for rasfonin production. Additionally, molecular tools were established for the non-model fungus Cephalotrichum gorgonifer which allows strain engineering and heterologous expression of the BGC for high rasfonin producing strains and the biosynthesis of rasfonin derivates for diverse applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Schüller
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Campus Tulln, Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
| | - Lena Studt-Reinhold
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Campus Tulln, Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
| | - Harald Berger
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Campus Tulln, Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
| | - Lucia Silvestrini
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Campus Tulln, Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
- DGforLife, Operations - Research and Development, Via Albert Einstein, Marcallo c.C., 20010, Milan, Italy
| | - Roman Labuda
- Research Platform Bioactive Microbial Metabolites (BiMM), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
- Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, Institute of Food Safety, Food Technology and Veterinary Public Health, Unit of Food Microbiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrich Güldener
- Department of Bioinformatics, Technical University of Munich, TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Freising, Germany
- German Heart Center Munich, Technical University Munich, Lazarettstraße 36, 80636, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Gorfer
- AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Bioresources, 3430, Tulln, Austria
| | - Markus Bacher
- Research Platform Bioactive Microbial Metabolites (BiMM), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry of Renewable Resources, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU), Konrad-LorenzStraße 24, 3430, Tulln, Austria
| | - Maria Doppler
- Department of Agrobiotechnology (IFA-Tulln), Institute of Bioanalytics and Agro-Metabolomics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
- Core Facility Bioactive Molecules, Screening and Analysis, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
| | - Erika Gasparotto
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Campus Tulln, Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
- Research Platform Bioactive Microbial Metabolites (BiMM), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Arianna Gattesco
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Campus Tulln, Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
- Research Platform Bioactive Microbial Metabolites (BiMM), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
| | - Michael Sulyok
- Department of Agrobiotechnology (IFA-Tulln), Institute of Bioanalytics and Agro-Metabolomics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
| | - Joseph Strauss
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Campus Tulln, Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria.
- Research Platform Bioactive Microbial Metabolites (BiMM), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Austria.
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28
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Zhang Y, Chen S, Yang L, Zhang Q. Application progress of CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing technology in edible fungi. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1169884. [PMID: 37303782 PMCID: PMC10248459 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1169884] [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: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Edible fungi are not only delicious but are also rich in nutritional and medicinal value, which is highly sought after by consumers. As the edible fungi industry continues to rapidly advance worldwide, particularly in China, the cultivation of superior and innovative edible fungi strains has become increasingly pivotal. Nevertheless, conventional breeding techniques for edible fungi can be arduous and time-consuming. CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9) is a powerful tool for molecular breeding due to its ability to mediate high-efficiency and high-precision genome modification, which has been successfully applied to many kinds of edible fungi. In this review, we briefly summarized the working mechanism of the CRISPR/Cas9 system and highlighted the application progress of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome-editing technology in edible fungi, including Agaricus bisporus, Ganoderma lucidum, Flammulina filiformis, Ustilago maydis, Pleurotus eryngii, Pleurotus ostreatus, Coprinopsis cinerea, Schizophyllum commune, Cordyceps militaris, and Shiraia bambusicola. Additionally, we discussed the limitations and challenges encountered using CRISPR/Cas9 technology in edible fungi and provided potential solutions. Finally, the applications of CRISPR/Cas9 system for molecular breeding of edible fungi in the future are explored.
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29
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Thai HD, Do LTBX, Nguyen XT, Vu TX, Tran HTT, Nguyen HQ, Tran VT. A newly constructed Agrobacterium-mediated transformation system based on the hisB auxotrophic marker for genetic manipulation in Aspergillus niger. Arch Microbiol 2023; 205:183. [PMID: 37032362 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03530-y] [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: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
The filamentous fungus Aspergillus niger is widely exploited as an industrial workhorse for producing enzymes and organic acids. So far, different genetic tools, including CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing strategies, have been developed for the engineering of A. niger. However, these tools usually require a suitable method for gene transfer into the fungal genome, like protoplast-mediated transformation (PMT) or Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation (ATMT). Compared to PMT, ATMT is considered more advantageous because fungal spores can be used directly for genetic transformation instead of protoplasts. Although ATMT has been applied in many filamentous fungi, it remains less effective in A. niger. In the present study, we deleted the hisB gene and established an ATMT system for A. niger based on the histidine auxotrophic mechanism. Our results revealed that the ATMT system could achieve 300 transformants per 107 fungal spores under optimal transformation conditions. The ATMT efficiency in this work is 5 - 60 times higher than those of the previous ATMT studies in A. niger. The ATMT system was successfully applied to express the DsRed fluorescent protein-encoding gene from the Discosoma coral in A. niger. Furthermore, we showed that the ATMT system was efficient for gene targeting in A. niger. The deletion efficiency of the laeA regulatory gene using hisB as a selectable marker could reach 68 - 85% in A. niger strains. The ATMT system constructed in our work represents a promising genetic tool for heterologous expression and gene targeting in the industrially important fungus A. niger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanh-Dung Thai
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
- Faculty of Biology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Loc Thi Binh Xuan Do
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Xuan Thi Nguyen
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Tao Xuan Vu
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
- Center for Experimental Biology, National Center for Technological Progress, Ministry of Science and Technology, C6 Thanh Xuan Bac, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Huyen Thi Thanh Tran
- Faculty of Biology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Huy Quang Nguyen
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
- Faculty of Biology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Van-Tuan Tran
- National Key Laboratory of Enzyme and Protein Technology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam.
- Faculty of Biology, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, Viet Nam.
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30
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Das S, Gardner DR, Neyaz M, Charleston AB, Cook D, Creamer R. Silencing of the Transmembrane Transporter ( swnT) Gene of the Fungus Slafractonia leguminicola Results in a Reduction of Mycotoxin Transport. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9030370. [PMID: 36983538 PMCID: PMC10051870 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Slafractonia leguminicola infects red clover and other legumes, causing black patch disease. This pathogenic fungus also produces two mycotoxins, slaframine and swainsonine, that are toxic to livestock grazing on clover hay or pasture infested with S. leguminicola. Swainsonine toxicosis causes locoism, while slaframine causes slobbers syndrome. The mechanism of toxin secretion by S. leguminicola is poorly understood. The aim of this research was to investigate the role of a putative transmembrane transporter, SwnT, in mycotoxin transport. The swnT gene was silenced by RNA interference using the silencing vector Psilent1, which included inverted repeat transgenes of swnT. This resulted in a significant reduction of swnT transcript levels compared with the controls. Silencing caused a decline in the active efflux of toxins from the mycelia to the media, as shown by LC-MS analysis. Transformants in which swnT was silenced showed higher concentrations of both toxins in the mycelia compared with the concentrations in the media. These transformants exhibited a visibly distinct phenotype with much thicker and shorter mycelia than in the wild type. These transformants were also unable to infect detached clover leaves, unlike the controls, suggesting that SwnT function may play an important role in pathogenesis in addition to mycotoxin transport. This research demonstrates the importance of this transporter to the secretion of mycotoxins for this phytopathogenic fungus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumanjari Das
- Department of Biology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
| | - Dale R Gardner
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory, 1150 E 1400 N, Logan, UT 84321, USA
| | - Marwa Neyaz
- Plant and Environmental Science, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
| | - Allen B Charleston
- Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Weed Science, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
| | - Daniel Cook
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory, 1150 E 1400 N, Logan, UT 84321, USA
| | - Rebecca Creamer
- Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Weed Science, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
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Advances and Challenges in CRISPR/Cas-Based Fungal Genome Engineering for Secondary Metabolite Production: A Review. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9030362. [PMID: 36983530 PMCID: PMC10058990 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungi represent an important source of bioactive secondary metabolites (SMs), which have wide applications in many fields, including medicine, agriculture, human health, and many other industries. The genes involved in SM biosynthesis are usually clustered adjacent to each other into a region known as a biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC). The recent advent of a diversity of genetic and genomic technologies has facilitated the identification of many cryptic or uncharacterized BGCs and their associated SMs. However, there are still many challenges that hamper the broader exploration of industrially important secondary metabolites. The recent advanced CRISPR/Cas system has revolutionized fungal genetic engineering and enabled the discovery of novel bioactive compounds. In this review, we firstly introduce fungal BGCs and their relationships with associated SMs, followed by a brief summary of the conventional strategies for fungal genetic engineering. Next, we introduce a range of state-of-the-art CRISPR/Cas-based tools that have been developed and review recent applications of these methods in fungi for research on the biosynthesis of SMs. Finally, the challenges and limitations of these CRISPR/Cas-based systems are discussed and directions for future research are proposed in order to expand their applications and improve efficiency for fungal genetic engineering.
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Mahmood MA, Naqvi RZ, Rahman SU, Amin I, Mansoor S. Plant Virus-Derived Vectors for Plant Genome Engineering. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020531. [PMID: 36851743 PMCID: PMC9958682 DOI: 10.3390/v15020531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in genome engineering (GE) tools based on sequence-specific programmable nucleases have revolutionized precise genome editing in plants. However, only the traditional approaches are used to deliver these GE reagents, which mostly rely on Agrobacterium-mediated transformation or particle bombardment. These techniques have been successfully used for the past decades for the genetic engineering of plants with some limitations relating to lengthy time-taking protocols and transgenes integration-related regulatory concerns. Nevertheless, in the era of climate change, we require certain faster protocols for developing climate-smart resilient crops through GE to deal with global food security. Therefore, some alternative approaches are needed to robustly deliver the GE reagents. In this case, the plant viral vectors could be an excellent option for the delivery of GE reagents because they are efficient, effective, and precise. Additionally, these are autonomously replicating and considered as natural specialists for transient delivery. In the present review, we have discussed the potential use of these plant viral vectors for the efficient delivery of GE reagents. We have further described the different plant viral vectors, such as DNA and RNA viruses, which have been used as efficient gene targeting systems in model plants, and in other important crops including potato, tomato, wheat, and rice. The achievements gained so far in the use of viral vectors as a carrier for GE reagent delivery are depicted along with the benefits and limitations of each viral vector. Moreover, recent advances have been explored in employing viral vectors for GE and adapting this technology for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Arslan Mahmood
- Agricultural Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), College of Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Jhang Road, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Sialkot, Sialkot 51310, Pakistan
| | - Rubab Zahra Naqvi
- Agricultural Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), College of Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Jhang Road, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Saleem Ur Rahman
- Agricultural Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), College of Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Jhang Road, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Imran Amin
- Agricultural Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), College of Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Jhang Road, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Shahid Mansoor
- Agricultural Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), College of Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Jhang Road, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
- International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 74000, Pakistan
- Correspondence:
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Unlocking the magic in mycelium: Using synthetic biology to optimize filamentous fungi for biomanufacturing and sustainability. Mater Today Bio 2023; 19:100560. [PMID: 36756210 PMCID: PMC9900623 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Filamentous fungi drive carbon and nutrient cycling across our global ecosystems, through its interactions with growing and decaying flora and their constituent microbiomes. The remarkable metabolic diversity, secretion ability, and fiber-like mycelial structure that have evolved in filamentous fungi have been increasingly exploited in commercial operations. The industrial potential of mycelial fermentation ranges from the discovery and bioproduction of enzymes and bioactive compounds, the decarbonization of food and material production, to environmental remediation and enhanced agricultural production. Despite its fundamental impact in ecology and biotechnology, molds and mushrooms have not, to-date, significantly intersected with synthetic biology in ways comparable to other industrial cell factories (e.g. Escherichia coli,Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Komagataella phaffii). In this review, we summarize a suite of synthetic biology and computational tools for the mining, engineering and optimization of filamentous fungi as a bioproduction chassis. A combination of methods across genetic engineering, mutagenesis, experimental evolution, and computational modeling can be used to address strain development bottlenecks in established and emerging industries. These include slow mycelium growth rate, low production yields, non-optimal growth in alternative feedstocks, and difficulties in downstream purification. In the scope of biomanufacturing, we then detail previous efforts in improving key bottlenecks by targeting protein processing and secretion pathways, hyphae morphogenesis, and transcriptional control. Bringing synthetic biology practices into the hidden world of molds and mushrooms will serve to expand the limited panel of host organisms that allow for commercially-feasible and environmentally-sustainable bioproduction of enzymes, chemicals, therapeutics, foods, and materials of the future.
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Lutz T, Hadeler B, Jaeckel M, Schulz B, Heinze C. Stable overexpression and targeted gene deletion of the causative agent of ash dieback Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. Fungal Biol Biotechnol 2023; 10:1. [PMID: 36639657 PMCID: PMC9840287 DOI: 10.1186/s40694-023-00149-y] [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: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the infection with the invasive ascomycete Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, which has been replacing the closely related and non-pathogenic native Hymenoscyphus albidus, the European ashes, Fraxinus excelsior (also known as the common ash), Fraxinus angustifolia (also known as narrow-leaved ash) and Fraxinus ornus (also known as the manna ash) are at risk. Hymenoscyphus fraxineus is the causative agent of ash dieback of the European ashes, but is non-pathogenic to the native Asian ash Fraxinus mandshurica (also known as the Manchurian ash). Even though the invasion of H. fraxineus is a great threat for ashes in Europe, the fungal biology is still poorly understood. By the use of live cell imaging and targeted gene knock-out, the fungal life cycle and host-pathogen interaction can be studied in more detail. RESULTS Here, we developed a protocol for the preparation of protoplasts from mycelium of H. fraxineus, for their regeneration and for stable transformation with reporter genes and targeted gene knock-out by homologous recombination. We obtained mutants with various levels of reporter gene expression which did not correlate with the number of integrations. In an in vitro infection assay, we demonstrated the suitability of reporter gene overexpression for fungal detection in plant tissue after inoculation. As a proof of principle for targeted gene knock-out, the hygromycin resistance cassette of a reporter gene-expressing mutant was replaced with a geneticin resistance cassette. CONCLUSIONS The invasive fungal pathogen H. fraxineus is threatening the European ashes. To develop strategies for pest management, a better understanding of the fungal life cycle and its host interaction is crucial. Here, we provide a protocol for stable transformation of H. fraxineus to obtain fluorescence reporter strains and targeted gene knock-out mutants. This protocol will help future investigations on the biology of this pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Lutz
- grid.9026.d0000 0001 2287 2617Institute of Plant Science and Microbiology, Molecular Phytopathology, University of Hamburg, Ohnhorststr. 18, 22609 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Birgit Hadeler
- grid.9026.d0000 0001 2287 2617Institute of Plant Science and Microbiology, Molecular Phytopathology, University of Hamburg, Ohnhorststr. 18, 22609 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mareike Jaeckel
- grid.9026.d0000 0001 2287 2617Institute of Plant Science and Microbiology, Molecular Phytopathology, University of Hamburg, Ohnhorststr. 18, 22609 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Schulz
- grid.6738.a0000 0001 1090 0254Institute of Microbiology, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Spielmannstr. 7, 38106 Brunswick, Germany
| | - Cornelia Heinze
- grid.9026.d0000 0001 2287 2617Institute of Plant Science and Microbiology, Molecular Phytopathology, University of Hamburg, Ohnhorststr. 18, 22609 Hamburg, Germany
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Abstract
Nematode-trapping fungi (NTF) are the majority of carnivorous microbes to capture nematodes through diverse and sophisticated trapping organs derived from hyphae. They can adopt carnivorous lifestyles in addition to saprophytism to obtain extra-nutrition from nematodes. As a special group of fungi, the NTF are not only excellent model organism for studying lifestyle transition of fungi but also natural resources of exploring biological control of nematodes. However, the carnivorous mechanism of NTF remains poorly understood. Nowadays, the omics studies of NTF have provided numerous genes and pathways that are associated with the phenotypes of carnivorous traits, which need molecular tools to verify. Here, we review the development and progress of gene manipulation tools in NTF, including methodology and strategy of transformation, random gene mutagenesis methods and target gene mutagenesis methods. The principle and practical approach for each method was summarized and discussed, and the basic operational flow for each tool was described. This paper offers a clear reference and instruction for researchers who work on NTF as well as other group of fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunxian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology of the Ministry of Education, Department of Microbiology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xingzhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology of the Ministry of Education, Department of Microbiology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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36
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Truckenbrodt
- Convergent Research, E11 Bio. 1600 Harbor Bay Parkway, Alameda, California94502, United States
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Gao J, Liu H, Zhang Z, Liang Z. Establishment, optimization, and application of genetic technology in Aspergillus spp. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1141869. [PMID: 37025635 PMCID: PMC10071863 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1141869] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus is widely distributed in nature and occupies a crucial ecological niche, which has complex and diverse metabolic pathways and can produce a variety of metabolites. With the deepening of genomics exploration, more Aspergillus genomic informations have been elucidated, which not only help us understand the basic mechanism of various life activities, but also further realize the ideal functional transformation. Available genetic engineering tools include homologous recombinant systems, specific nuclease based systems, and RNA techniques, combined with transformation methods, and screening based on selective labeling. Precise editing of target genes can not only prevent and control the production of mycotoxin pollutants, but also realize the construction of economical and efficient fungal cell factories. This paper reviewed the establishment and optimization process of genome technologies, hoping to provide the theoretical basis of experiments, and summarized the recent progress and application in genetic technology, analyzes the challenges and the possibility of future development with regard to Aspergillus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Gao
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Huiqing Liu
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenzhen Zhang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhihong Liang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- The Supervision, Inspection and Testing Center of Genetically Modified Organisms, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing, China
- Beijing Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Zhihong Liang,
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A novel high-throughput approach for transforming filamentous fungi employing a droplet-based microfluidic platform. N Biotechnol 2022; 72:149-158. [PMID: 36442794 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2022.11.003] [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: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Droplet-based microfluidic technology is a powerful tool for single-cell cultivation and rapid isolation of bacteria, yeasts and algae. However, it has been of limited use for studies of filamentous fungi due to the fast growth of their branched hyphae. The long regeneration time for fungal protoplasts and low-throughput screening methods are inherent problems for current genetic transformation techniques. Therefore, we have developed a novel droplet-based method for the filamentous fungus Trichoderma reesei expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) as a marker. This approach presented several outstanding advantages over the traditional transformation method, including a 7-fold reduction in time for T. reesei protoplast regeneration, an 8-fold increase in regeneration frequency, and a screening speed of up to 8,000 droplets min-1. In this study, we encapsulated and incubated the gfp-transformed T. reesei protoplasts in droplets for 24 h, screened the droplets in a high-throughput assay, and eventually collected a transformant library with over 96 % of the candidates transformed with the marker gene. This versatile approach should make fungi more amenable to genetic manipulation and encourage strain improvements for industrial applications.
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Tong C, Wei J, Pan G, Li C, Zhou Z. Study of Pathogenesis Using Fluorescent Strain of Cordyceps farinosa Revealed Infection of Thitarodes armoricanus Larvae via Digestive Tract. INSECTS 2022; 13:1039. [PMID: 36354862 PMCID: PMC9698661 DOI: 10.3390/insects13111039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cordyceps farinosa is often utilized as a biocontrol agent because of its wide host range, strong lethality, and safety for mammals. Artificial rearing of Thitarodes armoricanus larvae is a prerequisite for the artificial cultivation of Chinese cordyceps, and C. farinosa is the most lethal pathogenic fungus during the rearing process. However, the infection process of C. farinosa is still unclear. In this study, we cloned the promoter of the C. farinosa glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase gene, constructed the EGFP expression cassette, and integrated it into the C. farinosa genome via Agrobacterium transformation. We obtained a fluorescent strain for better observation of the infection process. Using two different inoculation methods of the fluorescent strain, we observed the traditional infection process through the body surface as well as through the digestive tract via feeding. Both infection modes can lead to larval death and mummification. Our findings demonstrated that during the artificial rearing of T. armoricanus, preventing C. farinosa pollution should be an important part of the disinfection of the rearing environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqun Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Prevention, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Junhong Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Prevention, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Guoqing Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Prevention, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Chunfeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Prevention, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Zeyang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Prevention, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing 401331, China
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Chiang YM, Lin TS, Wang CCC. Total Heterologous Biosynthesis of Fungal Natural Products in Aspergillus nidulans. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2022; 85:2484-2518. [PMID: 36173392 PMCID: PMC9621686 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.2c00487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Fungal natural products comprise a wide range of bioactive compounds including important drugs and agrochemicals. Intriguingly, bioinformatic analyses of fungal genomes have revealed that fungi have the potential to produce significantly more natural products than what have been discovered so far. It has thus become widely accepted that most biosynthesis pathways of fungal natural products are silent or expressed at very low levels under laboratory cultivation conditions. To tap into this vast chemical reservoir, the reconstitution of entire biosynthetic pathways in genetically tractable fungal hosts (total heterologous biosynthesis) has become increasingly employed in recent years. This review summarizes total heterologous biosynthesis of fungal natural products accomplished before 2020 using Aspergillus nidulans as heterologous hosts. We review here Aspergillus transformation, A. nidulans hosts, shuttle vectors for episomal expression, and chromosomal integration expression. These tools, collectively, not only facilitate the discovery of cryptic natural products but can also be used to generate high-yield strains with clean metabolite backgrounds. In comparison with total synthesis, total heterologous biosynthesis offers a simplified strategy to construct complex molecules and holds potential for commercial application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ming Chiang
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan 71710, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Shyang Lin
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
| | - Clay C C Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
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Gakuubi MM, Ching KC, Munusamy M, Wibowo M, Lim CT, Ma GL, Liang ZX, Kanagasundaram Y, Ng SB. CRISPR/Cas9 RNP-assisted validation of palmarumycin biosynthetic gene cluster in Lophiotrema sp. F6932. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1012115. [PMID: 36246293 PMCID: PMC9556985 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1012115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lophiotrema is a genus of ascomycetous fungi within the family Lophiotremataceae. Members of this genus have been isolated as endophytes from a wide range of host plants and also from plant debris within terrestrial and marine habitats, where they are thought to function as saprobes. Lophiotrema sp. F6932 was isolated from white mangrove (Avicennia officinalis) in Pulau Ubin Island, Singapore. Crude extracts from the fungus exhibited strong antibacterial activity, and bioassay-guided isolation and structure elucidation of bioactive constituents led to the isolation of palmarumycin C8 and a new analog palmarumycin CP30. Whole-genome sequencing analysis resulted in the identification of a putative type 1 iterative PKS (iPKS) predicated to be involved in the biosynthesis of palmarumycins. To verify the involvement of palmarumycin (PAL) gene cluster in the biosynthesis of these compounds, we employed ribonucleoprotein (RNP)-mediated CRISPR-Cas9 to induce targeted deletion of the ketosynthase (KS) domain in PAL. Double-strand breaks (DSBs) upstream and downstream of the KS domain was followed by homology-directed repair (HDR) with a hygromycin resistance cassette flanked by a 50 bp of homology on both sides of the DSBs. The resultant deletion mutants displayed completely different phenotypes compared to the wild-type strain, as they had different colony morphology and were no longer able to produce palmarumycins or melanin. This study, therefore, confirms the involvement of PAL in the biosynthesis of palmarumycins, and paves the way for implementing a similar approach in the characterization of other gene clusters of interest in this largely understudied fungal strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Muthee Gakuubi
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kuan Chieh Ching
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Madhaiyan Munusamy
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mario Wibowo
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chun Teck Lim
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Guang-Lei Ma
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zhao-Xun Liang
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yoganathan Kanagasundaram
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Siew Bee Ng
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- *Correspondence: Siew Bee Ng,
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Wang W, Wang Y, Dong G, Chen F. Development of Cordyceps javanica BE01 with enhanced virulence against Hyphantria cunea using polyethylene glycol-mediated protoplast transformation. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:972425. [PMID: 36118242 PMCID: PMC9478556 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.972425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cordyceps javanica has promising application prospects as an entomopathogenic fungus with a wide range of hosts. To enhance the virulence of C. javanica, a polyethylene glycol (PEG)-mediated protoplast genetic transformation system was constructed. Strains overexpressing the subtilisin-like protease genes CJPRB and CJPRB1 and the tripeptidyl peptidase gene CJCLN2-1 were constructed with this system, and the effects of these strains on Hyphantria cunea were tested. The aminoglycoside G418 was used at 800 μg ml−1 to screen the transformants. C. javanica hyphae were degraded with an enzyme mixture to obtain protoplasts at 1.31 × 107 protoplasts ml−1. The transformation of 2 μg of DNA into 1,000 protoplasts was achieved with 20% PEG2000, and after 6 h of recovery, the transformation efficiency was 12.33 ± 1.42 transformants μg−1 plasmid. The LT50 values of CJPRB, CJPRB1, and CJCLN2-1-overexpressing C. javanica strains were 1.32-fold, 2.21-fold, and 2.14-fold higher than that of the wild-type (WT) strain, respectively. The three overexpression strains showed no significant differences from the WT strain in terms of colony growth, conidial yield, and conidial germination rate. However, the infection rate of the CJPRB1 strain was faster than that of the WT strain, with infection occurring within 4–5 days. The CJCLN2-1 strain had a significantly higher mortality rate than the WT strain within 4–10 days after infection. A C. javanica genetic transformation system was successfully constructed for the first time, and an overexpression strain exhibited enhanced virulence to H. cunea compared with the WT strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxiu Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Forestry, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yahong Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Forestry, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangping Dong
- Key Laboratory of State Forestry Administration on Pine Wilt Disease Prevention and Control, Hefei, China
| | - Fengmao Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Forestry, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Fengmao Chen,
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Soares DMM, Procópio DP, Zamuner CK, Nóbrega BB, Bettim MR, de Rezende G, Lopes PM, Pereira ABD, Bechara EJH, Oliveira AG, Freire RS, Stevani CV. Fungal bioassays for environmental monitoring. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:954579. [PMID: 36091455 PMCID: PMC9452622 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.954579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental pollutants are today a major concern and an intensely discussed topic on the global agenda for sustainable development. They include a wide range of organic compounds, such as pharmaceutical waste, pesticides, plastics, and volatile organic compounds that can be found in air, soil, water bodies, sewage, and industrial wastewater. In addition to impacting fauna, flora, and fungi, skin absorption, inhalation, and ingestion of some pollutants can also negatively affect human health. Fungi play a crucial role in the decomposition and cycle of natural and synthetic substances. They exhibit a variety of growth, metabolic, morphological, and reproductive strategies and can be found in association with animals, plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. There are fungal strains that occur naturally in soil, sediment, and water that have inherent abilities to survive with contaminants, making the organism important for bioassay applications. In this context, we reviewed the applications of fungal-based bioassays as a versatile tool for environmental monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas M. M. Soares
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dielle P. Procópio
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Innovation (RGCI-POLI-USP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Caio K. Zamuner
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bianca B. Nóbrega
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Monalisa R. Bettim
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gustavo de Rezende
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro M. Lopes
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Arthur B. D. Pereira
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Etelvino J. H. Bechara
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anderson G. Oliveira
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Renato S. Freire
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Innovation (RGCI-POLI-USP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cassius V. Stevani
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Innovation (RGCI-POLI-USP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Cassius V. Stevani,
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Coccidioides Species: A Review of Basic Research: 2022. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080859. [PMID: 36012847 PMCID: PMC9409882 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Coccidioides immitis and posadasii are closely related fungal species that cause coccidioidomycosis. These dimorphic organisms cause disease in immunocompetent as well as immunocompromised individuals and as much as 40% of the population is infected in the endemic area. Although most infections resolve spontaneously, the infection can be prolonged and, in some instances, fatal. Coccidioides has been studied for more than 100 years and many aspects of the organism and the disease it causes have been investigated. There are over 500 manuscripts concerning Coccidioides (excluding clinical articles) referenced in PubMed over the past 50 years, so there is a large body of evidence to review. We reviewed the most accurate and informative basic research studies of these fungi including some seminal older studies as well as an extensive review of current research. This is an attempt to gather the most important basic research studies about this fungus into one publication. To focus this review, we will discuss the mycology of the organism exclusively rather than the studies of the host response or clinical studies. We hope that this review will be a useful resource to those interested in Coccidioides and coccidioidomycosis.
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Kollerov V, Donova M. Ursodeoxycholic acid production by Gibberella zeae mutants. AMB Express 2022; 12:105. [PMID: 35939125 PMCID: PMC9360310 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-022-01446-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a highly demanded pharmaceutical steroid widely used in medicine. An ascomycete Gibberella zeae VKM F-2600 is capable of producing UDCA by 7β-hydroxylation of lithocholic acid (LCA). The present study is aimed at the improvement of the fungus productivity. The original procedures for the protoplast obtaining followed by UV mutagenesis and screening of ketoconazole-resistant mutant clones have been applied. The highest yield of G. zeae protoplasts was obtained when using the mycelium in the active growth phase, ammonium chloride as an osmotic stabilizer and treatment of the fungal cells by the lytic enzymes cocktail from Trichoderma hurzanium. The conditions for effective protoplast regeneration and the UV-mutagenesis were found to provide 6–12% survival rate of the protoplasts with superior number of possible mutations. Three of 27 ketoconazole-resistant mutant clones obtained have been selected due to their increased biocatalytic activity towards LCA. The mutant G. zeae M23 produced 26% more UDCA even at relatively high LCA concentration (4 g/L) as compared with parent fungal strain, and the conversion reached 88% (w/w). The yield of UDCA reached in this study prefers those ever reported. The results contribute to the knowledge on ascomycete mutagenesis, and are of importance for biotechnological production of value added cholic acids. Efficient procedures for production and regeneration of Gibberella zeae protoplasts were determined. Fungal mutants were obtained with elevated 7β-hydroxylase activity. Mutant G. zeae M23 almost fully converts LCA (4 g/L) to UDCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vyacheslav Kollerov
- Federal Research Center Pushchino Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences, G.K. Skryabin Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Nauki, 5, 142290, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia.
| | - Marina Donova
- Federal Research Center Pushchino Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences, G.K. Skryabin Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Nauki, 5, 142290, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia
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Wang Y, Chen H, Ma L, Gong M, Wu Y, Bao D, Zou G. Use of CRISPR-Cas tools to engineer Trichoderma species. Microb Biotechnol 2022; 15:2521-2532. [PMID: 35908288 PMCID: PMC9518982 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14126] [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: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Given their lignocellulose degradability and biocontrol activities, fungi of the ubiquitously distributed genus Trichoderma have multiple industrial and agricultural applications. Genetic manipulation plays a valuable role in tailoring novel engineered strains with enhanced target traits. Nevertheless, as applied to fungi, the classic tools of genetic manipulation tend to be time-consuming and tedious. However, the recent development of the CRISPR-Cas system for gene editing has enabled researchers to achieve genome-wide gene disruptions, gene replacements, and precise editing, and this technology has emerged as a primary focus for novel developments in engineered strains of Trichoderma. Here, we provide a brief overview of the traditional approaches to genetic manipulation, the different strategies employed in establishing CRSIPR-Cas systems, the utilization of these systems to develop engineered strains of Trichoderma for desired applications, and the future trends in biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Institute of Edible Fungi, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongyu Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Institute of Edible Fungi, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Key Laboratory for Quality Improvement of Agricultural Products of Zhejiang Province, College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an Hangzhou, China
| | - Ming Gong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Institute of Edible Fungi, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingying Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Institute of Edible Fungi, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Dapeng Bao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Institute of Edible Fungi, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Gen Zou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Institute of Edible Fungi, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
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Tiwari M, Mishra AK, Chakrabarty D. Agrobacterium-mediated gene transfer: recent advancements and layered immunity in plants. PLANTA 2022; 256:37. [PMID: 35819629 PMCID: PMC9274631 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-022-03951-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Plant responds to Agrobacterium via three-layered immunity that determines its susceptibility or resistance to Agrobacterium infection. Agrobacterium tumefaciens is a soil-borne Gram-negative bacterium that causes crown gall disease in plants. The remarkable feat of interkingdom gene transfer has been extensively utilised in plant biotechnology to transform plant as well as non-host systems. In the past two decades, the molecular mode of the pathogenesis of A. tumefaciens has been extensively studied. Agrobacterium has also been utilised as a premier model to understand the defence response of plants during plant-Agrobacterium interaction. Nonetheless, the threat of Agrobacterium-mediated crown gall disease persists and is associated with a huge loss of plant vigour in agriculture. Understanding the molecular dialogues between these two interkingdom species might provide a cure for crown gall disease. Plants respond to A. tumefaciens by mounting a three-layered immune response, which is manipulated by Agrobacterium via its virulence effector proteins. Comparative studies on plant defence proteins versus the counter-defence of Agrobacterium have shed light on plant susceptibility and tolerance. It is possible to manipulate a plant's immune system to overcome the crown gall disease and increase its competence via A. tumefaciens-mediated transformation. This review summarises the recent advances in the molecular mode of Agrobacterium pathogenesis as well as the three-layered immune response of plants against Agrobacterium infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhu Tiwari
- Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, 226001, India
- Laboratory of Microbial Genetics, Department of Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Arun Kumar Mishra
- Laboratory of Microbial Genetics, Department of Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Debasis Chakrabarty
- Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, 226001, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
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Development of the CRISPR-Cas9 System for the Marine-Derived Fungi Spiromastix sp. SCSIO F190 and Aspergillus sp. SCSIO SX7S7. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8070715. [PMID: 35887470 PMCID: PMC9322911 DOI: 10.3390/jof8070715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine-derived fungi are emerging as attractive producers of structurally novel secondary metabolites with diverse bioactivities. However, the lack of efficient genetic tools limits the discovery of novel compounds and the elucidation of biosynthesis mechanisms. Here, we firstly established an effective PEG-mediated chemical transformation system for protoplasts in two marine-derived fungi, Spiromastix sp. SCSIO F190 and Aspergillus sp. SCSIO SX7S7. Next, we developed a simple and versatile CRISPR-Cas9-based gene disruption strategy by transforming a target fungus with a single plasmid. We found that the transformation with a circular plasmid encoding cas9, a single-guide RNA (sgRNA), and a selectable marker resulted in a high frequency of targeted and insertional gene mutations in both marine-derived fungal strains. In addition, the histone deacetylase gene rpd3 was mutated using the established CRISPR-Cas9 system, thereby activating novel secondary metabolites that were not produced in the wild-type strain. Taken together, a versatile CRISPR-Cas9-based gene disruption method was established, which will promote the discovery of novel natural products and further biological studies.
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Strong PJ, Self R, Allikian K, Szewczyk E, Speight R, O'Hara I, Harrison MD. Filamentous fungi for future functional food and feed. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2022; 76:102729. [PMID: 35525176 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2022.102729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we offer our opinion of current and expected trends regarding the use of mushrooms and mycelia in food and feed. Mushrooms have provided food for millennia and production methods and species diversity have recently expanded. Beyond mushrooms, cultured fungal mycelia are now harvested as a primary product for food. Mushrooms and mycelia provide dietary protein, lipids and fatty acids, vitamins, fibre, and flavour, and can improve the organoleptic properties of processed foods (including meat analogues). Further, they are often key ingredients in nutritional or therapeutic supplements because of diverse specialised metabolites. Mycelia can also improve feed conversion efficiency, gut health, and wellbeing in livestock. New molecular tools, coupled with quality genetic data, are improving production technologies, enabling the synthesis of specialised metabolites, and creating new processing and valorisation opportunities. Production systems for submerged culture are capital intensive, but investment is required considering the scale of the protein market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter James Strong
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia; School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland 4000, Australia.
| | - Rachel Self
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia; School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia
| | - Kathrine Allikian
- Nourish Ingredients, Unit 2, 6 Pelle Street, Mitchell, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2911, Australia
| | - Edyta Szewczyk
- Bolt Threads, 5858 Horton St, Suite 400, Emeryville, CA 94608, United States
| | - Robert Speight
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia; School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland 4000, Australia
| | - Ian O'Hara
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland 4000, Australia; School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia
| | - Mark D Harrison
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia; School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia
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Tiwari M, Gautam N, Indoliya Y, Kidwai M, Mishra AK, Chakrabarty D. A tau class GST, OsGSTU5, interacts with VirE2 and modulates the Agrobacterium-mediated transformation in rice. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2022; 41:873-891. [PMID: 35067774 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-021-02824-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
OsGSTU5 interacts and glutathionylates the VirE2 protein of Agrobacterium and its (OsGSTU5) overexpression and downregulation showed a low and high AMT efficiency in rice, respectively. During Agrobacterium-mediated transformation (AMT), T-DNA along with several virulence proteins such as VirD2, VirE2, VirE3, VirD5, and VirF enter the plant cytoplasm. VirE2 serves as a single-stranded DNA binding (SSB) protein that assists the cytoplasmic trafficking of T-DNA inside the host cell. Though the regulatory roles of VirE2 have been established, the cellular reaction of their host, especially in monocots, has not been characterized in detail. This study identified a cellular interactor of VirE2 from the cDNA library of rice. The identified plant protein encoded by the gene cloned from rice was designated OsGSTU5, it interacted specifically with VirE2 in the host cytoplasm. OsGSTU5 was upregulated during Agrobacterium infection and involved in the post-translational glutathionylation of VirE2 (gVirE2). Interestingly, the in silico analysis showed that the 'gVirE2 + ssDNA' complex was structurally less stable than the 'VirE2 + ssDNA' complex. The gel shift assay also confirmed the attenuated SSB property of gVirE2 over VirE2. Moreover, knock-down and overexpression of OsGSTU5 in rice showed increased and decreased T-DNA expression, respectively after Agrobacterium infection. The present finding establishes the role of OsGSTU5 as an important target for modulation of AMT efficiency in rice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhu Tiwari
- Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, 226001, India
- Laboratory of Microbial Genetics, Department of Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Neelam Gautam
- Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, 226001, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Yuvraj Indoliya
- Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, 226001, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Maria Kidwai
- Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, 226001, India
| | - Arun Kumar Mishra
- Laboratory of Microbial Genetics, Department of Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Debasis Chakrabarty
- Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, 226001, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
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