Research Keyword: developmental regulation

The Velvet Complex Is Essential for Sclerotia Formation and Virulence in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Scientists studied a destructive fungus that damages crops by identifying key genes controlling its ability to form protective resting structures called sclerotia and cause disease. Using genetic screening techniques, they discovered that two genes called SsLae1 and SsVel1 work together as master controllers of both the fungus’s survival and its ability to infect plants. These findings could help develop new ways to control the disease by targeting these critical genes.

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Genome-wide analysis of bZIP gene family members in Pleurotus ostreatus, and potential roles of PobZIP3 in development and the heat stress response

Scientists identified 11 genes that code for special proteins called bZIP transcription factors in oyster mushrooms. One particular protein, PobZIP3, was found to help mushrooms survive high temperatures and grow faster. When researchers increased this protein in mushroom strains, the mushrooms became more heat-resistant and produced edible fruiting bodies more quickly, suggesting this discovery could help farmers grow oyster mushrooms more reliably.

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Kre6-dependent β-1,6-glucan biosynthesis only occurs in the conidium of Aspergillus fumigatus

Researchers discovered that a specific sugar compound called β-1,6-glucan is found in the spore-like reproductive structures (conidia) of the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus but not in its growing filaments (mycelium). Using advanced nuclear magnetic resonance technology, they identified the KRE6 gene as responsible for making this sugar and found that removing this gene makes the fungus more vulnerable to certain chemicals that damage fungal cell walls.

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The putative forkhead transcription factor FhpA is necessary for development, aflatoxin production, and stress response in Aspergillus flavus

Aspergillus flavus is a fungus that contaminates crops and produces aflatoxins, dangerous toxins that can harm human health and reduce crop value. Scientists studied a specific regulatory gene called fhpA that controls how this fungus develops and produces aflatoxins. They found that removing this gene causes the fungus to produce more aflatoxins and more spores but lose the ability to form protective sclerotial structures, suggesting this gene could be a target for controlling aflatoxin contamination in foods.

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