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Whiting-Fawcett F, Blomberg AS, Troitsky T, Meierhofer MB, Field KA, Puechmaille SJ, Lilley TM. A Palearctic view of a bat fungal disease. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2024:e14265. [PMID: 38616727 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The fungal infection causing white-nose disease in hibernating bats in North America has resulted in dramatic population declines of affected species, since the introduction of the causative agent Pseudogymnoascus destructans. The fungus is native to the Palearctic, where it also infects several bat species, yet rarely causes severe pathology or the death of the host. Pseudogymnoascus destructans infects bats during hibernation by invading and digesting the skin tissue, resulting in the disruption of torpor patterns and consequent emaciation. Relations among pathogen, host, and environment are complex, and individuals, populations, and species respond to the fungal pathogen in different ways. For example, the Nearctic Myotis lucifugus responds to infection by mounting a robust immune response, leading to immunopathology often contributing to mortality. In contrast, the Palearctic M. myotis shows no significant immunological response to infection. This lack of a strong response, resulting from the long coevolution between the hosts and the pathogen in the pathogen's native range, likely contributes to survival in tolerant species. After more than 15 years since the initial introduction of the fungus to North America, some of the affected populations are showing signs of recovery, suggesting that the fungus, hosts, or both are undergoing processes that may eventually lead to coexistence. The suggested or implemented management methods of the disease in North America have encompassed, for example, the use of probiotics and fungicides, vaccinations, and modifying the environmental conditions of the hibernation sites to limit the growth of the pathogen, intensity of infection, or the hosts' responses to it. Based on current knowledge from Eurasia, policy makers and conservation managers should refrain from disrupting the ongoing evolutionary processes and adopt a holistic approach to managing the epizootic.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Whiting-Fawcett
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- BatLab Finland, Finnish Museum of Natural History, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A S Blomberg
- BatLab Finland, Finnish Museum of Natural History, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T Troitsky
- BatLab Finland, Finnish Museum of Natural History, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M B Meierhofer
- BatLab Finland, Finnish Museum of Natural History, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - K A Field
- Department of Biology, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - S J Puechmaille
- Institut des Sciences de l'Évolution Montpellier (ISEM), University of Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Montpellier, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
| | - T M Lilley
- BatLab Finland, Finnish Museum of Natural History, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Niessen L, Fritze M, Wibbelt G, Puechmaille SJ. Development and Application of Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) Assays for Rapid Diagnosis of the Bat White-Nose Disease Fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans. Mycopathologia 2022; 187:547-565. [PMID: 35931867 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-022-00650-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Pseudogymnoascus destructans (= Geomyces destructans) is a psychrophilic filamentous fungus that causes White-Nose Disease (WND; the disease associated with White-Nose Syndrome, WNS) in hibernating bats. The disease has caused considerable reductions in bat populations in the USA and Canada since 2006. Identification and detection of the pathogen in pure cultures and environmental samples is routinely based on qPCR or PCR after DNA isolation and purification. Rapid and specific direct detection of the fungus in the field would strongly improve prompt surveillance, and support control measures. Based on the genes coding for ATP citrate lyase1 (acl1) and the 28S-18S ribosomal RNA intergenic spacer (IGS) in P. destructans, two independent LAMP assays were developed for the rapid and sensitive diagnosis of the fungus. Both assays could discriminate P. destructans from 159 tested species of filamentous fungi and yeasts. Sensitivity of the assays was 2.1 picogram per reaction (pg/rxn) and 21 femtogram per reaction (fg/rxn) for the acl1 and IGS based assays, respectively. Moreover, both assays also work with spores and mycelia of P. destructans that are directly added to the master mix without prior DNA extraction. For field-diagnostics, we developed and tested a field-applicable version of the IGS-based LAMP assay. Lastly, we also developed a protocol for preparation of fungal spores and mycelia from swabs and tape liftings of contaminated surfaces or infected bats. This protocol in combination with the highly sensitive IGS-based LAMP-assay enabled sensitive detection of P. destructans from various sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludwig Niessen
- TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Gregor-Mendel-Str. 4, 85354, Freising, Germany.
| | - Marcus Fritze
- Applied Zoology and Nature Conservation, University of Greifswald, Loitzer Str. 26, 17489, Greifswald, Germany.,German Bat Observatory, Am Juliusturm 64, 13599, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gudrun Wibbelt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastien J Puechmaille
- Applied Zoology and Nature Conservation, University of Greifswald, Loitzer Str. 26, 17489, Greifswald, Germany.,ISEM, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Institut Universitaire de France, 75005, Paris, France
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Forsythe A, Fontaine N, Bissonnette J, Hayashi B, Insuk C, Ghosh S, Kam G, Wong A, Lausen C, Xu J, Cheeptham N. Microbial isolates with Anti-Pseudogymnoascus destructans activities from Western Canadian bat wings. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9895. [PMID: 35701553 PMCID: PMC9198084 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14223-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd) is the causative agent of white-nose syndrome, which has resulted in the death of millions of bats in North America (NA) since 2006. Based on mortalities in eastern NA, the westward spread of infections likely poses a significant threat to western NA bats. To help prevent/reduce Pd infections in bats in western NA, we isolated bacteria from the wings of wild bats and screened for inhibitory activity against Pd. In total, we obtained 1,362 bacterial isolates from 265 wild bats of 13 species in western Canada. Among the 1,362 isolates, 96 showed inhibitory activity against Pd based on a coculture assay. The inhibitory activities varied widely among these isolates, ranging from slowing fungal growth to complete inhibition. Interestingly, host bats containing isolates with anti-Pd activities were widely distributed, with no apparent geographic or species-specific pattern. However, characteristics of roosting sites and host demography showed significant associations with the isolation of anti-Pd bacteria. Specifically, anthropogenic roosts and swabs from young males had higher frequencies of anti-Pd bacteria than those from natural roosts and those from other sex and age-groups, respectively. These anti-Pd bacteria could be potentially used to help mitigate the impact of WNS. Field trials using these as well as additional microbes from future screenings are needed in order to determine their effectiveness for the prevention and treatment against WNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Forsythe
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Nick Fontaine
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 08C, Canada
| | - Julianna Bissonnette
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 08C, Canada
| | - Brandon Hayashi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 08C, Canada
| | - Chadabhorn Insuk
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.,Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 08C, Canada
| | - Soumya Ghosh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 08C, Canada.,Department of Genetics, Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Gabrielle Kam
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 08C, Canada
| | - Aaron Wong
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 08C, Canada
| | - Cori Lausen
- Wildlife Conservation Society Canada, P.O. Box 606, Kaslo, BC, V0G 1M0, Canada.
| | - Jianping Xu
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.
| | - Naowarat Cheeptham
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 08C, Canada.
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Garzoli L, Bozzetta E, Varello K, Cappelleri A, Patriarca E, Debernardi P, Riccucci M, Boggero A, Girometta C, Picco AM. White-Nose Syndrome Confirmed in Italy: A Preliminary Assessment of Its Occurrence in Bat Species. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:192. [PMID: 33803110 PMCID: PMC8000523 DOI: 10.3390/jof7030192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Although no mass mortality has been recorded so far, the precise demographic effect of white-nose syndrome (WNS) on European bats still remains to be ascertained. Following the first isolation of P. destructans in Italy, further surveys were performed to assess the distribution of the fungus in NW Italy and its effects on bats. Data were collected from March 2019 to April 2020 at sites used for hibernation (six sites) and/or for reproduction (four sites) in Piedmont and Aosta Valley. A total of 138 bats, belonging to 10 species, were examined to identify clinical features possibly related to the fungal presence. Culture from swabs and the molecular identification of isolates confirmed the presence of P. destructans in bats from five sites, including two maternal roosts. Dermal fungal infiltration, the criterion to assess the presence of WNS, was observed in biopsies of bats belonging to Myotis blythii, M. daubentonii, M. emarginatus and M. myotis. This is the first report of the disease in Italy. The results suggest a greater susceptibility to the infection of the genus Myotis and particularly of M. emarginatus, possibly due to the long length of its hibernation period. Other fungal dermatophytes were also observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Garzoli
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.G.); (A.M.P.)
- S.Te.P. Stazione Teriologica Piemontese, 10022 Carmagnola, Italy; (E.P.); (P.D.)
- CNR-Water Research Institute (IRSA), 28922 Verbania, Italy;
| | - Elena Bozzetta
- Department of Specialised Diagnostic, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (E.B.); (K.V.)
| | - Katia Varello
- Department of Specialised Diagnostic, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (E.B.); (K.V.)
| | - Andrea Cappelleri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, 26900 Lodi, Italy;
- Mouse and Animal Pathology Laboratory (MAPLab), Fondazione UniMi, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Patriarca
- S.Te.P. Stazione Teriologica Piemontese, 10022 Carmagnola, Italy; (E.P.); (P.D.)
| | - Paolo Debernardi
- S.Te.P. Stazione Teriologica Piemontese, 10022 Carmagnola, Italy; (E.P.); (P.D.)
| | - Marco Riccucci
- Zoological Section «La Specola», Museum of Natural History of the University of Florence, 50125 Florence, Italy;
| | - Angela Boggero
- CNR-Water Research Institute (IRSA), 28922 Verbania, Italy;
| | - Carolina Girometta
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.G.); (A.M.P.)
| | - Anna Maria Picco
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.G.); (A.M.P.)
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Landscape Genetic Connectivity and Evidence for Recombination in the North American Population of the White-Nose Syndrome Pathogen, Pseudogymnoascus destructans. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7030182. [PMID: 33802538 PMCID: PMC8001231 DOI: 10.3390/jof7030182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
White-Nose Syndrome is an ongoing fungal epizootic caused by epidermal infections of the fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans (P. destructans), affecting hibernating bat species in North America. Emerging early in 2006 in New York State, infections of P. destructans have spread to 38 US States and seven Canadian Provinces. Since then, clonal isolates of P. destructans have accumulated genotypic and phenotypic variations in North America. Using microsatellite and single nucleotide polymorphism markers, we investigated the population structure and genetic relationships among P. destructans isolates from diverse regions in North America to understand its pattern of spread, and to test hypotheses about factors that contribute to transmission. We found limited support for genetic isolation of P. destructans populations by geographic distance, and instead identified evidence for gene flow among geographic regions. Interestingly, allelic association tests revealed evidence for recombination in the North American P. destructans population. Our landscape genetic analyses revealed that the population structure of P. destructans in North America was significantly influenced by anthropogenic impacts on the landscape. Our results have important implications for understanding the mechanism(s) of P. destructans spread.
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Veselská T, Homutová K, García Fraile P, Kubátová A, Martínková N, Pikula J, Kolařík M. Comparative eco-physiology revealed extensive enzymatic curtailment, lipases production and strong conidial resilience of the bat pathogenic fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16530. [PMID: 33020524 PMCID: PMC7536203 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73619-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The genus Pseudogymnoascus encompasses soil psychrophilic fungi living also in caves. Some are opportunistic pathogens; nevertheless, they do not cause outbreaks. Pseudogymnoascus destructans is the causative agent of the white-nose syndrome, which is decimating cave-hibernating bats. We used comparative eco-physiology to contrast the enzymatic potential and conidial resilience of P. destructans with that of phylogenetically diverse cave fungi, including Pseudogymnoascus spp., dermatophytes and outdoor saprotrophs. Enzymatic potential was assessed by Biolog MicroArray and by growth on labelled substrates and conidial viability was detected by flow cytometry. Pseudogymnoascus destructans was specific by extensive losses of metabolic variability and by ability of lipid degradation. We suppose that lipases are important enzymes allowing fungal hyphae to digest and invade the skin. Pseudogymnoascus destructans prefers nitrogenous substrates occurring in bat skin and lipids. Additionally, P. destructans alkalizes growth medium, which points to another possible virulence mechanism. Temperature above 30 °C substantially decreases conidial viability of cave fungi including P. destructans. Nevertheless, survival of P. destructans conidia prolongs by the temperature regime simulating beginning of the flight season, what suggests that conidia could persist on the body surface of bats and contribute to disease spreading during bats active season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Veselská
- Laboratory of Fungal Genetics and Metabolism, Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Vídeňská 1083, 14220, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Benátská 2, 12801, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Karolína Homutová
- Laboratory of Fungal Genetics and Metabolism, Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Vídeňská 1083, 14220, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Paula García Fraile
- Laboratory of Fungal Genetics and Metabolism, Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Vídeňská 1083, 14220, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Kubátová
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Benátská 2, 12801, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Natália Martínková
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Květná 8, 60365, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Pikula
- Department of Ecology and Diseases of Game, Fish and Bees, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého třída 1946/1, 61242, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Kolařík
- Laboratory of Fungal Genetics and Metabolism, Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Vídeňská 1083, 14220, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Ren P, Rajkumar SS, Zhang T, Sui H, Masters PS, Martinkova N, Kubátová A, Pikula J, Chaturvedi S, Chaturvedi V. A common partitivirus infection in United States and Czech Republic isolates of bat white-nose syndrome fungal pathogen Pseudogymnoascus destructans. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13893. [PMID: 32807800 PMCID: PMC7431587 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70375-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The psychrophilic (cold-loving) fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans was discovered more than a decade ago to be the pathogen responsible for white-nose syndrome, an emerging disease of North American bats causing unprecedented population declines. The same species of fungus is found in Europe but without associated mortality in bats. We found P. destructans was infected with a mycovirus [named Pseudogymnoascus destructans partitivirus 1 (PdPV-1)]. The virus is bipartite, containing two double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) segments designated as dsRNA1 and dsRNA2. The cDNA sequences revealed that dsRNA1 dsRNA is 1,683 bp in length with an open reading frame (ORF) that encodes 539 amino acids (molecular mass of 62.7 kDa); dsRNA2 dsRNA is 1,524 bp in length with an ORF that encodes 434 amino acids (molecular mass of 46.9 kDa). The dsRNA1 ORF contains motifs representative of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), whereas the dsRNA2 ORF sequence showed homology with the putative capsid proteins (CPs) of mycoviruses. Phylogenetic analyses with PdPV-1 RdRp and CP sequences indicated that both segments constitute the genome of a novel virus in the family Partitiviridae. The purified virions were isometric with an estimated diameter of 33 nm. Reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and sequencing revealed that all US isolates and a subset of Czech Republic isolates of P. destructans were infected with PdPV-1. However, PdPV-1 appears to be not widely dispersed in the fungal genus Pseudogymnoascus, as non-pathogenic fungi P. appendiculatus (1 isolate) and P. roseus (6 isolates) tested negative. P. destructans PdPV-1 could be a valuable tool to investigate fungal biogeography and the host-pathogen interactions in bat WNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Ren
- Mycology Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA. .,Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
| | - Sunanda S Rajkumar
- Mycology Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA.,ICMR Medical Research Institute, Puducherry, India
| | - Tao Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Haixin Sui
- Cellular and Molecular Basis of Diseases Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Albany School of Public Health, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Paul S Masters
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Albany School of Public Health, Albany, NY, USA.,Viral Replication and Vector Biology Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Natalia Martinkova
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Kubátová
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Pikula
- Department of Ecology and Diseases of Zoo Animals, Game, Fish and Bees, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Sudha Chaturvedi
- Mycology Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Albany School of Public Health, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Vishnu Chaturvedi
- Mycology Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Albany School of Public Health, Albany, NY, USA.
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Micalizzi EW, Smith ML. Volatile organic compounds kill the white-nose syndrome fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, in hibernaculum sediment. Can J Microbiol 2020; 66:593-599. [PMID: 32485113 DOI: 10.1139/cjm-2020-0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the fungal pathogen that causes white-nose syndrome, has killed millions of bats across eastern North America and continues to threaten new bat populations. The spread and persistence of P. destructans has likely been worsened by the ability of this fungus to grow as a saprotroph in the hibernaculum environment. Reducing the environmental growth of P. destructans may improve bat survival. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are attractive candidates to target environmental P. destructans, as they can permeate through textured environments that may be difficult to thoroughly contact with other control mechanisms. We tested in hibernaculum sediment the performance of VOCs that were previously shown to inhibit P. destructans growth in agar cultures and examined the inhibition kinetics and specificity of these compounds. Three VOCs, 2-methyl-1-butanol, 2-methyl-1-propanol, and 1-pentanol, were fungicidal towards P. destructans in hibernaculum sediment, fast-acting, and had greater effects against P. destructans than other Pseudogymnoascus species. Our results suggest that use of these VOCs may be considered further as an effective management strategy to reduce the environmental exposure of bats to P. destructans in hibernacula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma W Micalizzi
- Department of Biology, Nesbitt Building, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada.,Department of Biology, Nesbitt Building, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Myron L Smith
- Department of Biology, Nesbitt Building, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada.,Department of Biology, Nesbitt Building, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
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9
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Kreyling J, Puechmaille SJ, Malyshev AV, Valladares F. Phenotypic plasticity closely linked to climate at origin and resulting in increased mortality under warming and frost stress in a common grass. Ecol Evol 2019; 9:1344-1352. [PMID: 30805164 PMCID: PMC6374657 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.4848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic plasticity is important for species responses to global change and species coexistence. Phenotypic plasticity differs among species and traits and changes across environments. Here, we investigated phenotypic plasticity of the widespread grass Arrhenatherum elatius in response to winter warming and frost stress by comparing phenotypic plasticity of 11 geographically and environmentally distinct populations of this species to phenotypic plasticity of populations of different species originating from a single environment. The variation in phenotypic plasticity was similar for populations of a single species from different locations compared to populations of functionally and taxonomically diverse species from one environment for the studied traits (leaf biomass production and root integrity after frost) across three indices of phenotypic plasticity (RDPI, PIN, slope of reaction norm). Phenotypic plasticity was not associated with neutral genetic diversity but closely linked to the climate of the populations' origin. Populations originating from warmer and more variable climates showed higher phenotypic plasticity. This indicates that phenotypic plasticity can itself be considered as a trait subject to local adaptation to climate. Finally, our data emphasize that high phenotypic plasticity is not per se positive for adaptation to climate change, as differences in stress responses are resulting in high phenotypic plasticity as expressed by common plasticity indices, which is likely to be related to increased mortality under stress in more plastic populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juergen Kreyling
- Institute of Botany and Landscape Ecology, Experimental Plant EcologyGreifswald UniversityGreifswaldGermany
| | - Sébastien J. Puechmaille
- Zoological Institute and Museum, Applied Zoology and Nature ConservationGreifswald UniversityGreifswaldGermany
- Present address:
ISEM, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRDMontpellierFrance
| | - Andrey V. Malyshev
- Institute of Botany and Landscape Ecology, Experimental Plant EcologyGreifswald UniversityGreifswaldGermany
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10
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Phenotypic Divergence along Geographic Gradients Reveals Potential for Rapid Adaptation of the White-Nose Syndrome Pathogen, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, in North America. Appl Environ Microbiol 2018; 84:AEM.00863-18. [PMID: 29915107 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00863-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
White-nose syndrome (WNS) is an ongoing epizootic affecting multiple species of North American bats, caused by epidermal infections of the psychrophilic filamentous fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans Since its introduction from Europe, WNS has spread rapidly across eastern North America and resulted in high mortality rates in bats. At present, the mechanisms behind its spread and the extent of its adaptation to different geographic and ecological niches remain unknown. The objective of this study was to examine the geographic patterns of phenotypic variation and the potential evidence for adaptation among strains representing broad geographic locations in eastern North America. The morphological features of these strains were evaluated on artificial medium, and the viability of asexual arthroconidia of representative strains was investigated after storage at high (23°C), moderate (14°C), and low (4°C) temperatures at different lengths of time. Our analyses identified evidence for a geographic pattern of colony morphology changes among the clonal descendants of the fungus, with trait values correlated with increased distance from the epicenter of WNS. Our genomic comparisons of three representative isolates revealed novel genetic polymorphisms and suggested potential candidate mutations that might be related to some of the phenotypic changes. These results show that even though this pathogen arrived in North America only recently and reproduces asexually, there has been substantial evolution and phenotypic diversification during its rapid clonal expansion.IMPORTANCE The causal agent of white-nose syndrome in bats is Pseudogymnoascus destructans, a filamentous fungus recently introduced from its native range in Europe. Infections caused by P. destructans have progressed across the eastern parts of Canada and the United States over the last 10 years. It is not clear how the disease is spread, as the pathogen is unable to grow above 23°C and ambient temperature can act as a barrier when hosts disperse. Here, we explore the patterns of phenotypic diversity and the germination of the fungal asexual spores, arthroconidia, from strains across a sizeable area of the epizootic range. Our analyses revealed evidence of adaptation along geographic gradients during its expansion. The results have implications for understanding the diversification of P. destructans and the limits of WNS spread in North America. Given the rapidly expanding distribution of WNS, a detailed understanding of the genetic bases for phenotypic variations in growth, reproduction, and dispersal of P. destructans is urgently needed to help control this disease.
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Manawasinghe IS, Zhang W, Li X, Zhao W, Chethana K, Xu J, Chen Z, Dissanayaka AJ, Mugnai L, Úrbez-Torres JR, Savocchia S, Hyde KD, Yan J. Novel microsatellite markers reveal multiple origins of Botryosphaeria dothidea causing the Chinese grapevine trunk disease. FUNGAL ECOL 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.funeco.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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12
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Donaldson ME, Davy CM, Vanderwolf KJ, Willis CKR, Saville BJ, Kyle CJ. Growth medium and incubation temperature alter the Pseudogymnoascus destructans transcriptome: implications in identifying virulence factors. Mycologia 2018; 110:300-315. [PMID: 29737946 DOI: 10.1080/00275514.2018.1438223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Pseudogymnoascus destructans is the causal agent of bat white-nose syndrome (WNS), which is devastating some North American bat populations. Previous transcriptome studies provided insight regarding the molecular mechanisms involved in WNS; however, it is unclear how different environmental parameters could influence pathogenicity. This information could be useful in developing management strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of P. destructans on bats. We cultured three P. destructans isolates from Atlantic Canada on two growth media (potato dextrose agar and Sabouraud dextrose agar) that differ in their nitrogen source, and at two separate incubation temperatures (4 C and 15 C) that approximate the temperature range of bat hibernacula during the winter and a temperature within its optimal mycelial growth range. We conducted RNA sequencing to determine transcript levels in each sample and performed differential gene expression (DGE) analyses to test the influence of growth medium and incubation temperature on gene expression. We also compared our in vitro results with previous RNA-sequencing data sets generated from P. destructans growing on the wings of a susceptible host, Myotis lucifugus. Our findings point to a critical role for substrate and incubation temperature in influencing the P. destructans transcriptome. DGE analyses suggested that growth medium plays a larger role than temperature in determining P. destructans gene expression and that although the psychrophilic fungus responds to different nitrogen sources, it may have evolved for continued growth at a broad range of low temperatures. Further, our data suggest that down-regulation of the RNA-interference pathway and increased fatty acid metabolism are involved in the P. destructans-bat interaction. Finally, we speculate that to reduce the activation of host defense responses, P. destructans minimizes changes in the expression of genes encoding secreted proteins during bat colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Donaldson
- a Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program , Trent University , 2140 East Bank Drive, Peterborough , Ontario , K9L 1Z8, Canada
| | - Christina M Davy
- a Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program , Trent University , 2140 East Bank Drive, Peterborough , Ontario , K9L 1Z8, Canada.,b Wildlife Research and Monitoring Section , Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry , 2140 East Bank Drive, Peterborough , Ontario , K9L 1Z8, Canada
| | - Karen J Vanderwolf
- c New Brunswick Museum , 277 Douglas Avenue, Saint John , New Brunswick , E2K 1E5, Canada.,d Department of Pathobiological Sciences , University of Wisconsin-Madison , 2015 Linden Drive, Madison , Wisconsin 53706
| | - Craig K R Willis
- e Department of Biology , University of Winnipeg , 515 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg , Manitoba , R3B 2E9, Canada
| | - Barry J Saville
- a Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program , Trent University , 2140 East Bank Drive, Peterborough , Ontario , K9L 1Z8, Canada.,f Forensic Science Department , Trent University , 2140 East Bank Drive, Peterborough , Ontario, K9L 1Z8 , Canada
| | - Christopher J Kyle
- a Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program , Trent University , 2140 East Bank Drive, Peterborough , Ontario , K9L 1Z8, Canada.,f Forensic Science Department , Trent University , 2140 East Bank Drive, Peterborough , Ontario, K9L 1Z8 , Canada
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Ghosh S, McArthur R, Guo ZC, McKerchar R, Donkor K, Xu J, Cheeptham N. Evidence for Anti-Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd) Activity of Propolis. Antibiotics (Basel) 2017; 7:antibiotics7010002. [PMID: 29267199 PMCID: PMC5872113 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics7010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
White-nose syndrome (WNS) in bats, caused by Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), is a cutaneous infection that has devastated North American bat populations since 2007. At present, there is no effective method for controlling this disease. Here, we evaluated the effect of propolis against Pd in vitro. Using Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) medium, approximately 1.7 × 10⁷ conidia spores of the Pd strain M3906-2/mL were spread on each plate and grown to form a consistent lawn. A Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion assay was employed using different concentrations of propolis (1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%), in plates incubated at 8 °C and 15 °C. At 8 °C and 15 °C, as the concentration of propolis increased, there was an increasing zone of inhibition (ZOI), reaching the highest degree at 10% and 25% concentrations, respectively. A germule suppression assay showed a similar effect on Pd conidia germination. A MALDI-TOF-MS analysis of propolis revealed multiple constituents with a potential anti-Pd activity, including cinnamic acid, p-coumaric acid, and dihydrochalcones, which could be further tested for their individual effects. Our study suggests that propolis or its individual constituents might be suitable products against Pd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Ghosh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada.
| | - Robyn McArthur
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada.
| | - Zhi Chao Guo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada.
| | - Rory McKerchar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada.
| | - Kingsley Donkor
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada.
| | - Jianping Xu
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1 Canada.
| | - Naowarat Cheeptham
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada.
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Abstract
Globalization has facilitated the worldwide movement and introduction of pathogens, but epizoological reconstructions of these invasions are often hindered by limited sampling and insufficient genetic resolution among isolates. Pseudogymnoascus destructans, a fungal pathogen causing the epizootic of white-nose syndrome in North American bats, has exhibited few genetic polymorphisms in previous studies, presenting challenges for both epizoological tracking of the spread of this fungus and for determining its evolutionary history. We used single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from whole-genome sequencing and microsatellites to construct high-resolution phylogenies of P. destructans. Shallow genetic diversity and the lack of geographic structuring among North American isolates support a recent introduction followed by expansion via clonal reproduction across the epizootic zone. Moreover, the genetic relationships of isolates within North America suggest widespread mixing and long-distance movement of the fungus. Genetic diversity among isolates of P. destructans from Europe was substantially higher than in those from North America. However, genetic distance between the North American isolates and any given European isolate was similar to the distance between the individual European isolates. In contrast, the isolates we examined from Asia were highly divergent from both European and North American isolates. Although the definitive source for introduction of the North American population has not been conclusively identified, our data support the origin of the North American invasion by P. destructans from Europe rather than Asia. This phylogenetic study of the bat white-nose syndrome agent, P. destructans, uses genomics to elucidate evolutionary relationships among populations of the fungal pathogen to understand the epizoology of this biological invasion. We analyze hypervariable and abundant genetic characters (microsatellites and genomic SNPs, respectively) to reveal previously uncharacterized diversity among populations of the pathogen from North America and Eurasia. We present new evidence supporting recent introduction of the fungus to North America from a diverse Eurasian population, with limited increase in genetic variation in North America since that introduction.
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Fungus Causing White-Nose Syndrome in Bats Accumulates Genetic Variability in North America with No Sign of Recombination. mSphere 2017; 2:mSphere00271-17. [PMID: 28713859 PMCID: PMC5506559 DOI: 10.1128/mspheredirect.00271-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since its discovery in 2006, the emerging infectious disease known as white-nose syndrome has killed millions of bats in North America, making it one of the most devastating wildlife epidemics in recorded history. We demonstrate that there has been as yet only spontaneous mutation across the North American population of P. destructans, and we find no indication of recombination. Thus, selective forces, which might otherwise impact pathogenic virulence, have so far had essentially no genetic variation on which to act. Our study confirmed the time of origin for the first and, thus far, only introduction of P. destructans to North America. This system provides an unprecedented opportunity to follow the evolution of a host-pathogen interaction unfolding in real time. Emerging fungal diseases of wildlife are on the rise worldwide, and the white-nose syndrome (WNS) epidemic in North American bats is a catastrophic example. The causal agent of WNS is a single clone of the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans. Early evolutionary change in this clonal population has major implications for disease ecology and conservation. Accumulation of variation in the fungus through mutation, and shuffling of variation through recombination, could affect the virulence and transmissibility of the fungus and the durability of what appears to be resistance arising in some bat populations. Our genome-wide analysis shows that the clonal population of P. destructans has expanded in size from a single genotype, has begun to accumulate variation through mutation, and presents no evidence as yet of genetic exchange among individuals. IMPORTANCE Since its discovery in 2006, the emerging infectious disease known as white-nose syndrome has killed millions of bats in North America, making it one of the most devastating wildlife epidemics in recorded history. We demonstrate that there has been as yet only spontaneous mutation across the North American population of P. destructans, and we find no indication of recombination. Thus, selective forces, which might otherwise impact pathogenic virulence, have so far had essentially no genetic variation on which to act. Our study confirmed the time of origin for the first and, thus far, only introduction of P. destructans to North America. This system provides an unprecedented opportunity to follow the evolution of a host-pathogen interaction unfolding in real time.
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Wilson MB, Held BW, Freiborg AH, Blanchette RA, Salomon CE. Resource capture and competitive ability of non-pathogenic Pseudogymnoascus spp. and P. destructans, the cause of white-nose syndrome in bats. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178968. [PMID: 28617823 PMCID: PMC5472292 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a devastating fungal disease that has been causing the mass mortality of hibernating bats in North America since 2006 and is caused by the psychrophilic dermatophyte Pseudogymnoascus destructans. Infected bats shed conidia into hibernaculum sediments and surfaces, but it is unknown if P. destructans can form stable, reproductive populations outside its bat hosts. Previous studies have found non-pathogenic Pseudogymnoascus in bat hibernacula, and these fungi may provide insight into the natural history of P. destructans. We compared the relatedness, resource capture, and competitive ability of non-pathogenic Pseudogymnoascus isolates with P. destructans to determine if they have similar adaptations for survival in hibernacula sediment. All non-pathogenic Pseudogymnoascus isolates grew faster, utilized a broader range of substrates with higher efficiency, and were generally more resistant to antifungals compared to P. destructans. All isolates also showed the ability to displace P. destructans in co-culture assays, but only some produced extractible antifungal metabolites. These results suggest that P. destructans would perform poorly in the same environmental niche as non-pathogenic Pseudogymnoascus, and must have an alternative saprophytic survival strategy if it establishes active populations in hibernaculum sediment and non-host surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B. Wilson
- Center for Drug Design, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Benjamin W. Held
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Amanda H. Freiborg
- Center for Drug Design, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Robert A. Blanchette
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Christine E. Salomon
- Center for Drug Design, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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17
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Characterization of Microsatellites in Pseudogymnoascus destructans for White-nose Syndrome Genetic Analysis. J Wildl Dis 2017; 53:869-874. [PMID: 28475452 DOI: 10.7589/2016-09-217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Despite only emerging in the past decade, white-nose syndrome has become among the most devastating wildlife diseases known. The pathogenic fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans infects hibernating bats and typically leads to high rates of mortality at hibernacula during winter in North America. We developed a set of genetic markers to better differentiate P. destructans isolates. We designed and successfully characterized these 23 microsatellite markers of P. destructans for use in disease ecology and epidemiology research. We validated these loci with DNA extracted from a collection of P. destructans isolates from the US and Canada, as well as from Europe (the likely introduction source based on currently available data). Genetic diversity calculated for each locus and for the multilocus panel as a whole indicates sufficient allelic diversity to differentiate among and between samples from both Europe and North America. Indices of genetic diversity indicate a loss of allelic diversity that is consistent with the recent introduction and rapid spread of an emerging pathogen.
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Marroquin CM, Lavine JO, Windstam ST. Effect of Humidity on Development ofPseudogymnoascus destructans, the Causal Agent of Bat White-Nose Syndrome. Northeast Nat (Steuben) 2017. [DOI: 10.1656/045.024.0105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M. Marroquin
- Department of Biological Sciences, State University of New York at Oswego, Oswego, NY 13126
| | - Jamal O. Lavine
- Department of Biological Sciences, State University of New York at Oswego, Oswego, NY 13126
| | - Sofia T. Windstam
- Department of Biological Sciences, State University of New York at Oswego, Oswego, NY 13126
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Using a Novel Partitivirus in Pseudogymnoascus destructans to Understand the Epidemiology of White-Nose Syndrome. PLoS Pathog 2016; 12:e1006076. [PMID: 28027325 PMCID: PMC5189944 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1006076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
White-nose syndrome is one of the most lethal wildlife diseases, killing over 5 million North American bats since it was first reported in 2006. The causal agent of the disease is a psychrophilic filamentous fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans. The fungus is widely distributed in North America and Europe and has recently been found in some parts of Asia, but interestingly, no mass mortality is observed in European or Asian bats. Here we report a novel double-stranded RNA virus found in North American isolates of the fungus and show that the virus can be used as a tool to study the epidemiology of White-nose syndrome. The virus, termed Pseudogymnoascus destructans partitivirus-pa, contains 2 genomic segments, dsRNA 1 and dsRNA 2 of 1.76 kbp and 1.59 kbp respectively, each possessing a single open reading frame, and forms isometric particles approximately 30 nm in diameter, characteristic of the genus Gammapartitivirus in the family Partitiviridae. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the virus is closely related to Penicillium stoloniferum virus S. We were able to cure P. destructans of the virus by treating fungal cultures with polyethylene glycol. Examination of 62 isolates of P. destructans including 35 from United States, 10 from Canada and 17 from Europe showed virus infection only in North American isolates of the fungus. Bayesian phylogenetic analysis using nucleotide sequences of the viral coat protein geographically clustered North American isolates indicating fungal spread followed by local adaptation of P. destructans in different regions of the United States and Canada. This is the first demonstration that a mycovirus potentially can be used to study fungal disease epidemiology. Many species of bats in North America have been severely impacted by a fungal disease, white-nose syndrome, that has killed over 5 million bats since it was first identified in 2006. The fungus is believed to have been introduced into a cave in New York where bats hibernate, and has now spread to 29 states and 4 Canadian provinces. The fungus is nearly identical from all sites where it has been isolated; however, we discovered that the fungus harbors a virus, and the virus varies enough to be able to use it to understand how the fungus has been spreading. This study used samples from infected bats throughout Pennsylvania and New York, and New Brunswick, Canada, as well a few isolates from other northeastern states. The evolution of the virus recapitulates the spread of the virus across these geographical areas, and should be useful for studying the further spread of the fungus.
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20
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Leopardi S, Blake D, Puechmaille SJ. White-Nose Syndrome fungus introduced from Europe to North America. Curr Biol 2016; 25:R217-R219. [PMID: 25784035 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2015.01.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The investigation of factors underlying the emergence of fungal diseases in wildlife has gained significance as a consequence of drastic declines in amphibians, where the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis has caused the greatest disease-driven loss of biodiversity ever documented [1]. Identification of the causative agent and its origin (native versus introduced) is a crucial step in understanding and controlling a disease [2]. Whereas genetic studies on the origin of B. dendrobatidis have illuminated the mechanisms behind the global emergence of amphibian chytridiomycosis [3], the origin of another recently-emerged fungal disease, White-Nose Syndrome (WNS) and its causative agent, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, remains unresolved [2,4]. WNS is decimating multiple North American bat species with an estimated death toll reaching 5-6 million. Here, we present the first informative molecular comparison between isolates from North America and Europe and provide strong evidence for the long-term presence of the fungus in Europe and a recent introduction into North America. Our results further demonstrate great genetic similarity between the North American and some European fungal populations, indicating the likely source population for this introduction from Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Leopardi
- Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, London NW1 0TU, UK; Zoological Society of London, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Damer Blake
- Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, London NW1 0TU, UK
| | - Sébastien J Puechmaille
- Zoology Institute, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Greifswald D - 17489, Germany; School of Biology & Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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21
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Ectomycota Associated with Arthropods from Bat Hibernacula in Eastern Canada, with Particular Reference to Pseudogymnoasucs destructans. INSECTS 2016; 7:insects7020016. [PMID: 27110827 PMCID: PMC4931428 DOI: 10.3390/insects7020016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Revised: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The introduction of Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd) to North America, agent of white-nose syndrome in hibernating bats, has increased interest in fungi from underground habitats. While bats are assumed to be the main vector transmitting Pd cave-to-cave, the role of other fauna is unexplored. We documented the fungi associated with over-wintering arthropods in Pd-positive hibernacula, including sites where bats had been recently extirpated or near-extirpated, to determine if arthropods carried Pd, and to compare fungal assemblages on arthropods to bats. We isolated 87 fungal taxa in 64 genera from arthropods. Viable Pd was cultured from 15.3% of arthropods, most frequently from harvestmen (Nelima elegans). Fungal assemblages on arthropods were similar to those on bats. The different fungal assemblages documented among arthropods may be due to divergent patterns of movement, aggregation, feeding, or other factors. While it is unlikely that arthropods play a major role in the transmission dynamics of Pd, we demonstrate that arthropods may carry viable Pd spores and therefore have the potential to transport Pd, either naturally or anthropogenically, within or among hibernacula. This underlines the need for those entering hibernacula to observe decontamination procedures and for such procedures to evolve as our understanding of potential mechanisms of Pd dispersal improve.
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22
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Ashu EE, Xu J. The roles of sexual and asexual reproduction in the origin and dissemination of strains causing fungal infectious disease outbreaks. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2015; 36:199-209. [PMID: 26394109 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2015.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sexual reproduction commonly refers to the reproductive process in which genomes from two sources are combined into a single cell through mating and then the zygote genomes are partitioned to progeny cells through meiosis. Reproduction in the absence of mating and meiosis is referred to as asexual or clonal reproduction. One major advantage of sexual reproduction is that it generates genetic variation among progeny which may allow for faster adaptation of the population to novel and/or stressful environments. However, adaptation to stressful or new environments can still occur through mutation, in the absence of sex. In this review, we analyzed the relative contributions of sexual and asexual reproduction in the origin and spread of strains causing fungal infectious diseases outbreaks. The necessity of sex and the ability of asexual fungi to initiate outbreaks are discussed. We propose a framework that relates the modes of reproduction to the origin and propagation of fungal disease outbreaks. Our analyses suggest that both sexual and asexual reproduction can play critical roles in the origin of outbreak strains and that the rapid spread of outbreak strains is often accomplished through asexual expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eta Ebasi Ashu
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Jianping Xu
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada.
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23
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Diao Y, Zhang C, Xu J, Lin D, Liu L, Mtung'e OG, Liu X. Genetic differentiation and recombination among geographic populations of the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum truncatum from chili peppers in China. Evol Appl 2015; 8:108-18. [PMID: 25667606 PMCID: PMC4310585 DOI: 10.1111/eva.12233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Accepted: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Colletotrichum truncatum is an extremely important fungal pathogen. It can cause diseases both in humans and in over 460 plant species. However, little is known about its genetic diversity within and among populations. One of the major plant hosts of C. truncatum is pepper, and China is one of the main pepper-producing countries in the world. Here, we propose the hypotheses that geography has a major influence on the relationships among populations of C. truncatum in China and that infections in different populations need to be managed differently. To test these hypotheses, we obtained and analyzed 266 C. truncatum isolates from 13 regions representing the main pepper-growing areas throughout China. The analysis based on nine microsatellite markers identified high intrapopulation genetic diversity, evidence of sexual recombination, and geographic differentiation. The genetic differentiation was positively correlated with geographic distance, with the southern and northern China populations grouped in two distinct clusters. Interestingly, isolates collected from the pepper-breeding center harbored the most private alleles. The results suggest that the geographic populations of C. truncatum on peppers in China are genetically differentiated and should be managed accordingly. Our study also provides a solid foundation from which to further explore the global genetic epidemiology of C. truncatum in both plants and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongzhao Diao
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Can Zhang
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Jianping Xu
- Department of Biology, McMaster UniversityHamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Dong Lin
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Olivo G Mtung'e
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Xili Liu
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China
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