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Inhibition of RNase to Attenuate Fungal-Manipulated Rhizosphere Microbiome and Diseases

Summary

Fusarium fungi cause devastating crop diseases by producing a protein called Fg12 that acts like a molecular weapon to kill beneficial bacteria in the soil around plant roots. Scientists discovered that a simple compound called GMP can block this fungal weapon, preventing the pathogen from suppressing protective bacteria. By treating seeds or soil with GMP, farmers can significantly reduce root rot in soybeans and alfalfa while promoting plant growth.

Background

Soil-borne pathogens must overcome plant-associated microbiota barriers to establish infection. Phytopathogens utilize secreted effector proteins to manipulate host immunity and microbiota composition. Understanding how fungal pathogens disrupt beneficial microbiota is crucial for developing disease prevention strategies.

Objective

To identify and characterize core fungal effectors involved in both pathogen-microbiota and pathogen-host interactions, specifically examining how Fusarium graminearum manipulates the rhizosphere microbiome and to develop targeted chemical inhibitors for disease control.

Results

Fg12 is a fungal-specific RNase that selectively suppresses Bacillus and Pseudomonas in the soybean rhizosphere microbiome through its RNase activity. GMP (guanosine monophosphate) effectively inhibits Fg12 enzymatic activity in vitro and blocks its antibacterial effects. GMP application significantly alleviates Fusarium root rot symptoms in soybean and alfalfa, with greater efficacy in non-sterilized soil conditions.

Conclusion

Fg12 is a core virulence effector that facilitates F. graminearum soil colonization and host infection by manipulating beneficial rhizosphere bacteria. GMP serves as an effective chemical inhibitor of Fg12 RNase activity and offers a promising targeted strategy for reducing soil-borne fungal diseases in crops.
  • Published in:Advanced Science (Adv Sci),
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.1002/advs.202503146, PMID: 40776430
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