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Nitric Oxide-Mediated Regulation of Chitinase Activity and Cadmium Sequestration in the Response of Schizophyllum commune to Cadmium Stress

Summary

A culinary mushroom called Schizophyllum commune can be harmed by cadmium pollution. When exposed to cadmium, the fungus produces nitric oxide, which causes enzymes called chitinases to become more active. These active enzymes break down the mushroom’s cell wall, allowing more cadmium to accumulate and ultimately damage the fungus’s growth. By reducing nitric oxide levels, scientists may be able to protect this mushroom from cadmium poisoning.

Background

Schizophyllum commune is an edible fungus with medicinal value, but exposure to cadmium heavy metal pollution poses significant health risks. Cadmium toxicity inhibits fungal growth and leads to accumulation in mycelium, but the regulatory mechanisms remain poorly understood.

Objective

This study investigated the response of S. commune 20R-7-F01 to cadmium exposure, specifically examining the role of nitric oxide (NO) in mediating cadmium-induced stress responses and the mechanisms underlying growth inhibition and cadmium accumulation.

Results

Cadmium exposure increased endogenous NO levels through the nitrate reductase pathway, which enhanced chitinase activity and promoted cadmium accumulation in the fungal cell wall. NO modulation through scavenging or inhibiting nitrate reductase reduced both NO production and cadmium accumulation, alleviating growth inhibition.

Conclusion

Cadmium-induced NO production regulates chitinase activity and cadmium sequestration in the fungal cell wall, ultimately inhibiting mycelial growth. Manipulating NO levels presents a potential strategy to enhance fungal tolerance to heavy-metal pollution and reduce cadmium accumulation in edible fungi.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms13030470, PMID: 40142363
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