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Differential Expression of Laccase Genes in Pleurotus ostreatus and Biochemical Characterization of Laccase Isozymes Produced in Pichia pastoris

Summary

This research investigated how oyster mushrooms produce different versions of an important enzyme called laccase during their growth and development. The study revealed that specific laccase enzymes are activated at different growth stages of the mushroom, suggesting they play unique roles in mushroom development. Impacts on everyday life: • Helps improve commercial mushroom cultivation techniques • Advances understanding of enzyme production for industrial applications • Contributes to developing more efficient bioremediation processes • Could lead to better methods for breaking down plant waste • May help develop new applications in textile and paper industries

Background

Laccases are multi-copper polyphenol oxidases produced by fungi, bacteria, and plants that play key roles in lignin degradation and carbon recycling. In fungi, laccases are involved in various cellular processes including pigment production, defense mechanisms, and developmental stages. Pleurotus ostreatus contains 12 homologous laccase genes but their expression patterns and biochemical characteristics during different developmental stages are not fully understood.

Objective

To investigate the expression patterns of 12 laccase genes in P. ostreatus during different developmental stages and characterize the biochemical properties of selected laccase isozymes through heterologous expression in Pichia pastoris.

Results

Transcriptome analysis revealed differential regulation of laccase genes – Lacc5 was specific to fruiting bodies, Lacc12 to primordia, Lacc1/3 to mycelia, while Lacc6 was expressed at all stages. Optimal expression in P. pastoris was achieved at 15°C with 1% methanol added every 12 hours. Lacc12 showed 5.4-fold lower activity than Lacc6 for ABTS oxidation. Lacc12 had optimal activity at pH 3.5 and 50°C, which was 0.5 pH units and 5°C higher than Lacc6.

Conclusion

P. ostreatus expresses different laccase isozymes in a stage-specific manner during development. The biochemical properties of the primordium-specific Lacc12 differ from the constitutively expressed Lacc6, likely reflecting their distinct physiological roles during mushroom development.
  • Published in:Mycobiology,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.5941/MYCO.2015.43.3.280
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