Forward genetic screens identified mutants with defects in trap morphogenesis in the nematode-trapping fungus Arthrobotrys oligospora.

ABSTRACT: Nematode-trapping fungi (NTF) are carnivorous fungi that prey on nematodes under nutrient-poor conditions via specialized hyphae that function as traps. The molecular mechanisms involved in the interactions between NTF and their nematode prey are largely unknown. In this study, we conducted forward genetic screens to identify potential genes and pathways that are involved in trap morphogenesis and predation in the NTF Arthrobotrys oligospora. Using Ethyl methanesulfonate and UV as the mutagens, we generated 5552 randomly mutagenized A. oligospora strains and identified 15 mutants with strong defects in trap morphogenesis. Whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatic analyses revealed mutations in genes with roles in signaling, transcription or membrane transport that may contribute to the def

SUBMITTER: Huang TY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8022932 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature