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Identification, Characterization and Expression of A-Mating Type Genes in Monokaryons and Dikaryons of the Edible Mushroom Mycoleptodonoides aitchisonii (Bunaharitake)

Summary

This research examines the genetic mechanisms controlling reproduction in an edible mushroom species. The study reveals how specific genes regulate the formation of specialized cellular structures needed for mushroom growth and development. This knowledge has practical applications in mushroom cultivation and breeding. Impacts on everyday life: – Improved understanding of mushroom breeding could lead to better cultivation methods – More efficient production of edible mushrooms for food markets – Development of new mushroom varieties with enhanced traits – Better quality control in commercial mushroom farming – Potential cost reduction in mushroom production

Background

The sexuality of most cultivated edible fungi has been characterized, with the majority being heterothallic. Understanding mating systems is important for mushroom breeding and cultivation. Two types of incompatibility systems exist: unifactorial (bipolar) controlled by a single mating type locus, and bifactorial (tetrapolar) controlled by two unlinked mating type loci.

Objective

To clarify the molecular mechanisms of the bipolar mating system in Mycoleptodonoides aitchisonii by characterizing the homeodomain protein gene 2 (Mahd2) and examining its expression in relation to clamp cell formation.

Results

The Mahd2 gene in strain 50005-18 was 1,851 bp long and encoded a 614 amino acid protein. The gene contained 3 introns interrupting 4 exons. Mating type analysis revealed a bipolar system with two incompatibility groups. Monokaryotic strains capable of forming clamp cells showed higher expression of Mahd2 compared to those that could not form clamp cells. The highest Mahd2 expression was observed in monokaryon strain 50005-4, which could produce true clamp cells.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that M. aitchisonii has a bipolar mating system controlled by a single mating type locus. The formation of clamp cells is regulated by A-mating type homeodomain proteins, with the frequency of clamp cell formation potentially promoted by high expression of the Mahd2 gene. The ability to form clamp cells in monokaryons appears to be related to elevated expression of homeodomain proteins.
  • Published in:Mycoscience,
  • Study Type:Molecular Biology Research,
  • Source: 10.47371/mycosci.2020.11.008
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