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Functions of the Three Common Fungal Extracellular Membrane (CFEM) Domain-Containing Genes of Arthrobotrys flagrans in the Process of Nematode Trapping

Summary

Researchers studied a special fungus called Arthrobotrys flagrans that traps and kills parasitic worms. They focused on three genes (AfCFEM1-3) that produce proteins important for making the sticky traps. When they removed two of these genes, the fungus became better at killing worms, while removing the third gene made it worse. The study shows these genes are crucial for the fungus to create effective sticky traps and could help develop better natural pest control products.

Background

Arthrobotrys flagrans is a nematode-trapping fungus that produces three-dimensional adhesive networks to capture parasitic nematodes. CFEM (common fungal extracellular membrane) domain-containing proteins are known to play important roles in fungal pathogenicity and virulence. Understanding the functions of CFEM genes in A. flagrans could enhance development of biocontrol agents against plant and animal parasitic nematodes.

Objective

This study investigated the biological functions of three CFEM domain-containing genes (AfCFEM1, AfCFEM2, and AfCFEM3) in A. flagrans during nematode trapping. The researchers examined their roles in trap formation, adhesive material production, cell wall biogenesis, and pathogenicity against Caenorhabditis elegans.

Results

Loss of AfCFEM1 and AfCFEM3 increased nematode mortality and adhesive material on trap surfaces, while AfCFEM2 deletion decreased these parameters. All three gene knockouts resulted in thinner trap cell walls and increased proportions of irregular traps. Compensatory expression patterns were observed among CFEM family members and other gene families.

Conclusion

AfCFEM1-3 genes are essential for trap formation, adhesive material production, cell wall biogenesis, and pathogenicity in A. flagrans. These findings provide insights into CFEM protein functions in nematode-trapping fungi and support development of improved biocontrol agents for parasitic nematodes.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41011333, DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms13092001
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