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Revealing the metabolic potential and environmental adaptation of nematophagous fungus, Purpureocillium lilacinum, derived from hadal sediment

Summary

Scientists discovered a special fungus living in the deepest part of the ocean (Mariana Trench) that can survive extreme pressure and produce compounds with disease-fighting properties. This fungus, Purpureocillium lilacinum, showed promise against bacteria, cancer cells, and parasitic worms. The research revealed how this fungus adapts to survive in one of Earth’s most extreme environments, potentially opening new sources for developing medicines and biological pest control.

Background

Hadal zones below 6,000 meters represent extreme deep-sea environments with high hydrostatic pressure and unique microorganisms. Fungi in these environments have developed novel metabolic capabilities and adaptive mechanisms. Purpureocillium lilacinum was isolated from Mariana Trench sediments, representing a promising source for bioactive compounds.

Objective

This study investigated the biological activities, metabolic potential, and adaptive mechanisms of Purpureocillium lilacinum FDZ8Y1 isolated from hadal sediments. The research aimed to characterize its antibacterial, antitumor, and nematicidal activities, assess piezotolerance, and elucidate molecular mechanisms of adaptation to extreme deep-sea conditions.

Results

P. lilacinum FDZ8Y1 demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against four pathogens (57-68% inhibition), antitumor activity against three cancer cell lines, and 94.7% juvenile nematode mortality. The fungus tolerated HHP up to 110 MPa with spores showing greater pressure tolerance than hyphae. Genome sequencing revealed 8,319 protein-coding genes, 43 secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters, and genes for carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur cycling. Transcriptomic analysis identified upregulation of fatty acid metabolism, antioxidant defense, and secondary metabolite biosynthesis under elevated pressure.

Conclusion

P. lilacinum FDZ8Y1 exhibits remarkable piezotolerance and produces bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. The fungus possesses metabolic pathways enabling survival in extreme hadal conditions through activation of stress response mechanisms. These findings provide insights into hadal fungal adaptation and support the potential of deep-sea fungi as sources of novel natural products for biotechnological and pharmaceutical applications.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 39569000
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