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Functions of the Three Common Fungal Extracellular Membrane (CFEM) Domain-Containing Genes of Arthrobotrys flagrans in the Process of Nematode Trapping

Summary

Arthrobotrys flagrans is a fungus that acts as a natural pest controller by trapping and killing parasitic nematodes that damage crops and livestock. Scientists studied three key genes in this fungus that contain CFEM protein domains and found they are critical for forming sticky traps and controlling how deadly the fungus is to nematodes. The research shows that when certain CFEM genes are removed, the fungus produces stickier traps and kills more nematodes, while removing other CFEM genes has the opposite effect, providing insights for developing better biocontrol products.

Background

Arthrobotrys flagrans is a nematode-trapping fungus with potential for biocontrol against plant and animal parasitic nematodes. CFEM domain-containing proteins are important for nematode trapping, but their specific roles remain poorly understood.

Objective

This study investigated the biological functions of three CFEM domain-containing genes (AfCFEM1, AfCFEM2, and AfCFEM3) in A. flagrans during the nematode trapping process using knockout and overexpression approaches.

Results

Loss of AfCFEM1 and AfCFEM3 increased adhesive material and nematode mortality, while AfCFEM2 deletion reduced these effects. All three gene deletions caused thinner trap cell walls and increased irregular trap morphology. Compensatory expression patterns among CFEM family members were observed.

Conclusion

AfCFEM1-3 genes are essential for adhesive material formation, trap morphology, cell wall biogenesis, and pathogenicity in A. flagrans, with compensatory mechanisms existing among CFEM family members and other protein families.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms13092001, PMID: 41011333
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