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Trans-2-hexenal Downregulates Several Pathogenicity Genes of Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the Causative Agent of White-nose Syndrome in Bats

Summary

This research investigates how a natural compound found in plants called trans-2-hexenal affects the genes of a dangerous fungus that kills bats. The compound appears to work by turning off genes that help the fungus cause disease, suggesting it could be used to help protect bats from white-nose syndrome. Impact on everyday life: • Could help preserve bat populations that naturally control crop-destroying insects • Demonstrates potential for using safe, natural plant compounds to fight diseases • May lead to new environmentally-friendly methods for controlling harmful fungi • Could help reduce agricultural losses by protecting important pest-controlling bat species • Shows promise for wildlife conservation efforts using natural compounds

Background

White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a fungal disease caused by Pseudogymnoascus destructans that has devastated North American bat populations since 2006-2007. The fungus grows optimally between 12.5°C and 15.8°C and infects bats during hibernation, leading to significant population declines that have negatively impacted ecosystem services, particularly bats’ role in controlling agricultural pest insects.

Objective

To determine the physiological responses of P. destructans to trans-2-hexenal exposure by characterizing the fungal transcriptome in the presence and absence of this compound. The study aimed to identify fungal genes involved in the mode of action of trans-2-hexenal and develop rational strategies for controlling WNS while understanding critical fungal metabolic pathways affected by this natural plant metabolite.

Results

The study identified 407 unique differentially expressed genes across all three treatments, with 74 genes commonly affected across all concentrations (44 upregulated and 30 downregulated). Several downregulated genes were associated with virulence, including those coding for high-affinity iron permease, superoxide dismutase, and protein-degrading enzymes. Upregulated genes included those involved in ion homeostasis, transcription, translation, and other essential cellular processes.

Conclusion

Trans-2-hexenal exposure causes downregulation of several genes believed to be involved in P. destructans virulence. This is the first transcriptomics study of trans-2-hexenal’s effect on a fungus, demonstrating potential applications for natural volatile organic compounds in controlling fungal pathogens beyond plant diseases.
  • Published in:Journal of Industrial Microbiology & Biotechnology,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.1093/jimb/kuab060
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