[Molecular genetics on fumonisin-producing strains of Fusarium verticillioides]

Fumonisins are a group of mycotoxins produced by Fusarium verticillioides (synonym Fusarium moniliforme Sheldon). Fumonisin B1 has acute toxicity and potential carcinogenicity to some animals, causing leukoencephalomalacia in horses, porcine pulmonary edema (PPE) and liver cancer in rats. It was considered to be epidemiologically associated with high incidence of Human Esophageal Cancer (EC) in human. At present, the study on fumonisins has reached molecular levels. 4 clustered and coregulated genes fum1, fum2, fum3 and fum4 associated with Fumonisin biosynthesis were identified through genetics study on Fumonisin producing strains of Fusarium verticillioides. The result of PCR with degenerate primers based on polyketide synthase (PKS) gene proved that fum5 was PKS gene required for fumonisin biosynthesis. Study on molecular biology of Fumonisin producing strains was also performed. Furthermore, transgenic strategies were used for ear mold resistance to Fusarium and reducing Fumonisin contamination in plants, to decrease the hazard to the health of both human and animals, as well as food safety.