Adaptive evolution of Moniliophthora PR-1 proteins towards its pathogenic lifestyle

How Cacao-Attacking Fungi Evolved Special Weapons Scientists have discovered something fascinating about the fungi that cause devastating diseases in cacao trees (the source of chocolate). These fungi, called Moniliophthora, have stolen and adapted proteins from plants that were originally meant to defend against infections! The research team examined the genomes of many fungi and found that Moniliophthora species have uniquely evolved these plant-like “PR-1” proteins. While some of these proteins exist in harmless mushroom species, the disease-causing fungi have developed specialized versions that help them attack cacao trees. The study revealed that these proteins show signs of rapid evolution – evidence that they’ve been adapting to overcome the cacao tree’s defenses. Some of these proteins become especially active during infection and may help neutralize the plant’s natural antifungal compounds. This clever evolutionary strategy helps explain how these fungi became such effective pathogens, causing serious problems for chocolate production worldwide.