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

This research identifies a special protein called TgZct4 in a beneficial fungus called Trichoderma guizhouense that helps it survive harmful stress from hydrogen peroxide. When the fungus encounters oxidative stress, TgZct4 quickly activates and switches on genes that produce protective enzymes. This discovery helps scientists understand how this fungus can be such an effective biological pest control agent and could lead to improvements in using it as a natural alternative to chemical pesticides.