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Growth conditions shape the proteome and diversity of Neurospora crassa extracellular vesicles

Summary

Scientists studied tiny particles called extracellular vesicles released by a common fungus (Neurospora crassa) under different growth conditions. Using advanced techniques, they identified hundreds of proteins within these vesicles and found that what the fungus eats and how long it grows significantly changes the types and amounts of proteins the vesicles carry. The findings reveal that fungi release different types of vesicles than previously thought, expanding our understanding of how cells communicate and transport materials.

Background

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized, lipid bilayer-enclosed particles secreted by all living organisms. While EV research has primarily focused on mammalian systems, fungal EVs are gaining attention for their biological significance. Understanding how growth conditions influence fungal EV composition is important for comprehending their biological roles.

Objective

To investigate how growth conditions influence the protein cargo of EVs produced by Neurospora crassa, a non-pathogenic filamentous fungus model organism. The study compared EVs isolated from cultures grown on glucose for 16 hours (G16) and on sucrose for 16 (S16) and 24 hours (S24).

Results

DLS revealed similar size distributions for S16 and S24 EVs (24–165 nm), while G16 EVs showed broader range (32–825 nm). Proteomic analysis identified 682 proteins in G16, 668 in S16, and 367 in S24. Particles <50 nm were consistently detected, potentially corresponding to mitochondrial-derived vesicles or exomeres. EVs were enriched in proteins related to cell wall remodeling, protein synthesis, and carbohydrate metabolism.

Conclusion

EV composition and biogenesis in N. crassa are modulated by growth conditions and carbon sources. The findings reveal a diversity of EV types including potential forms unrelated to exosomes, highlighting the importance of physiological context in fungal EV research and suggesting involvement of both conventional and unconventional secretion pathways.
  • Published in:Cell Surface,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 41020268, DOI: 10.1016/j.tcsw.2025.100152
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