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Integrated Transcriptomics–Proteomics Analysis Reveals the Response Mechanism of Morchella sextelata to Pseudodiploöspora longispora Infection

Summary

White mold disease is a major problem for morel mushroom farmers in China. Researchers identified the fungus causing this disease and studied how morel cells defend themselves. Using advanced molecular techniques, they found that morel cells respond to infection by changing their cell membranes and walls, and by activating protective proteins that fight oxidative stress. This research helps explain how the disease damages morels and could lead to developing stronger, disease-resistant mushroom varieties.

Background

White mold disease caused by Pseudodiploöspora longispora is a major threat to Morchella sextelata cultivation in China, affecting yield and quality. The disease spreads rapidly and lacks effective control methods, with annual incidence reaching up to 80%. Understanding the response mechanism of M. sextelata to pathogenic infection is critical for developing disease resistance strategies.

Objective

This study aimed to identify and characterize the pathogen causing white mold disease in M. sextelata and elucidate the cellular and molecular response mechanisms of M. sextelata to P. longispora infection using integrated transcriptomics and proteomics analyses.

Results

P. longispora was confirmed as the causal agent of white mold disease. Electron microscopy revealed that P. longispora infection causes wrinkled asci, loosened cell walls, and membrane rupture with cytoplasmic leakage, accompanied by accumulation of an unknown substance on cell membranes. Integrated analysis identified 491 differentially expressed genes and 447 differentially expressed proteins significantly enriched in oxidoreductase activity, peroxisomes, cell wall assembly, and membrane components.

Conclusion

The study clarified that M. sextelata responds to P. longispora infection through changes in cell membrane and wall integrity, involving key genes related to oxidoreductase activity, lipid metabolism, and cell wall remodeling. These findings provide a foundation for understanding the infection mechanism and developing disease-resistant morel cultivars.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMC11433447, PMID: 39330364, DOI: 10.3390/jof10090604
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