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Unveiling microRNA-like small RNAs implicated in the initial infection of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense through small RNA sequencing

Summary

Researchers discovered specific small RNA molecules produced by the fungus that causes banana wilt disease. These molecular signals, particularly one called milR106, are critical for the fungus’s ability to infect and damage banana plants. By understanding how these molecules work, scientists can develop better strategies to protect banana crops from this devastating disease that threatens global banana production.

Background

Banana Fusarium wilt (BFW) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) is a major threat to global banana production. Fungal microRNA-like small RNAs (milRNAs) play crucial roles in regulating fungal growth, conidiation, and pathogenicity, but their functions in Foc pathogenesis remain poorly understood.

Objective

This study aimed to identify and characterize microRNA-like small RNAs (milRNAs) induced during early infection of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analysis to understand their role in pathogenesis.

Results

Six infection-induced milRNAs were identified, with milR106 showing Dicer-dependent biogenesis. milR106 deletion mutants exhibited reduced conidiation, increased hydrogen peroxide sensitivity, and significantly decreased virulence in pathogenicity tests. Gene Ontology analysis revealed target genes enriched in defense response to fungus and cellular response to hypoxia in the host banana genome.

Conclusion

The study identified several infection-induced milRNAs in Foc with milR106 confirmed as crucial for virulence regulation. These findings provide valuable molecular targets for developing strategies to control banana Fusarium wilt and breeding disease-resistant banana cultivars.
  • Published in:Mycology,
  • Study Type:Original Research,
  • Source: PMID: 40083400, DOI: 10.1080/21501203.2024.2345917
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