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ThIPK1 regulates lignocellulolytic enzyme expression during wood degradation in white-rot fungi

Summary

White-rot fungi are nature’s recyclers, breaking down dead wood and playing a vital role in forest ecosystems. Researchers discovered that a protein called ThIPK1 acts like a molecular switch that detects chemicals in wood (lignin monomers) and turns on the genes that produce wood-destroying enzymes. This happens through a sophisticated signaling system and changes in how DNA is packaged, allowing the fungus to adapt and efficiently degrade wood.

Background

White-rot fungi play a crucial role in terrestrial carbon cycling by decomposing lignocellulose in plant cell walls. The mechanisms by which these fungi sense lignocellulosic signals and regulate their degradation capacity remain unclear. This study investigates the molecular basis of fungal perception and response to lignin monomers.

Objective

To identify and characterize the genes and signaling pathways that regulate lignocellulolytic enzyme expression in white-rot fungi in response to lignin monomers. The study focuses on understanding how Trametes hirsuta AH28-2 perceives and responds to distinct lignin signals.

Results

ThIPK1, a gene in the inositol polyphosphate pathway, was identified as a core regulator that responds to lignin monomers and controls lignocellulolytic enzyme expression. Epigenetic modifications through 5mC methylation mediate signal transduction, with downstream Zn2Cys6 transcription factors differentially controlling lignocellulolytic gene transcription. Exposure to lignin monomers maintains enzyme expression and wood degradation capacity.

Conclusion

The study reveals a regulatory axis involving inositol polyphosphate signaling and epigenetic modulation that connects lignin signals to transcriptional control of lignocellulolytic enzymes. These findings provide novel insights into how white-rot fungi adapt to lignocellulosic environments and contribute to understanding microbial-driven lignin turnover in forest ecosystems.
  • Published in:mBio,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 40823829
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