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

Summary

A fungal biocontrol agent called Trichoderma guizhouense uses a special protein called TgZct4 to protect itself from harmful oxidative stress caused by hydrogen peroxide. When the fungus encounters this stress, TgZct4 activates a series of antioxidant enzymes that neutralize the damaging reactive oxygen species. This discovery helps explain how this beneficial fungus can survive and control plant diseases in harsh soil environments, potentially improving its use as an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.

Background

Trichoderma guizhouense is a biocontrol fungus with strong viability and notable resistance to oxidative stress. While fungi have evolved strategies to cope with oxidative stress, the mechanisms governing antioxidant response specificity remain poorly understood. This study investigates how T. guizhouense adapts to oxidative stress through previously uncharacterized transcription factors.

Objective

To characterize and functionally validate a novel Zn2-Cys6 transcription factor, TgZct4, that regulates antioxidant responses in T. guizhouense. The study aims to understand how TgZct4 modulates the fungus’s defense response to hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress through reprogramming of antioxidant enzymes.

Results

TgZct4 was identified as a positive regulator of antioxidant response, with transcript levels positively correlating with H2O2 concentrations. Deletion of Tgzct4 significantly increased sensitivity to oxidative stress compared to wild-type. Transcriptomic analysis revealed TgZct4 modulates expression of catalases, superoxide dismutases, and peroxidases. ChIP-Seq identified Tgcat2 as a direct TgZct4 target, while TgCat1 appeared to be indirectly regulated.

Conclusion

TgZct4 is an important transcriptional regulator of oxidative stress response in T. guizhouense, distinct from well-conserved stress-response factors. The findings provide insights into fungal stress tolerance mechanisms and may facilitate genetic enhancement of this biocontrol agent for improved disease management applications.
  • Published in:Communications Biology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 41094151
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