genome compartmentalization

Transposons and accessory genes drive adaptation in a clonally evolving fungal pathogen

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Researchers studied how a fungal plant pathogen called Fusarium oxysporum rapidly adapts to new environments by analyzing genetic changes during repeated passages through tomato plants and laboratory media. They discovered that jumping genes (transposons) were responsible for most mutations driving adaptation, and surprisingly found that genes located in specialized ‘accessory’ regions of the fungus’s genome controlled important functions like growth and virulence. This research reveals how fungal pathogens can evolve quickly to become better competitors or invaders.

Accessory Chromosome Contributes to Virulence of Banana Infecting Fusarium oxysporum Tropical Race 4

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Scientists studied a dangerous fungal disease that destroys banana crops by examining a special extra chromosome found in the pathogen Fusarium oxysporum Tropical Race 4. They created mutant fungi without this chromosome and found that while the mutants could still grow normally in the lab, they became much less dangerous to banana plants. This discovery shows that this particular chromosome contains genes that help the fungus attack and infect bananas, suggesting potential new ways to combat this devastating crop disease.

Accessory Chromosome Contributes to Virulence of Banana Infecting Fusarium oxysporum Tropical Race 4

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Fusarium wilt Tropical Race 4 is a devastating fungal disease that destroys banana crops worldwide, particularly the commercially important Cavendish variety. Researchers discovered that this fungus carries a special accessory chromosome that is not essential for basic fungal survival but is critical for its ability to infect and damage banana plants. By removing this chromosome in laboratory studies, scientists found that infected bananas suffered significantly less damage, suggesting that understanding this chromosome could lead to better strategies for protecting banana crops from this destructive disease.

Research Keyword: genome compartmentalization

Transposons and accessory genes drive adaptation in a clonally evolving fungal pathogen

Accessory Chromosome Contributes to Virulence of Banana Infecting Fusarium oxysporum Tropical Race 4

Accessory Chromosome Contributes to Virulence of Banana Infecting Fusarium oxysporum Tropical Race 4