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A Zn2-Cys6 transcription factor, TgZct4, reprograms antioxidant activity in the fungus Trichoderma guizhouense to defend against oxidative stress

Summary

Researchers discovered a key protein switch in a beneficial fungus called Trichoderma guizhouense that helps it survive harmful oxidative stress. This fungus is used as a natural pesticide to protect crops from disease. The protein, called TgZct4, acts like a master controller that turns on the fungus’s defense systems when it encounters damaging chemical stress, making it more resilient and effective at protecting plants.

Background

Trichoderma guizhouense is a biocontrol fungus with strong viability and notable resistance to oxidative stress. Fungi have evolved different strategies to cope with oxidative stress in competitive environments, but the mechanisms governing antioxidant response specificity remain rudimentary.

Objective

This study aims to characterize a previously unidentified antioxidant-related Zn2-Cys6 transcription factor, TgZct4, in T. guizhouense and understand its role in regulating the oxidative stress response through genomic and transcriptomic analysis.

Results

TgZct4 shows rapid transcriptional response to oxidative stress with positive correlation to hydrogen peroxide concentrations. The transcription factor modulates antioxidant activity by regulating catalase TgCat1 and TgCat2, with TgCat2 being a direct target of TgZct4. Loss of TgZct4 significantly impairs tolerance to H2O2 stress.

Conclusion

TgZct4 is an important transcription factor regulating oxidative stress response in T. guizhouense through classic antioxidant enzymes. This work provides valuable insights into fungal stress tolerance mechanisms and may contribute to genetic enhancement of this fungus for biological control applications.
  • Published in:Communications Biology,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41094151, DOI: 10.1038/s42003-025-08864-5
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