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Comparative transcriptome analyses and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated functional study of Tfsdh1 reveal insights into the interaction between Tremella fuciformis and Annulohypoxylon stygium

Summary

White wood ear fungus (Tremella fuciformis) is a popular medicinal mushroom that cannot grow on its own in nature. Researchers studied how it interacts with a companion fungus and discovered that a specific gene called Tfsdh1 is crucial for the mushroom to use sorbitol sugar and grow properly. By using advanced genetic tools to remove this gene, they showed it’s essential for the relationship between the two fungi, offering insights into how to better cultivate this nutritious mushroom.

Background

Tremella fuciformis is an edible and medicinal fungus that requires the companion fungus Annulohypoxylon stygium to complete its life cycle. While previous studies have explored molecular mechanisms of their interaction, the specific pathways and genes in T. fuciformis remain poorly characterized.

Objective

To identify and functionally characterize genes involved in the interaction between T. fuciformis and A. stygium through comparative transcriptome analysis and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing, focusing on pentose metabolism pathways.

Results

1,428 DEGs were identified in T. fuciformis and 2,113 in A. stygium, primarily involved in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism. Tfsdh1 deletion adversely affected mycelial growth, sorbitol utilization, SDH activity, and interaction with A. stygium. The study constructed putative pentose catabolic and oxido-reductive pathways, demonstrating Tfsdh1’s critical role in sorbitol metabolism.

Conclusion

Comparative transcriptome analysis provides novel insights into T. fuciformis-A. stygium interaction. Tfsdh1 plays a critical role in sorbitol metabolism during the interaction, providing a foundation for understanding the molecular mechanisms of this fungal partnership and advancing industrial cultivation.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 41602764
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