A Novel Regulator Couples Sporogenesis and Trehalose Biogenesis in Aspergillus nidulans
2007

A New Regulator in Fungal Spore Formation

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Ni Min, Yu Jae-Hyuk

Primary Institution: University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America

Hypothesis

Can a genetic screen identify novel regulators of sporogenesis in Aspergillus nidulans?

Conclusion

The VosA regulator is essential for the formation of spores and the accumulation of trehalose in Aspergillus nidulans.

Supporting Evidence

  • VosA is required for the viability of both asexual and sexual spores.
  • Deletion of vosA results in a lack of trehalose in spores and reduced tolerance to heat and oxidative stress.
  • VosA localizes in the nucleus of mature conidia and may function as a transcription factor.

Takeaway

This study found that a protein called VosA helps fungi make spores and store a sugar called trehalose, which keeps them alive during tough times.

Methodology

A gain-of-function genetic screen was used to identify the VosA regulator in Aspergillus nidulans.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0000970

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