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Genome-wide analysis of bZIP gene family members in Pleurotus ostreatus, and potential roles of PobZIP3 in development and the heat stress response

Summary

Scientists identified 11 genes that code for special proteins called bZIP transcription factors in oyster mushrooms. One particular protein, PobZIP3, was found to help mushrooms survive high temperatures and grow faster. When researchers increased this protein in mushroom strains, the mushrooms became more heat-resistant and produced edible fruiting bodies more quickly, suggesting this discovery could help farmers grow oyster mushrooms more reliably.

Background

The basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factors are important regulators in eukaryotes, playing diverse roles in fungal processes including nutrient utilization, growth, stress responses and development. The oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) is widely cultivated globally but lacks characterization of bZIP gene family members. Heat stress during cultivation causes significant yield and quality losses through spawn-burning and mold infection.

Objective

This study aimed to systematically identify and characterize bZIP gene family members in P. ostreatus, classify them based on protein sequences, and investigate the potential roles of PobZIP3 in heat stress response and mushroom development.

Results

Eleven PobZIP genes distributed across 6 chromosomes were identified and classified into 3 types. PobZIP3 was found to interact with PoHSP100 and bind to C-box and G-box elements in the PoHSP100 promoter. PobZIP3 overexpression enhanced heat tolerance and accelerated development with shorter primordia and fruiting body formation times. RNA-seq analysis revealed PobZIP3 involvement in glucose metabolism, antioxidant enzyme activity and sexual reproduction pathways.

Conclusion

This comprehensive analysis identified and characterized 11 bZIP genes in P. ostreatus with PobZIP3 confirmed as a key heat stress-responsive factor. PobZIP3 positively regulates both mycelium heat resistance and development, providing potential targets for molecular breeding and functional studies of oyster mushroom bZIP transcription factors.
  • Published in:Microbial Biotechnology,
  • Study Type:Genome-wide Analysis,
  • Source: PMID: 38376071, DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14413
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