Dynamic proteomic changes and ultrastructural insights into Pochonia chlamydosporia’s parasitism of Parascaris equorum eggs

Summary

Researchers studied how a parasitic fungus called Pochonia chlamydosporia infects and destroys the eggs of harmful parasitic worms found in horses. Using advanced imaging and protein analysis, they discovered that the fungus uses different strategies at different stages of infection: first it attaches and creates damage, then it breaks down the egg shell, and finally it consumes the contents. This fungus could be used as a natural, eco-friendly solution to control parasitic worm infections in animals.

Background

Pochonia chlamydosporia is a nematophagous fungus with potential as a biocontrol agent against animal-parasitic nematodes. Despite its applications, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying its infection process remain poorly understood.

Objective

This study aimed to comprehensively investigate P. chlamydosporia infection dynamics in Parascaris equorum eggs using microscopic and proteomic approaches to identify key molecular mechanisms and pathways involved in parasitism.

Results

Microscopic analysis revealed progressive invasion with three distinct stages of infection. Proteomic analysis identified 410 differentially expressed proteins with 313 upregulated and 403 downregulated across stages. GO and KEGG pathway analyses revealed involvement in proteolysis, metabolic processes, signal transduction, cell wall biosynthesis, and host-pathogen interactions.

Conclusion

P. chlamydosporia employs a highly coordinated molecular strategy involving proteolysis, immune evasion, metabolic adaptation, and nutrient exploitation to parasitize nematode eggs. These findings clarify fungal-nematode interactions and provide a foundation for developing P. chlamydosporia as a sustainable biocontrol tool.
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