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The Role of Nitric Oxide in the Growth and Development of Schizophyllum commune Under Anaerobic Conditions

Summary

This research shows that nitric oxide (NO) acts like a chemical messenger that helps mushroom fungi grow and reproduce when oxygen is scarce. Scientists studied a fungus found deep below the ocean floor and discovered that NO helps the fungus extend its root-like structures, germinate spores, and even initiate the formation of fruiting bodies (the mushroom stage). When they blocked NO with chemicals, growth slowed down, but when they added extra NO, growth accelerated. This discovery could help us understand how fungi survive in extreme environments with little oxygen.

Background

Nitric oxide (NO) is a signaling molecule with diverse roles in biological processes across organisms. While NO’s effects on fungal growth have been studied under aerobic conditions, its specific effects on fungal development under anaerobic conditions remain largely unexplored. This study investigates NO’s role in Schizophyllum commune, a basidiomycetous fungus known for its ecological adaptability and ability to thrive in diverse environments.

Objective

To investigate how nitric oxide influences the growth and development of Schizophyllum commune 20R-7-F01 under anaerobic conditions, including mycelial growth, basidiospore germination, and fruiting body formation.

Results

Endogenous NO levels increased during mycelial growth and basidiospore germination. The NO scavenger cPTIO inhibited mycelial growth by 29% and delayed basidiospore germination. Exogenous NO supplementation accelerated mycelial growth and promoted primordium formation under anaerobic conditions. RT-qPCR analysis revealed significant upregulation of genes associated with the cAMP pathway, MAPK pathway, zinc finger proteins, and chitin synthase genes.

Conclusion

Nitric oxide plays a crucial role as a signaling molecule in fungal growth and development under anaerobic conditions, regulating mycelial extension, basidiospore germination, and the initiation of sexual reproduction. These findings deepen understanding of NO’s contribution to fungal adaptation in anaerobic environments and highlight its importance in metabolic regulation of anaerobic microorganisms.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40284723, DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms13040887
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