The Egh16-like virulence factor TrsA of the nematode-trapping fungus Arthrobotrys flagrans facilitates intrusion into its host Caenorhabditis elegans
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Researchers discovered how a soil fungus that traps worms produces a special protein called TrsA to break down the worm’s protective outer layer. This protein acts like molecular scissors that weakens the worm’s skin and helps the fungus invade and spread throughout the worm’s body. The findings reveal a clever infection strategy used by predatory fungi and could help understand how similar fungi attack other organisms.