Acquisition of Virulence Factors in Chytrid Fungi
Author Information
Author(s): Sun Guiling, Yang Zefeng, Kosch Tiffany, Summers Kyle, Huang Jinling
Primary Institution: East Carolina University
Hypothesis
The acquisition of virulence effector genes may partly explain the evolution of chytridiomycosis.
Conclusion
The study suggests that the acquisition of virulence effectors may have contributed to the decline in amphibian populations due to chytridiomycosis.
Supporting Evidence
- Two families of virulence effector genes were acquired by Bd from oomycete pathogens and bacteria.
- Both families evolved under strong positive selection.
- The presence of these virulence factors may explain the emergence of chytridiomycosis.
Takeaway
Scientists found that a fungus harming frogs got some of its harmful traits from other organisms, which might explain why frogs are getting sick.
Methodology
Phylogenomic analyses were performed to identify homologs of virulence effector genes in Bd and assess their evolutionary rates and selection.
Limitations
The timing of horizontal gene transfer events could not be determined due to limited sequence data.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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