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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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Câmara I, Ventura de Souza V, Brasileiro Vidal AC, Soares Fernandes B, Magalhães Amaral F, Motteran F, Gavazza S. Optimizing intermittent micro-aeration as a strategy for enhancing aniline anaerobic biodegradation: kinetic, ecotoxicity, and microbial community dynamics analyses. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2024; 90:1181-1197. [PMID: 39215731 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2024.264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Groundwater and soil contamination by aromatic amines (AAs), used in the production of polymers, plastics, and pesticides, often results from improper waste disposal and accidental leaks. These compounds are resistant to anaerobic degradation; however, micro-aeration can enhance this process by promoting microbial interactions. In batch assays, anaerobic degradation of aniline (0.14 mM), a model AA, was tested under three micro-aeration conditions: T30, T15, and T10 (30, 15, and 10 min of micro-aeration every 2 h, respectively). Aniline degradation occurred in all conditions, producing both aerobic (catechol) and anaerobic (benzoic acid) byproducts. The main genera involved in T30 and T15 were Comamonas, Clostridium, Longilinea, Petrimonas, Phenylobacterium, Pseudoxanthomonas, and Thiobacillus. In contrast, in T10 were Pseudomonas, Delftia, Leucobacter, and Thermomonas. While T30 and T15 promoted microbial cooperation for anaerobic degradation and facultative respiration, T10 resulted in a competitive environment due to dominance and oxygen scarcity. Despite aniline degradation in 9.4 h under T10, this condition was toxic to Allium cepa seeds and exhibited cytogenotoxic effects. Therefore, T15 emerged as the optimal condition, effectively promoting anaerobic degradation without accumulating toxic byproducts. Intermittent micro-aeration emerges as a promising strategy for enhancing the anaerobic degradation of AA-contaminated effluents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Câmara
- Laboratório de Saneamento Ambiental, Departamento de Engenharia Civil e Ambiental, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n. Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-530, Brazil
| | - Victor Ventura de Souza
- Laboratório de Genética e Biotecnologia Vegetal, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n. Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-530, Brazil
| | - Ana Christina Brasileiro Vidal
- Laboratório de Genética e Biotecnologia Vegetal, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n. Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-530, Brazil
| | - Bruna Soares Fernandes
- Laboratório de Saneamento Ambiental, Departamento de Engenharia Civil e Ambiental, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n. Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-530, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Magalhães Amaral
- Laboratório de Saneamento Ambiental, Departamento de Engenharia Civil e Ambiental, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n. Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-530, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Motteran
- Laboratório de Saneamento Ambiental, Departamento de Engenharia Civil e Ambiental, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n. Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-530, Brazil
| | - Savia Gavazza
- Laboratório de Saneamento Ambiental, Departamento de Engenharia Civil e Ambiental, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Acadêmico Hélio Ramos, s/n. Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-530, Brazil E-mail:
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Varghese S, Jisha M, Rajeshkumar K, Gajbhiye V, Alrefaei AF, Jeewon R. Endophytic fungi: A future prospect for breast cancer therapeutics and drug development. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33995. [PMID: 39091955 PMCID: PMC11292557 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33995] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, breast cancer is a primary contributor to cancer-related fatalities and illnesses among women. Consequently, there is a pressing need for safe and effective treatments for breast cancer. Bioactive compounds from endophytic fungi that live in symbiosis with medicinal plants have garnered significant interest in pharmaceutical research due to their extensive chemical composition and prospective medicinal attributes. This review underscores the potentiality of fungal endophytes as a promising resource for the development of innovative anticancer agents specifically tailored for breast cancer therapy. The diversity of endophytic fungi residing in medicinal plants, success stories of key endophytic bioactive metabolites tested against breast cancer and the current progress with regards to in vivo studies and clinical trials on endophytic fungal metabolites in breast cancer research forms the underlying theme of this article. A thorough compilation of putative anticancer compounds sourced from endophytic fungi that have demonstrated therapeutic potential against breast cancer, spanning the period from 1990 to 2022, has been presented. This review article also outlines the latest trends in endophyte-based drug discovery, including the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, multi-omics approaches, and high-throughput strategies. The challenges and future prospects associated with fungal endophytes as substitutive sources for developing anticancer drugs targeting breast cancer are also being highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherin Varghese
- School of Biosciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala, 686560, India
| | - M.S. Jisha
- School of Biosciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala, 686560, India
| | - K.C. Rajeshkumar
- National Fungal Culture Collection of India (NFCCI), Biodiversity and Palaeobiology (Fungi) Gr., Agharkar Research Institute, G.G. Agharkar Road, Pune, 411 004, Maharashtra, India
| | - Virendra Gajbhiye
- Nanobioscience Group, Agharkar Research Institute, G.G. Agharkar Road, Pune, 411 004, Maharashtra, India
| | - Abdulwahed Fahad Alrefaei
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rajesh Jeewon
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mauritius, Reduit, Mauritius
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Lewis BR, Uddin MR, Kuo KM, Shah LMN, Harris NJ, Booth PJ, Hammerschmid D, Gumbart JC, Zgurskaya HI, Reading E. Mg 2+-dependent mechanism of environmental versatility in a multidrug efflux pump. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.10.597921. [PMID: 38915626 PMCID: PMC11195059 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.10.597921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Tripartite resistance nodulation and cell division multidrug efflux pumps span the periplasm and are a major driver of multidrug resistance among Gram-negative bacteria. The periplasm provides a distinct environment between the inner and outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria. Cations, such as Mg2+, become concentrated within the periplasm and, in contrast to the cytoplasm, its pH is sensitive to conditions outside the cell. Here, we reveal an interplay between Mg2+ and pH in modulating the dynamics of the periplasmic adaptor protein, AcrA, and its function within the prototypical AcrAB-TolC multidrug efflux pump from Escherichia coli. In the absence of Mg2+, AcrA becomes increasingly plastic within acidic conditions, but when Mg2+ is bound this is ameliorated, resulting in domain specific organisation in neutral to weakly acidic regimes. We establish a unique histidine residue directs these structural dynamics and is essential for sustaining pump efflux activity across acidic, neutral, and alkaline conditions. Overall, we propose Mg2+ conserves the structural mobility of AcrA to ensure optimal AcrAB-TolC function within rapid changing environments commonly faced by the periplasm during bacterial infection and colonization. This work highlights that Mg2+ is an important mechanistic component in this pump class and possibly across other periplasmic lipoproteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Russell Lewis
- Department of Chemistry, Britannia House, 7 Trinity Street, King’s College London, London, SE1 1DB, UK
| | - Muhammad R. Uddin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, 101 Stephenson Parkway, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, USA
| | - Katie M. Kuo
- School of Physics, Georgia Institute of Technology, 837 State Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA
| | - Laila M. N. Shah
- Department of Chemistry, Britannia House, 7 Trinity Street, King’s College London, London, SE1 1DB, UK
| | - Nicola J. Harris
- Department of Chemistry, Britannia House, 7 Trinity Street, King’s College London, London, SE1 1DB, UK
| | - Paula J. Booth
- Department of Chemistry, Britannia House, 7 Trinity Street, King’s College London, London, SE1 1DB, UK
| | - Dietmar Hammerschmid
- Department of Chemistry, Britannia House, 7 Trinity Street, King’s College London, London, SE1 1DB, UK
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - James C. Gumbart
- School of Physics, Georgia Institute of Technology, 837 State Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, 901 Atlantic Drive NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA
| | - Helen I. Zgurskaya
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, 101 Stephenson Parkway, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, USA
| | - Eamonn Reading
- Department of Chemistry, Britannia House, 7 Trinity Street, King’s College London, London, SE1 1DB, UK
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
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Liu D, Piao J, Li Y, Guan H, Hao J, Zhou R. Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Candidate Genes for Light Regulation of Elsinochrome Biosynthesis in Elsinoë arachidis. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1027. [PMID: 38792856 PMCID: PMC11124282 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12051027] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Light regulation is critical in fungal growth, development, morphogenesis, secondary metabolism, and the biological clock. The fungus Elsinoë arachidis is known to produce the mycotoxin Elsinochrome (ESC), a key factor contributing to its pathogenicity, under light conditions. Although previous studies have predominantly focused on the light-induced production of ESC and its biosynthetic pathways, the detailed mechanisms underlying this process remain largely unexplored. This study explores the influence of light on ESC production and gene expression in E. arachidis. Under white light exposure for 28 days, the ESC yield was observed to reach 33.22 nmol/plug. Through transcriptome analysis, 5925 genes were identified as differentially expressed between dark and white light conditions, highlighting the significant impact of light on gene expression. Bioinformatics identified specific light-regulated genes, including eight photoreceptor genes, five global regulatory factors, and a cluster of 12 genes directly involved in the ESC biosynthesis, with expression trends confirmed by RT-qPCR. In conclusion, the study reveals the substantial alteration in gene expression associated with ESC biosynthesis under white light and identifies potential candidates for in-depth functional analysis. These findings advance understanding of ESC biosynthesis regulation and suggest new strategies for fungal pathogenicity control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Rujun Zhou
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China; (D.L.); (J.P.); (Y.L.); (H.G.); (J.H.)
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Zhang X, Yang Y, Wang L, Qin Y. Histone H2B lysine 122 and lysine 130, as the putative targets of Penicillium oxalicum LaeA, play important roles in asexual development, expression of secondary metabolite gene clusters, and extracellular glycoside hydrolase synthesis. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:179. [PMID: 38668807 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-03978-0] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Core histones in the nucleosome are subject to a wide variety of posttranslational modifications (PTMs), such as methylation, phosphorylation, ubiquitylation, and acetylation, all of which are crucial in shaping the structure of the chromatin and the expression of the target genes. A putative histone methyltransferase LaeA/Lae1, which is conserved in numerous filamentous fungi, functions as a global regulator of fungal growth, virulence, secondary metabolite formation, and the production of extracellular glycoside hydrolases (GHs). LaeA's direct histone targets, however, were not yet recognized. Previous research has shown that LaeA interacts with core histone H2B. Using S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) as a methyl group donor and recombinant human histone H2B as the substrate, it was found that Penicillium oxalicum LaeA can transfer the methyl groups to the C-terminal lysine (K) 108 and K116 residues in vitro. The H2BK108 and H2BK116 sites on recombinant histone correspond to P. oxalicum H2BK122 and H2BK130, respectively. H2BK122A and H2BK130A, two mutants with histone H2B K122 or K130 mutation to alanine (A), were constructed in P. oxalicum. The mutants H2BK122A and H2BK130A demonstrated altered asexual development and decreased extracellular GH production, consistent with the findings of the laeA gene deletion strain (ΔlaeA). The transcriptome data showed that when compared to wild-type (WT) of P. oxalicum, 38 of the 47 differentially expressed (fold change ≥ 2, FDR ≤ 0.05) genes that encode extracellular GHs showed the same expression pattern in the three mutants ΔlaeA, H2BK122A, and H2BK130A. The four secondary metabolic gene clusters that considerably decreased expression in ΔlaeA also significantly decreased in H2BK122A or H2BK130A. The chromatin of promotor regions of the key cellulolytic genes cel7A/cbh1 and cel7B/eg1 compacted in the ΔlaeA, H2BK122A, and H2BK130A mutants, according to the results of chromatin accessibility real-time PCR (CHART-PCR). The chromatin accessibility index dropped. The histone binding pocket of the LaeA-methyltransf_23 domain is compatible with particular histone H2B peptides, providing appropriate electrostatic and steric compatibility to stabilize these peptides, according to molecular docking. The findings of the study demonstrate that H2BK122 and H2BK130, which are histone targets of P. oxalicum LaeA in vitro, are crucial for fungal conidiation, the expression of gene clusters encoding secondary metabolites, and the production of extracellular GHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujun Zhang
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Microbial Technology Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan, China
| | - Yuhong Yang
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan, China
| | - Lushan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Microbial Technology Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yuqi Qin
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Qingdao, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Microbial Technology Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao, China.
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Ben Miri Y, Benabdallah A, Chentir I, Djenane D, Luvisi A, De Bellis L. Comprehensive Insights into Ochratoxin A: Occurrence, Analysis, and Control Strategies. Foods 2024; 13:1184. [PMID: 38672856 PMCID: PMC11049263 DOI: 10.3390/foods13081184] [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: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a toxic mycotoxin produced by some mold species from genera Penicillium and Aspergillus. OTA has been detected in cereals, cereal-derived products, dried fruits, wine, grape juice, beer, tea, coffee, cocoa, nuts, spices, licorice, processed meat, cheese, and other foods. OTA can induce a wide range of health effects attributable to its toxicological properties, including teratogenicity, immunotoxicity, carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity. OTA is not only toxic to humans but also harmful to livestock like cows, goats, and poultry. This is why the European Union and various countries regulate the maximum permitted levels of OTA in foods. This review intends to summarize all the main aspects concerning OTA, starting from the chemical structure and fungi that produce it, its presence in food, its toxicity, and methods of analysis, as well as control strategies, including both fungal development and methods of inactivation of the molecule. Finally, the review provides some ideas for future approaches aimed at reducing the OTA levels in foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamina Ben Miri
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohamed Boudiaf University, BP 166, M’sila 28000, Algeria;
| | - Amina Benabdallah
- Laboratory on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Pollution, Faculty of Life and Nature Sciences, University Chadli Bendjedid, El-Tarf 36000, Algeria;
| | - Imene Chentir
- Laboratory of Food, Processing, Control and Agri-Resources Valorization, Higher School of Food Science and Agri-Food Industry, Algiers 16200, Algeria;
| | - Djamel Djenane
- Food Quality and Safety Research Laboratory, Department of Food Sciences, Mouloud Mammeri University, BP 17, Tizi-Ouzou 15000, Algeria;
| | - Andrea Luvisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche ed Ambientali, Università del Salento Palazzina A—Centro Ecotekne via Prov, le Lecce Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
| | - Luigi De Bellis
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche ed Ambientali, Università del Salento Palazzina A—Centro Ecotekne via Prov, le Lecce Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
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Kharey GS, Palace V, Whyte L, Greer CW. Influence of heavy Canadian crude oil on pristine freshwater boreal lake ecosystems in an experimental oil spill. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2024; 100:fiae054. [PMID: 38650065 PMCID: PMC11065361 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiae054] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The overall impact of a crude oil spill into a pristine freshwater environment in Canada is largely unknown. To evaluate the impact on the native microbial community, a large-scale in situ model experimental spill was conducted to assess the potential role of the natural community to attenuate hydrocarbons. A small volume of conventional heavy crude oil (CHV) was introduced within contained mesocosm enclosures deployed on the shoreline of a freshwater lake. The oil was left to interact with the shoreline for 72 h and then free-floating oil was recovered using common oil spill response methods (i.e. freshwater flushing and capture on oleophilic absorptive media). Residual polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations returned to near preoiling concentrations within 2 months, while the microbial community composition across the water, soil, and sediment matrices of the enclosed oligotrophic freshwater ecosystems did not shift significantly over this period. Metagenomic analysis revealed key polycyclic aromatic and alkane degradation mechanisms also did not change in their relative abundance over the monitoring period. These trends suggest that for small spills (<2 l of oil per 15 m2 of surface freshwater), physical oil recovery reduces polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon concentrations to levels tolerated by the native microbial community. Additionally, the native microbial community present in the monitored pristine freshwater ecosystem possesses the appropriate hydrocarbon degradation mechanisms without prior challenge by hydrocarbon substrates. This study corroborated trends found previously (Kharey et al. 2024) toward freshwater hydrocarbon degradation in an environmentally relevant scale and conditions on the tolerance of residual hydrocarbons in situ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurpreet S Kharey
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Rd Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, H9X 3V9S, Canada
| | - Vince Palace
- International Institute for Sustainable Development – Experimental Lakes Area, Pine Rd, Kenora, Unorganized Ontario, P0V 2V0, Canada
| | - Lyle Whyte
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Rd Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, H9X 3V9S, Canada
| | - Charles W Greer
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Rd Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, H9X 3V9S, Canada
- National Research Council Canada, Energy, Mining and Environment Research Centre, 6100 Royalmount Ave., Montreal, Quebec, H4P 2R2, Canada
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9
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Fabian B, Foster C, Asher A, Hassan K, Paulsen I, Tetu S. Identifying the suite of genes central to swimming in the biocontrol bacterium Pseudomonas protegens Pf-5. Microb Genom 2024; 10:001212. [PMID: 38546328 PMCID: PMC11004494 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.001212] [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: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Swimming motility is a key bacterial trait, important to success in many niches. Biocontrol bacteria, such as Pseudomonas protegens Pf-5, are increasingly used in agriculture to control crop diseases, where motility is important for colonization of the plant rhizosphere. Swimming motility typically involves a suite of flagella and chemotaxis genes, but the specific gene set employed for both regulation and biogenesis can differ substantially between organisms. Here we used transposon-directed insertion site sequencing (TraDIS), a genome-wide approach, to identify 249 genes involved in P. protegens Pf-5 swimming motility. In addition to the expected flagella and chemotaxis, we also identified a suite of additional genes important for swimming, including genes related to peptidoglycan turnover, O-antigen biosynthesis, cell division, signal transduction, c-di-GMP turnover and phosphate transport, and 27 conserved hypothetical proteins. Gene knockout mutants and TraDIS data suggest that defects in the Pst phosphate transport system lead to enhanced swimming motility. Overall, this study expands our knowledge of pseudomonad motility and highlights the utility of a TraDIS-based approach for analysing the functions of thousands of genes. This work sets a foundation for understanding how swimming motility may be related to the inconsistency in biocontrol bacteria performance in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- B.K. Fabian
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - C. Foster
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - A. Asher
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - K.A. Hassan
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - I.T. Paulsen
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - S.G. Tetu
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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10
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Vlasselaer L, Crauwels S, Lievens B, De Coninck B. Unveiling the microbiome of hydroponically cultivated lettuce: impact of Phytophthora cryptogea infection on plant-associated microorganisms. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2024; 100:fiae010. [PMID: 38317643 PMCID: PMC10872686 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiae010] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the complex interactions between plants and their associated microorganisms is crucial for optimizing plant health and productivity. While microbiomes of soil-bound cultivated crops are extensively studied, microbiomes of hydroponically cultivated crops have received limited attention. To address this knowledge gap, we investigated the rhizosphere and root endosphere of hydroponically cultivated lettuce. Additionally, we sought to explore the potential impact of the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora cryptogea on these microbiomes. Root samples were collected from symptomatic and nonsymptomatic plants in three different greenhouses. Amplicon sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene revealed significant alterations in the bacterial community upon P. cryptogea infection, particularly in the rhizosphere. Permutational multivariate analysis of variance (perMANOVA) revealed significant differences in microbial communities between plants from the three greenhouses, and between symptomatic and nonsymptomatic plants. Further analysis uncovered differentially abundant zero-radius operational taxonomic units (zOTUs) between symptomatic and nonsymptomatic plants. Interestingly, members of Pseudomonas and Flavobacterium were positively associated with symptomatic plants. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the microbiome of hydroponically cultivated plants and highlights the influence of pathogen invasion on plant-associated microbial communities. Further research is required to elucidate the potential role of Pseudomonas and Flavobacterium spp. in controlling P. cryptogea infections within hydroponically cultivated lettuce greenhouses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liese Vlasselaer
- Plant Health and Protection Laboratory, Division of Crop Biotechnics, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, Willem de Croylaan 42, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
- KU Leuven Plant Institute, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sam Crauwels
- KU Leuven Plant Institute, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Process Microbial Ecology and Bioinspirational Management, Center of Microbial and Plant Genetics, Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, Willem de Croylaan 46, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart Lievens
- KU Leuven Plant Institute, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Process Microbial Ecology and Bioinspirational Management, Center of Microbial and Plant Genetics, Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, Willem de Croylaan 46, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Barbara De Coninck
- Plant Health and Protection Laboratory, Division of Crop Biotechnics, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, Willem de Croylaan 42, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
- KU Leuven Plant Institute, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
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11
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Arboleda-Baena C, Freilich M, Pareja CB, Logares R, De la Iglesia R, Navarrete SA. Microbial community and network responses across strong environmental gradients: How do they compare with macroorganisms? FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2024; 100:fiae017. [PMID: 38327185 PMCID: PMC10894034 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiae017] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The way strong environmental gradients shape multispecific assemblages has allowed us to examine a suite of ecological and evolutionary hypotheses about structure, regulation and community responses to fluctuating environments. But whether the highly diverse co-occurring microorganisms are shaped in similar ways as macroscopic organisms across the same gradients has yet to be addressed in most ecosystems. Here, we characterize intertidal biofilm bacteria communities, comparing zonation at both the "species" and community levels, as well as network attributes, with co-occurring macroalgae and invertebrates in the same rocky shore system. The results revealed that the desiccation gradient has a more significant impact on smaller communities, while both desiccation and submersion gradients (surge) affect the larger, macroscopic communities. At the community level, we also confirmed the existence of distinct communities within each intertidal zone for microorganisms, similar to what has been previously described for macroorganisms. But our results indicated that dominant microbial organisms along the same environmental gradient exhibited less differentiation across tidal levels than their macroscopic counterparts. However, despite the substantial differences in richness, size and attributes of co-occurrence networks, both macro- and micro-communities respond to stress gradients, leading to the formation of similar zonation patterns in the intertidal rocky shore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Arboleda-Baena
- Department of Ecology, Estación Costera de Investigaciones Marinas (ECIM), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, El Tabo, 2690000, Chile
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Laboratorio de Microbiología Marina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, 8320000, Chile
- Department of Hydrobiology, Laboratory of Microbial Processes & Biodiversity, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Mara Freilich
- Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences and Division of Applied Mathematics, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Claudia Belén Pareja
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Laboratorio de Microbiología Marina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, 8320000, Chile
| | - Ramiro Logares
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar – CSIC, Paseo Marítimo de la Barceloneta, Barcelona, 08003, Spain
| | - Rodrigo De la Iglesia
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Laboratorio de Microbiología Marina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, 8320000, Chile
- Marine Energy Research & Innovation Center (MERIC), Santiago de Chile, 8320000, Chile
| | - Sergio A Navarrete
- Department of Ecology, Estación Costera de Investigaciones Marinas (ECIM), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, El Tabo, 2690000, Chile
- Marine Energy Research & Innovation Center (MERIC), Santiago de Chile, 8320000, Chile
- Núcleo Milenio para la Ecología y la Conservación de los Ecosistemas de Arrecifes Mesofóticos Templados (NUTME), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, 8320000, Chile
- Center for Applied Ecology and Sustainability (CAPES) and Coastal Socioecologial Milenium Institute (SECOS), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, 8320000, Chile
- Center for Oceanographic Research, Copas Coastal, Universidad de Concepción, Casilla 160-C, Concepción, Chile
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12
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Chen W, Son YE, Cho HJ, Choi D, Park HS, Yu JH. Phylogenomics analysis of velvet regulators in the fungal kingdom. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0371723. [PMID: 38179919 PMCID: PMC10845976 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03717-23] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
All life forms have evolved to respond appropriately to various environmental and internal cues. In the animal kingdom, the prototypical regulator class of such cellular responses is the Rel homology domain proteins including nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). Fungi, the close relatives of animals, have also evolved with their own NF-κB-like regulators called velvet family proteins to govern cellular and chemical development. Here, we conducted a detailed investigation of the taxonomic broad presence of velvet proteins. We observed that velvet proteins are widely distributed in the fungal kingdom. Moreover, we have identified and characterized 21 major velvet clades in fungi. We have further revealed that the highly conserved velvet domain is composed of three distinct motifs and acts as an evolutionarily independent domain, which can be shuffled with various functional domains. Such rearrangements of the velvet domain have resulted in the functional and type diversity of the present velvet regulators. Importantly, our in-deep analyses of the primary and 3D structures of the various velvet domains showed that the fungal velvet domains can be divided into two major clans: the VelB and the VosA clans. The 3D structure comparisons revealed a close similarity of the velvet domain with many other eukaryotic DNA-binding proteins, including those of the Rel, Runt, and signal transducer and activator of transcription families, sharing a common β-sandwich fold. Altogether, this study improves our understanding of velvet regulators in the fungal kingdom.IMPORTANCEFungi are the relatives of animals in Opisthokonta and closely associated with human life by interactive ways such as pathogenicity, food, and secondary metabolites including beneficial ones like penicillin and harmful ones like the carcinogenic aflatoxins. Similar to animals, fungi have also evolved with NF-κB-like velvet family regulators. The velvet proteins constitute a large protein family of fungal transcription factors sharing a common velvet domain and play a key role in coordinating fungal secondary metabolism, developmental and differentiation processes. Our current understanding on velvet regulators is mostly from Ascomycota fungi; however, they remain largely unknown outside Ascomycota. Therefore, this study performed a taxonomic broad investigation of velvet proteins across the fungal kingdom and conducted a detailed analysis on velvet distribution, structure, diversity, and evolution. The results provide a holistic view of velvet regulatory system in the fungal kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanping Chen
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Ye-Eun Son
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - He-Jin Cho
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Dasol Choi
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Hee-Soo Park
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
- Department of Integrative Biology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Jae-Hyuk Yu
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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13
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Sahu S, Kumar L, Das S, Gupta D, Anand R. Ultrasensitive detection of aromatic water pollutants through protein immobilization driven organic electrochemical transistors. Chem Sci 2024; 15:710-719. [PMID: 38179533 PMCID: PMC10762727 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc03509c] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Xenobiotic aromatic water pollutants pose an extreme threat to environmental sustainability. Due to the lack of detectable functional groups in these compounds and scarcity of selective bio-recognition scaffolds, easy-to-use sensing strategies capable of on-site detection remain unavailable. Herein, to address this lacune, we entail a strategy that combines biosensor scaffolds with organic electronics to create a compact device for environmental aromatic pollution monitoring. As proof of principle, a sensor module capable of rapid, economic, reliable, and ultrasensitive detection of phenol down to 2 ppb (0.02 μM) was designed wherein biosensing protein MopR was coupled with an organic electrochemical transistor (OECT). For effective interfacing of the sensing scaffold MopR, graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets were optimized as a host immobilization matrix. The MopR-GO immobilized sensor module was subsequently substituted as the gate electrode with PEDOT:PSS serving as an organic semiconductor material. The resulting OECT sensor provided a favourable microenvironment for protein activity, maintaining high specificity. Exclusive phenol detection with minimal loss of sensitivity (<5% error) could be achieved in both complex pollutant mixtures and real environmental samples. This fabrication strategy that amalgamates biological biosensors with organic electronics harnesses the potential to achieve detection of a host of emerging pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhankar Sahu
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay Powai Mumbai 400076 India
| | - Lokesh Kumar
- Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay Powai Mumbai 400076 India
| | - Sumita Das
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay Powai Mumbai 400076 India
| | - Dipti Gupta
- Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay Powai Mumbai 400076 India
| | - Ruchi Anand
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay Powai Mumbai 400076 India
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14
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Hehenberger E, Guo J, Wilken S, Hoadley K, Sudek L, Poirier C, Dannebaum R, Susko E, Worden AZ. Phosphate Limitation Responses in Marine Green Algae Are Linked to Reprogramming of the tRNA Epitranscriptome and Codon Usage Bias. Mol Biol Evol 2023; 40:msad251. [PMID: 37987557 PMCID: PMC10735309 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msad251] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Marine algae are central to global carbon fixation, and their productivity is dictated largely by resource availability. Reduced nutrient availability is predicted for vast oceanic regions as an outcome of climate change; however, there is much to learn regarding response mechanisms of the tiny picoplankton that thrive in these environments, especially eukaryotic phytoplankton. Here, we investigate responses of the picoeukaryote Micromonas commoda, a green alga found throughout subtropical and tropical oceans. Under shifting phosphate availability scenarios, transcriptomic analyses revealed altered expression of transfer RNA modification enzymes and biased codon usage of transcripts more abundant during phosphate-limiting versus phosphate-replete conditions, consistent with the role of transfer RNA modifications in regulating codon recognition. To associate the observed shift in the expression of the transfer RNA modification enzyme complement with the transfer RNAs encoded by M. commoda, we also determined the transfer RNA repertoire of this alga revealing potential targets of the modification enzymes. Codon usage bias was particularly pronounced in transcripts encoding proteins with direct roles in managing phosphate limitation and photosystem-associated proteins that have ill-characterized putative functions in "light stress." The observed codon usage bias corresponds to a proposed stress response mechanism in which the interplay between stress-induced changes in transfer RNA modifications and skewed codon usage in certain essential response genes drives preferential translation of the encoded proteins. Collectively, we expose a potential underlying mechanism for achieving growth under enhanced nutrient limitation that extends beyond the catalog of up- or downregulated protein-encoding genes to the cell biological controls that underpin acclimation to changing environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Hehenberger
- Ocean EcoSystems Biology Unit, RD3, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research, 24148 Kiel, DE
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice, CZ
| | - Jian Guo
- Ocean Sciences Department, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Susanne Wilken
- Ocean Sciences Department, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Kenneth Hoadley
- Ocean EcoSystems Biology Unit, RD3, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research, 24148 Kiel, DE
| | - Lisa Sudek
- Ocean Sciences Department, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Camille Poirier
- Ocean EcoSystems Biology Unit, RD3, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research, 24148 Kiel, DE
| | - Richard Dannebaum
- Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Edward Susko
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, CA
| | - Alexandra Z Worden
- Ocean EcoSystems Biology Unit, RD3, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research, 24148 Kiel, DE
- Ocean Sciences Department, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
- Josephine Bay Paul Center for Comparative Molecular Biology and Evolution, Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology, 24306 Plön, DE
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15
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Nishitani A, Hiramatsu K, Kadooka C, Mori K, Okutsu K, Yoshizaki Y, Takamine K, Tashiro K, Goto M, Tamaki H, Futagami T. Expression of heterochromatin protein 1 affects citric acid production in Aspergillus luchuensis mut. kawachii. J Biosci Bioeng 2023; 136:443-451. [PMID: 37775438 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2023.09.004] [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: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
A putative methyltransferase, LaeA, controls citric acid production through epigenetic regulation of the citrate exporter gene, cexA, in the white koji fungus Aspergillus luchuensis mut. kawachii. In this study, we investigated the role of another epigenetic regulator, heterochromatin protein 1, HepA, in citric acid production. The ΔhepA strain exhibited reduced citric acid production in liquid culture, although to a lesser extent compared to the ΔlaeA strain. In addition, the ΔlaeA ΔhepA strain showed citric acid production similar to the ΔlaeA strain, indicating that HepA plays a role in citric acid production, albeit with a less-significant regulatory effect than LaeA. RNA-seq analysis revealed that the transcriptomic profiles of the ΔhepA and ΔlaeA strains were similar, and the expression level of cexA was reduced in both strains. These findings suggest that the genes regulated by HepA are similar to those regulated by LaeA in A. luchuensis mut. kawachii. However, the reductions in citric acid production and cexA expression observed in the disruptants were mitigated in rice koji, a solid-state culture. Thus, the mechanism by which citric acid production is regulated differs between liquid and solid cultivation. Further investigation is thus needed to understand the regulatory mechanism in koji.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Nishitani
- United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Center for Advanced Science Research and Promotion, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Kentaro Hiramatsu
- Graduate School of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Chihiro Kadooka
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Sojo University, Kumamoto 860-0082, Japan
| | - Kazuki Mori
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Kayu Okutsu
- Graduate School of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Education and Research Center for Fermentation Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Yumiko Yoshizaki
- United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Graduate School of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Education and Research Center for Fermentation Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Kazunori Takamine
- United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Graduate School of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Education and Research Center for Fermentation Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Kosuke Tashiro
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Goto
- United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Department of Applied Biochemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Saga University, Saga 840-8502, Japan
| | - Hisanori Tamaki
- United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Graduate School of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Education and Research Center for Fermentation Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Taiki Futagami
- United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Graduate School of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; Education and Research Center for Fermentation Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan.
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16
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Liu Z, Ma K, Zhang X, Song X, Qin Y. Different Putative Methyltransferases Have Different Effects on the Expression Patterns of Cellulolytic Genes. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1118. [PMID: 37998923 PMCID: PMC10671955 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111118] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Putative methyltranferase LaeA and LaeA-like proteins, conserved in many filamentous fungi, regulate fungal growth, development, virulence, the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, and the production of cellulolytic enzymes. Penicillium oxaliucm is a typical fungus that produces cellulolytic enzymes. In this study, we reported the biological function of eight putative methyltransferases (PoMtr23C/D/E/F/G/H and PoMtr25A/B) containing a methyltransf_23 or methyltransf_25 domain, with a focus on their roles in the production of cellulolytic enzymes. In P. oxalicum, various methyltransferase genes displayed different transcriptional levels. The genes Pomtr23C and Pomtr25A exhibited high transcriptional levels, while Pomtr23D/E/F/G/H and Pomtr25B were transcribed constantly at low levels. The gene deletion mutants (Δmtr23C/D/E/F/G/H and Δmtr25A/B) were constructed. Various mutants have different patterns in cellulolytic enzyme production. Compared to the WT, the largest increase in filter paper activity (FPA, indicating total cellulase activity) was observed in the Δmtr23G mutant, the only mutant with a cellulolytic halo surrounding the colony. Three mutants (Δmtr23C/D and Δmtr25A) also showed increased cellulolytic enzyme production. The Δmtr23E and Δmtr25B mutants displayed decreased FPA activity, while the Δmtr23F and Δmtr23H mutants displayed similar patterns of cellulolytic enzyme production compared with the WT. The assay of transcriptional levels of cellobiohydrolase gene Pocbh1 and β-1,4-endoglucanase Poeg1 supported that higher cellulolytic gene transcription resulted in higher production of cellulolytic enzymes, and vice versa. The transcriptional levels of two transcription factors, activator XlnR and repressor CreA, were measured. The high transcription level of the PoxlnR gene in the Δmtr23D mutant should be one reason for the increased transcription of its cellulolytic enzyme gene. Both XlnR and CreA transcriptional levels increased in the Δmtr23G mutant, but the former showed a more significant increase than the latter, indicating that the activation effect predominated. The PoMtr25A is localized in the nucleus. The catalytic subunit SNF2 of the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex was found as one of the interacting proteins of PoMtr25A via tandem affinity purification coupled with mass spectrometry. PoMtr25A may affect not only the transcription of repressor CreA but also by recruiting SWI/SNF complexes that affect chromatin structure, thereby regulating the transcription of target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongjiao Liu
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China; (Z.L.); (K.M.); (X.Z.); (X.S.)
| | - Kexuan Ma
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China; (Z.L.); (K.M.); (X.Z.); (X.S.)
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Xiujun Zhang
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China; (Z.L.); (K.M.); (X.Z.); (X.S.)
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan 250024, China
| | - Xin Song
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China; (Z.L.); (K.M.); (X.Z.); (X.S.)
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Yuqi Qin
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China; (Z.L.); (K.M.); (X.Z.); (X.S.)
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
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17
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Mathur S, Erickson SK, Goldberg LR, Hills S, Radin AGB, Schertzer JW. OprF functions as a latch to direct Outer Membrane Vesicle release in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.12.566662. [PMID: 37986865 PMCID: PMC10659412 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.12.566662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial Outer Membrane Vesicles (OMVs) contribute to virulence, competition, immune avoidance and communication. This has led to great interest in how they are formed. To date, investigation has focused almost exclusively on what controls the initiation of OMV biogenesis. Regardless of the mechanism of initiation, all species face a similar challenge before an OMV can be released: How does the OM detach from the underlying peptidoglycan (PG) in regions that will ultimately bulge and then vesiculate? The OmpA family of OM proteins (OprF in P. aeruginosa) is widely conserved and unusually abundant in OMVs across species considering their major role in PG attachment. OmpA homologs also have the interesting ability to adopt both PG-bound (two-domain) and PG-released (one-domain) conformations. Using targeted deletion of the PG-binding domain we showed that loss of cell wall association, and not general membrane destabilization, is responsible for hypervesiculation in OprF-modified strains. We therefore propose that OprF functions as a 'latch', capable of releasing PG in regions destined to become OMVs. To test this hypothesis, we developed a protocol to assess OprF conformation in live cells and purified OMVs. While >90% of OprF proteins exist in the two-domain conformation in the OM of cells, we show that the majority of OprF in OMVs is present in the one-domain conformation. With this work, we take some of the first steps in characterizing late-stage OMV biogenesis and identify a family of proteins whose critical role can be explained by their unique ability to fold into two distinct conformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shrestha Mathur
- Department of Biological Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
- Binghamton Biofilm Research Center, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
| | - Susan K Erickson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
- Binghamton Biofilm Research Center, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
| | - Leah R Goldberg
- Department of Biological Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
- Binghamton Biofilm Research Center, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
| | - Sonia Hills
- Department of Biological Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
- Binghamton Biofilm Research Center, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
| | - Abigail G B Radin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
- Binghamton Biofilm Research Center, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
| | - Jeffrey W Schertzer
- Department of Biological Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
- Binghamton Biofilm Research Center, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902
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18
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Yang Y, Liu LN, Tian H, Cooper AI, Sprick RS. Making the connections: physical and electric interactions in biohybrid photosynthetic systems. ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 2023; 16:4305-4319. [PMID: 38013927 PMCID: PMC10566253 DOI: 10.1039/d3ee01265d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Biohybrid photosynthesis systems, which combine biological and non-biological materials, have attracted recent interest in solar-to-chemical energy conversion. However, the solar efficiencies of such systems remain low, despite advances in both artificial photosynthesis and synthetic biology. Here we discuss the potential of conjugated organic materials as photosensitisers for biological hybrid systems compared to traditional inorganic semiconductors. Organic materials offer the ability to tune both photophysical properties and the specific physicochemical interactions between the photosensitiser and biological cells, thus improving stability and charge transfer. We highlight the state-of-the-art and opportunities for new approaches in designing new biohybrid systems. This perspective also summarises the current understanding of the underlying electron transport process and highlights the research areas that need to be pursued to underpin the development of hybrid photosynthesis systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Yang
- Materials Innovation Factory and Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool Liverpool L7 3NY UK
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool Liverpool L69 7ZB UK
| | - Lu-Ning Liu
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool Liverpool L69 7ZB UK
- College of Marine Life Sciences, and Frontiers Science Centre for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China 266003 Qingdao P. R. China
| | - Haining Tian
- Department of Chemistry-Ångström Laboratories, Uppsala University Box 523 751 20 Uppsala Sweden
| | - Andrew I Cooper
- Materials Innovation Factory and Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool Liverpool L7 3NY UK
| | - Reiner Sebastian Sprick
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde Thomas Graham Building, 295 Cathedral Street Glasgow G1 1XL UK
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Medison RG, Jiang J, Medison MB, Tan LT, Kayange CD, Sun Z, Zhou Y. Evaluating the potential of Bacillus licheniformis YZCUO202005 isolated from lichens in maize growth promotion and biocontrol. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20204. [PMID: 37767471 PMCID: PMC10520788 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20204] [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: 12/25/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Lichens exist in an organismal organization of mycobiont, photobiont, and non-photoautotrophic bacteria. These organisms contribute to the growth of lichens even in poor nutrition substrates. However, studies on the isolation and application of non-photoautotrophic bacteria in plant growth and biocontrol are scanty. Therefore, a study was conducted to isolate and evaluate the potential of non-photoautotrophic bacteria from lichen tissues in maize plant growth promotion and biocontrol of plant pathogens (fungi and bacteria). Five bacterial strains were isolated and tested for their ability to produce indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA). One bacterium named YZCUO202005 produced IAA, siderophores and biofilms, solubilized phosphate and potassium and exhibited extracellular enzymes (cellulases, proteases, amylase, and β -1,3-Glucanase). Based on the 16S rRNA sequence analysis results, YZCUO202005 was identified as Bacillus licheniformis. The strain inhibited the growth of five pathogenic fungi with an inhibition percent of between 58.7% and 71.7% and two pathogenic bacteria. Under greenhouse conditions, YZCUO202005 was tested for its abilities to enhance maize seed germination, and vegetative growth. Compared with the control treatment, the strain significantly enhanced the growth of stem length (i.e. 18 ± 0.64 cm, 78 ± 0.92 cm), leaf length (i.e. 10 ± 0.36 cm, 57 ± 1.42 cm), leaf chlorophyll levels (i.e., 13 ± 0.40, 40 ± 0.43 SPAD), and root length (i.e, 9.8 ± 2.25 cm, 22.5 ± 6.59 cm). Our results demonstrated that B. licheniformis YZCUO202005 from lichens has the potential to promote plant growth and reduce fungal and bacterial pathogens' growth. Furthermore, the results suggest that lichens are naturally rich sources of plant growth promotion and biocontrol agents that would be used in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudoviko Galileya Medison
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, 266 Jingmi Road, Jingzhou City, Hubei Province, 434025, China
| | - Jianwei Jiang
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, 266 Jingmi Road, Jingzhou City, Hubei Province, 434025, China
| | - Milca Banda Medison
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, 266 Jingmi Road, Jingzhou City, Hubei Province, 434025, China
| | - Li-Tao Tan
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, 266 Jingmi Road, Jingzhou City, Hubei Province, 434025, China
| | - Chicco D.M. Kayange
- Department of Land Resources Conservation, Mulanje District Agriculture Office, P.O. Box 49, Mulanje, Malawi
| | - Zhengxiang Sun
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, 266 Jingmi Road, Jingzhou City, Hubei Province, 434025, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, 266 Jingmi Road, Jingzhou City, Hubei Province, 434025, China
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20
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Balaraman V, Indran SV, Li Y, Meekins DA, Jakkula LU, Liu H, Hays MP, Souza-Neto JA, Gaudreault NN, Hardwidge PR, Wilson WC, Weber F, Richt JA. Identification of host factors for Rift Valley Fever Phlebovirus. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.28.559935. [PMID: 37808812 PMCID: PMC10557628 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.28.559935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Rift Valley fever phlebovirus (RVFV) is a zoonotic pathogen that causes Rift Valley fever (RVF) in livestock and humans. Currently, there is no licensed human vaccine or antiviral drug to control RVF. Although multiple species of animals and humans are vulnerable to RVFV infection, host factors affecting susceptibility are not well understood. Methodology To identify the host factors or genes essential for RVFV replication, we conducted a CRISPR-Cas9 knock-out screen in human A549 cells. We then validated the putative genes using siRNA-mediated knockdowns and CRISPR-Cas9-mediated knockout studies, respectively. The role of a candidate gene in the virus replication cycle was assessed by measuring intracellular viral RNA accumulation, and the virus titers by plaque assay or TCID50 assay. Findings We identified approximately 900 genes with potential involvement in RVFV infection and replication. Further evaluation of the effect of six genes on viral replication using siRNA-mediated knockdowns found that silencing two genes (WDR7 and LRP1) significantly impaired RVFV replication. For further analysis, we focused on the WDR7 gene since the role of LRP1 in RVFV replication was previously described in detail. Knock-out A549 cell lines were generated and used to dissect the effect of WRD7 on RVFV and another bunyavirus, La Crosse encephalitis virus (LACV). We observed significant effects of WDR7 knock-out cells on both intracellular RVFV RNA levels and viral titers. At the intracellular RNA level, WRD7 affected RVFV replication at a later phase of its replication cycle (24h) when compared to LACV which was affected an earlier replication phase (12h). Conclusion In summary, we have identified WDR7 as an essential host factor for the replication of two relevant bunyaviruses, RVFV and LACV. Future studies will investigate the mechanistic role by which WDR7 facilitates Phlebovirus replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velmurugan Balaraman
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Sabarish V. Indran
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Yonghai Li
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - David A. Meekins
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Laxmi U.M.R. Jakkula
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Heidi Liu
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Micheal P. Hays
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Jayme A. Souza-Neto
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Natasha N. Gaudreault
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Philip R. Hardwidge
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - William C. Wilson
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, Foreign Arthropod-Borne Animal Diseases Research Unit, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Friedemann Weber
- Institute for Virology, FB10-Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
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21
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Rúa-Giraldo ÁL. Fungal taxonomy: A puzzle with many missing pieces. BIOMEDICA : REVISTA DEL INSTITUTO NACIONAL DE SALUD 2023; 43:288-311. [PMID: 37721899 PMCID: PMC10588969 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.7052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Fungi are multifaceted organisms found in almost all ecosystems on Earth, where they establish various types of symbiosis with other living beings. Despite being recognized by humans since ancient times, and the high number of works delving into their biology and ecology, much is still unknown about these organisms. Some criteria classically used for their study are nowadays limited, generating confusion in categorizing them, and even more, when trying to understand their genealogical relationships. To identify species within Fungi, phenotypic characters to date are not sufficient, and to construct a broad phylogeny or a phylogeny of a particular group, there are still gaps affecting the generated trees, making them unstable and easily debated. For health professionals, fungal identification at lower levels such as genus and species, is enough to select the most appropriate therapy for their control, understand the epidemiology of clinical pictures associated, and recognize outbreaks and antimicrobial resistance. However, the taxonomic location within the kingdom, information with apparently little relevance, can allow phylogenetic relationships to be established between fungal taxa, facilitating the understanding of their biology, distribution in nature, and pathogenic potential evolution. Advances in molecular biology and computer science techniques from the last 30 years have led to crucial changes aiming to establish the criteria to define a fungal species, allowing us to reach a kind of stable phylogenetic construction. However, there is still a long way to go, and it requires the joint work of the scientific community at a global level and support for basic research.
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22
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Abou Zeid AA, Mohamed AH, El-Sayed AS, EL-Shawadfy AM. Biochemical, molecular and anti-tumor characterization of L-methionine gamma lyase produced by local Pseudomonas sp. in Egypt. Saudi J Biol Sci 2023; 30:103682. [PMID: 37305655 PMCID: PMC10248269 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2023.103682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
A soil inhabiting Pseudomonas sp. has been examined for producing L- methionine gamma-lyase enzyme. The identity of the tested bacteria was verified by VITEK2, and MALDI-TOF analysis in addition to molecular confirmation by 16S rDNA sequence and submitted in Genbank under accession number ON993898.1. Production of the targeted enzyme was done using a commercial medium including L-methionine, as the main substrate. This obtained enzyme was precipitated using acetone (1:1v/v) followed by purification with Sephadex G100 and sepharose columns. The specific activity of the purified enzyme (105.8 µmol/ mg/min) increased by 1.89 folds after the purification steps. The peptide fingerprint of the native MGL was verified from the proteomics analysis, with identical conserved active site domains with database-deposited MGLs. The molecular mass of the pure MGL denatured subunit was (>40 kDa) and that of the native enzyme was (>150 kDa) ensuring their homotetrameric identity. The purified enzyme showed absorption spectra at 280 nm and 420 nm for the apo-MGL and PLP coenzyme, respectively. Amino acids suicide analogues analysis by DTNB, hydroxylamine, iodoacetate, MBTH, mercaptoethanol and guanidine thiocyanate reduced the relative activity of purified MGL. From the kinetic properties, the catalytic effectiveness (Kcat/km) of Pseudomonas sp. MGL was 10.8 mM -1 S-1 for methionine and 5.51 mM -1 S-1 for cysteine, respectively. The purified MGL showed highly significant antiproliferative activity towards the liver carcinoma cell line (HEPG-2) and breast carcinoma cell line (MCF-7) with half inhibitory concentration values (IC50) 7.23 U/ml and 21.14 U/ml, respectively. No obvious signs of toxicity on liver and kidney functions in the examined animal models were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azza A. Abou Zeid
- Corresponding author at: Botany and Microbiology Deparetment, Faculy of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt.
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23
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Gao J, Zhou S, Tang W, Wang J, Liu H, Zhang Y, Wang L, Li X, Liu Z. The velvet proteins CsVosA and CsVelB coordinate growth, cell wall integrity, sporulation, conidial viability and pathogenicity in the rubber anthracnose fungus Colletotrichum siamense. Microbiol Res 2023; 268:127290. [PMID: 36571920 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2022.127290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Colletotrichum siamense, a member of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides complex species, is the primary pathogen causing rubber anthracnose, which leads to significant economic loss in natural rubber production. Velvet family proteins are fungal-specific proteins and play an essential role in regulating development and secondary metabolism. In this study, we characterized two velvet proteins CsVosA and CsVelB in C. siamense as the orthologs of VosA and VelB in Aspergillus nidulans. CsVosA is located in the nucleus, and CsVelB displays a localization in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Deleting CsvosA or CsvelB results in a slow growth rate, and the CsvelB-knockout mutants also exhibit low mycelial density. CsVosA and CsVelB are involved in regulating chitin metabolism and distribution, leading to the variation in the cell wall integrity of C. siamense. Furthermore, disruption of CsvosA or CsvelB can decrease conidial production and viability, and the ΔCsvosA and ΔCsvelB mutants also lose the ability to produce fruiting bodies. Pathogenicity assays show that deleting CsvosA or CsvelB can lower the virulence, and the two velvet genes are essential for the full virulence of C. siamense. Based on the results of the yeast two-hybrid analysis and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays, CsVosA can interact with CsVelB and form the complex CsVosA-CsVelB in the conidia of C. siamense, which may play essential roles in maintaining the cell wall integrity and conidial viability. In addition, CsVelB is also involved in regulating melanin production of C. siamense. In conclusion, CsVosA and CsVelB regulate vegetative growth, cell wall integrity, asexual/sexual sporulation, conidial viability and virulence in C. siamense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Gao
- School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | | | - Wen Tang
- School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China; One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Jinhong Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Huanqing Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Liya Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China; One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, China.
| | - Zhiqiang Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China; One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, China.
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24
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Melia S, Juliyarsi I, Kurnia YF, Aritonang SN, Purwati E, Sukma A, Fitria N, Susmiati S, Meinapuri M, Pratama YE, Ramadhanti N. Effect of fermented milk Pediococcus acidilactici BK01 on cholesterol and microbiota in Wistar mice intestine. J Adv Vet Anim Res 2023; 10:64-71. [PMID: 37155540 PMCID: PMC10122951 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2023.j653] [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: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This study examines the effect of fermented milk containing the probiotic Pediococcus acidilactici BK01 on cholesterol and intestinal microbiota. Materials and Methods 24 male rats weighing an average of 200 gm each spent 1 week in a cage adapting to their new environment. They were fed standard feed daily and were allowed to drink ad libitum. For 3 weeks, rats were divided into four groups (doses of fermented milk): M+ (control), M1 (0.35 ml), M2 (0.70 ml), and M3 (1.05 ml). The analysis includes bodyweight determination, serum biochemical analysis, and intestine microbiota analysis. Results The results indicated that while P. acidilactici BK01 fermented milk did not affect body weight or high-density lipoprotein, it did have a beneficial effect on total serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Additionally, treatment of fermented milk with P. acidilactici BK01 has been shown to increase the total lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in the intestine, as indicated by changes in the intestinal villi. Conclusion Administering fermented milk (P. acidilactici BK01, 1.05 ml) can reduce total serum cholesterol and increase the number of LAB in intestinal villi in experimental animals, so it has the potential to be a probiotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Melia
- Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Andalas, Padang, Indonesia
| | - Indri Juliyarsi
- Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Andalas, Padang, Indonesia
| | | | | | - Endang Purwati
- Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Andalas, Padang, Indonesia
| | - Ade Sukma
- Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Andalas, Padang, Indonesia
| | - Najmiatul Fitria
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Andalas, Padang, Indonesia
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Wu Y, Wang Y, Han S, Li Q, Kong L. The global regulator FpLaeB is required for the regulation of growth, development, and virulence in Fusarium pseudograminearum. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1132507. [PMID: 36909432 PMCID: PMC9994621 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1132507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Fusarium pseudograminearum is a soil-borne pathogen that is capable of causing a highly destructive crown disease in wheat. Secondary metabolites (SMs), especially deoxynivalenol (DON), are the primary virulence factors during infection. Here, we characterised the global regulator FpLaeB, an orthologue of LaeB protein function, to regulate the SM in Aspergillus nidulans. Through the utility of the gene targeting approach, we found that the vegetative growth of the FpLaeB deletion mutant was drastically reduced compared to that of the wild type. FpLaeB was also important for conidiation because the FpLaeB deletion mutant formed fewer conidia in induced medium. In addition, the sensitivity of the FpLaeB deletion mutant to the cell wall integrity inhibitor was decreased, while its growth was more severely inhibited by the cell membrane inhibitor sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) than that of the wild type. More importantly, the virulence was decreased when the FpLaeB deletion mutant was inoculated onto the wheat stem base or head. Through genome-wide gene expression profiling, FpLaeB was found to regulate several processes related to the above phenotypes such as the carbohydrate metabolic process, which is an integral and intrinsic component of membranes, especially SMs. Furthermore, the generation of DON was impaired in the FpLaeB deletion mutant via ultraperformance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) assay. These results showed that FpLaeB plays an important role in the growth, development, and maintenance of the cell wall, and in membrane integrity. More importantly, FpLaeB is required for SMs and full virulence in F. pseudograminearum.
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Ferreira AM, Vikulina A, Loughlin M, Volodkin D. How similar is the antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles coated with different capping agents? †. RSC Adv 2023; 13:10542-10555. [PMID: 37021104 PMCID: PMC10068916 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra00917c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) represent one of the most commercialised metal nanomaterials, with an extensive number of applications that span from antimicrobial products to electronics. Bare AgNPs are very susceptible to aggregation, and capping agents are required for their protection and stabilisation. The capping agents can endow new characteristics which can either improve or deteriorate AgNPs (bio)activity. In the present work, five different capping agents were studied as stabilizing agents for AgNPs: trisodium citrate (citrate), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), dextran (Dex), diethylaminoethyl-dextran (DexDEAE) and carboxymethyl-dextran (DexCM). The properties of the AgNPs were studied using a set of methods, including transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and ultraviolet-visible and infrared spectroscopy. Coated and bare AgNPs were also tested against Escherichia coli, methicillin-resistance Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa to analyse their capacity to suppress bacterial growth and eradicate biofilms of clinically relevant bacteria. The results showed that all the capping agents endow long-term stability for the AgNPs in water; however, when the AgNPs are in bacterial culture media, their stability is highly dependent on the capping agent properties due to the presence of electrolytes and charged macromolecules such as proteins. The results also showed that the capping agents have a substantial impact on the antibacterial activity of the AgNPs. The AgNPs coated with the Dex and DexCM were the most effective against the three strains, due to their better stability which resulted in the release of more silver ions, better interactions with the bacteria and diffusion into the biofilms. It is hypothesized that the antibacterial activity of capped AgNPs is governed by a balance between the AgNPs stability and their ability to release silver ions. Strong adsorption of capping agents like PVP on the AgNPs endows higher colloidal stability in culture media; however, it can decrease the rate of Ag+ release from the AgNPs and reduce the antibacterial performance. Overall, this work presents a comparative study between different capping agents on the properties and antibacterial activity of AgNPs, highlighting the importance of the capping agent in their stability and bioactivity. Nanosilver antibacterial activity is governed by a balance between the nanosilver stability and their ability to release/dope Ag+ to solution.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M. Ferreira
- School of Science and Technology, Department of Chemistry and Forensics, Nottingham Trent UniversityClifton LaneNottingham NG11 8NSUK
| | - Anna Vikulina
- Bavarian Polymer Institute, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU)Dr-Mack-Straße, 7790762 FürthGermany
| | - Michael Loughlin
- School of Science and Technology, Department of Chemistry and Forensics, Nottingham Trent UniversityClifton LaneNottingham NG11 8NSUK
| | - Dmitry Volodkin
- School of Science and Technology, Department of Chemistry and Forensics, Nottingham Trent UniversityClifton LaneNottingham NG11 8NSUK
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Weber D, de Souza Bastos L, Winkler M, Ni Y, Aliev AE, Hailes HC, Rother D. Multi-enzyme catalysed processes using purified and whole-cell biocatalysts towards a 1,3,4-substituted tetrahydroisoquinoline †‡. RSC Adv 2023; 13:10097-10109. [PMID: 37006360 PMCID: PMC10053099 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra01210g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work, two multi-enzyme catalysed processes to access a 1,3,4-substituted tetrahydroisoquinoline (THIQ), using either purified enzymes or lyophilised whole-cell catalysts, are presented. A key focus was the first step in which the reduction of 3-hydroxybenzoic acid (3-OH-BZ) into 3-hydroxybenzaldehyde (3-OH-BA) was catalysed by a carboxylate reductase (CAR) enzyme. Incorporation of the CAR-catalysed step enables substituted benzoic acids as the aromatic components, which can potentially be obtained from renewable resources by microbial cell factories. In this reduction, the implementation of an efficient cofactor regeneration system of both ATP and NADPH was crucial. Two different recycling approaches, either using purified enzymes or lyophilised whole-cells, were established and compared. Both of them showed high conversions of the acid into 3-OH-BA (>80%). However, the whole-cell system showed superior performance because it allowed the combination of the first and second steps into a one-pot cascade with excellent HPLC yields (>99%, enantiomeric excess (ee) ≥ 95%) producing the intermediate 3-hydroxyphenylacetylcarbinol. Moreover, enhanced substrate loads could be achieved compared to the system employing only purified enzymes. The third and fourth steps were performed in a sequential mode to avoid cross-reactivities and the formation of several side products. Thus, (1R,2S)-metaraminol could be formed with high HPLC yields (>90%, isomeric content (ic) ≥ 95%) applying either purified or whole-cell transaminases from Bacillus megaterium (BmTA) or Chromobacterium violaceum (Cv2025). Finally, the cyclisation step was performed using either a purified or lyophilised whole-cell norcoclaurine synthase variant from Thalictrum flavum (ΔTfNCS-A79I), leading to the formation of the target THIQ product with high HPLC yields (>90%, ic > 90%). As many of the educts applied are from renewable resources and a complex product with three chiral centers can be gained by only four highly selective steps, a very step- and atom efficient approach to stereoisomerically pure THIQ is shown. In this work, two multi-enzyme catalysed processes to access a 1,3,4-substituted tetrahydroisoquinoline (THIQ), using either purified enzymes or lyophilised whole-cell catalysts, are presented.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Weber
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences (IBG-1): Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH52425 JuelichGermany
- Aachen Biology and Biotechnology (ABBt), RWTH Aachen UniversityWorringer Weg 152062 AachenGermany
| | - Lucas de Souza Bastos
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences (IBG-1): Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH52425 JuelichGermany
| | - Margit Winkler
- acib GmbHKrenngasse 37A-8010 GrazAustria
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology, Graz University of TechnologyPetersgasse 148010 GrazAustria
| | - Yeke Ni
- Department of Chemistry, University College LondonLondonWC1H 0AJUK
| | - Abil E. Aliev
- Department of Chemistry, University College LondonLondonWC1H 0AJUK
| | - Helen C. Hailes
- Department of Chemistry, University College LondonLondonWC1H 0AJUK
| | - Doerte Rother
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences (IBG-1): Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH52425 JuelichGermany
- Aachen Biology and Biotechnology (ABBt), RWTH Aachen UniversityWorringer Weg 152062 AachenGermany
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Nowrousian M. The Role of Chromatin and Transcriptional Control in the Formation of Sexual Fruiting Bodies in Fungi. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2022; 86:e0010422. [PMID: 36409109 PMCID: PMC9769939 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00104-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal fruiting bodies are complex, three-dimensional structures that arise from a less complex vegetative mycelium. Their formation requires the coordinated action of many genes and their gene products, and fruiting body formation is accompanied by major changes in the transcriptome. In recent years, numerous transcription factor genes as well as chromatin modifier genes that play a role in fruiting body morphogenesis were identified, and through research on several model organisms, the underlying regulatory networks that integrate chromatin structure, gene expression, and cell differentiation are becoming clearer. This review gives a summary of the current state of research on the role of transcriptional control and chromatin structure in fruiting body development. In the first part, insights from transcriptomics analyses are described, with a focus on comparative transcriptomics. In the second part, examples of more detailed functional characterizations of the role of chromatin modifiers and/or transcription factors in several model organisms (Neurospora crassa, Aspergillus nidulans, Sordaria macrospora, Coprinopsis cinerea, and Schizophyllum commune) that have led to a better understanding of regulatory networks at the level of chromatin structure and transcription are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minou Nowrousian
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Botany, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Beneficial Effects of Lactic Acid Bacteria on Animal Reproduction Function. Vet Med Int 2022; 2022:4570320. [PMID: 36505731 PMCID: PMC9729032 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4570320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Considering the importance of a healthy uterus to the success of breeding, the beneficial effects of lactic acid bacteria on animal reproduction function are of particular interest. In recent decades, infertility has become a widespread issue, with microbiological variables playing a significant role. According to reports, dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiota is connected with infertility; however, the effect of the normal vaginal microbiota on infertility is unknown. In addition, lactic acid bacteria dominate the reproductive system. According to evidence, vaginal lactic acid bacteria play a crucial role in limiting the invasion of pathogenic bacteria by triggering anti-inflammatory chemicals through IL-8, IL-1, and IL-6; immunological responses through inhibition of the adherence of other microorganisms, production of inhibiting substances, and stimulation of mucus production; and also reproductive hormones by increased testosterone hormone release, enhanced the levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, the amount of prostaglandin E (2), and prostaglandin F2 alpha. The objective of this study was to compare the advantages of lactic acid bacteria in animal reproduction based on the most recent literature. The administration of a single strain or numerous strains of lactic acid bacteria has a favourable impact on steroidogenesis, gametogenesis, and animal fertility.
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Cerón-Bustamante M, Balducci E, Beccari G, Nicholson P, Covarelli L, Benincasa P. Effect of light spectra on cereal fungal pathogens, a review. FUNGAL BIOL REV 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbr.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Luo Q, Li N, Xu JW. A methyltransferase LaeA regulates ganoderic acid biosynthesis in Ganoderma lingzhi. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1025983. [PMID: 36312944 PMCID: PMC9614229 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1025983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The methyltransferase LaeA is a global regulator involved in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites by ascomycete fungi. However, little is known of its regulatory role in basidiomycete fungi. In this study, the laeA gene was identified in the basidiomycete Ganoderma lingzhi and its function in regulating the biosynthesis of anti-tumor ganoderic acids was evaluated. A laeA deletion (ΔlaeA) Ganoderma strain exhibited significantly reduced concentration of ganoderic acids. qRT-PCR analysis further revealed that the transcription levels of genes involved in the biosynthesis of ganoderic acids were drastically lower in the ΔlaeA strain. Moreover, deletion of laeA resulted in decreased accumulation of intermediates and abundances of asexual spores in liquid static culture of G. lingzhi. In contrast, constitutive overexpression of laeA resulted in increased concentration of ganoderic acids. These results demonstrate an essential role of LaeA in the regulation of ganoderic acid biosynthesis in Ganoderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Luo
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Na Li
- Faculty of Science, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Jun-Wei Xu
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
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Schüller A, Studt-Reinhold L, Strauss J. How to Completely Squeeze a Fungus-Advanced Genome Mining Tools for Novel Bioactive Substances. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:1837. [PMID: 36145585 PMCID: PMC9505985 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal species have the capability of producing an overwhelming diversity of bioactive substances that can have beneficial but also detrimental effects on human health. These so-called secondary metabolites naturally serve as antimicrobial "weapon systems", signaling molecules or developmental effectors for fungi and hence are produced only under very specific environmental conditions or stages in their life cycle. However, as these complex conditions are difficult or even impossible to mimic in laboratory settings, only a small fraction of the true chemical diversity of fungi is known so far. This also implies that a large space for potentially new pharmaceuticals remains unexplored. We here present an overview on current developments in advanced methods that can be used to explore this chemical space. We focus on genetic and genomic methods, how to detect genes that harbor the blueprints for the production of these compounds (i.e., biosynthetic gene clusters, BGCs), and ways to activate these silent chromosomal regions. We provide an in-depth view of the chromatin-level regulation of BGCs and of the potential to use the CRISPR/Cas technology as an activation tool.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joseph Strauss
- Institute of Microbial Genetics, Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, A-3430 Tulln/Donau, Austria
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Wang Y, Chen Y, Zhang J, Zhang C. Overexpression of llm1 Affects the Synthesis of Secondary Metabolites of Aspergillus cristatus. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10091707. [PMID: 36144309 PMCID: PMC9502445 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10091707] [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: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Putative methyltransferases are thought to be involved in the regulation of secondary metabolites in filamentous fungi. Here, we report the effects of overexpression of a predicted LaeA-like methyltransferase gene llm1 on the synthesis of secondary metabolites in Aspergillus cristatus. Our results revealed that overexpression of the gene llm1 in A. cristatus significantly hindered the production of conidia and enhanced sexual development, and reduced oxidative tolerance to hydrogen peroxide. Compared with the wild-type, the metabolic profile of the overexpression transformant was distinct, and the contents of multiple secondary metabolites were markedly increased, mainly including terpenoids and flavonoids, such as (S)-olEuropeic acid, gibberellin A62, gibberellin A95, ovalitenone, PD 98059, and 1-isomangostin. A total of 600 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified utilizing transcriptome sequencing, and the DEGs were predominantly enriched in transmembrane transport and secondary metabolism-related biological processes. In summary, the strategy of overexpressing global secondary metabolite regulators successfully activated the expression of secondary metabolite gene clusters, and the numerous secondary metabolites were greatly strengthened in A. cristatus. This study provides new insights into the in-depth exploitation and utilization of novel secondary metabolites of A. cristatus.
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Gil-Sánchez MDM, Cea-Sánchez S, Luque EM, Cánovas D, Corrochano LM. Light regulates the degradation of the regulatory protein VE-1 in the fungus Neurospora crassa. BMC Biol 2022; 20:149. [PMID: 35761233 PMCID: PMC9238092 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01351-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fungi use light as an environmental signal to regulate developmental transitions that are key aspects of their biological cycles and that are also relevant for their dispersal and infectivity as plant or animal pathogens. In addition, light regulates the accumulation of photoprotective pigments, like carotenoids, and other secondary metabolites. Most fungal light responses occur after changes in gene transcription and we describe here a novel effect of light in the regulation of degradation of VE-1, a key component of the velvet complex, in the model fungus Neurospora crassa. The velvet complex is a fungal-specific protein complex that coordinates fungal development, secondary metabolism, and light regulation by interacting with other regulators and photoreceptors and modifying gene expression. RESULTS We have characterized the role of VE-1 during conidiation in N. crassa. In vegetative mycelia, VE-1 is localized in the cytoplasm and nuclei and is required for light-dependent transcription but does not interact with the photoreceptor and transcription factor WC-1. VE-1 is more stable in light than in darkness during asexual development (conidiation). We have shown that this light effect requires the blue-light photoreceptor WC-1. We have characterized the role of the proteasome, the COP9 signalosome (CSN), and the adaptor component of cullin-RING ubiquitin ligases, FWD-1, in the degradation of VE-1. CONCLUSIONS We propose that this new effect of light allows the fungal cell to adapt quickly to changes in light exposure by promoting the accumulation of VE-1 for the regulation of genes that participate in the biosynthesis of photoprotective pigments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Cea-Sánchez
- Departamento de Genética, Universidad de Sevilla, Reina Mercedes s/n, 41012, Seville, Spain
| | - Eva M Luque
- Departamento de Genética, Universidad de Sevilla, Reina Mercedes s/n, 41012, Seville, Spain
| | - David Cánovas
- Departamento de Genética, Universidad de Sevilla, Reina Mercedes s/n, 41012, Seville, Spain
| | - Luis M Corrochano
- Departamento de Genética, Universidad de Sevilla, Reina Mercedes s/n, 41012, Seville, Spain.
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Lavaee F, Moqadas A, Modarresi F, Nowrouzi M. The Effect of Pimpinella Anisum and Origanum Vulgare Extracts Against Streptococcus Sanguinis, Streptococcus Mutans, and Streptococcus Salivarius. JOURNAL OF DENTISTRY (SHIRAZ, IRAN) 2022; 23:113-120. [PMID: 35783492 PMCID: PMC9206703 DOI: 10.30476/dentjods.2021.85691.1145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Statement of the Problem There are global efforts for introducing a new herbal antimicrobial agent with minimal side effects. There are some reports about the antimicrobial properties of Pimpinella anisum and Oregano Vulgare. Purpose In this study, the antimicrobial properties of Pimpinella anisum and Oregano Vulgare have been assessed. Material and Method In this experimental in vitro study, the dental plaque samples were collected from children aged 3 to 5 years old who were referred to a private dental office with diagnosis of dental caries. After determination of the bacterial colonies of Streptococcus sanguinis, Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus salivarius, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of ethanolic and methanolic extracts of Pimpinella anisum and Oregano vulgare were measured by macrodilution and microdilution methods. Results The mean MIC and MBC of Pimpinella anisum extract and Oregano vulgare extract and their combination against Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguinis, and Streptococcus salivarius were statistically different (p< 0.001). The combination of these extracts showed the lowest MIC and MBC. Conclusion Hydroalcoholic extracts of the Pimpinella anisum and Oregano Vulgare were effective antibacterial agent against Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus salivarius, and Streptococcus sanguinis so the combination of these two extracts showed the highest antibacterial properties on all the bacteria evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Lavaee
- Oral and Dental Disease Research Center, Dept. of Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Armin Moqadas
- Undergraduate Students, Student Research Committee, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farzan Modarresi
- Dept. of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom Iran
| | - Massoumeh Nowrouzi
- Postgraduate, Dept. of Periodontics, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Goel P, Panchal T, Kaushik N, Chauhan R, Saini S, Ahuja V, Thakur CJ. In silico functional and structural characterization revealed virulent proteins of Francisella tularensis strain SCHU4. MOLECULAR BIOLOGY RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 11:73-84. [PMID: 36059929 PMCID: PMC9336787 DOI: 10.22099/mbrc.2022.43128.1719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Francisella tularensis is a pathogenic, aerobic gram-negative coccobacillus bacterium. It is the causative agent of tularemia, a rare infectious disease that can attack skin, lungs, eyes, and lymph nodes. The genome of F. tularensis has been sequenced, and ~16% of the proteome is still uncharacterized. Characterizations of these proteins are essential to find new drug targets for better therapeutics. In silico characterization of proteins has become an extremely important approach to determine the functionality of proteins as experimental functional elucidation is unable to keep pace with the current growth of the sequence database. Initially, we have annotated 577 Hypothetical Proteins (HPs) of F. tularensis strain SCHU4 with seven bioinformatics tools which characterized them based on the family, domain and motif. Out of 577 HPs, 119 HPs were annotated by five or more tools and are further screened to predict their virulence properties, subcellular localization, transmembrane helices as well as physicochemical parameters. VirulentPred predicted 66 HPs out of 119 as virulent. These virulent proteins were annotated to find the interacting partner using STRING, and proteins with high confidence interaction scores were used to predict their 3D structures using Phyre2. The three virulent proteins Q5NH99 (phosphoserine phosphatase), Q5NG42 (Cystathionine beta-synthase) and Q5NG83 (Rrf2-type helix turn helix domain) were predicted to involve in modulation of cytoskeletal and innate immunity of host, H2S (hydrogen sulfide) based antibiotic tolerance and nitrite and iron metabolism of bacteria. The above predicted virulent proteins can serve as novel drug targets in the era of antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prerna Goel
- Department of Bioinformatics, Goswami Ganesh Dutta Sanatan Dharma College, Sector 32 C, Chandigarh, India
| | - Tanya Panchal
- Department of Bioinformatics, Goswami Ganesh Dutta Sanatan Dharma College, Sector 32 C, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nandini Kaushik
- Department of Bioinformatics, Goswami Ganesh Dutta Sanatan Dharma College, Sector 32 C, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ritika Chauhan
- Department of Bioinformatics, Goswami Ganesh Dutta Sanatan Dharma College, Sector 32 C, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sandeep Saini
- Department of Bioinformatics, Goswami Ganesh Dutta Sanatan Dharma College, Sector 32 C, Chandigarh, India,Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Sector 25, 160014, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vartika Ahuja
- Department of Bioinformatics, Goswami Ganesh Dutta Sanatan Dharma College, Sector 32 C, Chandigarh, India
| | - Chander Jyoti Thakur
- Department of Bioinformatics, Goswami Ganesh Dutta Sanatan Dharma College, Sector 32 C, Chandigarh, India,Corresponding Author: Department of Bioinformatics,Goswami Ganesh Dutta Sanatan Dharma College Sector 32 C, Chandigarh, India, 160030. Tel: +91 8699776533; Fax: +91 1722661077, E. mail:
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Density fluctuations, homeostasis, and reproduction effects in bacteria. Commun Biol 2022; 5:397. [PMID: 35484403 PMCID: PMC9050864 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03348-2] [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: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Single-cells grow by increasing their biomass and size. Here, we report that while mass and size accumulation rates of single Escherichia coli cells are exponential, their density and, thus, the levels of macromolecular crowding fluctuate during growth. As such, the average rates of mass and size accumulation of a single cell are generally not the same, but rather cells differentiate into increasing one rate with respect to the other. This differentiation yields a density homeostasis mechanism that we support mathematically. Further, we observe that density fluctuations can affect the reproduction rates of single cells, suggesting a link between the levels of macromolecular crowding with metabolism and overall population fitness. We detail our experimental approach and the “invisible” microfluidic arrays that enabled increased precision and throughput. Infections and natural communities start from a few cells, thus, emphasizing the significance of density-fluctuations when taking non-genetic variability into consideration. Quantitative imaging, invisible microfluidics, and mathematical models demonstrate how the density of single E. coli cells fluctuates during the cell cycle, unmasking key homeostasis and population fitness effects.
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Futagami T. The white koji fungus Aspergillus luchuensis mut. kawachii. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2022; 86:574-584. [PMID: 35238900 DOI: 10.1093/bbb/zbac033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The white koji fungus, Aspergillus luchuensis mut. kawachii, is used in the production of shochu, a traditional Japanese distilled spirit. White koji fungus plays an important role in the shochu production process by supplying amylolytic enzymes such as α-amylase and glucoamylase. These enzymes convert starch contained in primary ingredients such as rice, barley, buckwheat, and sweet potato into glucose, which is subsequently utilized by the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to produce ethanol. White koji fungus also secretes large amounts of citric acid, which lowers the pH of the shochu mash, thereby preventing the growth of undesired microbes and enabling stable production of shochu in relatively warm regions of Japan. This review describes the historical background, research tools, and recent advances in studies of the mechanism of citric acid production by white koji fungus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiki Futagami
- Education and Research Center for Fermentation Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan.,United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
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Soininen L, Roslund MI, Nurminen N, Puhakka R, Laitinen OH, Hyöty H, Sinkkonen A. Indoor green wall affects health-associated commensal skin microbiota and enhances immune regulation: a randomized trial among urban office workers. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6518. [PMID: 35444249 PMCID: PMC9021224 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10432-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Urbanization reduces microbiological abundance and diversity, which has been associated with immune mediated diseases. Urban greening may be used as a prophylactic method to restore microbiological diversity in cities and among urbanites. This study evaluated the impact of air-circulating green walls on bacterial abundance and diversity on human skin, and on immune responses determined by blood cytokine measurements. Human subjects working in offices in two Finnish cities (Lahti and Tampere) participated in a two-week intervention, where green walls were installed in the rooms of the experimental group. Control group worked without green walls. Skin and blood samples were collected before (Day0), during (Day14) and two weeks after (Day28) the intervention. The relative abundance of genus Lactobacillus and the Shannon diversity of phylum Proteobacteria and class Gammaproteobacteria increased in the experimental group. Proteobacterial diversity was connected to the lower proinflammatory cytokine IL-17A level among participants in Lahti. In addition, the change in TGF-β1 levels was opposite between the experimental and control group. As skin Lactobacillus and the diversity of Proteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria are considered advantageous for skin health, air-circulating green walls may induce beneficial changes in a human microbiome. The immunomodulatory potential of air-circulating green walls deserves further research attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Soininen
- Ecosystems and Environment Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Niemenkatu 73, 15140, Lahti, Finland
| | - M I Roslund
- Ecosystems and Environment Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Niemenkatu 73, 15140, Lahti, Finland.,Natural Resources Institute Finland, Horticulture Technologies, Turku and Helsinki, Finland
| | - N Nurminen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - R Puhakka
- Ecosystems and Environment Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Niemenkatu 73, 15140, Lahti, Finland
| | - O H Laitinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - H Hyöty
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - A Sinkkonen
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Horticulture Technologies, Turku and Helsinki, Finland.
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Jovanovic J, Tretiak S, Begyn K, Rajkovic A. Detection of Enterotoxigenic Psychrotrophic Presumptive Bacillus cereus and Cereulide Producers in Food Products and Ingredients. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14040289. [PMID: 35448897 PMCID: PMC9030337 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14040289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, foodborne outbreaks and individual cases caused by bacterial toxins showed an increasing trend. The major contributors are enterotoxins and cereulide produced by Bacillus cereus, which can cause a diarrheal and emetic form of the disease, respectively. These diseases usually induce relatively mild symptoms; however, fatal cases have been reported. With the aim to detected potential toxin producers that are able to grow at refrigerator temperatures and subsequently produce cereulide, we screened the prevalence of enterotoxin and cereulide toxin gene carriers and the psychrotrophic capacity of presumptive B. cereus obtained from 250 food products (cereal products, including rice and seeds/pulses, dairy-based products, dried vegetables, mixed food, herbs, and spices). Of tested food products, 226/250 (90.4%) contained presumptive B. cereus, which communities were further tested for the presence of nheA, hblA, cytK-1, and ces genes. Food products were mainly contaminated with the nheA B. cereus carriers (77.9%), followed by hblA (64.8%), ces (23.2%), and cytK-1 (4.4%). Toxigenic B. cereus communities were further subjected to refrigerated (4 and 7 °C) and mild abuse temperatures (10 °C). Overall, 77% (94/121), 86% (104/121), and 100% (121/121) were able to grow at 4, 7, and 10 °C, respectively. Enterotoxin and cereulide potential producers were detected in 81% of psychrotrophic presumptive B. cereus. Toxin encoding genes nheA, hblA, and ces gene were found in 77.2, 55, and 11.7% of tested samples, respectively. None of the psychrotrophic presumptive B. cereus were carriers of the cytotoxin K-1 encoding gene (cytK-1). Nearly half of emetic psychrotrophic B. cereus were able to produce cereulide in optimal conditions. At 4 °C none of the examined psychrotrophs produced cereulide. The results of this research highlight the high prevalence of B. cereus and the omnipresence of toxin gene harboring presumptive B. cereus that can grow at refrigerator temperatures, with a focus on cereulide producers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Jovanovic
- Department of Food Technology, Safety, and Health, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (J.J.); (K.B.)
| | - Svitlana Tretiak
- Department of Pathobiology, Pharmacology and Zoological Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, D5 Ingang 78, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium;
- Impextraco nv, Wiekevorstsesteenweg 38, 2220 Heist-op-den-Berg, Belgium
| | - Katrien Begyn
- Department of Food Technology, Safety, and Health, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (J.J.); (K.B.)
| | - Andreja Rajkovic
- Department of Food Technology, Safety, and Health, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (J.J.); (K.B.)
- Correspondence:
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Zhang S, Song W, Nothias LF, Couvillion SP, Webster N, Thomas T. Comparative metabolomic analysis reveals shared and unique chemical interactions in sponge holobionts. MICROBIOME 2022; 10:22. [PMID: 35105377 PMCID: PMC8805237 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-021-01220-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sponges are ancient sessile metazoans, which form with their associated microbial symbionts a complex functional unit called a holobiont. Sponges are a rich source of chemical diversity; however, there is limited knowledge of which holobiont members produce certain metabolites and how they may contribute to chemical interactions. To address this issue, we applied non-targeted liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to either whole sponge tissue or fractionated microbial cells from six different, co-occurring sponge species. RESULTS Several metabolites were commonly found or enriched in whole sponge tissue, supporting the notion that sponge cells produce them. These include 2-methylbutyryl-carnitine, hexanoyl-carnitine and various carbohydrates, which may be potential food sources for microorganisms, as well as the antagonistic compounds hymenialdisine and eicosatrienoic acid methyl ester. Metabolites that were mostly observed or enriched in microbial cells include the antioxidant didodecyl 3,3'-thiodipropionate, the antagonistic compounds docosatetraenoic acid, and immune-suppressor phenylethylamide. This suggests that these compounds are mainly produced by the microbial members in the sponge holobiont, and are potentially either involved in inter-microbial competitions or in defenses against intruding organisms. CONCLUSIONS This study shows how different chemical functionality is compartmentalized between sponge hosts and their microbial symbionts and provides new insights into how chemical interactions underpin the function of sponge holobionts. Video abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Zhang
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052 Australia
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052 Australia
| | - Weizhi Song
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052 Australia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052 Australia
| | - Louis-Félix Nothias
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA USA
| | - Sneha P. Couvillion
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA USA
| | - Nicole Webster
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville, Australia
- Australian Centre for Ecogenomics, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Torsten Thomas
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052 Australia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052 Australia
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Mezzasoma A, Coleine C, Sannino C, Selbmann L. Endolithic Bacterial Diversity in Lichen-Dominated Communities Is Shaped by Sun Exposure in McMurdo Dry Valleys, Antarctica. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2022; 83:328-339. [PMID: 34081148 PMCID: PMC8891110 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-021-01769-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The diversity and composition of endolithic bacterial diversity of several locations in McMurdo Dry Valleys (Continental Antarctica) were explored using amplicon sequencing, targeting the V3 and V4 of the 16S region. Despite the increasing interest in edaphic factors that drive bacterial community composition in Antarctic rocky communities, few researchers focused attention on the direct effects of sun exposure on bacterial diversity; we herein reported significant differences in the northern and southern communities. The analysis of β-diversity showed significant differences among sampled localities. For instance, the most abundant genera found in the north-exposed rocks were Rhodococcus and Blastococcus in Knobhead Mt.; Ktedonobacter and Cyanobacteria Family I Group I in Finger Mt.; Rhodococcus and Endobacter in University Valley; and Segetibacter and Tetrasphaera in Siegfried Peak samples. In south-exposed rocks, instead, the most abundant genera were Escherichia/Shigella and Streptococcus in Knobhead Mt.; Ktedonobacter and Rhodococcus in Finger Mt.; Ktedonobacter and Roseomonas in University Valley; and Blastocatella, Cyanobacteria Family I Group I and Segetibacter in Siegfried Peak. Significant biomarkers, detected by the Linear discriminant analysis Effect Size, were also found among north- and south-exposed communities. Besides, the large number of positive significant co-occurrences may suggest a crucial role of positive associations over competitions under the harsher conditions where these rock-inhabiting microorganisms spread. Although the effect of geographic distances in these extreme environments play a significant role in shaping biodiversity, the study of an edaphic factor, such as solar exposure, adds an important contribution to the mosaic of microbial biodiversity of Antarctic bacterial cryptoendolithic communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambra Mezzasoma
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06121, Perugia, Italy
| | - Claudia Coleine
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Ciro Sannino
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06121, Perugia, Italy.
| | - Laura Selbmann
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
- Italian Antarctic National Museum (MNA), Mycological Section, Genoa, Italy
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Characterization of the Gene Encoding S-adenosyl-L-methionine (AdoMet) Synthetase in Penicillium chrysogenum; Role in Secondary Metabolism and Penicillin Production. Microorganisms 2021; 10:microorganisms10010078. [PMID: 35056527 PMCID: PMC8779809 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10010078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The filamentous fungus Penicillium chrysogenum (recently reidentified as Penicillium rubens) is used in the industrial production of the β-lactam antibiotic penicillin. There are several mechanisms regulating the production of this antibiotic, acting both at the genetic and epigenetic levels, the latter including the modification of chromatin by methyltransferases. S-adenosyl-L-methionine (AdoMet) is the main donor of methyl groups for methyltransferases. In addition, it also acts as a donor of aminopropyl groups during the biosynthesis of polyamines. AdoMet is synthesized from L-methionine and ATP by AdoMet-synthetase. In silico analysis of the P. chrysogenum genome revealed the presence of a single gene (Pc16g04380) encoding a putative protein with high similarity to well-known AdoMet-synthetases. Due to the essential nature of this gene, functional analysis was carried out using RNAi-mediated silencing techniques. Knock-down transformants exhibited a decrease in AdoMet, S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine (AdoHcy), spermidine and benzylpenicillin levels, whereas they accumulated a yellow-orange pigment in submerged cultures. On the other hand, overexpression led to reduced levels of benzylpenicillin, thereby suggesting that the AdoMet synthetase, in addition to participate in primary metabolism, also controls secondary metabolism in P. chrysogenum.
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Costes LH, Lippi Y, Naylies C, Jamin EL, Genthon C, Bailly S, Oswald IP, Bailly JD, Puel O. The Solvent Dimethyl Sulfoxide Affects Physiology, Transcriptome and Secondary Metabolism of Aspergillus flavus. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7121055. [PMID: 34947037 PMCID: PMC8703953 DOI: 10.3390/jof7121055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DSMO) is a simple molecule widely used because of its great solvating ability, but this solvent also has little-known biological effects, especially on fungi. Aspergillus flavus is a notorious pathogenic fungus which may contaminate a large variety of crops worldwide by producing aflatoxins, endangering at the same time food safety and international trade. The aim of this study was to characterize the effect of DMSO on A. flavus including developmental parameters such as germination and sporulation, as well as its transcriptome profile using high-throughput RNA-sequencing assay and its impact on secondary metabolism (SM). After DMSO exposure, A. flavus displayed depigmented conidia in a dose-dependent manner. The four-day exposition of cultures to two doses of DMSO, chosen on the basis of depigmentation intensity (35 mM “low” and 282 mM “high”), led to no significant impact on fungal growth, germination or sporulation. However, transcriptomic data analysis showed that 4891 genes were differentially regulated in response to DMSO (46% of studied transcripts). A total of 4650 genes were specifically regulated in response to the highest dose of DMSO, while only 19 genes were modulated upon exposure to the lowest dose. Secondary metabolites clusters genes were widely affected by the DMSO, with 91% of clusters impacted at the highest dose. Among these, aflatoxins, cyclopiazonic acid and ustiloxin B clusters were totally under-expressed. The genes belonging to the AFB1 cluster were the most negatively modulated ones, the two doses leading to 63% and 100% inhibition of the AFB1 production, respectively. The SM analysis also showed the disappearance of ustiloxin B and a 10-fold reduction of cyclopiazonic acid level when A. flavus was treated by the higher DMSO dose. In conclusion, the present study showed that DMSO impacted widely A. flavus’ transcriptome, including secondary metabolism gene clusters with the aflatoxins at the head of down-regulated ones. The solvent also inhibits conidial pigmentation, which could illustrate common regulatory mechanisms between aflatoxins and fungal pigment pathways. Because of its effect on major metabolites synthesis, DMSO should not be used as solvent especially in studies testing anti-aflatoxinogenic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura H. Costes
- TOXALIM (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, EI-Purpan, Toulouse 31027, France; (L.H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.N.); (E.L.J.); (S.B.); (I.P.O.); (O.P.)
| | - Yannick Lippi
- TOXALIM (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, EI-Purpan, Toulouse 31027, France; (L.H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.N.); (E.L.J.); (S.B.); (I.P.O.); (O.P.)
| | - Claire Naylies
- TOXALIM (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, EI-Purpan, Toulouse 31027, France; (L.H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.N.); (E.L.J.); (S.B.); (I.P.O.); (O.P.)
| | - Emilien L. Jamin
- TOXALIM (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, EI-Purpan, Toulouse 31027, France; (L.H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.N.); (E.L.J.); (S.B.); (I.P.O.); (O.P.)
- Metatoul-AXIOM Platform, MetaboHUB, National Infrastructure for Metabolomics and Fluxomics, Toulouse 31000, France
| | - Clémence Genthon
- INRAE, US1426, GeT-PlaGe, Genotoul, 31326 Castanet-Tolosan, France;
| | - Sylviane Bailly
- TOXALIM (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, EI-Purpan, Toulouse 31027, France; (L.H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.N.); (E.L.J.); (S.B.); (I.P.O.); (O.P.)
| | - Isabelle P. Oswald
- TOXALIM (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, EI-Purpan, Toulouse 31027, France; (L.H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.N.); (E.L.J.); (S.B.); (I.P.O.); (O.P.)
| | - Jean-Denis Bailly
- TOXALIM (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, EI-Purpan, Toulouse 31027, France; (L.H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.N.); (E.L.J.); (S.B.); (I.P.O.); (O.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Olivier Puel
- TOXALIM (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, EI-Purpan, Toulouse 31027, France; (L.H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.N.); (E.L.J.); (S.B.); (I.P.O.); (O.P.)
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Zhgun AA, Eldarov MA. Polyamines Upregulate Cephalosporin C Production and Expression of β-Lactam Biosynthetic Genes in High-Yielding Acremonium chrysogenum Strain. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26216636. [PMID: 34771045 PMCID: PMC8588317 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The high-yielding production of pharmaceutically significant secondary metabolites in filamentous fungi is obtained by random mutagenesis; such changes may be associated with shifts in the metabolism of polyamines. We have previously shown that, in the Acremonium chrysogenum cephalosporin C high-yielding strain (HY), the content of endogenous polyamines increased by four- to five-fold. Other studies have shown that the addition of exogenous polyamines can increase the production of target secondary metabolites in highly active fungal producers, in particular, increase the biosynthesis of β-lactams in the Penicillium chrysogenum Wis 54-1255 strain, an improved producer of penicillin G. In the current study, we demonstrate that the introduction of exogenous polyamines, such as spermidine or 1,3-diaminopropane, to A. chrysogenum wild-type (WT) and HY strains, leads to an increase in colony germination and morphological changes in a complete agar medium. The addition of 5 mM polyamines during fermentation increases the production of cephalosporin C in the A. chrysogenum HY strain by 15-20% and upregulates genes belonging to the beta-lactam biosynthetic cluster. The data obtained indicate the intersection of the metabolisms of polyamines and beta-lactams in A. chrysogenum and are important for the construction of improved producers of secondary metabolites in filamentous fungi.
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Liu L, Sasse C, Dirnberger B, Valerius O, Fekete-Szücs E, Harting R, Nordzieke DE, Pöggeler S, Karlovsky P, Gerke J, Braus GH. Secondary metabolites of Hülle cells mediate protection of fungal reproductive and overwintering structures against fungivorous animals. eLife 2021; 10:68058. [PMID: 34635205 PMCID: PMC8510581 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal Hülle cells with nuclear storage and developmental backup functions are reminiscent of multipotent stem cells. In the soil, Hülle cells nurse the overwintering fruiting bodies of Aspergillus nidulans. The genome of A. nidulans harbors genes for the biosynthesis of xanthones. We show that enzymes and metabolites of this biosynthetic pathway accumulate in Hülle cells under the control of the regulatory velvet complex, which coordinates development and secondary metabolism. Deletion strains blocked in the conversion of anthraquinones to xanthones accumulate emodins and are delayed in maturation and growth of fruiting bodies. Emodin represses fruiting body and resting structure formation in other fungi. Xanthones are not required for sexual development but exert antifeedant effects on fungivorous animals such as springtails and woodlice. Our findings reveal a novel role of Hülle cells in establishing secure niches for A. nidulans by accumulating metabolites with antifeedant activity that protect reproductive structures from animal predators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- University of Göttingen, Molecular Microbiology and Genetics and Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Sasse
- University of Göttingen, Molecular Microbiology and Genetics and Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Benedict Dirnberger
- University of Göttingen, Molecular Microbiology and Genetics and Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Valerius
- University of Göttingen, Molecular Microbiology and Genetics and Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Enikő Fekete-Szücs
- University of Göttingen, Molecular Microbiology and Genetics and Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Rebekka Harting
- University of Göttingen, Molecular Microbiology and Genetics and Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Daniela E Nordzieke
- University of Göttingen, Genetics of Eukaryotic Microorganisms and Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Pöggeler
- University of Göttingen, Genetics of Eukaryotic Microorganisms and Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Petr Karlovsky
- University of Göttingen, Molecular Phytopathology and Mycotoxin Research, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jennifer Gerke
- University of Göttingen, Molecular Microbiology and Genetics and Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gerhard H Braus
- University of Göttingen, Molecular Microbiology and Genetics and Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Göttingen, Germany
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Rakhmawatie MD, Wibawa T, Lisdiyanti P, Pratiwi WR, Damayanti E, Mustofa. Potential secondary metabolite from Indonesian Actinobacteria (InaCC A758) against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 24:1058-1068. [PMID: 34804423 PMCID: PMC8591762 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2021.56468.12601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study explored Indonesian Actinobacteria which were isolated from Curcuma zedoaria endophytic microbes and mangrove ecosystem for new antimycobacterial compounds. MATERIALS AND METHODS Antimycobacterial activity test was carried out against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv. Chemical profiling of secondary metabolite using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) and High Resolution-Mass Spectroscopy (HR-MS) was done to the ethyl acetate extract of active strain InaCC A758. Molecular taxonomy analysis based on 16S rRNA gene and biosynthetic gene clusters analysis of polyketide synthase (PKS) and non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) from InaCC A758 have been carried out. Bioassay guided isolation of ethyl acetate extract was done, then structural elucidation of active compound was performed using UV-Vis, FT-IR, and NMR spectroscopy methods. RESULTS The chemical profiling using HR-MS revealed that InaCC A758 has the potential to produce new antimycobacterial compounds. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that InaCC A758 has the closest homology to Streptomyces parvus strain NBRC 14599 (99.64%). In addition, InaCC A758 has NRPS gene and related to S. parvulus (92% of similarity), and also PKS gene related to PKS-type borrelidin of S. rochei and S. parvulus (74% of similarity). Two compounds with potential antimycobacterial were predicted as 1) Compound 1, similar to dimethenamid (C12H18ClNO2S; MW 275.0723), with MIC value of 100 µg/ml, and 2) Compound 2, actinomycin D (C62H86N12O16; MW 1254.6285), with MIC value of 0.78 µg/ml. CONCLUSION Actinomycin D has been reported to have antimycobacterial activity, however the compound has been predicted to resemble dimethenamid had not been reported to have similar activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Dian Rakhmawatie
- Doctoral Program in Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia , Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Muhammadiyah Semarang, Semarang 50273, Indonesia
| | - Tri Wibawa
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
| | - Puspita Lisdiyanti
- Research Center for Biotechnology, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Kabupaten Bogor, West Java 16911, Indonesia
| | - Woro Rukmi Pratiwi
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
| | - Ema Damayanti
- Research Division of Natural Product Technology, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Yogyakarta 55861, Indonesia
| | - Mustofa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia,Corresponding author: Mustofa Mustofa. Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia. Tel +62 813 2874 9273;
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Lazari LC, Ghilardi FDR, Rosa-Fernandes L, Assis DM, Nicolau JC, Santiago VF, Dalçóquio TF, Angeli CB, Bertolin AJ, Marinho CR, Wrenger C, Durigon EL, Siciliano RF, Palmisano G. Prognostic accuracy of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometric analysis of plasma in COVID-19. Life Sci Alliance 2021; 4:e202000946. [PMID: 34168074 PMCID: PMC8321665 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202000946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infection poses a global health crisis. In parallel with the ongoing world effort to identify therapeutic solutions, there is a critical need for improvement in the prognosis of COVID-19. Here, we report plasma proteome fingerprinting that predict high (hospitalized) and low-risk (outpatients) cases of COVID-19 identified by a platform that combines machine learning with matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry analysis. Sample preparation, MS, and data analysis parameters were optimized to achieve an overall accuracy of 92%, sensitivity of 93%, and specificity of 92% in dataset without feature selection. We identified two distinct regions in the MALDI-TOF profile belonging to the same proteoforms. A combination of SDS-PAGE and quantitative bottom-up proteomic analysis allowed the identification of intact and truncated forms of serum amyloid A-1 and A-2 proteins, both already described as biomarkers for viral infections in the acute phase. Unbiased discrimination of high- and low-risk COVID-19 patients using a technology that is currently in clinical use may have a prompt application in the noninvasive prognosis of COVID-19. Further validation will consolidate its clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Cardoso Lazari
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Livia Rosa-Fernandes
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - José Carlos Nicolau
- Heart Institute (InCor), University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Veronica Feijoli Santiago
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Claudia B Angeli
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Claudio Rf Marinho
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carsten Wrenger
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edison Luiz Durigon
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Giuseppe Palmisano
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Carrasco-Navarro U, Aguirre J. H 2O 2 Induces Major Phosphorylation Changes in Critical Regulators of Signal Transduction, Gene Expression, Metabolism and Developmental Networks in Aspergillus nidulans. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:624. [PMID: 34436163 PMCID: PMC8399174 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulate several aspects of cell physiology in filamentous fungi including the antioxidant response and development. However, little is known about the signaling pathways involved in these processes. Here, we report Aspergillus nidulans global phosphoproteome during mycelial growth and show that under these conditions, H2O2 induces major changes in protein phosphorylation. Among the 1964 phosphoproteins we identified, H2O2 induced the phosphorylation of 131 proteins at one or more sites as well as the dephosphorylation of a larger set of proteins. A detailed analysis of these phosphoproteins shows that H2O2 affected the phosphorylation of critical regulatory nodes of phosphoinositide, MAPK, and TOR signaling as well as the phosphorylation of multiple proteins involved in the regulation of gene expression, primary and secondary metabolism, and development. Our results provide a novel and extensive protein phosphorylation landscape in A. nidulans, indicating that H2O2 induces a shift in general metabolism from anabolic to catabolic, and the activation of multiple stress survival pathways. Our results expand the significance of H2O2 in eukaryotic cell signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jesús Aguirre
- Departamento de Biología Celular y del Desarrollo, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 70-242, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico;
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50
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Delivering the goods: Fungal secretion modulates virulence during host–pathogen interactions. FUNGAL BIOL REV 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbr.2021.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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