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Integration of Physiological, Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Reveals Molecular Mechanism of Paraisaria dubia Response to Zn2+ Stress

Summary

This research shows that a fungus called Paraisaria dubia can effectively clean up zinc pollution by removing 60% of zinc from contaminated environments. The fungus uses multiple survival strategies when exposed to zinc stress, including producing more protective slime-like substances on its surface and generating spores that are more resistant to harmful conditions. By studying the fungus at the molecular level, scientists discovered which genes and chemical compounds activate these protective responses, paving the way for using fungi as natural cleaners for heavy metal-contaminated soil and water.

Background

Zn2+ pollution has become increasingly apparent in contaminated soil and water environments. Mycoremediation using fungi offers a promising approach for heavy metal remediation. Paraisaria dubia, an anamorph of the entomopathogenic fungus Ophiocordyceps gracilis, shows potential for bioremediation due to its ability to accumulate heavy metals.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the Zn2+ remediation potential of Paraisaria dubia and elucidate the molecular tolerance mechanism through integrated physiological, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses. The research sought to identify key genes, metabolites, and pathways involved in P. dubia’s response to Zn2+ stress.

Results

P. dubia removed 60% of Zn2+ from contaminated medium and accumulated high Zn2+ levels in mycelia (11.9 mg/g) and EPS (13.2 mg/g). Zn2+ stress induced 1,533 differentially expressed genes affecting energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and antioxidant systems. The fungus activated metal ion transport, EPS synthesis, and microcycle conidiation as tolerance mechanisms, with 207 differential metabolites identified.

Conclusion

P. dubia demonstrates significant potential for Zn2+ bioremediation through multiple integrated mechanisms including active metal ion transport, enhanced EPS synthesis, and stress-induced microcycle conidiation. ROS and MAPK signaling pathways play important roles in regulating the conidiation response, providing valuable insights for applying P. dubia in heavy metal pollution bioremediation.
  • Published in:J Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 37504682
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